What Should a New Band Do to Get Gigs?

Getting gigs as a new band can be challenging but with the right strategies, you can start building your presence and getting booked. Here are some of the best ways to get gigs:

1. Networking:

   • Local Music Scene: Attend shows of other local bands, meet musicians, promoters, and venue owners. Building relationships within the local music community is crucial.
   • Music Industry Events: Participate in open mic nights, jam sessions, and industry meetups.

2. Online Presence:

   • Social Media: Maintain active profiles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. Post regularly about your music, upcoming shows, and behind-the-scenes content.
   • Music Platforms: Upload your music to streaming platforms like Spotify, SoundCloud, and Bandcamp. Ensure your profiles are professional and include contact information.
   • Website: Create a professional website with a bio, music, photos, videos, and a contact form.

3. Demo Recording:

   • High-Quality Recordings: Record a demo or EP that showcases your best work. This can be shared with venue owners and promoters.
   • Live Performance Videos: Have a few high-quality videos of live performances that can give promoters a taste of your stage presence.

4. Press Kit:

   • Electronic Press Kit (EPK): Create an EPK that includes your bio, high-resolution photos, music, videos, press coverage, and contact information. This should be easily accessible on your website.

5. Contacting Venues:

   • Research: Identify venues that host your genre of music. Small clubs, bars, and cafes are good starting points.
   • Personalized Outreach: Email or call venue bookers. Be professional, concise, and include links to your music and live videos. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back.

6. Collaborate with Other Bands:

   • Opening Acts: Offer to open for more established bands. This can help you reach a wider audience and build credibility.
   • Band Exchanges: Partner with bands from nearby cities and swap gigs. They play in your town, you play in theirs.

7. Utilize Booking Platforms:

   • Gig Booking Websites: Use platforms like www.MyGigster.com, GigSalad, Sonicbids, or ReverbNation to find and book gigs.
   • Event Sites: Websites like Eventbrite and Meetup can also have event listings where you can reach out for potential gigs.

8. Promoters and Booking Agents:

   • Find a Promoter: If possible, connect with local promoters who can help you get gigs.
   • Booking Agents: Once you have some traction, consider reaching out to booking agents who can help you find more and better gigs.

9. Busking:

   • Street Performances: Perform in public places with high foot traffic. This can help you build a local following and sometimes leads to paid gigs.

10. Music Competitions and Festivals:

    • Competitions: Participate in local and regional music competitions. Winning or even participating can give you exposure.
    • Festivals: Apply to perform at music festivals. They often have stages for emerging artists.

11. Engage Your Fans:

    • Mailing List: Build an email list of fans and send regular updates about your gigs.
    • Fan Engagement: Encourage your fans to request you at local venues. Venues are more likely to book bands that have a proven audience.

By combining these strategies and consistently working on your craft and promotion, your band can start securing gigs and building a name for yourselves in the music scene.