Zines, Guestlists & Respect: It’s a Two-Way Street, Not a Takeaway Service

If you’re running a zine, blog, vlog, or any kind of “independent press” and you want to collaborate with promoters or get into shows — it’s a two-way relationship. Not a charity. Not a hotline.

We love zines. We grew up with zines. Zines shaped underground culture and still do. But don’t confuse DIY culture with DIY entitlement.

Here’s how press collaboration should work:

1. You reach out early. Not 20 minutes before doors when everything is already chaotic.

2. You introduce yourself. Who are you? What have you done? What’s your reach? Where can we read your work?

3. You offer value. Are you doing a review? Interview? Recap? Promo in advance? Anything that gives something back?

4. You build a relationship. Show up, support events, tag people, repost flyers. This scene is built on trust — not transactional ego trips.

Asking for guestlist spots without contributing anything to the show — especially without prior contact or effort — is not press work. It’s freeloading.

The ugly truth?

Too many people treat guestlists like free entertainment tokens. But every guestlist spot costs money — not just in lost ticket sales, but also in added workload, space, and complications. And when you pop up last minute, you’re not just asking for a favor — you’re disrespecting the team that’s been working for weeks, maybe months, to make this show happen.

You want in for free? Cool.

What are you bringing to the table?

And no, dropping the word “zine” like a backstage spell doesn’t open doors by default. If you’re not covering the show, supporting the promo, or building something long-term — then sorry, you’re just another name in the inbox.

We’re all for collaboration. But collaboration means mutual benefit. If you’re serious about being press in this scene, act like it. Show professionalism. Show consistency. Show that you give a fuck about the community beyond just getting a wristband and a beer.

Because this isn’t 2001 and your zine isn’t a golden ticket to every gig in town.

Respect the work. Respect the people behind the scenes. And most importantly: contribute before you ask.