Eight Steps To Book Your Band

Picture of Dimebag Darrel one of the masters of metal playing a Dean guitar like no one can


By Dee Curtis

Co-Writer Mark Grove


Getting regular bookings for your band is one of the toughest things to do besides being turned down by labels. It's not usually a reflection of a band's talent or vision. Most times it's that a bands material may not be suited for a particular venue the majority of the time. Back when Blues Traveller was just starting to get a following in the late 80's , Brad Harwood a well known canadian blues club promoter received a tape from Blues Traveller, and he felt at that time their demo was a little too rough, and the type of music was not quite what his club The Firehall, had in mind.

You have to be willing to fail, and yes, sales is part of the booking arrangement. So have your shit together as it were, and be ready to work the business side of music, as well as the creative side. This column on how to book your band is meant as a how to article and not just for artists starting out, but even the pros can learn a thing or too from an old pro Dee Curtis--who is a Canada based blues artist currently working on a studio album for release next year.


Dee is also a regular contributor to Canadian Guitar Player and has a vast knowledge on the business side, recording and composing sides of music. So take a few of these booking ideas and work them into your bands show acquiring.

Press Kit:


First of all you need a professionally done black and white glossy photo, which is essential. Along with a short bio that describes exactly the type of music you play, and a bio on each member of your act, what instrument they play and any areas of music they excel in, as well as any artists they have played with. A couple of show and CD reviews give a booking agent a good indication what their material is like. Along with a photo and bio is the most important area and that's a strong 3 track Cd demo of your best material. No more than 3 songs, ever! If you are a tribute act send a comprehensive set list to an agent or club promoter.


Cover Letter:


Sending out a letter of introduction is a good way to let it be known you have a band interested in performing. By sending just a letter instead of just sending out a press kit to any club you are interested in, you prevent wasting valuable Cd's and wasting money. You're in this to make money. Even if a band gets hired they may be asked to play as an opening act, but not receive any money. This basically showcases your act and gives you an instant audition. Another thing is having an email address. Have a regular one with your name or your band's name associated with the email. And have a telephone number you can be contacted at at all times that has a voice mail option as well. Theses are small things, but could be the breaker between getting a high paying gig, or losing out because you weren't able to be contacted.


You Next is a list of the clubs that you would like to play at. Correct street mailing address and the current booking person. It helps to know when the person booking is at the club to take phone calls. Be patient, you may have to make several calls before get in contact with them. Keep a list on a calendar or pocket book of all gigs you are currently playing, practice and band meeting dates as well. As well, keep a list of all available gig dates. This gives a club or agent an idea of where they can fit you in, and this makes sure there are no double bookings.


Pad and Pen:


At all times carry a pad and pen to list anything from possible contacts at clubs, musicians and contacts at labels and studios to journalists. Consider investing in a palm pilot as well to keep a cyber list of all music industry contacts and booking arrangements. A pad and pen is one of your most important assets besides your press kit.


Contracts:


This is enormously important guys. A basic contract that states the dates you will play. How many sets are to be played along with a basic set list, any house equipment needed, and last but not least how much the band will be paid for one night or a multi-night show. Part of the contract will include how the band will be paid which is usually after the show. There may be riders in the contract for anything such as hotel accomadations paid for by the venue, and any sound equipment, or the supply of alcoholic or non alcoholic beverages.



Sound system:


You are better off between the band members to buy your own sound equipment such as a solid PA and mixing equipment. A club may have these things but they might not be right for your band's music or their amps and guitar rigs etc. But if the club equipent can add to your sound equipment go ahead and use it. And keep on sending out those promo packs to clubs you want to play at. Keep diggin' guys.


In general, keep on working the local circuit until you can make an assault on regional clubs and then go all around I'm nationwide like the ZZ Top tune goes. It will take a lot of hard work, and if you have the passion for music and see it as more than just being hip and meeting women, which is always good, than you should do all right. Don't re-invent the wheel when trying to convince a booking agent you are his best booking ever. People are always watching you in music and be very professional and honest. We will be going into a more in-depth article on booking your band in the future, and how one area of your music business such as shows can make up for areas such as lack of publishing revenue, and performing royalties.


Dee Curtis is our senior music industry advisor and contributing writer
for Canadian Guitar Player Magazine.


www.canadianmusician.com Canada's top musician's magazine






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