5 Steps to Improve Your Chances of Being Booked for Gigs

1. Do your research

When it comes to planning gigs research is essential. It's not likely you'll be taken on at church if you're a death metal band so find venues that suit your style of music. Also check if the venue has any specific requirements e.g. bringing your own PA or a minimum of 50 attendees.

Make your approach personal. If you just include the venue in a batch email don't expect to be hearing from them any time soon. Don’t make people work hard to hear your stuff. Either send a link direct to your music, an MP3 or soundcloud link, or better still send a hard copy cd. If you send a cd take off the cello wrap, there is nothing more frustrating than spending ages trying to get the packaging undone. For someone who receives hundreds of cds a week, if it is difficult to access they might just not bother. You have to be sure that you can deliver all that they require of a band. If they want someone to play a 1 1/2  hour set and you only have 45 minutes of material then try elsewhere. 

2. Have a decent demo

Demo's can really make or break your band. It's like an audible business card, it establishes who you are as an artist/band and should accurately sum up your style. First impressions certainly count, especially in the music industry so choose tracks wisely. Labels, reviewers and radio stations are inundated with hundreds CD's every day. Therefore you need to impress and get their attention. Artwork can make your cd stand out, a photo or use of colour that reflects your image and style works best. 

How can I achieve this I hear you ask? Make sure you invest in your demo. A lot can be achieved by home recording, but unless you have good equipment and know how to mix well then get a professional job done. It may not be as expensive as you think, and is well worth the investment. Recoup your costs by having a small run of physical cds made, and sell them to friends, family and at gigs as well as sending them out to prospective venues and festivals.  

Recording studios can be a great help to you so don't be afraid to approach them with your demo ideas. Choose your studio wisely, check out recordings they have done in a similar genre to get an idea of what they can do for your music. Find out what you get for the price they quote- does it include VAT, will you have to pay extra for the engineer? If they are a good studio they can offer loads of advice and support, for no extra cost. They may also offer ongoing support by promoting your music through their networks, (we do at Ragged Moon). This can really add value to what you walk away with. Try to get some photos and video (filming on your phone can be good enough) whilst you are in the studio, they can be good for publicity.

3. Create a professional image

Let's be honest no venue is going to want you if you rock up in a onesie. Your image is crucial to securing gigs. Think about it, if a potential customer hears two bands of equal calibre they are then going to look at which band aligns to their style more. In order to create this image think about styling yourselves so that you look like a cohesive unit if you are a band, whether it’s ostentatious like the next Lady Gaga or something a little more understated, think of what impression you want to give to your potential investors and listeners. In the end if your music is good and you look professional you will be well on your way to to your next big concert.

4. Maintain a professional image 

Your image is only half the battle. Keeping up said image is the real challenge. In order to achieve this you must build up a presence. The majority of this can be achieved online through social media accounts and a separate website that is solely dedicated to the band. You must be willing to engage with people online as it will give you that approachable and engaging connection that fans love to feel. 

Once you have created these accounts it's all about updating and maintaining your image. Keep writing about what interests you and what you're currently working on as well as talking to your newly found followers. Not only will your online presence make it easier for people to find out who you are as band it will give off an air of professionalism to any industry execs or potential employers that may be scrolling through. Remember it’s not all about you- if all you promote is your next gig, talk about your next recording project or ask for likes and shares you can give the impression of being self obsessed. Talk about other artists (hopefully in a positive way), things in the news and new music that you are interested in. This helps to give your fans a sense of who you are. 

5. Network with other musicians and promoters

Word of mouth is a powerful thing in the entertainment business so use it to your advantage. Next time you're at a gig make a conscious effort to talk to the musicians afterwards. If you express an honest interest in performing live they're more than likely to try and help you out. Who better to give you advice than someone who has been in your position before?

Besides they may even share their contacts with you or ask for you to support them on future tours. It's cheaper and easier for them and it'll help you get your name out there, it's beneficial for both parties involved. Don't stop there however, keep contacting artists and promoters online as eventually your persistence will pay off.

By Melissa Tucker