How Your Band Can Make More Money Opening For Other Bands And Creating Money Making Joint Ventures

By Mark Grove

" If Your Band Wants Real Success, Approach The Band's You Can Create Value For And Don't Stop Challenging Yourself and Your Band Until You Make Lots Of Money" (Mark Grove)

This is an important repost guys. How to approach bands you want to open for and create so much value they'll work with you and you'll start making money gigging and getting a cut of someone else's action.

I keep on harping about playing for free and giving away your best material. Literally giving away the kitchen sink. Well, at least giving away your Mother -in-Law who hates you being a Musician.

Read down to the bottom of this golden-nugget filled report to find out how
your band can start it's own media.

The Realization:

The realization is no one knows who your band is--at least not yet. If your lead guitarist isn't the greatest thing since the Shred Master's Like Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert,or Blues Guru Derek Trucks. Chances are you'll have to play for free for a while.

Mean while, play those Jam Sessions weekly even though you hate it like a passion sometimes. Open for other bands for free, and come out with a 3 or 5 song EP and give away a number of them for free.

For free? what in the hell are you talkin' bout Mark?

Yes, free. Just a small portion of them.

If you structure your band as a business when you first start out, you can actually write off the free CD's as a promotional business item expense. You may live in Canada, United States, South America, Asia or Europe. If you have a government that encourages indie music business, you'll be able to write off those expenses.

Work on writing more songs for your bands and other bands, and practice your ass off and give away songs on your bands website.

Giving Value Interviewing Other Band's:

Offer to interview other band's in your genre and set up audio and video podcasts of those interviews on  your website. This creates MASSIVE VALUE for other bands. Keep playing regularly opening up for other bands. Then start asking for money. Because, if a club booker only offers 50 to 100 bucks for opening or even head lining because of low attendance, work out a deal with the club booker and put that money in a bank account. Preferably, in a high interest ING Direct account. If you have a 3 piece band that money is useless to each member, other than a little spending money. Hardly worth it.

But you could take the money and use it in the business online or paying for gas to gigs, and writing that off as well. Besides giving value to other bands think about how to create value for your band. Creating even more Massive Value for other bands:

Set up videos and podcasts of other bands interviewing them on different aspects of the music business such as guitar and gear tips, music business, getting booked, recording-- what ever. Include subjects of interest to the musicians you're helping mainly. Get ideas from Guitar Player and Guitar World mags.

Be different when approaching bands you want to open for. Don't just be like every other band and say you'd like to open for them and here's our CD. Or I love this, come see us play or come watch us practice.

No!  Don't do that. Think differently. What kind of value can you provide them?

Those interviews you do with a band you want to open for can be free to musicians on your site and eventually used as how to material in E-books you can sell for even more value to musicians. Going back to opening up for musicians. Offer to start round table discussions at clubs with the headlining acts and interview them, and have fans turn out as well. This can be done before or after gigs. Keep on playing gigs and asking to open for other bands. This also gives you leverage with high paying gigs by creating value for clubs, bands and your fans.

You have created so much value with your free stuff, musicians will wonder, if your free stuff is this good the stuff like interviews, CD's, and how to stuff--the CDs and shows I have to pay for, for musicians must be incredible!

This little tip will help your band insurmountably when you become a headliner and start touring. But keep on creating value for other bands by continuing to give away so much value that you create fans of musicians, music industry people and your fans most of all.

Okay, How To Start Your Bands Own Media:

I'll keep it simple. Start by writing your own articles, bios and press kit material. Or get help from me. Tell other band members we're going to create our own media. Huh? Yeah, you're probably saying, I don't want to do that shit! If you're not getting any media interviews, do it yourself.

Yep. If you play even just one gig a week or a month for that matter, have a band member interview you before and after the gig with the audience present. Just a short interview. Now, to get a little leverage since you're bringing people out to a local club, ask the owner to bring out the media to watch the interview and your gig. Offer to write an article on the club as well.

Make sure you have someone from the band video tape the interview so you can put it on your band website. Another way to create your band's own media is to hook up a computer at the gig and have the video stream live on the internet.

http://ustream.tv is a great way to stream band interviews, shows and interviewing other bands for free. Or you can use freeconferencecall  which you can record interviews with musicians right over the phone and

download those interviews which other musicians and fans can listen to online to create even more value.

Start doing this interview process for every gig. Have other band members interview each other, and interview other band's as well. Create a service like I have and write articles for bands. Be their go to guy or band.

If you play mainly metal, target bands in that genre. Don't stray far from your genre. But stick to making money for your band. What I said about wanting to open for other band's by interviewing them regularly. Do it. Don't ask for anything in return. This is part of creating a music media empire. At some point make inroads with this band and open up for them. If it's for just 100 bucks, take it and bank the money for important band business. If they can't pay you, play it anyway.

By constantly doing interviews with this band and other bands,you'll create so much value they'll want to pay you a cut of the profits. Continue to do regular interviews with your bands and other ones you want to open for. If you provide a writing and media service like this for musicians, they'll love you for it while you work on  your own band material, jam and open for local and regional bands in bigger cities. Eventually, you'll open   for bands that play 2,000 seat theaters and big hockey arenas.

If you work it right, you'll continue to create media for your band, other bands and get paid for it. And you'll go on the road making at least 3 or 4 grand a night opening for bands you went out of your way to interview and create media for, not asking for anything in return. Not bad eh?

It's simpler than you think guys.

Email me:mdgrove@rock.com

Mark Grove

How Your Band Can Help Other Bands For Free And Get A Cut Of Another Bands Action!

The Importance of a Solid Press-Kit for Musicians--and not becoming that band you hate


By Mark Grove

"What Do The Stones Have That Your Band Doesn't? Nothing. They promo the shit out their band. That's why they are called "The World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band"

This first part is what I came up with on the fly on my day off which is today from my JOB. Yeah, I still work a job. I like working so I continue. Okay, here it goes and I hope you help out a band doing media and opening for and creating a mutual joint venture in this business of music. Don't forget the playing and being a good friend. What you want to do is create as much free value for a band by helping with their press kit, getting media for them and even helping them sell their CDs. As well, help getting them gigs, and then offer
to open for them. Even for free.

That's the best part guys.

Hey Guys...   I hope I'm truly creating value for you with the free articles on how to write your band's own Press-Kit, and approach other bands you would love to open for and work with. Like I said don't think this to death. Well, actually I didn't say that but I'm saying that you need to start thinking differently and not thinking of other bands as "The Enemy". They are not. We are all in this to create great music, jam with each other, play gigs---and yes make money. Making friends is also important to lasting success as a musician.

Pushing The Free Line: 

Giving you guys free articles and free how to material is not my idea. I'll take credit for it if you want. Scratch that. No, an internet marketing guru named Eben Pagan who's in the dating field came up with the idea of giving out free advice. So that's what you guys should be doing as well to help out other bands. I've said to help them get media interviews, interview them regularly and write articles for them. You could also write songs for them for free too. Yes, free. If you don't feel right doing that, don't do that part.

I would do it. But at some point offer this band a proposal to help them media and press kit wise, but ask if your band can open for them. Ask them to open for your band as well. Who cares if they're better than your band. If they are real musicians, who see you creating value and solutions for your band, they will work with you. And they will start paying you to open. Hell, if your band is smart you'll start offering to get a cut of their CD sales if you do CD reviews, live interviews on their CD and help their band sell Cds at their gigs as well. Take 10%. You don't need to be greedy.

Offer to help get them bookings if they have a hard time doing that as well. Take 10% of their gigs. You're not asking for a lot, but helping their band and providing a service most bands won't pay for, then end up giving up. This way you're helping them see they can succeed and become the band they know they're capable of.And your band makes 20 percent in total. Not bad I do say so.

You and your band can actually make a lot of money somewhere down the road. It is possible to start doing just that by giving out "Free Stuff"--for a while. It's not that difficult and you can start today by offering to interview a band in your town or city you like. Then keep doing that and writing articles on them and bringing out the local media to interview them.

I’ve tried to get it through to musicians again and again on the importance of having a press kit. That’s basically fallen on deaf ears for the most part. What I’m going to do here is not rant and rave, but just give you some basics on how to get it done. We here at Canadian Guitar Player also offer Press-Kit writing services like--article writing, doing interviews and innovative material for your press kit, like articles on aspects of music like tips on recording, studio session work, gear and guitar tips along with music business acumen. Things other musicians and music industry people want to read about, and fans who want to know how it all comes together in the studio and on the road.

All these music business know-how tips would be written by our writers, but the knowledge would come from musicians, and become part of your Press-Kit. This shows creativity on a musicians part, and depending on if it’s a club you want to be booked at, session work or interest in a label deal--will all be beneficial in progressing not just a band’s career--but for each band member depending on their individual situations.

I have prior articles on writing bios, article writing, and Press-Kits implementing that, that Canadian Guitar Player can send to musicians who are serious about getting ahead in this business we love so much. The first 2 articles in our press packages are free. We will develop solid press material that will help your band for what ever you’re currently doing as a band. Tell me what you want to achieve in the business.

If you don’t use our press writing services, be ready to work hard. If you love music enough you’ll do it. If you’re a musician in the AFM union, look for our recently published article---How to write a press kit that won’t get thrown out. It’s in the London Musicians Association newsletter called Crescendo. Start with a basic bio of the band and each member along with how the band got together, and any funny anecdotes along the way. Also include any special talents of each band member such as song writing, recording experience, session work, clubs played at, bands opened for etc.

At that point when you’re done that, get some media coverage from local college press and radio. Ask a student journalist if they would interview your band regularly. See how they do with a couple of articles, and be prepared to pay them with band funds. Getting media coverage from big-city papers, TV and radio is not a great way to start for a band.

Shun mainstream media. Fuck them!

Yeah, if you don’t like what I’m saying and you know I’m right anyway, I’ll help you get started with a Press Kit. Like I said above, get a student journalist who believes in your music, get regular interviews every time you play, and even be prepared to think differently and interview band’s in your genre. This will show a lot of interest and other bands will follow suit. Also, a website or blog is important now to promote your band online, with interviews, Discussion boards, tour dates, what the band is doing currently, and have free material on your site while you’re recording a new EP, album or compilation CD.

What you can do to promote your band is endless. Just be ready to pounce on ideas even if they don’t do what you want at first. So let’s get started and email us at Canadian Guitar Player and we’ll talk about setting you up with an Instant Press-Kit.

C-Ya,

Mark Grove mdgrove@rock.com

How To Promote Other Bands Create Value For Them--And Get A Cut Of The Profits to Boot!

By Mark Grove

Some players asked for this article again as well as more audios and even a video of me talking about how to make a Press Kit for their band. Or doing the same for other bands and creating Joint Ventures with them that work. But for now this article will do. But later in the new year I'm actually going to do audios and some videos so you can learn and implement these strategies more efficiently for your band.

I know you guys need this type of "How To" info for your band and other ones who I know have it in them to succeed wildly! Start off with this article and get creating a solid press pack and helping local bands. Then make some cash you deserve.  Really smart bands out there are going the DIY way. With the advent of the Internet it’s been even easier to get your “stuff” online. But most can’t drive the traffic they need to generate any sales or interest. Going the major label route or even using an indie label is more risky than it appears.

You’re probably thinking, that’s BS Mark! Why should I take all the risk when someone else can do it for me.Yeah, that may well be. But they usually end up taking half the profits and ask that you give their producers points on projects. Does that make logical sense guys and gals?

Any bands with a lot of drive and determination will do it the DIY way. That’s the only way your band should be going. I talk about doing it yourself and you should be. You can set up a Myspace or Word Press blog and start plugging your band’s Mp3’s for free at first with questions for fans to answer. Have band interviews done by other band members. Have a lot of how to stuff for other musicians and even get some rabid fans with a lot of drive to interview your band. Even set up a press conference at your gigs. Forget mainstream media. Remember what I said about mainstream media? If you make yourself visible enough,they'll come running to you!
Look at college Radio and college papers and magazines. Part of that can be creating value for other bands by doing interviews with them and putting them on your blog. Now, Going back to College Media they can create the real fans of music that really understand your music, and chances are they'll be rabid fans who buy your CDS and go to your gigs.

But the focus should be helping other bands. In two other articles that can really help your band help others is starting an A and R consultancy service for bands, and your own online label. If you don’t know what A and R is, it's called Artist and Repetoire and it's bands sending you their CD’s for a critique and what they need to do to tighten up the work or edit certain areas of their recordings. These bands are hoping to get a deal as well. Interview the bands who are good enough and put their MP3’s on your blog.

One thing I always tell bands to do as well is record a 4 song demo on Analog Cassette. An old Tascam 4-track tape recorder off Ebay if you can find one. The reason I say to do this is it will force your band to be creative recording a demo without using digital technology. Then when you do record with digital technology you can infuse warm, natural sounding Analog feel to your recordings. A lot more fans love analog, not just  us oldtimers.

Ask your fans what they want in that regard. Now going back to working with other bands. You can write articles for them, record them and making extra cash selling their material. This can lead to producing and selling that band’s CD’s at their gigs. Once other bands see what you're doing they'll want your help as  well. Even making 10 percent off bookings as well as CD sales.

Always create value for bands, don't just be all business. it's a relationship guys.

Focus on playing gigs, joint ventures with other bands and selling CDs at gigs as well. Besides making extra cash with your own band you can help out local and regional bands and make a lot of extra cash in off the beaten path ways.

Forget selling rock band merch as well. Keep your money in your pocket. But if you want to work with independent labels, offer to write articles for their musicians and do promotions for their bands. But ask for a cut of the profits of the bands you work with. At least 5 to 10 percent. This way your hand is in their cookie jar without having to do a deal with them in a way that has your band lose 50% of their income. They might have a modern studio with Pro tools or top of the line recording equipment that could help your band and others you work with.

By offering them free services writing and promoting  of  bands can get you more than you think, and eventually a cut of another band’s profits. Like I said do it your way. This is the only way a band should go.

Email me with your questions on this subject, or want your band interviewed in a DIY way.

email me for more info at: mdgrove@rock.com

The Right Way To Start Your Band's Own Press Kit Attracting Media,Other Bands And Making More Cold Hard Cash!

Been a while since I talked about this important topic so here it goes...

It's always important no matter how successful a band is to get media attention. Even if you hate it you need it. It's another one of those unsexy things we have to do like the wife telling you to take out the garbage or clean the cats litter box. You despise it, but if you want good lovin' tonight or a better relationship, ya' gotta do it.

One of the easiest things you can do for your band is first to write a short bio on it's self. information on the name of the band, who the players are and what instrument they play, style of music and maybe an interesting anecdote or something funny that happened to the band.

That's not too difficult is it? Nope.

And then interview the band memebers on the instruments they play, the kind of music you play and where you've been playing lately. Record a short 3 track CD demo and hand those out at your gigs.  If you want local media at your gigs, offer to interview the owner of the club and even offer to open for other bands at this club as well for free. By doing this you're doing something for someone else without asking for anything in return.

Take on a local College Music Journalist to come out to your gigs and interview your band regularly. Give them free CDs and offer them free admission to your gigs as well. Make sure this writer likes your music and actually writes about your style of music. That way you're not wasting time going from Writer to writer.

Your band can interview local bands you like and would like to open for and bring media their way. Creating value for other bands, clubs and music industry people is key to making more money eventually, as an in demand band. Plus, if you do a lot of leg work like this your band will get a lot more media attention as well, without having to work as hard.

Read the "How To Stuff" on this blog and what your band can teach other musicians and interview other band members on it. Interview the top local players on the gear they use or anything else. Going out of your way to help other musicians will keep you on the right track.

Get busy now and your band and other local and national musicians will thank you with more cash stuffed in your little old pocket. If you have any questions on this just email me.

mdgrove@rock.com

Musicians, What Are You Thankful For? And a Favor To Ask

Hey everybody. I read an article today from someone I respect on why we should be thankful for our lives, the good and the bad regardless of what happened, or is about to. Jason,who wrote the article talks about having a journal of the stuff we're grateful for in our lives. Not just the good stuff, but bad experiences we have been through.

Being grateful for the simplest things in our lives is also important. If you're a musician who went through hard times on the road and were broke for a couple of years, then you started getting high paying gigs eventually, be thankful for those hard times. It showed you and your band that you could get through anything and still come out okay, despite lack of funds. Think about it this way, you got to play in front of people who liked or loved your music, even though you got shitty paying gigs and lived on next to nothing.

You didn't have to work a regular job, and you did what you were meant to do. Bringing joy to others through music. If you have a family or don't, be thankful anyway.

If it's okay with you guys I'd like to ask a small favor. I'm going to give you a link to a very inspiring article by someone who has helped a lot of other people have better lives, or just made their day a bit brighter. Nothin' weird going on here, I just want you guys to be thankful for your lives here in North America or where ever you are in the Universe.

And if you're a musician who benefits from the article by Jason, just send me a line with a thank you. I don't ask for much and I'm not trying to sell you anything or make a salesy pitch. I wish you much peace and happiness in your life as musicians.

Here's the link to this important article on why we should be grateful. Thanks to Jason or Mo as I call him, for the article in these edgy times. Have a good holiday everyone. Here's the link below.

http://jasonmoffatt.com/category/cool-stuff

Have a great weekend musicians!

PS: I'm working on a post on Session playing that should pique your interest. It will be up later this weekend.

The Real Number Two Tip On Getting Higher Paying Gigs

Hey players, hope you played a gig,jammed or practiced this weekend.

Alright here it goes lads. Here's how to get your band's results in advance.

Now you've started talking to a couple local bands you like. You asked them questions about their gear. Turn that info into an article and put it on your blog or Myspace page. Like I said in an earlier article, that  kind of info can give you good insight into what kind of gear you need, when you end up doing live work or studio work with this band.

Believe me, that information is gold for you somewhere down the line doing session work. But I'll get back   to tip number two. I'd tell you there's an easier way to make incredible pay days gigging, but I'd be lying like a bastard!

The majority of you aren't cash flush players who can call up your agent and get your band work opening for Dave Grohl or Jerry Cantrell.

Like I said, the boring shit in your music business is what makes you major cash. Interview bands, song writing,practicing, Booking your bands own gigs at first and learning everything about booking contracts and managing your band business.

If that's too much for ya, go get a day job. You don't have to know everything, but you do have to study hard and take action on the above things I mentioned. But I'll get back to the task at hand. Getting high paying gigs. But if you choose not to, you'll be like all the "pipe smokers" out there who hem and haw about getting gigs and end up just jamming with local players, when they could be doing so much more.

Okay, I'm done my little rant. At least fer now.

Back to working with local bands. Take what I said about interviewing a band on their gear and put it on your site or blog and talk to local media like your local College, who are tuned in to great music. Have that article put in their print mag and do an interview on their radio station  about this band, not yours.

 As well, the band you're helping can add to their already existing press kit, or a non-existent one.

Again, don't ask for anything in return. Maybe a picture of the band or take one yourself with their permission.
As well, for the interview on their gear, get pictures of the gear to put in the post. Now copy and paste those pictures right into the article. Presto, more material in their press pack. You didn't ask for anything to benefit your band.

There's the first baby step. Read my articles to get ideas on how to keep on interviewing this band you want to open for and work with making big cash. Email me if you have questions on this.

Interview this band regularly on different aspects of their musicianship, from songwriting, recording, guitar lessons and getting gigs and how to jam properly to get gigs. It runs the gamut lads.


I know you want your  band to be working with a local or national band, but give it time.

For now, grab our free newsletter and reports to help your band on it's way to being the band it wants to be, and yes make big jack! Just email me for the free newsletter.

I'll have the next tip later this week. Til then go jam with someone. It's the greatest thing there is.


Keep your music alive

Mark G

The Secret To Higher Paying Gigs For Your Band

Hey Everybody, that includes you musicians. I thought it was funny. Guess not,eh?

Okay musicians, The answer to getting high paying gigs is not being the most talented cats on the stage. Unless your band is so talented it over rides everything else and that was the day all Booking Agents said, "This is the greatest band in the world". If you believe that than you're more gullible than the best players who are always lay-downs for the next best effects pedal, amp, pickups--etc.

But I'll give you one little tidbit before I tell you more. You've got to work your ass off. You're probably thinking, aren't you a friggin' genius. That's just one little part of the big secret guys."Whew! Yeah, I know not a relevation to any veterans of the club wars. There's no big secret guys. Just non-sexy shit you have to  do succeed as a high paying band. You have to be willing to do the right things all the time. The boring stuff business and promo wise, most bands will never do.

Okay Guys?

If your band plays regularly, or even once a bloody month start talking to bands who play the kind of music you play, and actually start a relationship with them. Not being weird here, I'm just saying you have to go out of your way to accomodate other bands. Don't ask if they're looking for an opening band. That's the kiss of death guys. Don't ask for anything your band will benefit from. Interview them and ask them about their gear which most players love to do. It's the same as Harley-Davidson lovers love to talk about, their bikes.

Instant camraderie.

Talk about shit that interests them, not you. Ask them about their songs you like and how they came up with certain aspects of it from the music to lyrics and how they come up with ideas from certain songs. Offer to tell local media about the band if they let you interview them regularly. Right there is pure gold, and you're not asking for anything in return to benefit you. Think about it this way. When you talk to a woman who caught your eye and you'd like to talk to her. Do you automatically ask her to go to bed with you and have children with her. I know, an exception for the most part. But just an observation guys.

I thought it was good, but what do I know. What you do is ask her questions about herself, and listen, really listen intently. If she sees you are really listening well and are interested in what she has to say, that goes over like gang-busters man. Don't think so? Try it some time.

But don't ask for the sale right there so to speak. The same thing applies to wanting to getting higher paying gigs. And talking to musicians who make more money than you is the first step. Baby steps guys. Working with other bands is one of the keys to making more cash as a successful local, regional or national act.

The key is not Jimi Hendrix like talent. That's way beyond one in a million. Yeah, using the best promoter or songwriter won't get you to where you need to go either. If you don't play regularly, practice your ass off, write songs and promote your band--and help other bands you will not ever succeed, period.

Just start talking to one or teo local bands and offer to help them for free the way I outlined in this article.You can have great success for your band. I'll have the next tip by Monday. Until then keep playing because that's all that counts to real musicians like you.

Keep Your Music Alive Players.

Mark G

Occupy Movement Musician-- Is Your Band Using The Occupy Wall Street Movements To Get Free Exposure And Help Others?

 Everyone including musicians seem to think that the Occupy Wall Strret, London, LA and the one's in  Canada aren't accomplishing anything, and are useless. That may well be true right now, but don't look at it like the rest of the sheep out there. Most see it as just civil disobedience. I see it as opportunity for musicians to get free exposure, free publicity and maybe to sell CD's.

For the Occupy movements still going in your city, your band could go to the parks or squares where they are and talk to the people running the protesting organizations. Ask them about what they're doing and how it will help society. You can use what's happening and the answers you get from the protestors to write a song. Then ask them if it's okay if you and a band member can perform for them. Ask the local college media your band uses to come out and interview you and the protestors. Make your music become a part of the protest.
 
If you're the type of musician who wants to help society become more utopian like--like the protestors--that will help give your band more exposure. By creating value for the protestors and media, your band will gain a bigger advantage. Just bring your acoustic guitar and have your band members bring no electrified guitars or gear. Maybe a harp--that's Harmonica if you don't know. Start singing Acapella, like David Crosby and Graham Nash just did 3 days ago at Occupy Wall Street.


Talk to other protestors about their plight and what they want to accomplish to help society and change it for the right reasons, and to get politicians to have the will to actually do the right things. Not just bowl us over at their will. Most people feel they have no power to change things, and aren't allowed to change things. Your band could even sing some CSNY tunes to get a better feel for the Occupy Movement and create a discussion and possible change in your state, city or town. Your band could even talk to other bands locally and have an Occupy Movement Concert in your city.

There are a lot of problems in North America politically, but your band can capitalize on the Occupy Movement to get more publicity and make more money. If your band doesn't do what I'm saying I know
some other band will read this and take the bull by the horns and do just that.

How To Promote Bands,Create Value For Them And A Cut Of The Profits!

By Mark Grove


Really smart bands out there are going the DIY way. With the advent of the Internet it’s been even easier to get your “stuff” online. But most can’t drive the traffic they need to generate any sales or interest. Going the major label route or even using an independent label is more risky than doing it yourself.

You’re probably thinking, that’s BS Mark! Why should I take all the risk when someone else can do it for me.Yeah, that may well be. But they usually end up taking half the profits and ask that you give their producers points on projects. Does that make logical sense guys and gals?

Any band with a lot of drive and determination will do it the DIY way. That’s the only way your band should be going. I talk about doing it yourself and you should be. You can set up a Myspace or word press blog and start plugging your band’s Mp3’s for free at first with questions for fans to answer.

Have band interviews done by other band members. Have a lot of how to stuff for other musicians and even get some rabid fans with a lot of drive to interview your band. Even set up a press conference at your gigs. Forget mainstream media. Remember what I said about mainstream media. Basically, ignore them!

Look at college Radio and college papers and magazines. Part of that can be creating value for other bands by doing interviews with them and putting them on your blog. Going back to College Media. They can create
the real fans of music that really understand your music,and chances are they'll be rabid fans who buy your CDS and go to your gigs. But the concentration should be helping your band and helping other bands as well. In two other articles that can really help your band help others is starting an A&R consultancy service for bands and your own online label. If you don’t know what A&R is, it's bands send you their CD’s for a critique and what they need to do to tighten up the work or edit certain areas of their recordings. These bands are hoping to get a deal as well. Interview the bands who are good enough and put their MP3’s on your blog.

This can lead to producing and selling that band’s CD’s at their gigs. Interview these bands thereby creating even more value for other bands. Besides selling CD’s at gigs, offer free MP3’s on your site and theirs. The majority of sales should be off-stage. If your band and other bands sell enough CD’s, start online affiliate programs where you get a cut of their sales. This helps both bands. Forget trying to sell CDs online. That doesn't work in a lot of cases. Focus on playing gigs, joint ventures with other bands and selling CDs at gigs as well.

Forget selling rock band merch as well. Keep your money in your pocket. But if you want to still get in on the independent label deals, offer to work with them selling their CD's. Offer to write articles for their musicians and do promotions for their bands. But ask for a cut of the profits of the bands you work with. At least 5 to 10 percent. This way your hand is in their cookie jar without having to do a deal with them that has your band lose 50% of their income. They might have a modern studio with Pro tools or top of the line recording equipment.

By offering them free services writing and promo of their bands can get you more than you think, and eventually a cut of their band’s profits, not your band. Like I said do it your way. This is the only way a band should go.

Email me with your questions on this subject, or want your band interviewed in a DIY way.


email me for more info at: mdgrove@rock.com

This Guy is Hip, and He's Not A Musician--And Why You Need To Create Massive Value For Musicians Who Make Much more Than Your Band

Jim Rohn tells it like it is, and he has helped many people succeed. You as a musician need to heed his words.
He's a Tony Robbins type who shows people where they are going wrong, and how to correct their under- achieving in life.

 Think about this. You have a band that makes 3 or four hundred a night at the most. You're thinking, but that's all it pays. No, that's all they'll pay you. You have to create value for a club and other musicians who make substantially more. Even helping record labels, managers and agents can help your band make more.

Not sure how to get started? Watch the video and I'll help your band get started. Just email me and we'll talk.

Always creating value and helping other bands can help your band on the path to making money, and enjoying this life as a musician.  

How To Work With Other Bands Not Just Opening For Them--But Creating Solutions

Hey guys, just put up another audio cast here on the blog. I talk about how to come with different ideas on how to write for other bands, create value and especially solutions for them. If you read Guitar Player and Guitar World, and you're very observant as an artist, you'll come up with ideas on how to write articles on bands, interview other bands that help them get more media.

As well, by helping bands create solutions without asking for anything will get you closer to opening for them and creating joint ventures, both bands will benefit from. The audio is only eight minutes, and I give out my phone number you can call me at if you're stuck or hung up on any aspect of creating value for bands you'd like to work with. Even if you're a single player looking to open for bands I'll help you.

Just click this link to listen to me drone on and on. Well, not really but I'm usually pretty focused. Just click below. it will take you to another page and you click on the recorded conference link. If you have a tough  time  getting to the audio just email me.


http://www.freeconferencecall.com/fcci/iTune/itune.aspx?id=173410&lang=ca&altlang=EN



Just click the link above which will take you to another page and you click the recorded conference link  dated 29/05/2011. Yeah, a lot of hoops to jump through but an audio cast that is value related.


Have a great weekend guys.

Mark Grove 519 433-8692

Just Put Up A Podcast On How To Get Our Free Reports On Working With Other Bands--And Me Being Dosey

Hey Guys, I recorded a short audio podcast on how to grab our free reports on how to work with other bands, create your band's own media and create joint ventures with other bands and music industry people.

Just listen to my incoherent ramblings... and get going creating success for your band.

 Just click the link below guys. When you click on the link it will take you to another page, and you click on "Recorded Conference" link. Recording anything and actually not screwing up is a first for me. 
                                                                                                                                         http://www.freeconferencecall.com/fcci/iTune/itune.aspx?id=173410&lang=ca&altlang=EN

So put in your email, and your name with "Making More Money For Your Band" in the subject line. Then grab our free monthly reports.


 Now go play your ass off.

 Mark Grove

Why You The Musician Need To Listen To What I'm Saying About Working With Other Bands And Creating Your Own Media

Okay, get to work musicians on not just helping your band, but other bands and creating joint ventures  with them. Why?  To make lots o' money!

 I say this because you need to get to work, and now. So many of you say you want to become a great band that makes good money, but you do nothing to get people to come to your gigs, get media attention or even go about creating your own press kit, and your band's own media.

I've written article after article on this and it's fallen on deaf ears. I have reports on this that help musicians immensely, and can get you going writing your band's own articles, bios, interviews and full press kits. I even show you how to attract media as well. I even show you how to get a music journalist to write for you for free.

I've even talked about how to approach bands creating value for them by helping them with media,doing interviews with them and then opening for them and creating joint ventures with them.  Sell their CD's and get a cut. Start your own label by helping other bands. This isn't tough guys. It's not difficult guys. You have to work hard though. If you don't love being a musician enough you won't work hard and you'll never make the money you want. You'll go back to your day job. Is that what you want?

Obviously a lot of you do. I have reports on creating massive value for other bands, opening for them, joint ventures and making a good living as a musician. I can help you succeed.

Don't think I can? Then sell your guitar and amp and stay out of the music game.

Here's what I have:  Free Reports, free. It doesn't cost you a thing. How to approach bands, open for them and do joint ventures.


Here's What It Will Do For Your Band: Make you more money than you can at a job.

Here's What You Need To Do: Send me your name and email. Put: "Making Money For My Band"--in the subject line and I'll send you free reports on how to not just make money for your band, but do media for other bands, do business with other bands playing on the same bill--working with other bands as well, and selling CD's and creating a music community that your band can benefit greatly from. 

 Just send your email to me and you'll get the free reports. Just do it.

Mark Grove

How To Create Massive Value For Bands You Want To Open For And Make Money---But Who Wants That?

By Mark Grove

Picture Of Rush Guitarist Alex Leifson and Drummer Neil Peart

This is an important repost guys. How to approach bands you want to open for and create so much value they'll work with you and you'll start making money gigging and getting a cut of someone else's action. I keep on harping about playing for free and giving away your best material. Literally giving away the kitchen sink. Well, at least giving away your Mother -in-Law who hates you being a Musician.

Read down to the bottom of this golden-nugget filled report to find out how your band can start it's own media.



The Realization:


The realization is no one knows who your band is--at least not yet. If your lead guitarist isn't the greatest thing since the Shred Master's Like Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert,or Blues Guru Derek Trucks. Chances are you'll have to play for free for a while.



Mean while, play those Jam Sessions weekly even though you hate it like a passion sometimes. Open for other bands for free, and come out with a 3 or 5 song EP and give away a number of them for free.

For free? what in the hell are you talkin' bout Mark?



Yes, free. Just a small portion of them.


If you structure your band as a business when you first start out, you can actually write off the free CD's as a promotional business item expense. You may live in Canada, United States, South America, Asia or Europe. If you have a government that encourages indie music business, you'll be able to write off those expenses.



Work on writing more songs for your bands and other bands, and practice your ass off and give away songs on your bands website.




Giving Value interviewing Band's:


Offer to interview other band's in your genre and set up audio and video podcasts of those interviews on  your website. This creates MASSIVE VALUE for other bands. Keep playing regularly opening up for other bands. Then start asking for money.



Because, if a club booker only offers 50 to 100 bucks for opening or even head lining because of low attendance, work out a deal with the club booker and put that money in a bank account. Preferably, in a high interest ING Direct account. If you have a 3 piece band that money is useless to each member, other than a little spending money. Hardly worth it.


But you could take the money and use it in the business online or paying for gas to gigs, and writing that off as well. Besides giving value to other bands think about how to create value for your band. Creating even more Massive Value for other bands:




Set up videos and podcasts of other bands interviewing them on different aspects of the music business such as guitar and gear tips, music business, getting booked, recording-- what ever. Include subjects of interest to the musicians you're helping mainly. Get ideas from Guitar Player and Guitar World mags.


These can be free to musicians and eventually used as how to material in E-books for even more value to musicians. Going back to opening up for musicians. Offer to start round table discussions at clubs with the headlining acts and interview them, and have fans turn out as well. This can be done before or after gigs. Keep on playing gigs and asking to open for other bands. This also gives you leverage with high paying gigs by creating value for clubs, bands and your fans.



You have created so much value with your free stuff, musicians will wonder, if their free stuff is this good the stuff like interviews, CD's, and how to stuff---the CDs and shows I have to pay for, for musicians must be incredible!



This little tip will help your band insurmountably when you become a headliner and start touring. But keep on creating value for other bands by continuing to give away so much value that you create fans of musicians, music industry people and your fans most of all.

Okay, How To Start Your Bands Own Media:

I'll keep it simple. Start by writing your own articles, bios and press kit material. Or get help from me. Tell other band members we're going to create our own media. Huh? Yeah, you're probably saying, I don't want to do that shit! If you're not getting any media interviews, do it yourself.

Yep. If you play even just one gig a week or a month for that matter, have a band member interview you before and after the gig with the audience present. Just a short interview. Now, to get a little leverage since you're bringing people out to a local club, ask the owner to bring out the media to watch the interview and your gig. Offer to write a blurb on the club as well.

Make sure you have someone from the band video tape the interview so you can put it on your band website. Another way to create your band's own media is to hook up a computer at the gig and have the video stream live on the internet.

http://ustream.tv is a great way to stream band interviews, shows and interviewing other bands for free. Or you can use freeconferencecall  which you can record interviews with musicians right over the phone and download those interviews which other musicians and fans can listen to online to create even more value. Start doing this interview process for every gig.Have other band members interview each other, and interview other band's as well. Create a service like I have and write articles for bands. Be their go to guys.

If you play mainly metal, target bands in that genre. Don't stray far from your genre. But stick to making money for your band. What I said about wanting to open for other band's by interviewing them regularly. Do it. Don't ask for anything in return. This is part of creating a music media empire. At some point make inroads with this band and open up for them. If it's for just 100 bucks, take it and bank the money for important band business. If they can't pay you, play it anyway.

By constantly doing interviews with this band and other bands,you'll create so much value they'll want to pay you a cut of the profits. Continue to do regular interviews with your bands and other ones you want to open for. If you provide a writing and media service like this for musicians, they'll love you for it while you work on  your own band material, jam and open for local and regional bands in bigger cities. Eventually, you'll open   for bands that play 2,000 seat theaters and big hockey arenas.

If you work it right, you'll continue to create media for your band,other bands and get paid for it. And you'll go on the road making at least 3 or 4 grand opening for bands you went out of your way to interview and create media for, not asking for anything in return.

It's simpler than you think guys.

Email me:mdgrove@rock.com





Mark Grove

Free Report: 2nd Tip For Musicians On How To Create Massive Value For Other Bands--And Open Up For Bands To Boot!

  Led Zeppelin 1975 

Free Report: The 2nd Tip for Musicians on How To Create Massive Value For Other Bands And Open Up For Bands

Okay, this is the 2nd tip guys. Lets say you've gone through the first step of interviewing a band you want to open for. You've done a couple of interviews with them and put them on your site, and even brought out College media, what I call under the radar media that isn't mainstream. They understand music and have more of a hip attitude and can get a lot of real fans to come out.

Don't ask to audition for this band yet.

Drip-Feed them Massive Value. Even do live interviews with their fans at one of their gigs. Now, get them to come out to one of your gigs or a jam session. A Jam session is even better. That's a great way to slowly ingratiate your band into their heads. By getting them to come out to a blues jam you'll see how you play with other musicians, not just your band. Just saying you want to open for a band and here's our CD. And yeah, come out to our gig next week. That's yelling at them. That's not the way you want to open for a band. What you can do is even interview them on aspects of music they do well. How-To stuff like recording, gigging and songwriting. Ask them about their expertize in music. Even ask them about their gear that other musicians want to know about and learn from.

Look in Music publications like Guitar Player.com for examples of articles and interviews that would be right for the band you're creating value for. It's great reference material.

These bands will love you for doing this! After a couple of months creating value for this band--ask them in a nice way you would like to open for them--even for free, and keep on doing interviews and media for them. You have to ask them eventually. Ask for the sale. Close the sale. As well, tell them you'll play for 30 or 45 minutes. Ask them whether you're doing it for free or being paid. At the gig you open for them keep on doing media for them. Don't worry about your band.

Most bands will say yes to your band opening for them. If they say no move on to the next band you're interested in. Keep on the hunt for other great bands out there. Keep on helping the band that said no. Don't be a jerk. Most bands would be crazy to say no after all the value you've created. Okay they've said yes. Get that band to open for you. If they say no find a band that will say yes to opening for you and help them out as well. Yeah, that band might be better than yours. So what! Just keep creating that value thing I talk about too much.

Keep creating value for bands you want to open for and bands that can open for you. Seems like a lot of friggin' work doesn't it? Boring shit, eh? The un-sexy stuff is what makes your band good money in the end. I've told you in other articles how to do your band's own media--basically writing your bands own articles, profiles, audio, video and articles to help other musicians. And use under the radar media. Yeah, you can use the silly mainstream media. They're okay, but I like to follow bands that play like crazy and play stoner  type rock/blues music, country and jazz, and don't go out of their way to get media. I love them!

Yep, I want to help musicians who just want to play music, help other players, write and gig. As well a band that doesn't play for fans. They Record the kind of music they like, not what everyone else wants. But above all being kind to other musicians, creating that value thing for bands to eventually get more gigs becoming a headliner to make more money.

Mark Grove

Are You As A Working Musician Creating Value For Other Musicians?

Hey guys ever ask yourself if all you're into is self absorbed marketing and making money for your band   Sure every band wants to make a pile of Jack for their band but if you're just into it for yourself without creating value for other musicians, it gets lost in all the bullshit you supposedly created. What I mean is are you and your band members approachable if a musician asks you a gear question or how to get gigs,or dare  I say it, what my report is about and that's creating simple value for other bands without asking for anything in return. I'll keep creating value despite what really goes on with most musicians.

I've tried to get through to musicians that you have to help other musicians creating massive value even if they ultimately say no to your band opening for them at the end of the day. I've thought long and hard about these types of things and I truly hope my how to articles help musicians become better players and people as a result. Relationships are what matters at first when you succeed opening for a band, not the fact that you opened for them and made money.The fact that you helped a band become better and you're working together as a team will help you market yourselves and the headlining band that much better.I can't really go into too much detail on the Free Report or I'll be giving away the farm. All I know is is that it  will pay off in the end for your band.

To grab a copy of the Free Report on helping other bands and making more money just email me at:mdgrove@rock.com. In the subject line put "Making More Money For Your Band". 

This is important and will help you in the long run if you just use one tip to help other musicians.

Mark G--Canadian Guitar Player

The Musicians Instant Press Kit and Why It's So Important For Your Band--And a lot of Swearing by me

The importance of a solid Press-Kit for Musicians

Invisible



By Mark Grove

I’ve tried to get it through to musicians again and again on the importance of having a press kit.That’s fallen on deaf ears for the most part. What I’m going to do here is not rant and rave, but just give you some basics on how to get it done.It's simple to get a solid press kit in the hands of agents,managers, labels and studio people,whether you're a frontman or a sideman who wants to do session work.

We can help you if you'll let us, and there's no obligation on your part to do a thing just listen to us spout off after a major hangover from 3 nights of partying. Only once in a while now, my body can't take what it used to. Here at Canadian Guitar Player we offer Press-Kit writing services like; article writing, interviews and innovative material for your press kit, like articles on aspects of music like tips recording, studio session work, gear--and guitar tips along with music business acumen.

All these music business know-how tips would be written by our writers, but the knowledge would come from musicians, and become part of your Press-Kit. This shows creativity on a musicians part, and depending on if it’s a club you want to be booked at, session work or interest in a label deal, will all be beneficial in progressing not just a band’s career, but for each band member depending on their individual situations.

We have prior articles on writing bios, article writing, and Press-Kit implementing that Canadian Guitar Player can send to musicians who are serious about getting ahead in this business we love so much. The first 2 articles in our press packages are free. We will develop solid press material that will help your band for what ever you’re currently doing as a band. Tell me what you want to achieve in the business.


If you don’t use our press writing services, be ready to work hard. If you love music enough you’ll do it. If you’re a musician in the AFM union, look for our recently published article; How to write a press kit that won’t get thrown out. It’s in the London Musicians Association newsletter called Crescendo.


Start with a basic bio of the band and each member along with how the band got together, and any funny anecdotes along the way. Also include any special talents of each band member such as song writing, recording experience, session work, clubs played at, bands opened for etc.

At that point when you’re done that, get some media coverage from local college press and radio. Ask a student journalist if they would interview your band regularly. See how they do with a couple of articles, and be prepared to pay them with band funds. Getting media coverage from big-city papers, TV and radio is not a great way to start for a band.


Shun mainstream media. Fuck them!


Yeah, if you don’t like what I’m saying and you know I’m right anyway,I’ll help you get started with a Press Kit. Like I said above, get a student journalist who believes in your music, get regular interviews every time you play, and even be prepared to think differently and interview band’s in your genre. This will show a lot of interest and other bands will follow suit. Having  a band  website or blog is important now to promote your band online, with interviews, Discussion boards, tour dates, what the band is doing currently, and have free material  on your site while you’re recording a new EP, album or compilation CD.


What you can do to promote your band is endless. Just be ready to pounce on ideas even if they don’t do what you want at first. So let’s get started and email us at Canadian Guitar Player and we’ll talk about setting you up with an Instant Press-Kit.

C-Ya,

mdgrove@rock.com

detect invisible

Musicians,How You Can Create Your Own Media,and Profit On it!

By Mark Grove

This is an important post,so please musicians,take notes so your band can benefit by it,and you can help  other musicians and gain leverage and position as an in demand band that makes a good living.Musicians, want to have your own media for your band,here's a few tips Hey guys,here's a little tip so your band doesn't waste time waiting for conventional media to interview you.Start by doing it yourself.Write articles on your own band,have other members interview you and at your gigs as well.Write bios and artist profiles on each band member as well.

Along with that take videos of your interviews to put on your band website.Then when you have regular articles on your band,keep writing articles so you always have something fresh to use.Don't start using conventional media yet,use like I said College media.Chances are they can give your band the sort of hip cache your band needs.Whether it's College radio,print or TV.


After you have all that in place and you're playing at least once a week,start writing for a band you would like to open for.This shows you want to help other players.Write articles on them,interview them at their gigs,and offer to open for for free.By helping other bands could end being lucrative joint ventures where you go on the
road together.And if the band you open for wants someone to handle selling CDS for them at their gigs,do it,for a cut of the profits.

But keep writing your own media packages and use unconventional media like college and doing it your self.Think for your self players and just do it!

How Bands Can Create Your Own Media--Create Value For Other Bands And Prosper  

I keep on harping about playing for free and giving away your best material. Literally giving away the kitchen sink. Well, at least giving away your Mother -in-Law who hates you being a Musician. Read down to the bottom of this golden-nugget filled report to find out how your band can start it's own media.

The Realization:


The realization is no one knows who your band is--at least not yet.If your lead guitarist isn't the greatest thing since the Shred Master's Like Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert,or Blues Guru Derek Trucks. Chances are you'll have to play for free for a while.



Mean while, play those Jam Sessions weekly even though you hate it like a passion sometimes. Open for other bands for free, and come out with a 3 or 5 song EP and  give away a number of them for free.

For free? what in the hell are you talkin' bout Mark?



Yes, free.Just a small portion of them.


If you structure your band as a business when you first start out, you can actually  write off the free CD's as a promotional business item expense. You may live in Canada, United States, South America, Asia or Europe. If you have a Liberal government that encourages indie music business, you'll be able to write off  those expenses.



Work on writing more songs for your bands and other bands,and practice you ass off and give away songs on your bands website.


Giving Value interviewing Band's:


Offer to interview other band's in your genre and set up audio and video podcasts of those interviews on your website.This creates MASSIVE VALUE for other bands. Keep playing regularly opening up for other bands. Then start asking for money.



Because, if a club booker only offers 50 to 100 bucks for opening or even head lining because of low attendance,work out a deal with the club booker and put that money in a bank account. Preferably, in a high interest ING Direct account. If you  have a 3 piece band that money is useless to each member, other than a little spending money. Hardly worth it.


But you could take the money and use it in the business online or paying for gas to gigs, and writing that off as well.


Besides giving value to other bands think about how to create value for your band. Creating even more Massive Value for other bands:


Set up videos and podcasts of other bands interviewing them on different aspects of the music business such as guitar and gear tips, music business, getting booked,recording-- what ever.


These can be free to musicians and eventually used as how to material in E-books for even more value to musicians.


Going back to opening up for musicians. Offer to start round table discussions at clubs with the headlining acts and interview them, and have fans turn out as well.This can be done before or after gigs. Keep on playing gigs and asking to open for other bands. This also gives you leverage with high paying gigs by creating value for clubs,bands and your fans.



You have created so much value with your free stuff, musicians will wonder, if their free stuff is this good the stuff like interviews, CD's, and how to stuff.The CDs and shows I have to pay for, for musicians must be incredible!



This little tip will help your band insurmountably when you become a headliner and start touring.

But keep on creating value for other bands by continuing to give away so much value that you create fans of musicians,music industry people and your fans most of all.

Okay,How To Start Your Band's Own Media:

I'll keep it simple.Start by writing your own articles,bios and press kit material.Or get help from me.Tell other band members we're going to create our own media.

Huh? Yeah,you're probably saying,I don't want to do that shit!

If you're not getting any media interviews,do it yourself.

Yep.If you play even just one gig a week or a month for that
matter,have a band member interview you before and after the
gig with the audience present.Just a short interview.

Now,to get a little leverage since you're bringing people out
to a local club,ask the owner to bring out the media to watch
the interview and your gig.

Make sure you have someone from the band video tape the interview
so you can put it on your band website.Another way to create your
band's own media is to hook up a computer at the gig and have the
video stream live on the internet.

http://ustream.tv is a great way to stream band interviews,shows and interviewing other bands,for free.

Start doing this interview process for every gig.Have other band members interview each other,and interview other band's as well.Create a service like I have and write articles for bands.Be their go to guys.

If you play mainly metal,target bands in that genre.Don't stray far from your genre. But stick to making money for your band.What I said about wanting to open for other band's by interviewing them regularly.Do it.Don't ask for anything in return.

This is part of creating a music media empire.At some point make inroads with this band and open up for them.If it's for just 100 bucks,take it and bank the money for important band business.If they can't pay you,play it anyway.

By constantly doing interviews with this band and other bands,you'll create so much value they'll want to pay you a cut of the profits.Continue to do regular interviews with your bands and other ones you want to open for.

If you provide a writing and media service like this for musicians,they'll love you for it,while you work on your own band material,jam and open for local and regional bands in bigger cities.Eventually,you'll open for bands that play 2,000 seat theaters and big hockey arenas.

If you work it right,you'll continue to create media for your band,other bands and get paid for it.And,you'll go on the road making at least 3 or 4 grand opening for bands you went out of your way to interview and create media for,not asking for anything in return.

It's simpler than you think guys.

Email me:mdgrove@rock.com

How Players Can Start Doing Their Own Media--Create Massive Value For Bands--And Prosper From It

By Mark Grove

I keep on harping about playing for free and giving away your best material. Literally giving away the kitchen sink. Well, at least giving away your Mother -in-Law who hates you being a Musician.

Read down to the bottom of this golden-nugget filled report to find out how your band can start it's own media.


The Realization:


The realization is no one knows who your band is--at least not yet. If your lead guitarist isn't the greatest thing since the Shred Master's Like Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert,or Blues Guru Derek Trucks. Chances are you'll have to play for free for a while.



Mean while, play those Jam Sessions weekly even though you hate it like a passion sometimes. Open for other bands for free, and come out with a 3 or 5 song EP and give away a number of them for free.

For free? what in the hell are you talkin' bout Mark?



Yes, free.Just a small portion of them.


If you structure your band as a business when you first start out, you can actually write off the free CD's as a promotional business item expense. You may live in Canada, United States, South America, Asia or Europe. If you have a Liberal government that encourages indie music business, you'll be able to write off those expenses.



Work on writing more songs for your bands and other bands, and practice your ass off and give away songs on your bands website.




Giving Value interviewing Band's:


Offer to interview other band's in your genre and set up audio and video podcasts of those interviews on your website. This creates MASSIVE VALUE for other bands. Keep playing regularly opening up for other bands. Then start asking for money.



Because, if a club booker only offers 50 to 100 bucks for opening or even head lining because of low attendance, work out a deal with the club booker and put that money in a bank account. Preferably, in a high interest ING Direct account. If you have a 3 piece band that money is useless to each member, other than a little spending money. Hardly worth it.


But you could take the money and use it in the business online or paying for gas to gigs, and writing that off as well.


Besides giving value to other bands think about how to create value for your band. Creating even more Massive Value for other bands:




Set up videos and podcasts of other bands interviewing them on different aspects of the music business such as guitar and gear tips, music business, getting booked, recording-- what ever.


These can be free to musicians and eventually used as how to material in E-books for even more value to musicians.


Going back to opening up for musicians. Offer to start round table discussions at clubs with the headlining acts and interview them, and have fans turn out as well.


This can be done before or after gigs. Keep on playing gigs and asking to open for other bands. This also gives you leverage with high paying gigs by creating value for clubs, bands and your fans.



You have created so much value with your free stuff, musicians will wonder, if their free stuff is this good the stuff like interviews, CD's, and how to stuff.The CDs and shows I have to pay for, for musicians must be incredible!



This little tip will help your band insurmountably when you become a headliner and start touring.

But keep on creating value for other bands by continuing to give away so much value that you create fans of musicians, music industry people and your fans most of all.

Okay,How To Start Your Bands Own Media:

I'll keep it simple.Start by writing your own articles,bios and press kit material.Or get help from me.Tell other band members we're going to create our own media.

Huh? Yeah,you're probably saying,I don't want to do that shit!

If you're not getting any media interviews,do it yourself.

Yep.If you play even just one gig a week or a month for that
matter,have a band member interview you before and after the
gig with the audience present.Just a short interview.

Now,to get a little leverage since you're bringing people out
to a local club,ask the owner to bring out the media to watch
the interview and your gig.

Make sure you have someone from the band video tape the interview
so you can put it on your band website.Another way to create your
band's own media is to hook up a computer at the gig and have the
video stream live on the internet.

http://ustream.tv is a great way to stream band interviews,shows and interviewing other bands,for free.

Start doing this interview process for every gig.Have other band members interview each other,and interview other band's as well. Create a service like I have and write articles for bands.Be their go to guys.

If you play mainly metal,target bands in that genre.Don't stray far from your genre.But stick to making money for your band.What I said about wanting to open for other band's by interviewing them regularly.Do it.Don't ask for anything in return.

This is part of creating a music media empire.At some point make inroads with this band and open up for them.If it's for just 100 bucks,take it and bank the money for important band business.If they can't pay you,play it anyway.

By constantly doing interviews with this band and other bands, you'll create so much value they'll want to pay you a cut of the profits.Continue to do regular interviews with your bands and other ones you want to open for.

If you provide a writing and media service like this for musicians, they'll love you for it,while you work on your own band material, jam and open for local and regional bands in bigger cities.Eventually, you'll open for bands that play 2,000 seat theaters and big hockey arenas.

If you work it right,you'll continue to create media for your band, other bands and get paid for it.And,you'll go on the road making at least 3 or 4 grand opening for bands you went out of your way to interview and create media for,not asking for anything in return.

It's simpler than you think guys.

Email me:mdgrove@rock.com





Mark Grove

Why Your Band Needs To Hunt Out Other Bands To Make A Better Living As Musicians

By Mark Grove

I'll make this simple guys.

The reason you hunt out other bands is to make more money and create value for other bands at the same time.

You have to give before you get guys.Okay,I know your band works hard and practices 3 times a week--has a great demo CD and jams with other bands.At least you better be.Now you're probably wondering how you can make more money by hunting out other bands.

If you just play in a stand alone band and play strictly your own gigs you might succeed.But it makes it tougher to make the money your band deserves.The more eyes and ears on your band the better.

So how do you do all of this?

If you've been reading Canadian Guitar Player or my new Musicians
Instant Press Kit Blog,you'll know that creating massive value
for other bands will help your band vastly!

Alright,start by interviewing a band you would like to either jam
with or open for who already plays regular gigs.Write articles on
them and put them on your site.Include doing live interviews with
them at their gigs.Try to get College media to come out to the gigs
as well.

College media represents a hipper cache of fans who will resonate
with your music.Also,talk to clubs who book them and get them to
bring mainstream media out.At this point still keep doing articles
on them,but offer to open up for them--for free if you have to.

If they say no,move on to another band you're interested in and
do the same thing.Don't give up.When you find a band that wants
an opening act,make sure your band is ready chops wise,set list
wise and have played some gigs on your own.

Once you find a band that says yes,play a number of gigs with them
as an opener,and offer to have them open for you as well.Make the
same pitch to other bands.Keep interviewing other bands in your
genre,and keep opening for others and them reciprocating.

Then when you develop a good base of fans,start selling your CDS
at your gigs.Offer to sell other bands CDS as well at their gigs
for 10 percent of the take.This is a great way to make more money.

I'll talk about that in a future article.

Try this out and see what happens.

Mark G