With record execs you need to get them to come see you perform live. That way they can see what sort of reactions you get and whether they can sell your records.

A press kit should have a bio of the band and each of the members, some pictures, some info on the tracks on the CD, etc. When we get new bands giving us stuff they post it all in together so we get the whole thing and can advise people of the sound and give them info, which might turn some more heads.

MP3 format songs are a good idea if you can host and sell them yourself. That soundclick.com site is good for getting noticed, but can't sell MP3's. Look for a site which will allow you to get all the money from each MP3.

The bands need to create a buzz that the record execs think they can use to sell records. That's the key. And some DJ's will play your stuff, some won't. It depends on the freedom the DJ has and if they like what they hear. I should be getting a show in September again, so I could guarantee the bands some airplay; when it would be is another matter, depending on the schedule, but student radio is a good way to go for new bands.