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10 Ways to Improve Your Band’s Image

In theory a band should be judged entirely on their musical ability.  The reality, though, is that musicians are often judged on their overall image.  A young band is put in the unfortunate position of trying to perfect their sound, and at the same time, appeal to their community.  Here are some ways that you can improve your image—both onstage and of—and increase your recognition.

1. Be a copycat…in your own unique way.

Go find local bands that have already become successful and watch what they are doing.  Poke around on their website, see their show, and talk to people about them to find out what makes them so popular.  Depending on how approachable they are, you may even want to contact them and build a mentoring relationship, or at the very least ask if you can take them out for a beer and pick their brains.  You’re not looking to reproduce another band’s success step by step, but you are trying to come up with a plan for establishing yourself based on tried and true methods.  Look at what has already worked and see if there are variations you can adopt in your own band.

2. Play

There are hundreds of local events every year that you can support by volunteering to play.  Treat these like genuine gigs, even if you aren’t making any money off of them.  This is an opportunity to reach an audience you might never see in the normal club scene, and it will gain you an enormous amount of recognition—especially if you play and support organizations or events that have some real meaning in the community.  Is there an annual 10k race that raises money for your local shelter?  What about an art auction that raises money for the local museum?  Most of these events have social gatherings where people meet before and after for drinks and networking—and you can volunteer to perform for attendees.  Your community will see you as a contributor and supporter, not just a rock band.

3. Web Presence

The internet is the single most important marketing tool in this day and age.  That means you need to have a real web presence.  There are about a million bands on MySpace Music—and yes, you should be on there, too.  But don’t underestimate the need to have your own website with your own domain name.  You also want to take advantage of Web 2.0—that is, social networking and building relationships on the internet between individuals and websites.  If you know anyone with a website, ask them to link to your band’s page.  Set up a message board, or join and participate in a message board for musicians.  Get a blog and update it weekly at the bare minimum.  Keep your website updated with band info, photos, show dates, and audio or video snippets.  You may even offer free MP3 downloads of your tunes to generate web traffic.

4. Watch a video of yourself

It is next to impossible to get an objective view of yourself and your performance without watching a video of your own performance.  Have a friend take a standard VHS recorder to your show and take footage of the band for you to view later.  When you sit down to watch the video, make sure you have some non-band members there to give you a balanced perspective—and as you watch, resist the urge to make comments or discuss things until the whole show is finished.  Take notes and plan to have a formal band meeting directly following the video to discuss what you’ve seen.  Be as objective as possible, and if you’re commenting on other people make sure you are sensitive to their feelings.  Discuss what you liked and what you think needs improvement, and when you are done schedule a second meeting with the band after about a week.  During that time, ask everyone to come up with constructive ways to address the issues that need improvement.  Try to do this on a semi-regular basis—a couple times a year at the least.

5. Invest

You’re not going to be rolling in the dough when you first start out.  Money is going to be tight—and that’s just the way it is.  But any money that you do earn as a band should be immediately reinvested back.  There is no end to what you can spend your money on, so have a list of things to buy that everyone agrees on – equipment, website design, t-shirts, recording fees.  You are probably going to have to invest your own money in to some of these things, too.  You may feel like skimping on your band’s needs, especially when you’ve had macaroni and cheese for the third night in a row; but don’t let yourself be distracted from your ultimate goal. 

6. Take care of what you already have

You may not have the world’s best equipment, or all the fancy bells and whistles that other bands have—but that’s no reason to trash what you do have.  Take care of your stuff—make the most of what you have and show respect for your existing resources.  People will recognize the care you give your whole image, even if it isn’t sparkly and new.  No one expects you to have it all—but they will recognize if you don’t care enough about your stuff (and your career) enough to take care of it.

7. Talk to a stylist

You won’t have the budget for a full-time stylist, but it can’t hurt to talk to someone about your look.  No, you don’t want a manufactured appearance, but again, it is hard to be objective about yourself.  Simply asking someone to look at your overall style (or lack thereof) and offer suggestions will give you some feedback about how the average person views you.  You can make your own style choices once you have a clear view of how you look to your audience.

8. Find a good photographer

You may not want a cheesy band poster (a la NKOTB), but you do need a couple shots that you can use for your publicity.  Find a photographer who you can talk to about your band’s overall vision and ask them to be a creative collaborator with you on some pictures that capture who you really are.  Brainstorm on some great locations or cool poses, and make your photo shoot fun.  Encourage the band to let their personalities come out.  Your photo may be someone’s very first impression of you—so try to capture the whole concept of your band in just one picture.

9. Design a bitchin’ t-shirt

T-shirts are walking billboards, advertising you to the world.  Put some effort into creating a shirt that people will wear again and again, and that other people will instantly be drawn to.  Then, even if you plan to sell them, set some aside to give out to friends and family and make them promise to wear them frequently.  When you design your shirt, remember that your artwork is going to reflect your band’s music and vision. 

10. Be nice.

This may seem self-evident, but don’t be fooled in to thinking you don’t need your fans.  You aren’t some elite god of rock—you are a musician and an artist—and people want to feel a connection with you.  Don’t finish your show and go sit in a corner with your beer or run out of the club.  Spend some time schmoozing the people who have showed up to support you.  Even if you’re not performing, keep your charm on when you’re out and about wearing your band t-shirt or promoting your upcoming show.  Respond to fans when they email you, too.  Even if it’s something simple like, “Thanks for your support!” or “See you at the next show!”  You cannot underestimate how far a smile and a little appreciation for your fans will go in building an image that lasts.

10 Questions to Ask a Potential Band Member

It’s like a job interview, but so much more.  A band member isn’t just doing a job—they are joining your creative family.  You want to be sure of their technical ability, and you also want to be sure they will blend with the rest of the band.  Success for your group depends on a synergistic blend of personalities.  Here are ten questions you can ask a potential band member to ensure they will be exactly what you need to take your band to the next level.

1. Why do you want to join?

Watch the response to this question.  Do they have to really think about it?  If so, you need to clarify whether or not they have a good reason to commit to your band.  You’re not trying to make it difficult for them to join, but this first question is the single most important one for them to answer well because it is a true reflection of how they feel about your band and your music.  Don’t prompt them for the answer you want.  Simply ask, and let them answer—no matter how long it takes or how much they struggle for the right words.

2. What do you think you can contribute?

The answer to this question will let you know if they are a well-rounded band mate.  If their answer is just about their musical abilities, that should be a red flag.  What you’re looking for is someone who can tell you about their musical skill, but also be willing to contribute time, energy, money, contacts, and other important resources.  Someone who has experience is also a big plus.  Look for a person who has their eye on the overall activity involved with making your band succeed.

3. Who were your biggest musical influences?

This question is designed to find out who your potential band member emulates musically and in every other aspect of their lives.  If your band is Rolling Stones and your interviewee is Jim Croce, you might want to take that in to consideration.  An ideal candidate will talk about the types of musicians that inspire you and the rest of the band.

4. How much time do you have to devote to practice?

This is serious.  Practice is the heart of your band and if someone has an inflexible schedule or can’t practice every single week, they aren’t a good prospect.  All the talent in the world won’t matter if they aren’t able to make it to rehearsals with the rest of the band.  Everyone should agree on the time commitment that is acceptable and insist that any new member be able to commit to it before you agree to bring them on board.

5. Do you have any other skills you can contribute?

Sure they can play the drums—but find out what else they have in their arsenal.  Even if it is something that seems totally unrelated, it may turn out to be useful in promoting or managing the band.  A degree in accounting?  Great!  Ask them to help you make a budget!  Internet freak?  Super!  Have them manage the band’s website.  Find out what’s in their whole skill set and find ways to utilize that to your advantage.

6. Are you dependable?

The answer of course should be “yes”, but as a follow up to this, ask them to provide you with examples of their dependability.  If they can’t come up with a concrete example immediately, you should be worried.

7. Why did you leave your last band?

Just like a job—people can voluntarily leave their band—or they can be fired.  They can leave for personal reasons or because of conflicts.  Find out what the real reason the interviewee left their band, and remember to keep a skeptical mind.  There are two sides to every story. 

8. Where would you like to see yourself in five years?

You’re not proposing marriage to the person, but you do want to know that they are going to commit to working with you long enough that it will be worth hiring them.  Constant changes in a band are unsettling and cause disruption.  It takes time to gel with a new member and reach an optimal level of creativity.  You don’t want someone who is going to run off in six months after you’ve invested that much time into making them a part of your sound.

9. How do you define “team player”?

Everyone has different perspectives, so make sure you ask them find out exactly what they think it means to be on a team.  Ask for examples of how they’ve contributed to a team before.  Ask them about their best and worst experience working in a team environment.  It might be about their little league baseball team, their science group in high school, or their competitive race car driving experience—but listen carefully at the words they use to describe these situations.  Watch their face as they describe both the good and bad scenarios for clues about how well they handled these situations.

10. What do you want from the band?

Every relationship is give-and-take.  Find out what this person expects from the band in order for them to be happy and remain creative.  An honest and mature person will be able to tell you what they need in order to stay involved.  Do they require honest feedback?  They may need to feel that their suggestions are taken seriously, or that they have freedom to try new things.  Whatever it is, weigh their answer with the rest of the band and make sure it is something you feel you can do in order to keep your commitment to your newest member.

When you sit down with your potential band member, try to make it informal and easy for them to tell you what they really think.  If you are having this conversation it means you have already heard them play and like their abilities; a face-to-face interview like this should be a final step in the decision making process and every member of the band should be there.  Make sure you tell them a specific date that you’ll let them know your final decision and then stick to it.  They’ll appreciate your professionalism regardless of whether or not you hire them.

10 Signs It's Time to Quit Your Band

  Quitting your band is one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make.  You’ve devoted time, money, and your heart and soul in to this group.  Every band sees some trouble from time to time, and you don’t want to be a weenie and quit just because someone used your guitar pick to clean their teeth.  But there may be a time when you have to seriously consider if being in your band is still in line with your personal goals.

Here’s a list of things that may serve as red flags.

1.    You don’t feel inspired any more.

Music is art.  If you don’t have the inspiration to keep making more—or if you feel like you’re just going through the motions in your practice or performance, it’s time to re-evaluate whether or not your band is the right vehicle for you to express yourself.  There are a lot of reasons why “the thrill is gone”:  personal changes, artistic growth, or the discovery of something new and more exciting in your life.  Whatever the cause, you can’t “fake” inspiration, and you’ll resent your band the more you try.

2.    Practice sessions are unproductive.

So, one of the guys is late...again.  Another one brings his girlfriend to practice and they spend twenty minutes making out on the sofa.  The drummer’s cell phone rings three times and he insists he can’t turn it off because he’s waiting for his roommate to call him with the game score.  It is pretty clear that no one is taking things seriously.  When people don’t take practice seriously, it is a clear indication that the creative energy is low, or worse, non-existent.  If your efforts to keep things on track are met with continued lackadaisical attitudes by the other members—it’s probably time to find another home for your talent.

3.    There is regular conflict between two or more members.

Everyone’s been here:  egos clash, opinions are aired.  It’s actually healthy to have some disagreement and dialog in the creative process. But if there is regular conflict between members of the band, the negative energy is only going to stifle the creative process.  Not to mention it’s a pain in the ass for everyone else to have to set aside practice time only to have it turn into a bad reality television show.  If the conflicted members are not interested in resolving their issues, there is only so far you’ll ever be able to go as a band.

4.    Creativity has come to a standstill.

You may have had a good couple years.  Maybe you’ve recorded a disc and played a series of shows with success.  You’ve built your name in the community and have a following.  But now, there’s nothing new and you feel like you’re rehashing the same old same old stuff during practice.  There needs to be a serious discussion in the band about new material.  If you’re not constantly creating new music, you might as well be a cover band.  If it’s not happening here, then you might want to find another outlet.

5.    You feel that your contributions are being ignored—or resented.

A band is not a dictatorship.  Everyone has a role to play, and everyone’s contribution is important.  That’s not to say that your drummer can come in to practice one day and decide he wants to play lead guitar; but it is important that every member feels comfortable making a contribution and that everyone is able to push themselves in new, exciting directions keeping them stimulated and creative.  If you feel that your band mates are trying to keep you in a creative “box” and resent your efforts to expand your contribution, then you need to decide how long you’re willing to do that before it’s time to move on.

6.    You have an opportunity to further your career somewhere else.

When you’re in a band, you are part of a team.  So when something else comes along, you don’t just run off and leave your buddies high and dry.  But the bottom line is that your career is your own.  If you have an opportunity to do something that will change you life, it is worth considering.  There’s no right or wrong answer—only you can tell if it’s worth taking the risk of leaving your band for another opportunity.  Don’t automatically discount an offer for something big just because you’re already in a band.  Weigh the decision carefully, and if you decide it’s worth it, make your choice and stand behind it.

7.    Members have started flaking on practice and rehearsal.

Unless you’re independently wealthy, chances are that you’re not only in a band, but you are working to pay your bills; and you have family commitments, relationships, and other responsibilities that are all vying for your time.  A band is not meant to be a cult where you shun everything else in your life: members need to be sensitive to one another and not make unrealistic demands on time.  However, if someone can’t carve out regular quality time to practice with your band, they need to admit it.  You can’t just show up once a month and play a gig without regular practice. 

8.    One or more of the members has a serious problem with drugs or booze.

Musicians are famous for their partying, and there’s no reason to expect your band mates to be Quakers.  But when someone crosses the line and their drug-use or drinking affects their relationships, their commitments, and their performance—it’s time to take action.  If you’re dealing with an addict, you need to talk to a professional about how to approach them.  Confronting someone about their addiction is painful for both sides, and the bottom line is that you care about the person—but you can’t let them continue to destroy themselves and take advantage of you and your time.  If the band doesn’t want to have this conversation with the member who has the problem and doesn’t think it’s important to address, you are wasting your time.  Additionally, if the whole band seems to spend more time partying than practicing; it’s time to move on.

9.    There’s not an equal commitment or contribution by all members.

An independent band requires its members to play more than one role.  Often you are responsible for your own management, public relations, and marketing.  You need everyone to cooperate if you’re going to make it.  It’s unfair to expect one or two people to handle all the ‘grunt’ work.  There’s no room for a prima donna in a band.  If people are slacking and you can’t seem to motivate them, you have three choices:  continue to put up with it and hope your band magically achieves success; try to convince them to step it up; or leave the band.

10.    You can’t keep up your end of the bargain.

You’re the only person who can make this call.  If you’re over-extended in your time and energy, or if your energy is being used up by your wedding, a new baby, a job, your PhD or the Boston Marathon—then you need to admit it to yourself and your band mates.  Being in a band isn’t supposed to be juts another obligation in your day planner.  If that’s what it has become, then you need to seriously reconsider whether or not you should be doing it.

10 Signs It's Time to Fire a Band Member

No one wants to have to do it, but there may come a point when a single member of the band really  is holding everyone back.  It isn’t a decision to be made lightly, but if it is really keeping you from seeing your potential, you need to make your decision with your head, not your heart.  How do you know if it’s time to fire a band member?  Here are some signs to look out for:

1.    They aren’t making it to practice/rehearsal

Being in a band requires a certain commitment of time and energy.  Regular rehearsal is the lifeblood of any hungry young band, and if someone isn’t willing to take the time to be there, it doesn’t matter how talented they are (or think they are).  It is simply not going to work.  A successful band has an element of business to it, and holding regularly scheduled practices that everyone is expected to attend is just good business.  It ensures that you’re ready to kick ass at your shows and it gives the band time to gel and work out the kinks in their performance and relationship.  This is a  totally non-negotiable issue.  No practice, no play.

2.    They are easily combustible.

Everybody has problems.  That doesn’t mean it is ok to blow up and freak out on other people regularly.  If everyone in the band feels like they have to tiptoe around one person because they don’t want to deal with the ensuing drama that is sure to occur if they get upset—then it’s time for that person to take some time for themselves and work their issues out.  Just like a family, a band is dependent on each member making a positive contribution. 

3.    They refuse to support the decisions of the whole group. 

Hey, it’s great if you have strong vision and a lot of creative energy, but if everything always has to be one person’s way, then things are going to get very uncomfortable very quickly.  Every member should be able to contribute in ways that makes them feel good and excited about what you’re all doing.  Every member should be able to say how they feel and express their style.  If one person is making it all about them, or if they are a control freak who insists that they know what’s best at all times, then it’s not a band.  It’s a dictatorship.

4.    They don’t buy in to the whole vision of the band and music.

Every band has a vision for their music.  The collective talent of the members creates a unique and beautiful blend that comes across in a single style which defines them.  Because of that, it’s important that every person in the band feels like they can stand behind the music you’re playing.  If even one member of the band doesn’t feel like they can support the overall musical vision of the band, then you’re not getting 100% of their creative energy, and it’s going to affect your success.  Sometimes it is as simple as a mismatch between one person’s style and the rest of the band.  Sometimes it may be something deeper.  Whatever it is needs to be addressed.  Until everyone gets on the same page, you’re not going anywhere.

5.    They refuse to try to improve themselves.

Even the most successful musicians in the world can’t sit back on their laurels and coast through their careers.  Being an artist requires constant attention to your craft.  That means practice, trying new things, learning techniques, knowing the business, and being open to new creative ideas.  If someone has an attitude that they don’t need to improve themselves, or if they are just plain lazy, they aren’t ready to move forward with your band. 

6.    They have a problem with drugs and booze.

This can be a difficult issue, because you don’t want to hurt someone when they’re at a low point.  On the other hand, you don’t want them to think they can go on destroying themselves and taking your band down with them.  It’s worth talking to them if they seem to be developing a habit that is out of control, expressing your concern, and giving them some information and resources on how to handle things.  If they refuse to listen, or if it’s beyond anything you think you can handle, it’s time for a serious ultimatum.  For some, using drugs and alcohol can be part of the musical culture, and sometimes it is hard to know where to draw the line, but if you see someone’s habit affecting their art, their relationships, and their health, it’s time to get serious.

7.    They are hyper-critical of one or more members.

Every band wants to be the best they can be, and it’s really important to have honest self-criticism from both inside and outside the band.  But if someone is fixated on every single tiny mistake or error that is made, they are not being helpful.  Constant criticism is a good hint that someone is dissatisfied overall with what they are doing.  It may be time for that person to move on and they might not know how to express it to the band—or they may not even realize it themselves.  But you can’t let someone be a constant drain on the energy of your group just because they themselves are dissatisfied.  It’s time to sit down and talk to them about what’s happening, and whether or not they need to go somewhere else to be happy.

8.    You find out they’re talking smack about one or all of the members to other people.

Everyone needs to vent once in a while.  Bands are like any other relationships.  Sometimes there’s conflict and sometimes you need to just talk to a trusted friend and get some perspective.  But if one of the members of the band is out airing dirty laundry all over town, it’s time to have a “family meeting” and find out what’s going on.  Creative energy is best expressed in an environment of trust and confidence.  When a band gets together to create music, they’re baring their souls to one another.  If one member of the band is untrustworthy and can’t talk to the other members about a problem they have with them, then the creative energy is not going to flow.  A person who refuses to communicate with the band but is talking all over town is a liability.

9.    They refuse to pull their weight.

In the beginning, every member of the band has to wear multiple hats.  Everyone is collectively responsible for publicity, sharing expenses, and being present and honest during practice.  There’s no free ride, and no one is too good to hang up flyers or pick up a case of t-shirts.  If someone doesn’t want to roll up their sleeves and pitch in, tell them to go be a slacker in someone else’s band.

10.    They are always trying to borrow—money, instruments, drugs, etc.

Even if one member of the band has more than the others, it’s never ok to mooch.  If you can’t buy your own beers, it’s not ok to ask everyone else to cover you.  Same goes for rent, guitar strings, weed, hair gel and toilet paper.  Some people might view their band as a family, but you know something?  It’s still not okay to mooch of your family, either.   

10 People to Surround Your Band With

No man—or band—is an island.  The success of any musician is the cumulative effort of many people.  As you set out to become a legend, there are ten people you want to surround yourself and your band with.   Whether you hire these folks, or simply find them and build a mentoring relationship with them—they have the expertise you need to get where you want to be:  on top.

1. Stylist

Stylists aren’t just for corporate bands.  Someone who is an expert in style and public opinion can give you an objective view about how other people see you.  Talk to a stylist about your overall sound and the vision of your band and get some feedback about ways you can express that with your on-stage appearance. 

2. Graphic Designer

A graphic designer is going to be able to help you design your “brand”.  That can include everything from your website design, to your t-shirt graphics and your album cover.  These are items that make a huge impression on people long before they have a chance to hear your music.  Most graphic designers appreciate it when you bring them solid ideas and examples of things that inspire you.  The more direction you can give them, the easier it will be for them to provide you with a finished product you’ll love.

3. Recording Techs

Live music and recorded music are two entirely different animals.  You may have a great live sound, but if you’re going to make any money off your music, it needs to be recorded—and recorded well.  Your MP3s can be placed on your website and circulated around the globe, so you want them to be the best possible representation of your band.  Add to that the fact that recording time is so expensive, and mistakes can cost you time and money.  It’s easy to see how important it is to find people who know their way around a mixing board. 

If you can, ask other bands who they have helping them with the technical aspects of their recording.  Or, you may place an ad and interview people who will help you in your session.  Even if you use studio staff—don’t go in blindly and expect perfection in only a couple hours.  Try to meet with the technical staff before you record and give them some idea what your expectations are.  You may also want to hang out on some music industry message boards and get informed on techniques and terminology so that you can communicate what you really want when you get in to the studio.

4. Other Bands

Don’t look at other bands as competition.  Each group is unique and has something different to offer.  Each band has its own personality.  You can co-exist peacefully with bands and find they are your best allies as you try to establish yourself.  No one else knows what you are going through like another up-and-coming band.  If you can find musicians who have more experience than you or who have already achieved success, try to form a mentoring relationship with them and let them help you through the landmines that take down so many young bands.

5. Groupies

No, I’m not talking about Tawny Kitaen.  I’m talking about Classic Groupies—girls (and even guys) who are loyal fans.  These are people who will be at every show, wear your t-shirt until it falls apart, and tell everyone they meet how great you are.  These people will develop in to an entourage—they create a party wherever they go—even if it is just waiting in line to buy your tickets.  They are an asset, and a time-honored tradition on the road to success.

6. Web Guru

The internet is where you’re going to be marketing yourself for the rest of the century, so you might as well get comfy there.  No one expects you to be a geek, but you should definitely have an in with a geek to can help you establish yourself online.  A web guru is going to be well-versed in web design and implementation, have technical skills for generating web traffic and search-engine optimization, and an eye on anything new that you can latch on to and use.  Not only do you want a professional website, but you want to appear web savvy; which means using online tools and giving your fans access to those tools, too.

7.  Business Advisor

Most musicians are terrible businesspeople.  That makes having a business advisor all the more important.  Whether you hire someone, or simply have a trusted friend with a business background give you some pointers, it is absolutely essential to have someone with a business mind help you make the most of your money.  That means managing any income you have from gigs, album sales, or merchandise.  It means planning a budget for the band, and knowing where and how to invest wisely.

8. Club owners

People that own clubs can give you great opportunities to perform live—but they can also give you added perspective and the experience that comes from seeing musicians perform on a regular basis.  A club owner, if they befriend you, can provide you with all kinds of information including warnings of pitfalls they’ve seen bring other bands down.  They know their own club or bar better than anyone else and they can tell you how to optimize your performance’s sound and appearance.  They can tell you which nights are the best to book, and what kind of crowd to expect.  They have their finger on the pulse of the music scene from a business perspective and can give you highly specialized information to make the most of your shows.

9. Friends and Family

Your friends and family are the people who believe in you more than anyone else.  They are going to stick by you through ups and downs, successes and discouragements.  They are a ready-made army of marketers who will tell the world how great you are with total conviction.  Don’t alienate yourself from these folks.   Let them put your name out there, and let them share in the victory when you get recognition.

10. Radio DJs and Press People

These guys have the ability to promote you in ways you cannot imagine.  Most radio stations have featured staff picks on their shows, and radio DJs and music journalists also keep blogs on their company websites.  If they make it to your show and like it, they’re going to tell thousands of people.  Take the initiative and seek out DJs on stations that play music similar to yours and press people who cover music in your area.  Send them CDs and invite them to your shows.  Offer to give them an interview for their blogs and ask them to share their experience with you.   

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10 Ways to Get More Money from a Gig

You are an artist, it's true.  But just because you’re an artist doesn’t mean you don’t need to get paid.  Money makes a lot of things possible, including time in a recording studio, new and better instruments, and paying your rent so you don’t have to live in a cardboard box and burn your guitar for warmth.  There’s nothing wrong with making money from your shows, and if you’re smart you’ll try to optimize that earning power.  You don’t have to be a marketing genius or a public relations guru—just think outside the box and make the most of what you already have going for you.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth.

Just because you want the gig doesn’t mean you have to beg for it.  If you’ve got experience performing, and you regularly draw a crowd, your venue stands to benefit as much—if not more—than you do from the show.  So don’t let them tell you that you’re not worth paying as much as a “bigger name”.  It is also a good idea to go in and tell them exactly what you’re doing to generate a buzz about the show.  If they can see that you’re working to get a crowd in, they’ll be a lot more willing to pay you a good rate.

2. Don’t run up a huge bar tab. 

Take a lesson from the Blues Brothers.  If you’re buying your own drinks at the show, it’s going to eat in to your bottom line.  You don’t want to end up owing them money for playing a show.  A couple beers to keep you loose isn’t a big deal, but when you start buying round after round of top shelf drinks you’re going to rack up quite a bill.  Not to mention that it’s going to affect your performance.  You might not think it’s a problem…but then, neither does Amy Winehouse.  Stay on top of your game while you’re on stage.  There’s plenty of time to party after the show.

3. Sell T-shirts, bumper stickers and CDs at the show.

A small investment in your own marketing merchandise can help generate income.  Make sure whatever you’re selling is cool in design and functionality.  You can’t go wrong with T-shirts, as long as they don’t look cheesy.  Don’t try to sell them for $40 each. You’re not Pink Floyd (yet).  The kids that are going to your show aren’t loaded, but they’ll gladly buy and wear your shirt around if it’s affordable and looks good.  That’s free advertising.  Stickers and other inexpensive items can also bring in some extra money.  Remember, you’re not trying to get rich off this stuff—just clear a little profit and get your name out there.

4. The Tip Jar

It never hurts to set it out there.  And even if you only get a few bucks, it’s a few bucks more than you had before.  Make sure that you sincerely thank the audience for their tips before you close the show.

5. Generate a buzz to ensure a big crowd.

If you’re getting part of the cover, you want to do everything in your power to get people in the door.  That means going out and hitting the streets for weeks before the show, printing flyers and cards, asking friends and family to spread the word, and using your contacts to get people to the show.  Even if there’s no cover, the more people at your show, the more opportunity you have to sell your CD’s and T-shirts and get tips.  Don’t leave it to chance—work hard to get people to the show and it’ll pay off in more ways than one.

6. Make sure your venue will attract people who will like your music.

If you’re an acoustic singer/songwriter, don’t try to play at a club that is known for head banging.  It sounds simple enough, but there’s something to be said for playing up to the regulars that are used to going to the venue where you’re playing.   Go to a few shows at the same venue beforehand and hang out.  See who’s there and talk to some people about your upcoming show.  People that are already at the venue are more likely to come back than people who’ve never been there before—even if they know who you are.

7. Look for different types of venues—not just the same old bar scene.

There are lots of places you can play to earn a few bucks.  Big corporations often throw parties a couple times a year to celebrate holidays or sales performance.  Schools have festivals and events.  There are endless places where you can attract a crowd and sell your CD’s.  Think outside the box!

8. Make sure you have a website and blog—and a mailing list to remind people where they can see you!

This is such an important piece of getting recognition and money.  Make sure people know how to find you online.  Every piece of advertising or marketing you do should have your website address on it.  Keep your site updated regularly and post information about upcoming shows.  When your shows are over be sure to immediately post pictures and videos.  Respond to inquiries from fans, prospective venues, and press.  You can also sell MP3’s of your songs or the entire CD on your website to generate income.  There are literally endless possibilities, and with today’s web tools, it is easier and easier for anyone to create and manage their own website.  Most importantly, once you’re on the web, people from all over the world can find you and hear your music.  Think big, and make yourself available to an unlimited fan base.

9. Treat your booking professionally. 

Make sure you keep track of phone numbers, dates, and venue contacts.  This is going to ensure repeat bookings.  Until you make it big and have yourself a real business manager, you’re going to have to keep things organized.  Some people are naturally good at this, and some people, well…aren’t.  Bare minimum, get a big calendar and scribble phone numbers and important dates and times on it to keep track.  The more you treat your band like a business, the more money you’re going to make.

10. Stick around after the show and work the room.

Don’t just pack your stuff and high tail it out of the club when you’re done playing.  Unless it’s closing time, spend a while chilling out with the crowd and talking to people.  When you’ve finished your show, you’ve got a little bit of ‘star quality’ that comes from having been the center of attention for the duration of the show.  When you take the time to walk around and thank people for coming, introduce yourself to people and tell them your CD is for sale, or hand them your card with your website on it, you are doing yourself an invaluable service.  Try this for three shows in a row, and I guarantee you’re going to see huge results.

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10 Ways to Get More People to Your Next Gig

For an up-and-coming band every gig is a vital step toward your success.  Your shows are where you get the chance to prove yourself.  They are your opportunity to do what you do best.  A good gig can also have a ripple effect, securing you a loyal fan base and ensuring good crowds at future shows.  So when you land a gig, the key is to make it count.  Hours of practice and rehearsal won’t matter unless you have a decent crowd that can go back and tell their friends how great you are.  Your mission is not only to kick ass on stage—but to convince other people to come and see you.  Sure, it would be nice to be able to just focus on your music and let someone else handle the promotions, but few unsigned bands have those kinds of resources.  It’s up to you to get people in the door.

With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of ways you can make sure you have a full house at your next gig.    

1. Start early.   

Don’t wait until a week before your gig to start advertising.  As soon as you have a booking, sit down with the band and come up with a strategy for marketing the show to the public.  Remember, you’re competing with about a million other things someone can choose to do on a Saturday night—movies, other bands’ shows, parties, sporting events.  You want to get yourself on the calendar as soon as humanly possible, and give yourself plenty of time to remind people a few times before the show date.   

2. Posters, flyers, and cards. 

You have to have them.  There’s no excuse these days not to have cards, flyers, and posters. With the online digital printing websites you can upload your own art, or use their existing art to create marketing materials that are professional and eye-catching.   Remember, you’re competing with professional bands which have marketing departments and public relations people, so put some thought into it. 

One way you can get some great art done for little money is checking out high school and junior college art departments.  Some of these young artists would love the chance to do your design work and earn a little cash—and they’ll charge you a mere fraction of the amount that a professional graphic designer would.

However, even if you can only go the old-fashioned route of hand-drawing a flyer and photocopying it on eye-catching colored paper, do it. 

Make sure everyone in the band has stacks and that they’re giving them out, hanging them up, and making them available.  Leave them at the record store hang them on community bulletin boards at schools, coffee shops, bookstores and libraries. 

3. Get your family and friends involved.

These people can be your best allies as you start your career.  People that love you are your cheerleaders.  They are going to promote the hell out of your band even if they aren’t particularly interested in your style of music.  Maybe grandma won’t come to a show, but she knows a lot of people and can help spread the word.  She’s just the type of person who would relentlessly hand out your flyers to everyone and anyone, just because she loves you.  Take a stack of flyers to each of your friends and family, tell them how important it is for you to get people to your show, and ask them to spread the word.  Unless they still haven’t forgiven you for breaking their favorite crystal vase when you were eight-years-old, chances are they’ll be happy to be part of your success.

4. Use Myspace, Facebook, and other online social networking tools.

Technology is one of the most powerful tools you have.  If you are one of the last five people on earth without a MySpace or Facebook account, get one NOW.  Make sure you regularly update the pages with news and show dates, upload MP3’s or videos of your songs, and respond when people leave you a message.  Look for bands on MySpace with a similar style to yours and go through their “friends” lists—and invite those people to be your friends.  You can generate so much interest in your band with regular “farming” of these sites, even people who live in other cities and states can become fans and your impact can quickly go from being local to you having a national presence.

5. Create a press release.

This sounds more complicated than it is.  Not just big names can create and circulate a press release.  Basically, it is a formal description of something current—like a show or a new CD release—that you can give to different media outlets.  Sending a press release doesn’t ensure that you will get publicity, but it will definitely get you noticed and the media folks in your town are going to pay attention to your professionalism.  Send your press release to entertainment papers; corporate, public, and college radio stations; bloggers and online communities that feature local events.

Check out this site for a description of how to write a professional press release:  http://www.publicityinsider.com/release.asp

6. Tell everyone you know—and don’t know. 

This is not the time to be shy.  If you can get up in front of a crowd and pour your blood, sweat, and tears into your performance, you can strike up a conversation when you’re out getting coffee and tell people about your show.  Think of yourself as a really cool Jehovah’s Witness.  Have flyers in your pocket and be ready to hand them out any time any place.  A personal connection with someone, even for a couple minutes, is more compelling than a thousand flyers stuck to the side of a building.

7. Go to other shows and network.

Get out there and see other shows.  Hang out before and after and talk to people about your music.  The people you meet at a show are people you know are interested in seeing live performances.  Again, making a single personal connection is one of the most effective ways you can generate interest in your music.  You can be cool and still be friendly.  This is not the time to be stand-offish.  In the beginning you can’t just rely on your music to attract people, because in the beginning, no one has heard your music. They’re going to come to see you.

8. Offer to play a couple songs unplugged at an event to warm up the crowd.

In every city there are about a thousand things going on any given weekend.  There are plenty of opportunities to warm up the crowd at a charity, a school play, an art show, or any other number of events.  You don’t need to drag all the equipment out.  Go and play a couple songs acoustic.  Give away a couple CDs in a raffle at the event.  Ask if you can leave some flyers on the registration table so that when people come in they can grab one with their name tag or program.  There are endless possibilities for getting yourself in front of people and giving them a little taste of your music—plus, you might just get to support a worthwhile organization or event. 

9. Advertise a giveaway at the show.

People love free stuff.  It’s just a fact of life.  It doesn’t even have to be good free stuff, but if you advertise that you are giving something away, there is a much higher likelihood that more people will show up.  Give away a couple discs, a couple t-shirts.  If you have the cash, give away an iPod Shuffle ($49) or some gift certificates.  It is a small investment that will pay off in spades.  Make sure you let everyone know—on flyers, on MySpace, and by word of mouth—what you’re giving away and when. 

10. Open for an established band a couple weeks before the gig.

Be a part of your indie community.  Make friends and allies with other bands.  If you can open for another band a couple weeks before your gig, you are going to give people a chance to see you in action.  You’ll have a ready-made audience you can pitch your upcoming show to.  Hang out after your performance and work the room while you enjoy the main show and support your friends.

There are so many creative ways to promote your show, and these are just a few suggestions to get you going.  Remember, if you don’t promote yourself, no one else is going to.  Be fearless and let the world know who you are and where your next show is going to be!

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10 Mistakes Bands and Musicians Make

If you want to get a record deal, get people to your shows, or sell music like crazy, the answer isn't some kind of "magic pill" website that you post your music on, blindly sending out a bunch of demos, or anything to do with having good music...although good music certainly helps -- the answer is to develop a "mindset" that naturally attracts people to what you're doing as well as an understanding of how the music business game is played.

As you develop as a person, your music career will develop with you.  Sounds crazy, but it's true...and I've seen it time and time again, with thousands of acts that I've worked with, from garage bands, to the guys selling out arenas.  Check out these ten common music business mistakes:

10. Being Too Difficult (or Too Nice)

First of all, let’s get this clear...  Just because you wrote a few good songs and recorded them, doesn’t mean that the world revolves around you.  Lots of people write and record good songs, so get in line.

Contrary to what the online rumor mill or media would have you believe, people in the music business are involved because they love music…and they’re not making enough to deal with jerks.  And they won’t deal with jerks.  If you’re a pain, they’re just go to the next guy, who also writes good songs, but has a better attitude.

With that said, don’t be too nice.  You don’t have to say yes to everything.  Pick your battles.  If there is something you really feel strongly about, don’t settle for anything less.

Bottom line: Keep your ego in check and behave with courtesy and respect. At the same time, don't let anyone treat you any less.

9. Trying to Convince People of Anything…

You play music; you’re not in the convincing business.  Either people get what you’re doing or they don’t. 

So, some reviewer, booking agent or manager doesn't like your new album. Let it go! Don't try to convince him he'll like is better after a second listen. He won't. And the more you press him to give your music another shot, the more he’ll remember how annoying you were.  This means he’ll be far less open to ever listening to you again.

There are a lot of people who won't "hear it" when you approach them. So what? Move on.  There are plenty of other people in this business who can help you. Go find the people who do "hear it" and put your energy into building good relationships with them instead.

8. Looking for Industry Approval

There was a time when the "industry" had a lot more pull when it came to breaking an artist, getting them distributed, and everything else.  This is a new time, so we're playing with different rules now.

Distribution is easy.  Every day, more and more albums are being sold digitally, so you no longer need a label to finance pressing tens of thousands of physical albums (or more) and getting them to record stores.

These days, recording music is easier than ever. You can get a good
recording setup for just a few thousand dollars.  And if you can't afford recording equipment, there are plenty of people who have some, whom you can hire inexpensively. You are not limited on the number of options for getting something on tape.

But most importantly, once you get this stuff together, you don't need the industry to tell you your music is worthy.  The consumers, the people who buy your music, are really the only opinions that matter.  And when you have the love of the consumers, the industry will come around.

The thing is, in the music industry, technology has changed faster than mindset. Stop believing you are at the mercy of any record label executive. You're not. Connect directly with your fans--on your terms. The feedback, loyalty and money you receive from them will be far more gratifying than you spending your time beating your head against a wall trying to figure out a way to get an approving nod from a record label.

7. Not Building Strong Relationships with Fans

People aren't stupid. They know that they're being marketed to.  They know when you're looking to sell them something.

Do they mind?  No.

In fact, if you have a good relationship with your fans, they won't mind being marketed to and, if you do it well, they look forward to being marketed to.

However, they have to know you care.

Building relationships with fans take time.  You have to show them you care.

Do things like:

• Give them a few free songs to download
• Have message board on your website and build a community there
• Do a "fan appreciation" show
• Record a holiday album that you give out to your fan club.

Show them in special ways that you, not only care, but that you're willing to go the extra mile to show your appreciation. In turn, they will buy your music, travel to see you play, call radio stations on your behalf and promote you all over the Web.

Every day, no matter if you're busy recording, on the road or at home worrying about how you're going to find the money to make your project happen, do something (no matter how small the gesture is) to reach out to your fans.

6. Not "Getting" How the Fan/Artist Relationship Works

You’re the leader and your fans do the following.  You make the offer, they choose whether or not to accept.

Take charge, record the music, play the shows, print the t-shirts, and let them have the options of buying your album, coming to see you, or getting something to wear.

The average person has enough “leadership” in his day.  He’s looking for somebody to take control, and let him ride along for a little while.  Do it.

5. Laying Everything on the Table…

You're a rockstar.  Keep that fantasy.  Don't tell people how broke you are, that you're still living with your mother, or anything else that breaks the image of you fans have in their minds.

One of the reasons people like music is because they have the opportunity to live vicariously through the people they are listening to.  When you are on stage, they're up there with you.  When you're on the road in your tour bus, they're riding shotgun.  Don't take that away.

Give them insight into your life and what it's like in your world. However, be selective with the details. Always remember, you're selling music, but you're also selling a persona.

4. Thinking The Key to Success is Musical Talent, Money, or Looks

Yes, if we're talking about pop music, MTV, or the major label system, a certain amount of a contrived "image" probably helps sell records.

Obviously, money helps things.  And it's always good if you can sing.

But it's not "image" that gets somebody on MTV, it's marketing.  It's not good songs that get people on the radio, it's marketing.  And it's not money, although it helps.  It's marketing.

You can play well, have money, and look like a model, but if you don't have the marketing to back you up, none of it matters.

You know what? If you do have a good, solid marketing plan in place (and you're using it), everything else doesn't matter so much.

3. Giving Up Power

Keep control as long as you can.  Yes, a major label deal will give you opportunity that being on an indie label won't.  And a professional manager has connections that you don't.

But when you sign with these guys, you're handing over your career to somebody else. Nobody cares as much about your career than you do. When you and your talent are the most important commodity you have to offer, do not give up your power easily and without a damn good reason.

Your music is worth something. You are worth something. Think of your career as being "virtual real estate" which, if marketed correctly, will pay dividends for years to come.  So, treat it like that.

2. Jumping at Every Opportunity

You don't have to say yes to everything.  In fact, sometimes, saying no to something can be more beneficial to your career than saying yes.

Why do you say yes to things? Take a look at your standards and make them higher. As an example, just because a club has a PA system doesn't mean that it's worth playing there.

There are some gigs that just aren't worth playing.  There are some
connections that just aren't worth developing.

When you say yes to something, especially something that takes your time, you're saying no to everything else.  Leave yourself open to saying yes to the opportunities that really matter.

Trust your own judgment. If something doesn't feel right and you want to say no, it's ok to say no. At that moment, you may worry you're passing up a great opportunity and will be missing out. The reality is, better opportunities (that are a better fit for you) will come and you will be ready for them.

1. Not Getting Help

You don't know everything.  This business has been around for a long time--long before you were involved.

Read books, get advice from people who work in the industry and keep studying every aspect of the industry.

Don't be afraid to ask for help.  You can bypass a lot of the problems you're likely to run into simply by asking people who have already been in, and dealt with, the situations you find yourself in.

Remember this:

Time is worth more than money.  You can always earn more money, but you have a limited amount of time. 

Don't waste your time.  If you don't know something, or need specific help, don't be afraid to pay somebody to help you deal with whatever obstacle you face. Don't let anything stop you from having all the knowledge and know-how you need to have the success you aspire to have.

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