The Book Your Band Podcast

House Shows 101: Answering Commonly Asked Questions About Performing in Someone's Home

The last few weeks I have been getting lots of questions on social media about the ins and outs of house shows...especially after my recent episode with Derek Webb [https://open.spotify.com/episode/1NvqorWYmpWP1lleaQUN8A?si=kgUY4lyURTOBXbdIQOPOCg] where he shared all of the ways his career has benefited from switching from touring mid-cap venues to exclusively playing house shows. So in this episode, I address three of the most commonly asked questions about house shows: 1) How do I book a house show? 2) What are the logistics of a house show? 3) How do I get paid from house shows? If you would like to learn more, I also have a blog post on my website that you can read here [https://bookyourbandpodcast.com/blog/b/house-shows-101-everything-you-need-to-know-to-start-booking-house-shows]. While you are on my website, be sure to also sign up for the Garage to Stage Crash Course. You can learn more about it here. [https://bookyourbandpodcast.com/perform]

"The Intimacy Business": How Derek Webb Built A Career Playing for The Smallest Audiences Possible

Getting burned out busting your rear to sell tickets at traditional music venues, only to have little-to-no money to show for it at the end of the night? Tired of the unending rat race of trying to play bigger venues in front of more people to feel like you've, "made it?" Legendary singer/songwriter, Derek Webb, decided to get off that hamster wheel and instead built a career around playing for the smallest audiences possible. In this episode we talk with my top Book Your Band Podcast dream guest, Derek Webb, about why he stopped touring mid-cap venues to focus on exclusively playing house shows. This episode is filled with over thirty years of wisdom and experience from one of my all-time musical heroes. We discuss "the intimacy business," building your tribe, and finding more fulfillment (and better paydays) playing in living rooms than packed out mid-cap venues. Again, a huge thank you to Derek for his time and kindness. Hanging out with him was a dream come true for this lifelong fan. Be sure to visit Derek online at www.derekwebb.com [www.derekwebb.com] and @derekwebb on social media. Are you a musician who has a dream of turning your passion into a career, but you don't know how to start? Sign up for the FREE Garage to Stage Crash Course at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com [www.bookyourbandpodcast.com]

Introducing the FREE Garage to Stage Crash Course

Our discussion today, inspired by insights from Michaela D. Jordan of Golden Poppy Music, addresses the challenges young musicians face transitioning from online performances to live audiences. We explore why talented artists struggle to book gigs and engage live crowds, emphasizing the gap in understanding how to navigate the music industry's intricacies, from booking to sound checks and show promotions. Introducing the Perform Framework In this episode, host Tony Neely introduces the PERFORM Framework, a strategic guide developed to provide clarity and actionable steps for musicians aiming to book and excel at their first paying gigs. This framework is the backbone of our new FREE training, which promises a step-by-step approach to mastering the live performance scene. What to Expect in the "Garage to Stage" Course Tony breaks down the five-day course structure, each day focused on a crucial aspect of becoming a gigging musician: * Day 1: Preparation - Laying the groundwork with open mic nights, crafting engaging set lists, and refining performance skills. * Day 2: Engagement - Emphasizing the importance of community connections, leveraging social media, and the benefits of collaborating with other artists. * Day 3: Representation - Professional self-representation through an EPK, and effective communication with venues and talent buyers. * Day 4: Foster Relationships - Strategies for marketing your shows, partnering with local businesses, and using digital marketing tools. * Day 5: Rock Out and Momentum - Tips for a successful show day and maintaining energy post-performance, including soundcheck protocols and networking. Who Should Join? This course is tailor-made for those new to gigging or those who need a refresher on the basics of booking and performing live. It's a perfect start for musicians ready to step out of the garage and onto the stage. Call to Action Although FREE, spaces for the "Garage to Stage" five-day crash course are limited, so listeners are encouraged to sign up quickly to secure their spot. Registration is open at www.bookyourbandpodcasts.com/perform.

Touring Smart: Four Strategies for Booking Your Band's Next Tour

In this episode of The Book Your Band Podcast, we dive into the essentials of planning a successful music tour. We discuss four different strategies that indie bands can use to book tours more effectively, helping you to maximize your reach and revenue without burning out. Whether you're hitting the road for the first time or looking to improve your touring game, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Episode Summary: 1. The Shotgun Approach: * Description: Sending mass emails to venues across the country. * Drawbacks: High effort, low return; often cost-inefficient. 2. The Circuit Model: * Description: Booking one show per city in a pre-planned circuit. * Pros: Potentially high-paying shows. * Cons: Little time to experience each city; very demanding schedule. 3. The Linked Circuit Approach: * Description: Combines high-paying anchor shows with smaller gigs in nearby towns. * Benefits: Increases the number of shows while covering more ground. * Strategy Tips: How to select anchor shows and schedule intermediate gigs. 4. The Base and Link Strategy: * Description: Setting up a temporary home base and booking multiple shows within a short travel radius. * Advantages: More time to explore and connect with local audiences; efficient and profitable. * Planning Advice: How to choose a base city and maximize local opportunities. Key Takeaways: * Choose a strategy that fits your band’s goals and logistical preferences. * Each strategy offers distinct advantages and challenges; understanding these can help tailor your touring approach. * Relationships and good planning are crucial for a successful tour. Conclusion: We wrap up by encouraging bands to consider their long-term goals and available resources when planning a tour. Effective strategy selection can transform the touring experience from stressful to rewarding. Links: Modern CRM and Web Hosting $37 Lifetime Offer [https://join.moderncrm.co/demo?am_id=anthony659] Note: I love and use Modern...but also want to be transparent that the above is an affiliate link...so if you use it, I receive a small percentage.

Learn How To Plan A Tour From An Indie Duo Playing 200+ Shows Per Year

Sign up for the FREE Garage-to-Stage 5 Day Crash Course at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com [www.bookyourbandpodcast.com] Ready to hit the road, but not sure where to begin? Overwhelmed by logistics and afraid your tour is doomed before it even starts? In this episode, we cover the ins and outs of booking 200+ shows a year with husband and wife road warriors, The Dark Waters Project! From meeting at a Bible study and merging their musical talents to becoming a renowned act in Nashville, their story is nothing short of inspiring. They open up about the hardships of losing venues during the pandemic and the resilience required to navigate the music industry's challenges. Discover the strategy behind their successful tours and the importance of community support in reviving live music. With lots of valuable advice on making it in the music business, this episode is a goldmine for any musician looking to carve out their path in today's live music scene. Key Points Covered: * Introduction to Cherish and Adam Hamby and Dark Waters Project: Their musical journey, meeting, and forming Dark Waters Project. * Navigating the Pandemic: The impact on live music venues and their strategy for touring post-pandemic. * Booking and Performing Strategies: Insights into their approach to booking shows and engaging with their audience. * Generating Income: The importance of merch, guarantees, and tips in making a living as touring musicians. * Mental Health and Support: Balancing life on the road and the significance of supporting each other in the music community. Cherish and Adam's Contact Information: * Website: DarkWatersMusic.com * Social Media: Follow Dark Waters Project on major platforms (sans TikTok). Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms at @BookYourBandPodcast for more updates and insights into the live music industry.