BECOMING UP AND COMING
Taking It To The Public
October 9, 2004

In my last article I went over the fine art of selecting band members that would not only play hard, but also work hard to maximize your band's success.  Now that you've got a solid group together and you've practiced your asses off it's time to start playing shows.  I suggest working with a few preliminary shows to get things underway.  Play parties for friends, your high school or college events, open mic's, etc.  These will get your band used to playing together on stage and are usually easier to set up. 

Once you feel ready to play clubs I strongly suggest putting together a press kit.  It won't be much at first, but that's ok since most bands do them over, or don't do it at all (both of which can be mistakes).  A simple press kit should include, at the very minimum, a good demo (CD's only), a bio and a cover letter.  The demo should be 2-4 well recorded songs.  Using a studio, even if it's for 2-3 songs, can make the difference in getting or not getting a show.   Make sure everything in the recordings are balanced and the vocals can be heard.  There are a lot of inexpensive home recorders and microphones out there which can be used to make inexpensive demo.  If you know someone that has some recording or sound reinforcement background that can help you record and mix that can be helpful.  In the end you can tell the difference between a "bad" and "well recorded" demo, so be honest with yourself.  The cover letter can be a simple letter that states your interest in playing at the club/venue.  Be honest and let them know you're a newer band trying to get off the ground.  Also let them know that you're open to anything since that's what it usually takes to get in.  Make it about a paragraph and briefly describe your style and that you've been playing at parties and other events.

The bio should also include a paragraph describing your style (be creative, but be realistic), influences, and any accomplishments you've made as a band.  If you've won a battle of the bands, put it in there!  As time goes on you'll want to add press pics, radio play lists, and articles to your press kit.  The two most important things to remember are:
1.  Label everything in your press kit with your name, the band name, and your phone number (how can they book you if they can't reach you). 
2. Follow up when you mail or drop off press kits.  Most of the time, even if they like you, a club won't call back.  Call about a week after your submission and talk to the booking person.  Ask if they listened to your material yet.  Mention that you're a new band and interested in any opportuities they may have.  Opening slots for better known bands can be a great chance to gain fans.  Suggest some bands that you might go well with.  If the club owner has nothing at that time, ask when you may be able to follow up again.  Don't be a pest, but check in from time to time as suggested. 

Work with enough local clubs that cater to your style of music and you'll eventually get a show.  When you do, make sure to promote the show, show up on time, and be professional.  I'll cover how to do that in my next article.

Kenny Dinkis
Trapdoor Records
Something To Do
Feel free to e-mail for questions.