Almost Famous and Spinal Tap are two of my favourite movies – but also (rather accurately) depict the niche of music industry interviews. I’ve shared the stage with many but switched to journalism and decided to bring some of the music along. Here’s how to ‘make it happen’ for interviews in the music industry.

Publications and Editors in Music

There are two types of publications: ones about music, and ones that aren’t. Rolling Stone and SA Music Magazine are the aforementioned; mainstream news and blogs are the second. The good news: it’s possible to sell a music industry interview anywhere.

I sold the story “Band on the Road” to Moneyweb, a financial publication. We interviewed Cortina Whiplash about their finances for a great piece.

Mainstream publication Maroela Media let me interview musician Koos Kombuis in 2024, along with other celebrities, about their favourite apps.

Beware the Lawsuit

Musicians and their agents can be sensitive about what goes to print. Confirm an article’s draft with the subjects or press team – sometimes it’s a conditional clause in the agreement. Make sure they’re okay with the draft, or your reputation could take a hit.

For The sports bet & the bunny chow (LitNet), I suffered through edits once someone said: “You can’t say that, he/she/they might sue.”

Connecting via Press Packs

Bands are advised to have Press Kits, and this is where you start – as the press. A press kit contains basic biographical details, usually some songs, and images with permission to use in articles.

Sometimes they’re called Electronic Press Kits (EPKs).

Three press kit examples: guitarist Tony Cox, jazz musician Melorie Jane, and rock artist Sarah Smith

Start with the press information, even if you think you’re their biggest fan and don’t need it.

Press kits are usually on the band website, but can also be asked for if they aren’t posted there. Press releases, usually also from band social media and sites, inform you of new albums.

Going to Gigs (and Getting to Know Bands)

There are many journalists who prefer interviews at live gigs. No, I’m not one of them, because I prefer sitting down and talking outside their work environment!

Still, going to gigs (and getting to know bands) can be the best way to connect for a full-time music industry career – and that’s often where you hear new things first.

People in the Music Industry

It’s not all about the musicians, you should know. There are also others in the music industry, from their road crew to producers and competition judges. Branch out, and you might score a great interview with a choir director.

I’ve interviewed Deon Maas (LitNet, 2023), who has been active in the music industry in many ways – including a judge on Idols: South Africa.

Think outside the box, and beyond the stage.

Knowing Music and Genres

A music writer develops a feel for their genre, or at least feels their way through one. If you don’t know a particular genre (or artist), get to know them by taking some time and listening. Research the genre you’re writing about. Would you know the difference between metalcore, grindcore, and heavy metal as well as readers or fans would?

Musician Jean Morrison has a great press kit featuring his songs, which led to my features features on TheSouthAfrican.com. I branched into hip-hop and rap artists, classical musicians, and rock. I’ll admit that I don’t know too much about jazz, but if I interviewed a jazz saxophonist tomorrow, my preparation would get to know the genre (e.g. their inspiration or early work).

Does a Music Journalist Need to Play Guitar?

Not necessarily, no. I haven’t produced any rap beats recently, yet I’ve done great interviews with Isaac Mutant for LitNet, Vrouekeur, and The South African. While I play guitar, background in music isn’t necessary to write a good interview – as long as you know your subject and genre well enough to join a conversation.

Bio: Alex J. Coyne is a gonzo journalist, writer, and proofreader. Sometimes, he is joined by his cowriters. His features have been published in a wide array of international publications, like People Magazine, The Citizen, Caribbean Compass, and Writers Write.