Promotional recording

Under a promo recordings ( also: Promotional CD Promotional (LP, EP, Single), white pattern or pattern plate ) refers to a sound recording (Single, EP or Album ) that is manufactured exclusively for promotional purposes. Commercially such recordings are not available. The recordings will be sent free of charge from the record companies to selected radio stations, music magazines and dealers to draw attention to a new single or a new album of an artist or a band. Shipping is partly already several weeks before the official start of the recordings.

The design and the content of the promo recordings often differ from the sales copy. To highlight the promotional purpose of the phonogram, the record covers or the CD cover or CD, a notification (" For Promotion Only - Not For Sale ", etc.) is printed. Frequently background information on the artist and title are a separate attached sheet ( the so-called " Promo Sheet " or journalists occasionally as a derogatory term "laundry list ") is removed.

Since promo recordings are produced only in small quantities and not available in regular trading, they are a popular item for collectors. The former compared to the official release date of the appearance of promo recordings usually means that these versions will be made ​​available as leaks.

• Media release