Register for membership with ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) or BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.). Both companies represent artists and bands by collecting license fees and royalties, while also protecting the rights of copyrighted music and production.
Copyright each song through the U.S. Copyright office to protect songs from bootlegging or unauthorized duplication. There are applicable fees per song or works submitted.
Record your music onto CD and create labels with the artist or band's name, contact info, and song title. Duplication service companies are available that will create as many copies of the CD requested and can also create labels and packaging for your demo, if you prefer.
Create a press kit that should include a "one sheet" which includes the biography of the artist or band (band mates), song or tracks list and a list of performances (past and upcoming). Also include photos, business cards and anything regarding the artist/band like stickers or event fliers. Be as creative as you like to catch the attention of the program or music director from the radio station, but keep it professional.
Research the name of the music director and the program director of the stations you would like your music played. The music director (MD) reports directly to the PD (program director). The MD is the one that opens the media mail received at the station and discusses music promos with record labels. The program director is the one who has the final say in what gets played on the airwaves and also discusses how much airplay and rotation a song will get.
Call the station and make an appointment with the music or program director. Most often, they are too busy to meet with artists regarding airplay, so don't be discouraged. Mail your press kit and demo or stop by the station's main office and drop it off.
Follow up with a phone call within a week. Refrain from calling on a Monday or Friday, as these are the busiest days of the week for both directors. On Mondays, they are discussing new music and additions with all the record labels and representatives they are associated with. On Fridays, the program director's focus is on weekend promotions, concerts and contests that will also begin the following week. If you are unable to get in touch with either, remain persistent and follow up with an email and another phone call a few days after.