Getting The Gig

This week, I thought I would touch on the topic of getting the gig. Its great when you know someone to help you get your foot in the door, but what about beyond that? Well, you need a Press Kit. Attempting to book a gig is basically a sales pitch. Before you begin looking for gigs, you should prepare your presentation, usually in the form of a press kit. The press kit, similar to a personal resume, is often the first impression of your band (or product). It is imperative that a band with professional aspirations invest adequate time and money into making the best presentation possible. Each band's press kit will be different, and kits can be modified to fit an individual situation. Here are a few items which will likely be included in any press kit.--Recorded material, live or studio recordings--A concise biography or history of the band--Any positive press, include the date/publication--Photograph, A good live photo will work in a pinch--A listing or reference from venues already played. The best advice we can give is to keep your kits efficient and as inexpensive as possible. Check out these books on how to build killer press kits. With good press kits built you are ready to attack the challenges of booking original music. As you have probably already learned, this is where it gets tough. DO NOT get discouraged! This is a tough business and club managers and bookers are some of the toughest people to impress. Many times the rejections or unresponsiveness you will undoubtedly encounter have nothing to do with your presentation, music or salesmanship. You must keep yourself focused and excited about each new prospect. Proper follow-up can sometimes turn a 'dead' prospect into an opportunity.

Killin' It!!!

Killin' It! Thats what these local guys did last night. Second Story Alibi (check them out on myspace www.myspace.com/secondstoryalibi ), playing at a pub in Auburn. No fancy set up, just showing up to play for the love of it, and they did! Playing with a passion and love for what they do was so evident it was infectious. The whole place was groovin. No one leaving, just bobbin heads, singing along when they new some of the words and completely enjoying themselves. The band and the patrons, connecting and digging it! Thats what its all about. Do it because you love it, practice until its polished because you love it, share it because you love it, and the listener too, will love it!

Connection

We are living in turbulent times. Thats an obvious understatement, but the question I ask is why care about music in these times? Because music breathes life. It allows the creative person a way to express and connect to others. It allows the listener to take a moment out of time and simply ENJOY. It allows the business owner who is hosting the performer a boost in their own livelihood, and most of all it allows everyone a chance to CONNECT. Live music is the essence of breaking down the walls of seclusion and creating an atmosphere of community. It doesnt cost much if anything, yet going out to see your local music scene allows a moment to breathe. Take the moment, you'll be glad you did.

Connecting with Fans

The live show is where its at. I know I say this all the time, but its true. Last night I had conformation of this on the largest scale. I usually go to local shows, first because that's my job, but also the intimacy and energy that up and coming artists bring to their fans and the music. I avoid most large shows by big acts because they often disappoint. Disconnected from the audience, ticket prices are astronomical and general burn out is palpable while watching. Its an execution of notes and words vs. a connection and exuberance by the artist with the audience. I am completely reeling from a show I saw last night that proved not all large acts fall into that category! Papa Roach and Nickleback played in No. Cal, and they were PHENOMENAL! Papa Roach (considered locals boys here) was so high energy and tight, as well as COMPLETELY there for the fans!! They left it ALL on the stage! Pure energy and exuberance! Nickleback, touring for the Dark Horse record, were the consummate LIVE performers! Connecting with the audience, great sound, happy to be there and kicked ASS!!! If they are experiencing burn out you would NEVER know! Constantly connecting with the audience, happy to fricken be there!! THAT'S WHAT A LIVE SHOW SHOULD BE!!!! Hats off to both bands! Not a butt a seat for both bands!! Now we're talking. Go see the show if you get a chance, best tour this year I would bet. And its for "ALL THE RIGHT REASONS"! ;)