How to Book a Gig for your Band
Once your band has a repertoire of songs and a few fans, you'll probably want to start thinking about booking a gig. Playing shows will expand your fan base and give you practice performing in front of crowds.
Here's how:
You'll first want to research venues where your band might be able to play. Remember that it is your first, so you may not want to be too picky... the better your band gets and the larger your fan base, the easier it will be to book your band. Look at the venue's schedule and see if you know any of the bands on the calendar; this is to make sure that your band's genre fits in with the type of music typically played at the venue. Also, if you know at least one of the bands, ask them about how they like performing at that venue. Other musicians will be able to tell you firsthand how their band was treated, how well they were paid, and what your band can expect when they play at the venue.
Contact the venue and ask to speak with the manager or the booking agent. Ask a fellow musician who's played there or research the venue's website so that you can call the booking agent by name. This way, they'll know you've done your homework. Make sure to ask the amount of time your band will be expected to play-- this it to make sure your band has enough songs in their repertoire to play a full show. Be prepared to promote your band, especially if it's your first real gig. Look at it from their point of view... what will they gain from booking your band at their venue? Tell them about your fan base and assure them that you, your fellow band members, friends, and fans will help to promote the show.
When you succeed in booking your first gig, make sure your band is prepared by practicing your playlist, making sure your equipment is working well, and recruiting as many friends and family as you can to come to your show. Post your event on JukeboxAlive so that your friends can RSVP and share your event with their friends. It will also be searchable in the JukeboxAlive events database.
On the night of the show, play your best and enjoy your fans' presence, knowing that your hard work has paid off and the focus is now on your great music.