In recent years, the live sector of the music industry has blossomed while others have faltered and declined. With the popularity of file sharing, illegal downloading and streaming, bands are having to focus more on the revenue that they can earn from performing live shows and less on what they can generate through record sales.
For bigger bands and those that are already established, record labels, managers and booking agents generally take care of booking shows and tours, but for bands that are just starting out or are low on funds, getting on the books of an agent may not be feasible.
While having somebody to take care of arranging gigs for you is convenient and makes the process easier, it is costly and not a strict requirement.
There are many things that you can do yourself to get gigs for your original band and put yourself out there. Below are some ideas that you can use to book shows.
Have material to present and promote
Having recorded music is almost essential to getting a gig. As a band, it is, after all, your music you are selling and any promoter or venue that may be interested in booking you is going to want to hear what you are all about before making a commitment to booking you for a show.
Having an EP or Album, along with a lead single and B-side recorded that you can send out to promoters will greatly improve your chances of getting a gig.
While physical format CDs are useful to have on hand for any useful contacts you meet, sending digital copies via Dropbox or directing them to a website or social media profile where they can hear your music can work, too.
You should also try to have a number of live video performances, of good quality, that you can show to the promoter and perhaps even a story-boarded music video.
Send out a press kit or EPK
A press kit is a great thing to have, because it shows that you are serious about your band. It can be a good idea to deliver a full press kit along with a demo that you are sending and you can compile both into a Dropbox folder or similar link when you send emails out.
The press kit should include your contact information and a good biography of the band that lets the promoter know what to expect from you.
You can include your influences so that they can get an idea for your style of music, and some professional photographs if you have any.
Your press kit is kind of like your CV or portfolio, and is your chance to make a good impression. If you have any press quotes from newspapers, magazines or anyone else about your music, make sure to include them too!
It’s also good to include a quote or two from positive reviews from any past shows, and maybe a press release to really grab attention.
Networking
See if you can make contacts at as many venues in your local area as you can, in order to maximise your chances of getting a gig. You can mail your CDs, deliver them in person, or send songs and information electronically.
No matter which route you take, make sure that you label your CD or files to ensure they don’t get lost in the shuffle.
Promoters and venues generally will have a lot of bands trying to get on their shows, so if you don’t hear back from them, don’t be afraid to call them and chase it up.
If you are persistent, the promoter will take more notice of you and realise you are serious about wanting a chance to perform.
Don’t take lack of response as a “no” straight away. Keep up the contact and put pressure on them and your chances of getting booked will increase.
If it is open, pop into the venue during the day for a drink, and ask who handles the bookings. If they aren’t there it is still important to strike up a good conversation with whomever you deal with.
Book and promote your own gigs
If there are venues close to you (or further afield if you’re feeling adventurous!) that work with outside promoters rather than their own in-house one, you can hire a venue yourself and book your own show. This is called “dry hire”.
You would, of course, be responsible for the venue rental costs, the sound engineer, costs of promoting the show and any other expenses that may be involved, but the return on investment can be great if you do a good job of it.
Book some other bands as well, to increase the chances of a good turnout and take a little bit of pressure off your own band.
Work with local bands
If you know of other bands in your area, it can be a good idea to approach them to see if they have any gigs lined up. If they do, you could ask if they are looking for an opening band or if they need another supporting slot filled on the bill.
If bands are in the same position as you are and are struggling to find gigs, booking a gig between you and splitting the costs is an option.
While some bands can get quite competitive, it is much more beneficial to strike up a relationship and help each other out when you are first starting out it.
The live music scene is all about support and exposure, and when you are trying to find your footing, it is important to get as much of both as you can.
Attend other gigs
Going to other gigs and getting to know the local music scene is an absolute must. Whether it’s open mic nights, popular local bands or anything else, it’s super important to get to know the local players and all the faces of your local music scene.
It might cost you some money, but get out and meet some people. Buy some drinks, strike up conversations and see who you meet!
Create hype and build demand
The Internet is an especially powerful tool for building the fan base of your band. Through social networking websites, it is relatively easy for things shared to large audiences, or maybe even go viral!
Focus on growing an online fan base and build some demand. If there are enough people wanting you to play, and you can demonstrate a strong following, it is less likely that promoters are going to ignore you when approached.
Getting gigs for your band is not as daunting and impossible as it may seems sometimes. It takes determination, persistence and sometimes a little nagging. Don’t think that local promoters are your only option.
There are many other paths you can take to book yourself a gig. Look for local battle of the bands competitions that you can compete in, or any local festivals that you may be able to get a slot on.
If you’re feeling brave and adventurous, you can even take a chance and pack up your equipment into a van and hit the road!
The music industry is a big one and the live scene is huge. If you’re struggling to get bookings right now, do not be discouraged.
There is room in the industry for your band, and by following some of the tips here you’ll be able to find that place and start to build your name.
Do you have any top tips for how to get gigs as an original band? Post them in the comments below…
