You Have To Get Noticed To Be Famous, Part 3: Play Shows

And in my final installment, we talk about that most dreaded of subjects. That feared, evil, awful practice of playing your music in front of people. (You may now gasp with horror.)

Today, Part 3: Play Shows

I'm serious. There are lots of artists out there that don't understand that they need to be playing shows like crazy before they even think about looking for a record label. If you've never played live, or don't, why would a label want to sign you? You wouldn't be making them money, or yourself for that matter. The most important part to get you started playing shows is to make a press kit. It doesn't have to be fancy, but a decent venue will want to see and hear you before they consider putting you on a show. Trust me, they won't just take your word for it. Also, designate one person in your band to be the only one who deals with booking shows. That way there is no confusion, no promises made that can't be kept, and no double bookings that you'll have to cancel (this relates to my previous blog where I talk about never burning bridges). In addition, keep in mind you're not going to start off playing Madison Square Garden or opening up for U2. You're not even going to start in the best venues. In fact, you'll be in small venues, opening for a more popular local band, on an off night. That's just the way it works. A venue doesn't want to take a chance on a band that's never played there before and doesn't have a huge fanbase. Slowly, over time, as you gain the venues' and scene's respect, you'll move on to better nights, bigger shows, and the bigger and better venues (no, that still doesn't mean Madison Square Garden). Something else to keep in mind is other local bands you play with. I remember when my band was first getting started, there were 2 other local bands that were well established that we became friends with. For a while, I'd say a good 75% of our shows were with at least one, if not both of those bands. Any time we got a show, we requested them on it, and vice-versa. So make some buddies in the local scene and your bookings will double.

All in all, it takes a long time and a lot of hard work just to make a dent in the local scene, let alone, get a label's attention. In the end though, all that work will make you a better band/artist, and the better a band or artist you are, the better that's going to make you for a label, particularly an independent record label, specifically Tate Music Group (shameless self-promotion). So what are you waiting for? Hop in the band van and get going!