Every musician I know wants more gigs. And over the years, I've noticed something about the ones who stay busy: they aren't always the most talented players in town. They're the ones who are easiest to book, most reliable to work with, and best at building relationships.
The good news is that all of those things can be learned. Here's where to start.
Make yourself easy to book
Bookers, venue owners and event planners are busy. If they have to hunt for information, they'll move on to someone who makes it simple. Have these ready to send at a moment's notice:
- A short, clear bio
- Two or three strong, current photos
- Live video. A good clip of you performing in front of an audience sells better than any studio recording.
- Links to your music
- Your contact information, in the same place every time
Put it all on one simple web page or electronic press kit, so you can send a single link.
Know where you fit
Not every room is right for every act. Make a list of the venues, festivals and events that genuinely suit your music and your draw. Learn who books them, how far ahead they book, and how they like to be contacted. A targeted pitch to the right person beats a hundred generic emails.
Think beyond the club circuit
Some of the steadiest work in music happens outside traditional venues. Depending on what you play, consider:
- Private parties and weddings
- Corporate events and conferences
- Festivals, fairs and community events
- Restaurants, wineries and hotel lounges
- Session and studio work
- Filling in for other bands
- Teaching and workshops
Build real relationships
Most gigs come through people, not cold calls. Get to know other musicians, sound engineers, promoters and venue staff. Go to other people's shows. Support the scene you want to be part of. When someone needs a player or a band on short notice, you want your name to be the first one they think of.
Be the act people want to rebook
Getting the first gig is the hard part. Getting the second one should be easy, if you've earned it. Show up on time. Be ready to play. Respect the set times and the volume limits. Be friendly with the staff. Promote the show. Pack up quickly and thank the people who hired you.
Venues talk to each other. A reputation for being professional and easy to work with will get you more work than almost anything else.
Bring people with you
Venues need to sell tickets and drinks. If you can show that you bring an audience, you become far more valuable. Build an email list. Promote every show on your socials. Tell people personally. Then let the booker know how the night went.
Follow up, and keep following up
No reply doesn't mean no. Bookers get buried in messages. Follow up politely after a week or two. After a gig, send a thank-you and ask about future dates. Keep track of every contact, every conversation and every promise, so nothing slips through the cracks.
The bottom line
More gigs come from a simple formula: be easy to book, be great to work with, and keep building relationships. Do those three things consistently and your calendar will start filling itself.
The phone rings for people who make it easy to say yes.