HOW TO LAND A BOOKING AGENT
posted in: Music News
Chances are you’ve got an ongoing fantasy that involves you playing a concert to tens of thousands of screaming fans and blowing their mind with your killer stage prowess and pyrotechnic display. Maybe you’ve even taken the time to mentally write up a rider for after the show. But where you get stuck is trying to figure out how to get this scenario from inside your mind in to real time. There’s really only one thing standing between you and the glory of the arena. And that’s seasoned and savvy booking agent.
Here’s the thing though ”a deal with an established booking agency is notoriously hard to come by. There’s no real system for getting in”if you’re not on a label with big booking connections then it comes down to a booking agent seeing your show and liking it so much he/she decides to rep you. But don’t throw your guitar against the wall just yet. There are some things you can do to get yourself in a good position to attract an agency.
¢ Go DIY and book your own shows. This is important for two reasons. One, it gives you an important crash course in what goes into booking and promotion. And two, it introduces you to club owners, who in turn can direct you to their bookers. (Just to be clear, there are two types of booking agents: those who work on behalf of venues, and those who work for artists.) When you’re booking your shows, try to recruit bands who already have their own booking agent for the bill. It just increases the likelihood that an agent will see you perform, and possibly want to work with you.
¢ Be awesome. Playing great gigs will get you in good with the club bookers, who may toss some amazing show opportunities your way, or put you in touch with their colleagues. Booking agents want to see that you can consistently draw a crowd at your shows. So having an active and reliable fanbase is key. Also, try to make each show you play a step up from the last.
¢ Network like a mofo. Go to as many shows as you can and meet as many people. Talk to bands who have bookers”are they happy with the agency representing them? If so, ask for a contact. Reach out with a stellar press kit that includes a tour sheet. Invite agents out to your shows. Be bold and be aggressive. Who knows, you may be in that arena sooner than you think.
