Top 7 Media Outlets Every Touring Artist Should Target
Planning a tour? The venues are booked, the team is ready—but how will fans and the press find you?
For touring artists, press coverage isn’t just a bonus—it’s a key strategy for growing your audience, attracting industry attention, and selling tickets in every city. But with so many media platforms out there, which outlets should you actually pitch?
Here are the top 7 media outlets every touring artist should target before hitting the road.
1. Local Newspapers in Each City
Don’t underestimate the power of local press. Outlets like The Austin Chronicle, LA Weekly, or Chicago Reader often highlight upcoming shows, especially if your story resonates with the local audience.
Pro tip: Pitch your tour stop as a local angle—mention previous visits, fan connections, or causes you’re supporting.
2. Alt-Weekly Publications
Alternative weeklies are go-to sources for arts and culture. Publications like The Village Voice, Creative Loafing, and Phoenix New Times regularly feature musicians, comedians, and authors touring through their cities.
They love underdog stories, unique angles, and creative visuals—perfect for indie and emerging artists.
3. Local Morning & Lifestyle TV Shows
Many local networks have weekday morning segments that highlight “things to do this weekend”. These are ideal for short interviews, acoustic performances, or behind-the-scenes previews.
Reach out to the show producer with a short pitch, and include your media kit, tour schedule, and social handles.
4. College Radio Stations
Touring near a university? College radio and student-run newspapers are highly engaged platforms with loyal listeners. They often spotlight indie talent and are open to in-studio interviews or promo giveaways.
Look for:
- Campus newspapers
- Student-run music blogs
- College radio (especially if your genre matches their rotation)
5. Genre-Specific Blogs & Online Mags
Target outlets that focus on your genre or style. Whether it’s FADER for R&B, PunkNews for punk, or BrooklynVegan for indie/alt-rock, genre blogs are influential among loyal music fans and industry pros.
Pitch a story, interview, or exclusive content release tied to your tour.
6. Music Discovery Podcasts
Podcasts are a powerful way to tell your story while giving listeners a deeper connection to your music. Look for:
- Local scene podcasts
- Genre-based shows
- Creator interviews
Include a few talking points in your pitch that highlight what makes your story compelling—not just your music.
7. Event & Experience Websites (e.g., DoStuff, Bandsintown, Eventbrite)
You may already list your shows here, but go further: ask if they’re featuring local events in their newsletters, editorial sections, or “Who to Watch” lists. A little visibility on these platforms can turn casual browsers into ticket buyers.
Final Thoughts
Press coverage during your tour isn’t just about exposure—it’s about connection. By targeting the right outlets with the right story, you turn each tour stop into a PR opportunity.
Need help building buzz around your upcoming dates? I help artists create strategic PR plans that get them covered—and remembered—in every city they tour.