Practice makes perfect the art of the interview

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Music Biz 101

Publicity will invariably involve interviews with the print and electronic media. Interviews can be nerve-wracking and intimidating or they can be a totally positive experience, much like a job interview. Preparation goes a long way in easing the tension. Research the program or column for the angle and style of writing or reporting the interviewer takes. Is it national, regional or local in scope? Is it broadcast live or live to tape? The pressure is on if it is a live show. If not, when will it air?

Request a copy of the interview for immediate feedback and future reference. You'll be amazed how fast 15 minutes goes and at what you had to say. Preparing for the actual interview keeps a focus to your interviews by consistently emphasizing three main points you'd like to leave your audience with about yourself or group (the artist), the performance and the songs.

There are the standard questions about your personal and musical background and influences, but it takes an exceptional interviewer to go the extra kilometre to make his interviews interesting. And, because the interviewee has been asked the questions before, the actual interview can become boring over time. This does not happen if you take control of the interview. For example, if the interviewer wants to delve more into your personal life, redirect the question by reminding the interviewer that the profile is on your professional life. Watching and listening to other television and radio interviews will help you develop an appreciation of the good and the bad. The publicist who works for a record label or artist management company is in charge of co-ordinating all aspects of the interview from initiating media contact, confirming interviews and transportation. Preparing the artist through briefings and keeping the artist on schedule for other commitments is part of the glamor.

A good interview brings out the best for both the interviewer and interviewee, if both have researched well and are relaxed with one another.

This column is for reference and education only and is not intended to be a substitute for legal advice. The author assumes no responsibility or liability arising from any outdated information Ann Brascoupe owns What's Up Promotions, a company specializing in promoting, booking, and managing Aboriginal artists across Canada. She may be reached at abrascoupe@hotmail.com.