5 Rules To Book Better Gigs

Besides trying to land gigs at the best venues alongside the best bands, what else can you do to book better gigs? We've outlined five points that speak to the process of getting the show together in the first place: how, where, when, and with whom. If you follow these rules, you'll give every show optimal potential for greatness – and give a boost to your fanbase-growing efforts.

How To Deal With Haters On Social Media

Social media has given bands a tremendous way to connect with their fans. Unfortunately, it has also given those who don't like a band a place where they know their complaints and criticisms will be seen/heard.

While hiding behind a Facebook page, Twitter handle, or YouTube account, these self-styled music critics feel confident in tearing you and your bandmates a new one. Here's the real kicker – they may not have even listened to your music. Welcome to the world of internet trolls. Here's a quick guide on how to handle the haters.

Be Your Own Record Label: Everything You Need To Know About Distribution

If you want to start a label, or do a label’s functional job for your own musical project, just start doing it and figure it out as you go. Here are some things that I'm doing as a label owner that might help you and save you some time if you choose to take this path as well.

The Top 4 Online Profiles Every Musician Must Have

Managing an online presence doesn't come easily to everyone. As a DIY musician, though, you don't have much choice in the matter. Keeping your pages active and updated is hugely important to the maintenance and growth of your fanbase, as well as key in getting press and booking gigs. That said, you don't have to use every single platform out there.

Unless you're a natural social media expert, consider streamlining your online presence by focusing only on the profiles that matter most. We believe these four are at the top of the totem pole of potential. We're not saying the ones we've left out aren't useful; they certainly can be. But spreading yourself too thin in your online efforts isn't hard to do, so zoning in on mastering this lot will likely do you the most good.

10 Do's and Don'ts of Contacting a Venue Owner

As you begin to book your own shows, you'll want to avoid these don'ts and adhere to these dos instead. Your relationships with talent buyers, booking agents, and venues are crucial to growing your fanbase and career – don't taint them by making mistakes from the get-go.

It's actually not as tricky as it seems. A lot of booking errors are a result of poor planning or a rushed inquiry. Be thoughtful when reaching out to whoever's in charge of the calendar. A degree of professionalism and a foundation of courtesy is your best bet at seriously being considered for gigs.

Even the established bands who've gotten in a routine of working a certain way might need a refresher, really. Check out the recommendations below.