How to Get Your Unsigned Band Played on Local Radio

It’s easier than you think — and it still works

Local radio may not be as flashy as Spotify editorial playlists or viral TikToks, but for unsigned bands, it’s one of the most underrated tools for building credibility, attracting new fans and growing in your home region.

Unlike national stations, local and regional shows are always looking for fresh, original music — especially from artists in their area. That means your unsigned band already has an angle.

Here’s how to make it happen.

Start With the Right Stations and Shows

Focus on:

• BBC Introducing in your region (e.g. BBC Introducing South)

• Local independent radio (community, college, university stations)

• Specialist genre shows on regional FM/DAB stations

• Online radio and internet stations with a strong local listenership

Search “[your city] + radio + new music” or look at who’s supported bands similar to yours. Many shows have dedicated segments or slots for unsigned music.

What You’ll Need

A radio-ready track

• Keep it clean (no swearing unless the show allows it)

• High-quality mix and master

• WAV or high-quality MP3 format

A short bio and press blurb
2–3 sentences about who you are, where you’re from and what this song is about. Focus on vibe and story.

Cover artwork
Even for radio, a strong visual helps your submission stand out in a crowded inbox.

Your contact info and social links
Make it easy for them to find you, tag you and follow up.

Craft a Great Pitch

Don’t send a generic mass message. Instead:

• Address the presenter by name

• Mention the specific show

• Say where you’re based and why your track fits their vibe

• Include a short sentence about the track or story behind it

• Add the link to your track (Dropbox, Google Drive, SoundCloud, or BBC Introducing uploader)

Here’s a simple example:

Hey [Presenter Name],

I’m [Name] from [Town] and I play in an unsigned band called [Band Name]. We just released our new track “[Song Title],” and I think it could be a great fit for [Show Name].

It’s a [genre/style] song about [brief story] and we recorded it locally with [optional producer or studio shoutout].

Here’s the track + artwork: [Link]

Really appreciate your time and would love to hear your thoughts.

Cheers,
[Your Name]
[Socials + contact]

Use BBC Introducing (If You're in the UK)

BBC Introducing is a must. Submit your track at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/introducing

Choose your local region and follow up with the individual show via social media. BBC Introducing presenters genuinely want to help unsigned bands — and being played there can open serious doors.

What to Do After You Get Played

• Shout it from the rooftops

• Post a clip or story thanking the presenter

• Tag the station and show

• Add “As heard on [Station Name]” to your bio

• Mention it when reaching out to blogs, venues, or other stations

Radio spins build trust. Use them everywhere.

Make It a Habit

Don’t pitch once and forget it. With every release, add local radio to your promo plan. Over time, your unsigned band becomes a known name in the scene — and presenters start coming to you.