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Promote Your Gig
Promote Your Gig
by: Ty Cohen
Finally, that calendar you bought a couple of months ago has a date on it, a real gig date! All that hard work and effort you did finally helped you How to find gigs. The hard part is over now all you have to do is perform, get asked back and get referred to other gigs. But is it really that simple? Well there is a checklist of things you have to follow that will ensure you get asked back and most importantly, a great reference.
Once you book gigs, the work is not over. The first then you need to do when you get a gig is promote it. Sure, some places have promoters but don’t leave it all up to them. Make posters or flyers. Call everyone you know, friends, family, co-workers, acquaintances, frat brothers, whoever, just get some people in there! Clubs, shops, bars etc…will love you if you fill their place up with customers and you will definitely get asked back.
Next, you need to create a powerful play list. It is obvious that you wouldn’t use the same play list for every single place that you find gigs. You really need to set one up that matches the tone and mood of the place. Also, have some extra songs in case you need to change it up a bit or people want to hear more. Always play what the crowd wants to hear. If something is requested or you can tell that they aren’t happy then move on or change your tune.
If you feel it is necessary, then you have the option of setting up a small contract for you and the owner when you book gigs. This is not something you are required to do everywhere but it is something that protects you and your band.
When it comes to pay, I would suggest having a set price negotiated but this is not always possible when you get gigs. There are several methods of payment, pay to play, no pay, percentage of cover charge, set pay, set pay plus percentage and the whole door cover charge goes to you. Unfortunately, this is not always negotiable and there is really nothing you can do about it but hope the owner is honest. If they are not, then simply don’t play there anymore.
A great tip that I can offer is to be punctual when you get gigs
. If you are supposed to show at six, then get there at least 15 minutes before. Don’t ruin your shot at a second gig by showing up late. Always come prepared for anything when you book gigs.
Next, maintain professionalism the entire time you are at the gig. Don’t get drunk and make a fool of yourself. Don’t piss off the bouncers or the bartenders by demanding free drinks. Don’t invite friends who are going to embarrass you as well. If you are performing somewhere whether it is fancy or a hole in the wall act like a business person. After all, isn’t that what you are? You are a person trying to make a good, reputable name for yourself in order to get gigs
, don’t forget that. Lastly, if the owners are impressed then ask for a reference and thank them allowing you to play at their establishment.
About the Author: About the Author:
Ty Cohen, the online music industry's most recognizable voice is the former owner of a successful independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing and nation-wide music industry seminar speaker and panelist. He is also the author and creator of over 40 best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products and other music industry "How to" resources, that have helped tens of thousands of individuals like you to successfully find their way in the music business. Visit www.GiggingforDollars.com for more information on How to find gigs, book gigs and get gigs.
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