Booking Live Music Shows?!
Question: Here's a question I've never seen, although it's kind of unusual, I guess. Of anybody who plays or has played out with a live show band for bars and clubs, and was involved in the booking process... does/did anybody have a tried and true method or have any great success in going out to these places, getting their ear, and booking shows for your band? Got any tips for the trade?
Answers: Here's a question I've never seen, although it's kind of unusual, I guess. Of anybody who plays or has played out with a live show band for bars and clubs, and was involved in the booking process... does/did anybody have a tried and true method or have any great success in going out to these places, getting their ear, and booking shows for your band? Got any tips for the trade?
Jeff, the tried and true method that has worked for several groups I've played in is to have a portfolio containing a live recording of the group, video of the group playing live and a couple of group photo's. The audio and video give the club manager a straight up view of what your group sounds and looks like in a live setting. A song list with every song your group plays.
If you've haven't played out yet have a friend video tape the group at their best in your rehearsal space.
If you're playing the type of music that the club caters to you got a great shot of playing there. Sometimes if a club manager is skeptical you can work with them to play a freebie or tips to get in the place and then go from there. Even if all members of your group are good musicians a good selling point is for your group to have good stage presence and a good rapport with the audience. Most clubbers are out to have a good time and if you can keep them on the dance floor and drinking the club manager will love ya. I guess to put it simply, you have to play what you're audience wants to hear, not what you like.
It wont take long for word to get around about your group and you'll be gigging steady. Good luck!!