Frequently Asked Questions
We want you to be able to find everything you need on your own since you have full control over your Sonicbids account at all times, but our Member Relations team is available if you require further assistance. Check our list of FAQ below to find the info you need. If you can't find something, let us know!
| 6. | Community Forum | |
| • | How do I use the "Community Forum?" | |
| • | How do I respond to a "Community Forum" message? | |
| 9. | Contact Us | |
| • | How do I contact Sonicbids for support? | |
| 1. What is an EPK? What is Sonicbids? What does it do? |
What is an EPK?
An EPK is an easy-to-use, web-based Electronic Press Kit you can use to save money on CD duplication, postage, and other fees associated with physical press kits. Unlike a physical press kit, which requires you to reprint and duplicate materials and pay the post office every time you send it out, your EPK can be updated and distributed at any time and as much as you like.
You can send it to music festivals, conferences, and contests. Use it to build relationships with music venues, bookers, A&R representatives, other artists, and anyone else with an email address. The EPK is easy and efficient for music promoters to review and is quickly becoming the standard by which they make selections for their events and gig listings.
You control the content of your EPK! It contains all the important biography, discography, and performance information you're used to from a traditional press kit, but also includes songs, lyrics, a photo gallery, video, and more. Subscribers can use it to make submissions to specific promoter gig listings, distribute the EPK via email, or link it to anywhere else on the web.
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Why should I sign up?
To save money – it's as simple as that! The EPK is quickly becoming the standard by which music promoters select artists for their gig listings, but the real value of the EPK is that it's a faster, better, easier, and cheaper alternative to traditional press kits. Sending an EPK saves artists time and money on CD duplication, postage, and other costs associated with sending physical kits. Use an EPK to build your music relationships and stop wasting CDs and promotional materials on people who don't need them.
Sonicbids is the leading online submission platform for many of the world's best-known music events, and you can submit your EPK for consideration in just a matter of seconds. For the cost of just one physical press kit, you can send out your Sonicbids EPK as many times as you want, and recipients will always have access to the most up-to-date version.
As an account holder, you'll also have access to Sonicbids' "Community Forum," where you can connect with artists and promoters all over the world for feedback, event and venue information, gig swapping, and more.
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What does my membership include?
Your Sonicbids membership includes the ability to build and update your EPK whenever you want. Build your EPK with a biography, songs, photos, lyrics, press, set list and touring calendar. Video, dynamic stage plot, contract rider, and up to 5 high-resolution photos (out of 10 in the photo gallery) are available with our Supersonic EPK (1 high-res for the standard EPK).
With your membership you can also distribute the EPK to anyone with an email address or access the "Promoter Drop Box," where you can submit for consideration for thousands of performance, promotion, and licensing gig listings. These gig listings include some of the world's biggest music conferences, festivals, songwriting contests and live music competitions.
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What can I do with my EPK?
Two words: Save money! Build your music relationships without having to pay for costly CD duplication, supplies, postage, and other fees associated with sending physical press kits. Just like with all your relationships, you'll get out of it what you put into it, but with an EPK you can do it affordably. Research industry contacts and email your EPK as a way to introduce yourself. Save your CDs for the people who really need them.
With your subscription, you'll be able to make updates and changes to your EPK at any time and access the "Community Forum," where you can connect with artists and promoters around the world. Use the Forum to swap gigs, get feedback, post news, and discover unique ways others are using their EPK.
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Do music promoters still prefer a regular press kit to an EPK?
In most cases, no. The EPK is becoming the standard by which music promoters make their artist selections. In fact, promoters that offer specific gig listings in the "Promoter Drop Box" have selected to use Sonicbids as their exclusive online submissions platform.
Promoters like EPKs because they are easy to review and organize. Not only does it save time for the promoters when making their selections for events and gig listings, but it also facilitates correspondence with artists. Most promoters who ask for a press kit don't need a physical one, and even if there are still some instances where a promoter requests a conventional press kit and promo CD, you can save time and money over duplication and postage fees by making your initial contacts by emailing your EPK first.
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I already have a website. Why do I need an EPK?
Your EPK does not replace your website. It replaces the costly physical press kits you put together to get booked at festivals and venues or get other performance and licensing gig listings. Even if you have a website, you will still need to send kits to promoters for consideration. The EPK will let you do that without spending unnecessarily on CD duplication, postage, and other fees associated with sending physical press kits.
Your EPK is a relationship-building tool that can definitely work as a supplement to an existing website, as it quickly provides all the important information a talent promoter wants to see in an easy-to-review display. It's also easy to update, so you control it without the help of a developer or designer.
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How does Sonicbids help artists build their live music career?
Sonicbids helps artists help themselves. Sonicbids provides you with the tool, the EPK, to simply, inexpensively, and professionally promote your music and also communicate with talent promoters. Sonicbids lets you to save time and money by providing an alternative to sending out physical press kits by postal mail.
Receive daily email alerts about gig listings that you may not have otherwise heard about. Focus your time on things that really make a difference, like playing great shows and building your fan base or making connections in the industry. Increase your promotional reach at a fraction of the cost of sending out physical kits by emailing your EPK. Connect with other artists and promoters from all over the world in the "Community Forum."
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Can artists of all genres use an EPK?
Yes. Any artist interested in an easy-to-use, cost effective way to promote themselves needs an EPK.
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Can independent and major label artists both use an EPK?
Absolutely! Sonicbids subscribers include artists of all career stages and level of performance, from those who are scheduling international tours to promote a major label release to those who are independently booking their first gig at a local coffeehouse. Sonicbids provides the platform through which you can make contacts and build relationships no matter your label affiliation.
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Does the EPK work only for performing musicians?
No. Though a majority of Sonicbids members are performing musicians, you can customize it to fit your act's needs. Writers, composers, speakers, booking agencies, and labels also use the EPK to promote their work. If, for example, you are a stand-up comedian, you can use the audio section to upload clips of your comedy act instead of songs. Simply use your creativity!
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What geographic area does Sonicbids cover?
Sonicbids is worldwide! Members include artists from over 100 different countries. If your music contacts can receive email, you can use your EPK to send them. Make it as local or as global as you want.
Though most of the gig listings in the "Promoter Drop Box" are in North America, Sonicbids has expanded to include specific events in Europe, Australia, and Asia. Music is the common language of the world, and our mission is to make the EPK the common platform for that common language.
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Does Sonicbids guarantee gigs?
No. Though the EPK can be used as a tool to build relationships as an alternative to spending more money on physical press kits, you still need to make an investment in time and effort to pursue and get gigs. Sonicbids helps artist help themselves, and you must use your EPK to get gigs. You'll get out of it what you put into it.
Book gigs by submitting to gig listings on the Sonicbids site or e-mailing the EPK out to your contacts. Artists who use their submissions and contacts to build relationships have the most success with their EPK.
Sonicbids does guarantee that our exclusive "Promoter Drop Box" partners will review all EPK submissions through our system, and in the case of paid events, slots are always reserved for Sonicbids submissions provided that they meet the quality requirements of the event.
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Do you have a listing of A&R contacts or promoters? Will you send my EPK out for me?
No. Sonicbids is not a database of contact information. The EPK will only grow your career if you use it. It is up you to find the contacts you want to review your EPK and to send it to them. The EPK is your platform to distribute and promote your music, and your membership will be exactly what you put into it.
Instead of providing you with a list of A&R Contacts, we provide you with direct submission gig listings that include among others, A&R. You decide which gig listings you submit to. Check your account's "Promoter Drop Box" often to view the current available gig listings.
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Can I create more than one EPK in my account?
Yes. If you are working with more than one artist or would like separate EPKs for band and solo acts, you can create more than one. Simply set up a "Multi-User Account" (MUA), and you'll be able to manage and distribute an entire roster of EPKs (or portions thereof) with just one login.
To sign up for an MUA, begin at the Sonicbids homepage. Select the "Sign Up" tab at the top of the page. Enter your e-mail address, select "I want to create an EPK," and then select the most appropriate response for "I am a:". Please note that you should not select "Artist/Bandmember" because that will create a standard artist EPK account instead of an MUA.
When you have completed the signup process, you will be able to build multiple EPKs from within that account. If you have any existing EPKs, you will have to contact us to attach them to your MUA. There is no cost to setting up the MUA itself, but you will be responsible for the individual subscription and submission costs of each EPK.
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| 2. Costs & Charges |
How much does the EPK cost?
The current fees are listed
What are the subscription and submission payment methods?
Submission payments may only be made online via credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or Discover) or Paypal, but each EPK account must have a valid credit card in order to make subscription payments and remain active. Our process is encrypted via 128-bit SSL certificate to ensure that all of your personal information is kept completely private.
We do not accept personal checks, check-by-phone, or cash. If you are unable to make an online payment, contact us via the Support Center.
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Is my credit card and personal information kept private?
Absolutely. Keeping your credit card safe and personal information private is critical to what we do. Our credit card process is encrypted via 128-bit SSL certificate to ensure that all of your personal information is kept completely private.
Promoters to whom you've made "Drop Box" submissions will receive your contact information and viewers of your EPK will be able to contact you through the EPK, but we do not sell or otherwise distribute your contact information.
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Why do I have to enter my credit card information to receive the free trial?
Because of the subscription nature of the EPK accounts, a valid credit card is required so that renewals can be made. Our process is encrypted via 128-bit SSL certificate to ensure that all of your personal information is kept completely private. You can cancel your subscription at any time before your renewal date and your card will not be charged.
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I don't have a credit card. Are there other ways to pay?
If you are unable to pay via credit card, you may purchase site credit by sending a money order (no personal checks). You can use site credit towards your subscription and submission payments. Please remit payment (minimum $50 USD) to:
Sonicbids
Attn: Artist Relations
500 Harrison Avenue
Fourth Floor
Boston, MA 02118
Make sure to include a printout of your "Edit Profile" page so we can put the site credit on your account.
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Will I receive a receipt of the payments I make for my subscription and submissions?
Yes. A receipt will be sent to the email address in your account profile each time there is a charge on your account. Additionally, you can view the history of your submissions by clicking on the "My Submissions" tab in the "Promoter Drop Box."
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Can I get a discount if I have more than one EPK?
If you work with five or more artists, you may be eligible to receive one free standard yearly EPK subscription when you start a "Multi-User Account" (MUA). With the activation of four EPKs at the standard rate for a full year, you will get to activate a fifth EPK for free.
The discount is applicable only for the standard EPK subscription, and not for submission combo packages, renewals, or Supersonic subscriptions, though you will be able to upgrade any of your artists individually at any time in the "My Membership Info" section of each account. To request the discount, please write to via the Support Center.
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Who pays for the activation of an artist account on a "Multi-User Account" (MUA)?
The subscription and submission fees for an EPK in an MUA can be paid for by either the Multi-User or the artist. If you'd like to cover the cost of the subscription for the artists, you can set each artist account to access the card on your MUA profile for subscription charges.
One benefit for having an MUA is that you can keep your credit card information private and separate from that of each artist. You'll be able to make submissions on your card on behalf of the artist and the artist can separately make submissions and pay on their own. Neither the MUA holder nor the artist has access to view or edit the other's credit cards on file.
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| 3. Sign Up & Contact Information |
Why can't I sign up with the username and password I'm entering?
There are two reasons why you may have difficulty signing up or logging into your account. Either the username and password is already being used by another Sonicbids member, in which case you will need to select different login information to register, or your Internet browser settings for Cookies and JavaScript are not enabled. It is essential for Cookies and JavaScript settings to be turned on in order for Sonicbids to recognize and save information and changes in your account and EPK. Most Internet browsers will allow you to enable settings for Cookies and JavaScript in the "Preferences" or "Internet Options" sections.
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Do you share or sell email addresses or other contact information?
Absolutely not. We do not sell or trade email addresses, and we do not send spam. We take the privacy of our members very seriously, and we never distribute contact information to any third party.
We utilize your contact information to send you Sonicbids-related gig listing alerts and newsletters, and you can opt out of those by updating the preferences in the "Edit Profile" section of your account. It is your choice whether or not you'd like to receive those messages.
Promoters to whom you've made "Drop Box" submissions will receive your contact information and viewers of your EPK will be able to contact you through the EPK, but we do not sell or otherwise distribute your contact information.
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Is my credit card and personal information kept private?
Absolutely. Keeping your credit card safe and personal information private is critical to what we do. Our credit card process is encrypted via 128-bit SSL certificate to ensure that all of your personal information is kept completely private.
Promoters to whom you make submissions and viewers of your EPK will be able to contact you, but we do not sell or otherwise distribute your contact information.
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| 4. Building & Editing Your EPK |
4.1. Media Files & EPK Content
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How often can I update my EPK?
You can update your EPK as often as you want! Unlike a physical press kit, you'll be able to edit your EPK and distribute it as much as you like without incurring printing or replication costs. Plus, if you've already emailed your EPK before making changes, your recipients will automatically have access to the updated version.
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I've entered information into my EPK, but it's not showing up. Why?
There are two reasons you may be having difficulty saving the information into your EPK:
(1) Your Elevator Pitch is longer than 300 characters. Your elevator pitch must be less than 300 characters or you will not be able to save the basic information in your EPK. A character is a letter, number, space or symbol.
(2) Your Internet browser preferences do not have the settings for Cookies and JavaScript turned on. Blocking any one of those will interfere with your ability to use the site, and you will need those enabled in order to save changes to your account.
No matter the difficulty, we recommend saving your EPK text into a separate offline document. Then you can copy and paste each section to your EPK one at a time. Save your text changes as you enter it in each section by clicking the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page.
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How many MP3s, lyrics, photos, videos, and other media files can I upload into my EPK?
If you have a Standard EPK subscription, you can upload up to 25 MB worth of MP3s, 10 sets of lyrics, 10 photos including 1 high-resolution print-quality image, and 10 press reviews into your EPK. If you have a Supersonic EPK subscription, then you can upload up to 60 MB worth of MP3s, 30 sets of lyrics, 10 photos including 5 high-resolution print-quality images, 1 video (up to 100 MB in file size and no more than 10 minutes in running time), 10 press reviews, and 1 PDF file of a contract rider). Supersonic members can also use our dynamic Stage Plot tool to give promoters an even better idea of what your performances are like.
You can change the media files in your EPK as often as you like, and viewers will always see the latest version. You can also make a song and lyric submissions for "Promoter Drop Box" gig listings even if the songs and lyrics are not in your EPK.
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How can I create MP3s of my songs from a CD? Where are my MP3s located on my computer once I create them?
To create MP3s from tracks on a CD, you will need an MP3 ripping program, which you can get for free online. We recommends using iTunes, which you can download at www.itunes.com.
To use iTunes, begin by opening the program and following these steps:
- Put your CD into your computer. It should automatically open in iTunes and list the tracks on your CD.
- Check the boxes adjacent to the tracks you wish to convert to MP3 (Reminder: you can upload 25 MB of MP3s into a Standard EPK and 60 MB of MP3s into a Supersonic EPK with no restriction on the number or size of MP3s.).
- Open your iTunes "Preferences" (located under either the "Edit" menu or the "iTunes" menu.
- Click on the "Import" tab. If you are using iTunes version 5.0 or later, the "Import" tab is located under the "Advanced" tab.
- Select "128 kbps" as your bitrate (this controls the quality and file size of your MP3s), and select "MP3 Encoder" in the "Import Using" menu.
- Click on the "Advanced" tab to view the location of the folder in which your MP3s will be saved. You may change the location there as well.
- Click on "OK" to return to the list of tracks on your CD.
- Click on the "Import" button located in the top right corner of the iTunes window. This will convert your files into MP3s (the process may take a few minutes). The MP3s will be located in the folder listed under the "Advanced" tab in your iTunes "Preferences."
- If your MP3s are too large, lower the file size by returning to the "Import" tab in iTunes "Preferences," lower the bitrate (kbps), and re-rip the files by reselecting the tracks and clicking on the "Import" button again.
If you are having trouble converting your songs into MP3 format, write to us here, and we may be able to help further.
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What is the largest file size my MP3s can be? How do I reduce the file size of my MP3s?
Your MP3 files can be as large as your subscription will allow. Standard subscriptions include 25MB of storage and Supersonic subscriptions include 60MB of storage. If you would like to decrease the size of your MP3 files, you can re-rip them at a lower bit rate. If you are using iTunes, return to the "Import" tab in iTunes "Preferences," lower the bitrate (kbps), and re-rip the files by reselecting the tracks and clicking on the "Import" button again. If you are using MusicMatch, return to the "Settings" section in the MusicMatch "Options" menu, lower the bitrate (kbps), and re-rip the files by reselecting the tracks and clicking on the "Start" button again.
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When I'm uploading an MP3, what is the difference between selecting "Full Song" and "Sample" as the "Audio Type?"
The "Audio Type" information is strictly for record-keeping, and does not affect the way your song appears or is accessed in your EPK. Selecting "Full Song" indicates that you are uploading an entire song track, while selecting "Sample" indicates that you are uploading only a portion of a full song. Selecting "Sample" will not create a sample of your MP3.
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Why am I having trouble playing audio files?
Make sure that the file you uploaded was a valid mp3, and that you have Macromedia Flash installed in your web browser.
If the songs still aren't playing correctly in your EPK, send an email to us via the Support Center with a description of the problem and the following details about your computer so we can look into it further for you:
- PC or Mac
- Operating System (ex. Windows XP, Mac OS X)
- Internet Browser (ex. Internet Explorer, Netscape, Safari)
- Media Player (ex. iTunes, MusicMatch, Windows Media Player)
- Which link wasn't working ("Stream" or "Standard")
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What are the different video file formats I can upload into my EPK? Why am I having trouble uploading my video?
Sonicbids supports the following file formats for uploading video:
- Windows Media (WMV)
- QuickTime (MOV, QT, QTF)
- MPEG1 or MPEG2 (MPG, MPEG)
- Audio Video Interleave (AVI)
If you are having difficulty uploading a video into your EPK, check to make sure that the running time of the video is less than 10 minutes, no larger than 100 MB in file size, and that the file is in one of the acceptable formats. You should be able to find out which format your file is by highlighting the file on your computer and selecting "Properties" or "Get Info."
You can also try viewing the video from a second computer before uploading to make sure it's playable from different locations. If you're unable to play the file, try converting the video into another one of the acceptable formats and upload it again. Sometimes all it takes is a second try.
For more suggestions on how you can reformat your existing video, we recommend visiting www.videohelp.com.
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What is the largest file size and running time my video can be? How do I reduce the file size of my video?
Supersonic account holders can upload a video up to 100 MB in file size and no more than 10 minutes in running time. In order to reduce the file size, you will need to compress the video using a digital video editing program, and the process will be different depending on which one you use. For information on the various programs and more help on how you can edit your existing video accordingly, we recommend visiting www.videohelp.com.
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What can I do if there is no sound in my video on my EPK?
Your EPK will post audio in your video the way it was received during the upload. It is possible that the program you used to convert your video to a digital format only allows the audio to play on the computer you used during the conversion process. You can usually fix this problem by deleting the video from your EPK, reconverting the original file to a different type of video format (for instance, if you tried MPG the first time, try WMV this time), and re-uploading the new file.
Try viewing the video from a second computer before uploading to make sure it's playable from different locations. If you are still having difficulty getting the audio to come through on the video in your EPK, we recommend visiting www.videohelp.com for more suggestions.
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Where can I find additional digital video help or suggestions?
A good resource for information on working with digital video is www.videohelp.com. You can visit that site and search by keyword to find information on what you'd like to do with your video files.
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What format do you accept for photos? What is the largest photo file size I can upload into my EPK? How do I reduce the file size of my photos?
You can upload photos if they are in one of the following file formats:
- JPG
- GIF
- TIF
- BMP
- PSD
The dimensions of the photos in your EPK gallery can be up to 350 x 350 pixels. That is, the widest it can appear is 350 pixels, and the tallest it can appear is 350 pixels. The dimensions of your "Main Photo" can be up to 170 x 170 pixels. If the dimensions of your photo are greater than the maximum, you can still upload them, but each will be automatically scaled down proportionally to fit the size requirements.
If you are scanning photographs, you should scan at a resolution of 72 dpi for the web. If you scanned a full size 8x10 (inch) photo, you most likely will need to resize the image to fit the dimension limits. If scanning a high-resolution photo, scan at a resolution of 300 dpi for the web.
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What programs can I use to edit or improve the quality of my photos? How do I reduce the file size of my photos?
If you need to edit your image files, you will need a digital photo editing program. You can use Adobe Photoshop, PhotoDeluxe, or Paint, or a variety of other photo-editing software programs. To improve the quality, open an image file in the photo editor and "Save for Web" at a higher resolution (dpi). If the file size is over the limit of one MB, you can reduce it by lowering the resolution or shrinking the dimensions, and then saving the file "for Web."
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What is a high-resolution photo? How do I upload it? What can I use it for?
A high-resolution photo is a print-quality photo that can be larger than the other images in your gallery in file size and dimensions. The high-resolution photo can have a lot of detail and a much clearer image than the other photos.
Standard EPK memberships can include 1 high-resolution print-quality image in their photo gallery. Supersonic members can include up to 5 (upgrades can be made at any time in the "My Membership Info" section of your account). Upload high-res images the same way you upload your other gallery photos under the "Media Files" tab in the "Edit My EPK" section of your account. After you click on "Add Image Files," make sure to check the option which reads, "Yes, save a high-res version."
There are many benefits to having a print-quality high-resolution photo in your gallery. Upload a tour poster or flyer to save you from having to email a large file to each member of your street team or spending money on postage for hard copies. Send your EPK instead and have them print out the high-resolution version. Upload a press photo that's print-quality ready for use in a newspaper or magazine article. Your EPK viewers can also use it as the source file for editing into their own web and graphic-based projects. Again, see the "My Membership Info" section of your account for Supersonic upgrade instructions.
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Why aren't my photos updating on the EPK?
If you've successfully uploaded photos but they are not appearing in your EPK correctly, try clearing the cache on your Internet browser or logging out and logging back in. Your browser might just need to refresh. You will not be able to upload photos if they are not in one of the acceptable upload formats (JPG, GIF, TIF, BMP, or PSD). To check the file type of your images, find the file on your computer's hard drive, highlight it, and then select "Properties" or "Get Info" from your menu options. You can only upload up to 10 pictures in your photo gallery (including high-resolution photos).
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How do I sort or change the order of the MP3s, lyrics, photos, and press reviews in my EPK?
To change the order of the media files in your EPK, click on the small red arrows next to each song you have uploaded in the "Media Files" part of the "Edit My EPK" section of your account. You'll be able to move them up or down in the order you'd like them on your EPK.
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Can I send my MP3s, lyrics, photos, videos, and other media files to Sonicbids to upload for me?
Sonicbids can provide upload services for your media files, but remember that you have full control over managing, updating, and editing your EPK at all times. It's your tool to promote your music, and being able to manage your EPK is a valuable skill. Learning to work with it on your own can only help you take positive steps toward your music and career goals!
Sonicbids is committed to keeping you in charge of your own EPK, but if you need help with the uploading process, reach us via the Support Center to get tips on how to do it yourself or to ask for our upload rates.
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How do I add a link on my website to my Sonicbids EPK?
You can add a dynamic link on your website to your EPK by going to the "Promote My EPK" section of your account. You will have three choices on what your link will look like: (1) text only, (2) logo with white background and text, or (3) logo with black background and text. We'll automatically generate HTML code that you can copy and paste directly into your website to embed a link to your EPK there. Alternately, you can post the EPK URL on your site.
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Can I embed my Sonicbids calendar into my own website? How can I customize the look of my EPK calendar on my site?
Yes, you can embed the calendar dates that you have input into your EPK directly onto your website. You don't have to waste time uploading dates in multiple places. Log into your account, select "Promote My EPK," and then click on the "Calendar Module" tab. Select the "Get HTML Code" button. Copy the code and paste it into the code on your website where you'd like the calendar to appear, and it will appear on your site! Any performance dates you add to your Sonicbids calendar will automatically update on your site as well.
You can also select "Customize This Calendar" to change the dimensions, colors, fonts, and other characteristics of how the calendar appears on your site. If you've embedded the calendar in your site using the HTML code, changes in this section will also automatically update on your site as well. Make changes and update your calendar whenever you want.
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How do I upload multiple gig dates into my calendar?
If you currently keep your calendar dates in a spreadsheet or table, you may be able to enter multiple dates at once into the calendar section of your EPK. To do this, must have your list of gigs in a specific format and saved as a CSV (comma separated value) file, which you can open as an Excel spreadsheet. You can download a sample CSV template in the correct format under the "Calendar" tab in the "Edit My EPK" section of your account.
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What is an EPK URL? What is my EPK URL?
The EPK URL is the direct text link to your EPK. The default setting for your EPK URL is http://www.sonicbids.com/ followed by the name of the artist in your account (letters and numbers only), and you can update it in the "Edit My EPK" section of your account. You can select anything comprised of letters and numbers to follow http://www.sonicbids.com/ as long as it isn't being used by another Sonicbids member.
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4.2. Managing Your Subscription & Account
How do I change my password, username, address, and other contact information in my account?
You can update your login information, address, genres, website, and email preferences by going to the "Edit Profile" section of your account. Make sure to click the "Save Changes" button if you make any changes.
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What is the difference between a "subscription" and a "submission?"
A "subscription" is a renewing Sonicbids membership that lets you promote your music and build relationships through the creation and distribution of an EPK. The subscription allows you to update the EPK at any time, send the EPK via email, connect with other members in the "Community Forum," and gives access to the "Promoter Drop Box," where you can find specific gig listings to which you can make submissions. A "submission" is the act of sending your EPK or song(s) to a specific gig listing which a promoter will then review for consideration and possible selection.
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Will I receive a receipt of the payments I make for my subscription?
Yes. A receipt will be sent to the email address in your account profile each time there is a charge on your account. Additionally, you can view your subscription terms and make any upgrades in the "My Membership Info" section of your account.
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How can I cancel my subscription? How can I prevent my account from renewing?
To cancel your subscription and keep it from renewing, log into your account and select "My Membership Info." Click on the link to cancel at the bottom of that page. Follow the steps there to cancel. Your account will remain active for the remainder of your subscription term. Upon expiration, the account will deactivate and your card will not be charged for a renewal. You will be able to reactivate your subscription whenever you like.
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What is the Supersonic EPK? What's the difference between a Standard EPK subscription and Supersonic? Can I upgrade?
The Sonicbids Supersonic EPK offers everything in a Standard EPK but includes additional tools and media space that are not included before you upgrade.
The Standard EPK includes space for your biography, discography, band lineup, elevator pitch, 10 photos in the photo gallery (plus 1 more for the main artist photo), 25 MB of MP3s, 10 sets of lyrics, press and media reviews, basic performance requirements, set list, and calendar performance dates. You also have access to the "Promoter Drop Box" to make submissions directly to promoters with specific gig listings, the "Community Forum" to interact with other promoter and artist members, and the "Email My EPK Out Now" tool to distribute your EPK whenever you want to anyone with an email address.
With a Supersonic EPK, you can upload a video file (up to 100 MB in file size and no more than 10 minutes in running time), 35 additional MB of MP3 storage (for a total of 60 MB of MP3 storage) and 20 additional sets of lyrics (30 in all), a high-resolution print-quality image file into the photo gallery, and a PDF of a stage plot or contract rider (in the basic requirements section).
The Supersonic EPK costs less than $1 per week in addition to your standard subscription, and you can upgrade at any time in the "My Membership Info" section of your account at a pro-rated amount based on how much time you have left in your current subscription.
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Can I set up my account so someone else receives Sonicbids emails and daily gig listing alerts?
Sonicbids daily gig listing alerts will be sent to the Primary Account Holder email address you have in your profile, but you can forward any gig listing alert you receive to anyone else you like. When you receive an alert there will be a link at the bottom of the message that asks if you'd like to forward it to a friend. The link will take you to a Sonicbids page where you can enter up to 25 email recipients and include your own personalized message.
Anyone with an email address can sign up to receive periodic extra-special announcements from Sonicbids by entering it in the "Get Email Alerts" section underneath the Spotlight artists on the right-hand side of the home page.
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Do you send genre-specific emails? How do I find events and gig listings specific to my genre or location?
If you'd like to find events and gig listings specific to your genre and/or locale, you can use the search tool in the "Promoter Drop Box" to enter key words that will target specific results. From time to time, we also send out genre- or location-specific notices.
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How do I remove myself from the email newsletter list?
If you want to stop receiving Sonicbids emails, log into your account and select "Edit Profile." You'll find the email list options near the bottom of the page. Remove the check from the boxes which read "Send me the Sonicbids Artist Newsletter and Quick Tips" and "Send me Gig Listing Alerts." Make sure to click "Save Changes" if you make any updates.
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Is there a multilingual option/function for my EPK?
We do not currently offer an automatic multilingual feature for the EPKs. If you plan on sending your EPK to recipients who are not English speakers, you can organize your EPK in such a manner that would be appropriate for them. For example, you could enter your biography in more than one language. You could also enter all information into your EPK in one language and include a note which reads that you are multi-lingual (specify which languages) if anyone wants to contact you directly.
We are committed to making the EPK the common global language for musicians and promoters, so if you have other suggestions on how to address recipients in multiple languages, please share them by writing to us via the Support Center.
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Can I have more than one EPK for the same artist?
Yes. Each artist's account is assigned just one EPK. If you'd like to have more than one EPK for the same artist, you'd need to create an additional artist account for that. If you decide to do that, you may want to consider creating a "Multi-User Account" (MUA) to control all your artist accounts and EPKs with just one login.
The MUA is best way to manage more than one EPK. With an MUA, you'll be able to build a number of EPKs and manage them all from one account. Starting an MUA itself will not cost any additional fees, though you will be responsible for the cost of each EPK subscription.
Start at Sonicbids, but don't log into your account. Select the "Sign Up" tab at the top of the page. On the sign-up page, enter your e-mail address, then select "I want to create an EPK." Where it reads, "I am a:," select anything except "artist/band member" (that would just create another individual EPK).
Complete the signup process, and then you will be able to build multiple EPKs from within that account. You won't be able to attach any existing EPKs yourself, so once the MUA is set up, let us know, and we'll attach the current EPKs to that account for you. With an MUA, you'll be able to email out your entire roster (or portions thereof) at once.
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Who pays for the subscription and submission charges of an artist EPK on a "Multi-User Account" (MUA)?
The subscription and submission fees for an EPK in an MUA can be paid for by either the Multi-User or the artist. If you'd like to cover the cost of the subscription for the artists, you can set each artist account to access the card on your MUA profile for subscription charges.
One benefit for having an MUA is that you can keep your credit card information private and separate from that of each artist. You'll be able to make submissions on your card on behalf of the artist and the artist can separately make submissions and pay on their own. Neither the MUA holder nor the artist has access to view or edit the other's credit cards on file.
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How do I activate the artist account(s) in my "Multi-User Account" (MUA) roster?
Log into your MUA and click on the name of the artist that you wish to activate. Then click on "My Membership Info" and select a subscription plan to activate the account.
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How do I add or remove an existing EPK to my "Multi-User Account" (MUA)?
A Multi-User can request to add or remove an existing artist EPK from the account roster, by emailing us via the Support Center. Please include the username for both the EPK account and your MUA. Only the account holder can request to add or remove EPKs to an MUA roster. If the EPK is under a different account holder's name, please have that person send written confirmation in order to attach it to your MUA. Please do not send passwords via email.
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Does the EPK work only for Musical Acts?
No. Though a majority of Sonicbids members are performing musicians, you can customize it to fit your act's needs. Writers, composers, speakers, booking agencies, and labels also use the EPK to promote their work. If, for example, you are a stand-up comedian, you can use the audio section to upload clips of your comedy act instead of songs. Simply use your creativity!
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| 5. Utilizing Your EPK |
5.1. Emailing Your EPK
How do I email my EPK? Who can I send it to? What exactly am I sending?
The best way to distribute your EPK is via the "Email My EPK Out Now" tool in your account. There you can enter the recipients' email addresses (up to 25 at once), include an individualized message, and click "Send" to distribute the EPK. Your recipients will receive a dynamic HTML-based message with the front page of your EPK embedded on it. Clicking on any one of the EPK links will open up the full EPK for your recipients. Try it by sending it to yourself first!
You can send your EPK as often as you like to anyone with an email address without wasting money on CD duplication, supplies, and postage. Send it to venues, bookers, A&R reps, promoters, and anyone else to make initial connections and build relationships. Use this tool to book tours (we've seen them book entire international tours using this tool alone).
You can update your EPK whenever you want and your recipients will always have access to the latest version. The "Sent Items" tab in the "Email My EPK Out Now" section will keep a record of everyone to whom you've sent it over the past three months.
If you'd like, you can also send your EPK URL in a personal email. Your EPK URL is located at the bottom of your account pages, and it is usually www.sonicbids.com/ followed by the name of the artist. You can change your EPK URL in the "Edit My EPK" section of your account.
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What are the benefits of emailing my EPK?
For starters, you'll save truckloads of CDs and promo material from going to waste and you'll spare yourself all those boring trips to the neighborhood post office. Your Sonicbids EPK is literally an online version of a professional promo kit complete with music, bio, photos, etc., that you can email out to anyone, anywhere, at any time – and at no added cost (try that with a "hard-copy" press kit). With a Sonicbids EPK, you can say goodbye to wasted time, wasted leads, and wasted CDs, and you'll say hello to more contacts, better impressions, and improved efficiency. Save money and be a hero to the environment!
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Do music promoters still prefer a regular press kit to an EPK?
In most cases, no. The EPK is becoming the standard by which music promoters make their artist selections. In fact, promoters that offer specific gig listings in the "Promoter Drop Box" have selected to use Sonicbids as their exclusive online submissions platform.
Promoters like EPKs because they are easy to review and organize. Not only does it save time for the promoters when making their selections for events and gig listings, but it also facilitates correspondence with artists. Most promoters who ask for a press kit don't need a physical one, and even if there are still some instances where a promoter requests a conventional press kit and promo CD, you can save time and money over duplication and postage fees by making your initial contacts by emailing your EPK first.
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Do you have a listing of A&R contacts or promoters? Will you send my EPK to your list of A&R contacts?
No. Sonicbids is not a database of contact information. The EPK will only grow your career if you use it. It is up you to find the contacts you want to review your EPK and to send it to them. The EPK is your platform to distribute and promote your music, and your membership will be exactly what you put into it.
Instead of providing you with a list of A&R Contacts, we provide you with direct submission gig listings that include among others, A&R. You decide which gig listings you submit to. Check your account's "Promoter Drop Box" often to view the current available gig listings.
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Can I keep a record of the EPKs I've emailed?
Yes, Sonicbids does it for you! To view the email addresses of everyone to whom you've sent your EPK over the past three months (along with the personal message you sent them), select "Email My EPK Out Now" and then click on the "Sent Items" tab.
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When I email my EPK, why are some people not receiving it?
It is possible that a recipient has an email client which is set to filter out certain types of messages. It is always a good idea to copy the message to your own email address as well and to follow up with your recipient to make sure that person has received it. If your recipient is having difficulty with it, you can also try sending a personal email from your own email client to someone and include your EPK URL, which is listed below your account menu (usually www.sonicbids.com/ArtistName).
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5.2. Submitting Your EPK
What is the "Promoter Drop Box"?
The "Promoter Drop Box" is a listing in your account of music promoters with specific performance, contest and licensing gig listings. These promoters are using Sonicbids as their exclusive online submissions platform because they know they can find unique and world-class talent in the membership.
These promoters include some of the world's biggest music events, conferences, live showcases, festivals, and a rapidly growing list of venues, contests, and song competitions. All active accounts have access to make submissions to "Promoter Drop Box" gig listings.
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Where can I find a specific gig listing? Can I search the "Promoter Drop Box"?
All specific gig listings are posted in the "Promoter Drop Box" section of your account, and you can sort the listing there alphabetically, by submission deadline, or by price. Use the "Search" bar located at the top of the "Promoter Drop Box" to search on keywords or by category of gig listing. Search on a genre or geographic location, and the "Promoter Drop Box" will display every event which includes those in its description.
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Can I send a link to a "Drop Box" gig listing to other people via email?
Yes. Sonicbids sends out daily gig listing alerts via email. If you ever want to make sure someone else gets it, too, click on the link at the bottom of the message that asks if you'd like to forward it to a friend. The link will take you to a Sonicbids page where you can enter up to 25 email addresses to send it and include your own personalized message. You can also copy the URL (website link) of a "Drop Box" and paste it in the body of email you send.
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I see that there are submission fees next to each "Drop Box" listing. Are these fees that Sonicbids charges?
No. The promoters, not Sonicbids, charge the fees that you see in the "Promoter Drop Box." Many gig listings such as song contests and music conferences charge a standard application fee to review your music regardless of how you submit (online or by mail). The fees listed on Sonicbids are not a penny more than if you were to send your physical kit through the mail accompanied by a check for the state amount. Our policy is that as a musician member of Sonicbids, you pay the same fee to submit online as you would if you were to send your promo kit by mail – the difference is that you save on postage and material costs. Plus, you can edit and update your EPK whenever you want at no additional cost, and the promoters will always have access to the latest version.
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I see submission fees for gig listings that normally don't charge application fees. What's this?
You will see some gig listings in your "Promoter Drop Box" that normally don't have submission fees (such as venues) listing on Sonicbids with a small charge ranging from $2 - $10. The fee is entirely up to the discretion of the promoter and it's almost never more than the cost of sending a physical promo kit by mail (if you figure in the cost of CD duplication, kit supplies, and postage fees). These fees are charged for two reasons:
(1) Submission fees which go directly to a promoter can be redistributed to promote events and get artists paid instead of wasting money on postage with no guarantees that a submission will ever be delivered, seen, or reviewed.
(2) Promoters use Sonicbids because it has made the process of intelligently reviewing kits and artists much more efficient. The EPK has leveled the playing field for artists during promoter decisions. Having a free "Drop Box" would remove the critical barrier of entry for artists, and promoters would get deluged with tons of inappropriate submissions (i.e. heavy metal artists submitting to a folk venue), making it difficult to select appropriate artists. A nominal barrier of entry fee acts as a safeguard for the artists who really should be considered for each particular gig listing.
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How much does it cost to make a submission to a gig listing?
The cost of each submission will vary. Submission fees are set by the promoters, and are designed to be at or less than the cost of entering and sending in a physical press kit by mail for consideration. The cost for each submission will be listed with the gig listing description in the "Promoter Drop Box."
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Are there any free drop boxes?
No. Each specific gig listing listed in the "Promoter Drop Box" will have a fee, set by the promoter, to make a submission. We work with each promoter to keep the submission fees at or below what it would cost to make a submission with a physical press kit by mail.
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Are submission fees included in my membership?
No. Submission fees are not included in your membership.
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Does my submission guarantee that I'll be selected?
No, your submission does not guarantee that you will be selected. It does, however, guarantee that you will be considered by the promoter for the gig listing.
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Does my submission to a "Promoter Drop Box" get me tickets to the event?
It depends. This will vary from promoter to promoter. Usually, the gig listing description will include this information. If you'd like to double-check with the promoter, feel free to contact them directly (unless otherwise requested).
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Will I receive a receipt of the payments I make for my submissions?
Yes. A receipt will be sent to the email address in your account profile each time there is a charge to a credit card on your account. Additionally, you can view the history of your submissions by clicking on the "My Submissions" tab in the "Promoter Drop Box."
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Can I write off Sonicbids subscription and submission charges on my taxes?
Yes. All submissions you make through Sonicbids, along with the payments on your Sonicbids subscriptions, are tax deductible as a business expense.
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Are there other ways to make submissions to gig listings other than through the "Promoter Drop Box?"
Sometimes a promoter will accept physical press kit submissions by postal mail, but Sonicbids is the exclusive online submissions pla