The 405 is an award-winning online music and culture magazine featuring the latest reviews, interviews, news, features and much more.
Tell us about your blog, how did you get started? Why did you choose your subject?
I started it in 2008. I was working at a record label, and one of my tasks was to write about some of the artists on the label, which I really enjoyed. When I left the label I had some spare time, so thought I'd start a blog to write about bands I really loved.
How do you source content for your blog?
30% discovery, 30% PR, 40% artist submissions.
Do you like to write reviews?
I used to, but don't find as much time to anymore. I leave that up to our writing team. We receive around 300,000 views a month.
How did you build a following for your blog?
A lot of it was by word of mouth, but in the beginning I laid out plans and stuck with it, especially when it comes to social media (specifically Twitter).
Do you work with PRs?
Yeah, 100%. We're always happy to get submissions from friendly PR people.
How best do you like to be approached by PRs?
Just emails really. No waffle, just straight to the point!
What’s the best thing about being a blogger in your field?
Being able to listen to music all day long, and earn a living from it!
Oliver can be found tweeting @oliverprimus.