So the last DIY Bluegrass column talked about what artists should have ready before reaching out to radio. This time, I wanted to continue the conversation with someone who has spent decades on the other side of the mic. So this week, I sat down with legendary broadcaster Terry Herd for a candid Q&A about what actually gets an artist noticed — and what mistakes can quietly derail a release before it ever has a chance.
Radio promotion can feel intimidating, especially for independent artists trying to navigate releases without a major label machine behind them. But as Terry explains in our conversation below, many of the things programmers and DJs are looking for are surprisingly practical: preparation, professionalism, timing, and understanding how to make a broadcaster’s job easier.
We talk about release strategy, servicing music properly, common artist missteps, and why relationships still matter in bluegrass radio. Whether you’re gearing up to release your first single or trying to sharpen your next campaign, this conversation is packed with insight from someone who’s truly seen it all.
