Start a music website or blog page, host a radio show on a community or college radio station, or write record reviews for the local music weekly. Any of these activities will help to establish your credentials and make you an attractive candidate to record labels and independent artists who are looking for avenues to promote their music.
Write to record labels and request promotional CDs. Make the case that you are in position to promote the artist with your radio show, website or blog page.
Meet and network with independent artists and bands at their concerts. Many artists are willing to hand our CDs free of charge at their shows if they think that it helps to increase their visibility and public profile. Agree to write an article or review for the local music paper or invite the artist to perform live on your radio show.
Visit local record stores and ask about promo CDs. Many record stores receive promo CDs in the mail from various record labels and artists. Work out a deal with the record store to advertise their business in exchange for receiving promo CDs.