How DJs Can Find New Music By Joining Promo Mailing Lists

If you’re a DJ or host a radio show, you’re always on the lookout for new music. Luckily there are many avenues open to you, from crate digging to attending industry events. One surefire way to be in the loop of the latest tracks is getting on promo lists. In this article, you’ll learn what promo lists are, why they’re essential for music discovery and how to access them strategically. You’ll hear some unique stories from creators from our community about the advantages of promo lists.

Mike Flux is a Cyprus-based DJ and radio presenter; yerik is a DJ, producer and music writer for EDM Identity; Shaun Whelan is an Ireland-based DJ and DJ Superfli is a USA-based DJ and founder of creative platform Naija Boyz Entertainment.

Promo mailing lists are invitation-based email lists run by record labels, PR agencies or platforms like InFlyte. Being on one means you get early access to unreleased music, updates on events and direct communication from artists and industry professionals. On these lists, you can also get news about music events and more. They keep you in the loop of everything happening with your favorite artists and genres. But they also let you know what other creative organizations are up to.

Access to promo lists will vary depending on what you do in the industry. This means the chances of getting on one will also vary.

Early access to music before official release.
Curated content aligned with your musical style.
High-quality files—ideal for radio, DJ sets, or mixes.
Networking opportunities with labels and industry professionals.

Now, we hear from a few members of our community on their experiences with promo lists.

“I mainly got onto promo lists of record labels that I’ve bought from in the past. Since 2018, I’ve used promo services like Fatdrop and InFlyte. They catalog promos by labels and genres of music you’re interested in. It would take no longer than a week to apply. It’s a lot easier to find new music as you set up a free account with both Fatdrop and Inflyte. You can assign the type of music you’re into and get sent promos based on your choices and the labels you subscribe to.

Unlike when I started DJing in the 1990s, there is so much more music out there that is easy to miss. Applying to promo lists is an excellent way to find stuff you like. It is pinpointed to criteria you set up on the service. I don’t really face barriers [getting onto promo lists] anymore. It obviously helps that my monthly mix podcast has a huge loyal following that has been established over a decade of producing it. But most labels and artists want their music heard by as many people as possible. One golden rule to live by with promos is to spread the word. If you’re lucky enough to get sent someone’s form of art and you like it, the best compliment you can give them is to tell others about it.

It’s always nice to play a classic record in a mix. But any music genre – or art form for that matter – needs new material to survive and have longevity. The thrill of hearing something for the first time never goes away for a music lover. Being on promo lists where you have the opportunity to hear new music is an incredible opportunity as a DJ.”

Mike Flux – “Network with artists and record labels”

“My entry into promo lists began in Cyprus, where I was approached directly by record labels and artists. They sent me promos for my radio show and club gigs in Ayia Napa. It was becoming a major party destination at the time. My success there made me a valuable contact for labels. Initially, I received Dance and Trance promos, aligning with my DJ style at the time. As I transitioned to more mature sounds and my style evolved, especially from 2003 onwards, the promos shifted more towards House music.

While I was fortunate to be approached directly, applying to promo lists is crucial for DJs today. It offers early access to tracks and helps in gauging audience reactions, which can be pivotal for a DJ’s set. Radio has always been a powerful platform for promo distribution due to its wide reach and fewer restrictions in the past. Although regulations have changed, radio remains an essential channel for promo lists.

Although I didn’t face many barriers, I’ve seen others struggle due to lack of recognition or being perceived as ‘bedroom DJs.’ The rise of internet regulations has also made it harder to access promos compared to earlier times. Unless you subscribe to record pools. Promo lists are crucial as they offer DJs the chance to debut new tracks and see how audiences feel about the music before official releases. This not only helps build a DJ’s reputation but also supports the music industry in testing potential hits.”

Yerik – “Write for a music magazine”

“Writing for a music blog has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Especially when it comes to writing about my favorite genres. Through my writing, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with various promo lists, labels and PR agencies. While some labels and PR teams approached me directly after seeing my work, I’ve also actively reached out to those I admire. Beyond the organic connections, there are curated promo lists available for purchase. They can be a great resource for exclusive content. Additionally, some DJ pools offer exclusive tracks that can give DJs a unique edge in their sets.

There are challenges, of course, like proving your reach or influence if you’re newer to the scene. But being on these lists is crucial for staying ahead with the freshest releases. You may not have a chance to get the big name tracks but there are artists of all different sizes making great music. It’s just about finding them. Another thing that works really well for me is TrackStack. I get a decent amount of promo through there. The important thing to consider is that you have to get creative. Sure, I can pay for lists, but it’s nice to have a more active role in the industry. I write because I love music first and foremost. Everything else is a bonus.”

DJ Superfli – “Apply for a DJ competition”

“I was scrolling on social media one time and a DJ friend of mine sent me a post by Pretty Lou of The Heavy Hitter DJs Coalition. The post was essentially a public service announcement to all DJs that the next season of Turn the Tables Show was to be announced. At the time, I was unaware of the Turn The Tables DJ competition. I applied and was called to audition live in New York City at the world famous DJ Rock and Soul record store. I auditioned and was welcomed as one of 32 DJs across the United States to compete, for a chance to be named the Turn The Tables Champion and a $10,000 cash prize.

The show was powered by Def Jam Records and gained sponsorship from UPNYC, Defiant Records, Warner Records and Roc Nation. At the completion of being a participant of the show, I had the opportunity to meet and network with the best DJs and industry professionals. I was also added to the Def Jam Recordings mailing list and network of DJs.

Ever since then, I’ve been receiving all the latest releases and support from Def Jam. The best audio and video files in clean, instrumental and explicit versions, which helps in curating my DJ crates and ensuring I’m prepared to play at any gig. Having that resource, I have access to all the music I need. This is the most important benefit of being on promo lists. The ability to save time and get the best audio files to reinforce your DJ library to enable you to focus more on putting together an amazing show each and every time you touch the stage.”

We recommend these platforms to gain access to promo lists: