Getting a band off the ground can be both the most inspiring and anxiety-ridden experience a musician can go through. While you’re in the thick of creating your music, gelling with the other players in your group, and preparing your world domination, you’re also wondering how the heck you’re actually going to get a chance to bring it to the public.
Although the world of booking your first real gigs can seem overwhelming, it is often much easier than you think. That’s why I’ve put together this list of five of the most important steps you can take to land some shows. And the best part is, every one of them is effective, easy to do, and a lot of fun.
It’s All About Networking
Thousands of bands across the world hustle and pour their blood, sweat, and tears into their music and all but beg their friends and other bands to come out and support them. But when the tables are turned and it’s time for them to support someone else’s music, they stay home and watch Netflix. Sound familiar? Ouch. The good news is that making one simple change to this self-defeating cycle can quickly move your band up the ranks in your hometown.
Network, network, network. Grab your bandmates and head to the venue to support another artist in your scene. Make a point to buy some merch. Get to know the other musicians on the bill. You will be amazed how regularly putting yourself and your band out there builds community and awareness of your music — and opens doors to gigs that you’d never find while binge-watching Stranger Things.
Play Gigs to Get Gigs
This might seem counterintuitive, but there are plenty of opportunities to strut your stuff in your local scene before the bigger clubs come calling. Head to an open mic night, busk at your town’s farmers markets and other public events, offer to play at friends’ parties, or simply and humbly ask a local venue to give you an opening slot at one of their upcoming shows. While none of these might seem overly glamorous, this is where you’ll cut your teeth, hone your sound, and grow into the band that is ready for the big stage.
Be Professional; Be Prepared
Reputation is everything when trying to book gigs. And everyone gets a reputation whether they want it or not. That’s why it’s so vital to always be professional, prepared, and easy to work with. And that goes for everyone in the band. If you have a guitarist that tends to ruffle feathers at every show or a bassist that spends more time at the bar than practicing his parts, it might be time to make a tough change.
If your music is good and other bands and venues like being around you, you’re going to find yourself first in line for a lot more gigs than if you show up unprepared and with a rock star attitude. Everyone has a reputation, so make sure yours is a great one.
Meet the People That Support You
In our interview with Sum 41’s Frank Zummo, he emphasizes staying in touch with your fans. Who would know better than a drummer who plays on massive stages around the world?
“When you’re out on the road, don’t hide in your dressing room or your bus or your van all day. Go meet your fans. Hang out at the merch booth. Hang out outside the venue when people are leaving. These are the people who are going to support you through your career, and they want to have that connection.”
Embrace Social (Media)
In today’s digital landscape, this one may seem obvious. Assuming that you are already getting your music out there, supporting other artists in your scene, showing up to your gigs ready to hit the stage with a smile, and giving your fans the appreciation they deserve, then it’s time to hit them internets.
Even if all you have is a smartphone for recording, you can put that to amazing use by posting performance videos, livestreams, playthroughs, Q&As, or any other content you can dream up. Just make sure that it is quality and represents your band the way you want.
Start generating a healthy following on the most popular social media platforms, and you’ll find that venues and booking agents are much more willing to give you your shot.
So there you have five tips on landing gigs, but they all fall into two main categories: make good music and make great relationships. That’s it. Never stop putting everything you’ve got into your art.
If there’s anything that we can do to help you with technology or recording or live performance to advance your career, give us a call at (800) 222-4700. We want to help you win.