These days many artists are struggling to get as many gigs as they need, and especially to get them at the rate of pay they need. Here are a few suggestions for filling your calendar. These particular ideas may not fit you perfectly, If not, just be aware of the creative ways you can increase your gigs, then think of your own.
- Ask your fans to host a house concert in the towns you travel to. Even if you’re a rock band you may be able to put together an ‘unplugged’ show just for this.
- Offer to add another day to your gigs. For example, if you’re booked for a Friday and Saturday somewhere, ask if you can also perform on Thursday for a reduced rate. After all, you’re already there.
- Suggest that the venue you’re playing in throw a special party that you perform at. For example, if you’re booked for a weekend, ask if they’s like to keep you over for Sunday and host a sport-related event.
- Learn to play a full night of a different genre of music and offer to play for a themed night. For example, you could offer a night of all 50’s and 60s music, and even perform under a different name.
- Look for venues in small town where most acts don’t think of playing. If you’re driving through one, offer to play on an off night for a lower than normal rate. It may not even be a full band show. This can help cover expenses.
- Every time you complete a successful gig in which the venue management is happy, ask for 2 things: 1) More dates, and 2) a referral to another non-competing venue. Do it right away so that you capture them while they are on an emotional high.
- Ask your fans for referrals to both venues and private parties. May private events happen in the afternoon, so you may be able to pull a double-header.
- Get to know caterers, event planners, wedding planners, banquet salespeople, wedding videographers, DJs, wedding photographers and anyone else associated with private parties. They are always asked to recommend entertainment. You can even contact some on the road to see if they have a need for your kind of music while you’re in town.
- If there is a fair going on in a town you’re driving through, offer to play for free or for little money. Chances are you’ll sell enough CDs and merch to make up for it.
- If there is a fair happening in the town you’re booked in, offer to play a set during the day. It will attract people to your evening show, which will in turn lead to more bookings.
As you can see, there is no limit to how creative you can get!
