How to Meet the Band: Part 2
So you're at a concert, having a blast, and want to snag the lead singer's autograph. Or, if bragging rights are what you're aiming for, securing a photo with a band member will surely get the envy of your friends. And the great thing about getting an autograph or a photo is that you have a chance to have a chat with a musician you're really interested in. But how can you get facetime when you and the rest of the audience are competing for attention? Being creative and a little brave could help you get some hangout time with your favorite band member, and maybe even a great story to share with friends for years to come. Here's how to work on transforming yourself from "fan" to "friend":
Follow the Crowd.
During the show the band may give some indication that they'll be hanging out after the show, so listen up for this. If they don't, though, follow the cues from the crowd after they exit the stage. If the crowd is headed toward the merch table, for example, they may be seasoned fans who know that this particular band tends to work their merch stand after concerts. Smaller bands typically work their own merch stands, giving you the perfect opportunity to walk up, strike up a conversation, and make friends, and it's the perfect time to ask them to autograph something for you or to pose for a quick photo.
Be prepared.
Don't be so distracted by tracking down a band member that you forget to make sure you have something to autograph and a marker! If you're able to catch the attention of a band member they might be so busy that they only have a few moments, so don't hold them up by being unprepared.
Wait, Wait, and Wait.
Just like things that go up must come back down, bands who enter a venue will eventually exit it. If they're pressed for time after the show the band may make a beeline for the bus, so if you're able to wait outside of it might be a good opportunity for a quick meeting before head in the bus for the night. If they go to a backstage area afterward, though, if you're patient enough they'll probably eventually come back to the bus, giving you one final opportunity to meet the band, snag an autograph.
As always, it pays to do your homework, so before the show try and contact your favorite band through their JukeboxAlive profile. Add them as a friend, comment on their blog postings, and send them messages, introducing yourself and distinguishing yourself as more than just an average fan.