How to Write a Compelling Music Bio

Recently I've been taxed with the task of re-writing my music bio.  It proved to be quite challenging since I have to talk about myself and everything that I've accomplished, but in an interesting way.  A bio is important for an artist.  It is how people get to know about you and your music.  Think of it as like the resume for a job application.  With so many press kits being sent to music executives everyday, if your bio doesn't pop out immediately, you can guarantee that it will be tossed aside.

Some bio writing experts take an approach of telling a story, but not necessarily chronologically.  You don't want to tell where you grew up, how many brothers and sisters you have, what high school you went to, a traumatic moment in your life, etc unless it ties into your music.  When you tie in major life events into how it influences your music, it makes reading your bio more engaging.  For instance, if you like to ride horses and you just released a song about riding through the breeze, that correlation can be explained in your bio.

Another approach taken in writing a bio is to get straight to the point.  There are no fluffing and fillers...just facts.  This style of writing can be very effective, especially when sending your bio to journalists, bloggers, and magazines for a write-up.  They can more easily pick the facts out immediately.  The downside to this style is that your bio can become too mundane.  It's an easier style to write, so there would be many more like yours.  You have to find a way to make it compelling and tell your story.  I know...easier stated then done!

You can also just hire an expert to write the bio for you.  That is definitely the easier way, but prices for that service can range from $150-$350.

Here are some sites/articles that I came across which helped in the writing of my music bio:

"Press Kit Fundamentals - How to Write a Compelling Artist Bio" - http://blog.discmakers.com/2011/12/press-kit-fundamentals-bio/?utm_source=DMAudio&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=EA1201

Info on doing a "one-sheet" - http://www.grassrootsy.com/2009/05/06/creating-a-one-sheet/

"How to Write a Bio that Doesn't Suck!" - http://www.musicthinktank.com/mtt-open/how-to-write-a-bio-that-doesnt-suck.html

I hope these help.  Feel free to suggest some sites and techniques for writing a music bio.

Also, don't forget to check out my new single "Livin The Life" at www.SAJLIVE.com!