Rachel Hurley

Knowing how to advance your shows is one skill that you cannot afford to neglect as an independent musician. And I’m not talking about just showing up and hoping for the best—I’m talking about doing the legwork to make sure everything runs smoothly, from load-in to load-out.

Now, if you’re lucky enough to have a tour manager handling this stuff for you, great. But let’s be real – most indie musicians are wearing all the hats, from booking to promoting to advancing your own damn shows. And if you’ve ever shown up to a gig only to find out there’s no sound system or the venue owner has no idea who you are, you know exactly how frustrating and unprofessional it can make you look.

But fear not. In this post, I’m going to dive into the nitty-gritty of how to advance your shows like a pro, even if you’re flying solo. I’ll cover everything from what information you need to gather to how to communicate with venues and promoters effectively. By the end of this, you’ll be advancing your shows with confidence and avoiding those awkward “oh shit” moments on the road.

And how do I know all this info? I used to be a talent buyer for a club and worked with a lot of musicians who had no idea what they were doing.

Key Takeaways on How to Advance Your Shows:

• Advancing your show is a crucial skill for any serious musician
• It involves gathering information, communicating with venues, and preparing for the gig
• Proper advancing can help you avoid logistical nightmares and make a great impression
• Even if you’re an indie musician, you can learn to advance your shows like a pro
• Effective communication and attention to detail are key

What is Advancing, Anyway?

First things first, let’s define what the hell we’re talking about. Advancing your shows simply means taking the necessary steps to prepare for a gig ahead of time. This includes things like:

• Confirming load-in and soundcheck times with the venue
• Providing technical requirements (like stage plot and input list)
• Arranging accommodations and transportation
• Coordinating with other bands on the bill
• Making sure you have all the necessary gear and merch
• Pre-arranging the guest list
• Finding out what the venue is going to comp for you (Drinks, Dinner, Hookers?)

Basically, advancing is all about dotting your i’s and crossing your t’s so that when you show up to the gig, you can focus on putting on a killer performance instead of scrambling to figure out logistics.

Why is Advancing Your Shows So Important?

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Can’t I just show up and wing it? Why do I need to put in all this extra work?” Le sigh.

First and foremost, it makes you look professional as hell. When you show up to a gig with all your ducks in a row, it sends a message that you take your craft seriously, and you’re not just some fly-by-night operation. Venues and promoters will take notice, and they’ll be more likely to work with you again in the future.

But beyond just making a good impression, advancing can also save your ass from logistical nightmares. Imagine showing up to a gig only to find out the venue doesn’t have the right kind of sound system for your setup, or that there’s no green room for you to store your gear. Or what of you haven’t eaten in 10 hours and show up to find out the only food served at the venue is from a vending machine? Advancing properly, you can identify and solve these issues before they become show-stopping problems.

Plus, let’s be real – touring is hard enough without adding unnecessary stress to the mix. By taking the time to advance your show, you can minimize surprises and focus on what really matters: putting on a kick-ass performance for your fans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Advancing Your Shows

Alright, now that we’ve established why advancing is so important, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how to actually do it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to advancing your shows like a pro:

Step 1: Gather Your Information

The first step in advancing is to gather all the necessary information about your gig. This includes:

• Venue name and address
• Load-in and soundcheck times
• Other bands on the bill
• Promoter or venue contact information
• Technical requirements (stage plot, input list, etc.)
• Accommodations, comps, guest list, and transportation details

Make sure you have all this information in one place, whether it’s a spreadsheet, a document, or a good old-fashioned notebook. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling to find the venue address five minutes before load-in.

Step 2: Reach Out to the Venue

Once you have all your information gathered, it’s time to reach out to the venue or promoter to start the advancing process. This is typically done via email, but some venues may prefer phone calls or even in-person meetings.

A good talent buyer will exchange a lot of this information with you when booking you, but if for whatever reason you are reaching out cold – like say, if you’re opening for a band that was the one the talent buyer worked with directly, make sure to introduce yourself and your band, and provide all the necessary information about your gig. Be clear and concise in your communication – no one wants to read a novel-length email just to find out what time soundcheck is.

It’s also a good idea to ask if there are any specific requirements or guidelines you need to follow, like noise curfews or load-in restrictions. The more information you can gather upfront, the better prepared you’ll be on show day.

Step 3: Follow Up and Confirm

Sometimes, initial contact with a venue can be 3 or 4 months in advance of the booking, so make sure to follow up and confirm all the details of your gig. They might have gone through 3 talent buyers since you were last in touch with them. Make sure you confirm the following within a week of your booking:

• Confirming load-in and soundcheck times
• Providing any additional technical requirements or stage plots
• Confirming accommodations and transportation details
• Making sure you have all the necessary contact information for day-of communication

Step 4: Prepare for the Gig

Now that you’ve confirmed all the details of your gig, it’s time to prepare for show day. This includes:

• Making sure you have all the necessary gear and merch
• Packing your stage plot and input list
• Confirming transportation and accommodations
• Communicating with your bandmates about call times and logistics

The more prepared you are ahead of time, the smoother your show day will go. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot your guitar cables or merch box when you’re already at the venue.

Communication is Key

Communication is absolutely key throughout the advancing process. You want to be clear, concise, and professional in all your interactions with venues and promoters.

Some tips for effective communication:

• Use a professional email address (not your old AOL account from high school)
• Keep your emails short and to the point
• Be clear about your needs and requirements upfront
• Respond to emails and phone calls in a timely manner
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions or clarify details

Remember, the goal is to build positive relationships with venues and promoters, not burn bridges with sloppy communication or unrealistic demands.

What if Something Goes Wrong?

Even with the most thorough advancing, sometimes things can still go wrong on show day. Maybe the sound system is on the fritz, or the opening band is running late. In these situations, it’s important to stay calm and communicate effectively with the venue and your bandmates.

Some tips for handling day-of issues:

• Have a backup plan for technical difficulties (like bringing your own mics or amps)
• Communicate clearly with the venue about any issues or delays
• Be flexible and willing to adapt to changing circumstances
• Keep a positive attitude – getting angry or frustrated will only make things worse

Remember, at the end of the day, the show must go on. By staying calm and communicating effectively, you can handle any curveballs that come your way and still put on a killer performance.

Since you’ve made it this far—and I know you’re serious—here’s a bonus tip. People always wonder how to get a booking agent—well, here’s how: Agents ask Talent Bookers who is bringing in crowds and how they are to work with. Fucking over a talent buyer, being a pain in the ass, or just looking like you have no idea what you are doing will be the first thing a talent buyer will gossip about with their counterparts. Ask me how I know.

Advance Your Shows FAQs:

1. What if I’m not sure what information I need to gather for advancing? Start with the basics – venue name and address, load-in and soundcheck times, other bands on the bill, and promoter contact information. From there, you can ask the venue if there are any specific requirements or guidelines you need to follow.
2. How far in advance should I start advancing my shows? Ideally, you should start advancing your shows when you book it or at least a few weeks before the gig.
3. What if the venue or promoter is unresponsive to my emails or calls? If you’re not getting a response after a few attempts, call the venue, and they will answer their phones. If all else fails, you may need to consider finding a different venue or promoter to work with in the future.

Advancing your shows can feel like a lot of extra work on top of everything else you’re already doing as an indie musician. But trust me when I say it’s absolutely essential if you want to take your live performances to the next level.

By gathering the necessary information, communicating effectively with venues and promoters, and preparing thoroughly for each gig, you can avoid logistical nightmares and focus on what really matters – putting on an unforgettable show for your fans.

And here’s the thing – the more you practice advancing your shows, the easier it gets. You’ll develop a system that works for you, build relationships with venues and promoters, and gain a reputation as a professional, reliable musician.

So don’t be afraid to put in the work and advance your shows. Your future self will thank you for it.

Now go forth and conquer those gigs – just don’t forget your damn guitar this time, okay?

Source Links:

• https://www.tunecore.com/blog/2019/08/the-importance-of-advancing-your-shows.html
• https://www.indieonthemove.com/blog/2015/10/how-to-advance-your-show-like-a-pro
• https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/Playing-Live/Contracts-Fees/Advancing-Your-Gig

MORE FREE ADVICE

You’ve probably heard all of this before, but have you really listened? If you’re a musician trying to make it in today’s digital age, you can’t afford to sleep on social media. It’s not just about posting a few selfies and calling it a day – it’s about crafting a fascinating online persona that sets you apart from the noise and attracts die-hard fans who will stick with you through thick and thin.

But here’s the thing – developing a consistent and authentic brand across social media platforms is easier said than done. It takes time, effort, and a whole lot of trial and error. That’s where I come in. I’m here to give you some tips and tricks for creating an online presence that’s as unique and captivating as your music. Listen up.

Social Media Key Takeaways:

• Consistency is key when it comes to branding across social media platforms
• Authenticity is essential for building trust and loyalty with your fans
• Visuals are just as important as the written content you share
• Engagement is a two-way street – you need to interact with your followers
• Paid advertising can be a powerful tool for reaching new audiences
• Analytics are your friend – use them to refine your social media strategy

Consistency is King: Developing a Cohesive Brand for Social Media

First and foremost, if you want to create a worthy online persona, you need to be consistent. And I’m not just talking about posting regularly – I’m talking about developing a cohesive brand that’s instantly recognizable across all your social media platforms.

Think about it – when you see a post from your favorite artist on Instagram, you instantly know it’s them, right? That’s because they’ve developed a consistent visual style, tone of voice, and overall vibe that’s uniquely theirs. And that’s exactly what you need to do.

So, how do you do it? Start by defining your brand. What makes you unique as an artist? What values do you stand for? Which aesthetic do you want to convey? Once you have a clear idea of your brand, make sure everything you post aligns with it – from the colors and fonts you use to the language and tone you employ.

The key is to be intentional about every aspect of your online presence and to make sure it all fits together seamlessly. Consistency breeds familiarity, and familiarity breeds trust. And when your fans trust you, they’ll be more likely to stick around for the long haul.

Authenticity is Everything: Keeping It Real

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But what if my authentic self isn’t that interesting? What if I’m just a regular person who happens to make music?” Well, guess what? Dig deeper.

Remember that CBS news guy who used just to throw a dart at a map and would then take a camera crew to that area, find some random person, and then create a news story about their life? NO? Okay, you must be young; it was called Everybody Has A Story. This guy ALWAYS found something interesting about the person he picked. If you don’t know what is interesting about you – there’s some work to be done. How can you convince people to care about you if you don’t know yourself? It’s not likely to happen.

In a world of carefully curated feeds and fake-ass influencers, authenticity is a breath of fresh air. And when it comes to social media, being real is the key to building genuine connections with your fans.

So, what does authenticity look like in practice? It means being honest about your struggles and successes and sharing parts of yourself outside of your music. And please don’t tell me that your only interest is music—how boring.

It means being unafraid to take a stand on issues that matter to you, even if it means ruffling a few feathers. It means owning your quirks and imperfections and letting your fans see the real you – not just the polished, PR-friendly version.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to bare your entire soul on the internet. It’s okay to have boundaries and to keep some aspects of your life private. But just being yourself and showing people who you are can separate you from the pack and make you more memorable. It works – or you wouldn’t be reading this blog post. So meta.

Visuals Matter: Creating Eye-Catching Social Media Content

Visuals are important when it comes to social media.

But it’s not just about making things look pretty – it’s about telling a story and evoking an emotion.

And don’t be afraid to get creative with your formats – social media is a playground for experimentation. From Instagram Reels and TikTok videos to Twitter threads and Facebook Live streams, there are endless ways to engage your audience and keep things fresh.

The key is to always consider how you can use visuals to tell your story and connect with your fans on a deeper level. At the end of the day, that’s what social media is all about—building relationships and creating a community around your music. Musicians who only use their accounts for promotions just turn into white noise.

Engagement is a Two-Way Street: Interacting with Your Fans

Speaking of building relationships, let’s talk about engagement. One of the biggest mistakes I see musicians making on social media is treating it like a one-way street – they post their content, sit back, and wait for the likes and comments to roll in.

But here’s the thing – if you want to create a fascinating online persona, you need to be an active participant in the conversation. That means posting about things OTHER than yourself. You are much more likely to get engagement when you create a dialogue rather than always posting a monologue. People telling you you’re awesome ends the conversation.

So, how do you engage with your fans in a way that feels authentic and meaningful? It all comes down to not being afraid to show them who you really are. What are your interests? What can you talk about passionately? Is it your pet turtle? Great! People won’t refer to you as “that musician”. They’ll refer to you as that musician with a pet turtle he takes on tour – and everyone will know who they’re talking about.

I’m the Americana Publicist obsessed with The Cure. I know this based on the number of people who send me memes about Robert Smith every week 😉

Paid Advertising: Boosting Your Social Media Reach

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But what if I don’t have a huge following? How do I get my content in front of new people?” Well, my friend, that’s where paid advertising comes in.

I know, I know – the idea of spending money on social media advertising can be daunting, especially if you’re an independent artist on a tight budget. But here’s the thing – when done right, paid advertising can be an incredibly powerful tool for boosting your reach and attracting new fans.

The key is to be strategic about your ad spending and to target your ads to the right audience. This means doing your research and getting to know your ideal fan – what are their interests? What other artists do they listen to? What social media platforms do they use most?

Once you have a clear idea of who you’re trying to reach, you can create ads that speak directly to their interests and needs. And thanks to the targeting options available on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, you can get incredibly granular with your targeting – from age and location to interests and behaviors.

Of course, creating effective ads is an art in itself – but there are plenty of resources out there to help you get started. From online courses and tutorials to hiring a professional marketing agency, there are options for every budget and skill level.

The key is to start small, test and refine your approach, and always keep an eye on your analytics to see what’s working and what’s not. With a little bit of experimentation and a lot of persistence, you can use paid advertising to take your social media presence to the next level.

Social Media FAQs:

1. How often should I be posting on social media? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – it depends on your goals, your audience, and the platforms you’re using. As a general rule of thumb, aim to post at least once a day on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, and a few times a week on platforms like Facebook and YouTube.
2. What kind of content should I be posting? Again, this depends on your brand and your audience – but in general, aim for 80% of your posts to be something that let’s fans see a different side of you – and 20% of the time, you can promote your shit (like new music releases and tour announcements). Think about it – that’s the ratio of TV shows to commercials. We all know that if people could tolerate it, the networks would give us more commercials, but I’m sure studies have been done, and about 20% is the most people will tolerate before they change the channel. Your music promo is the commercials.
3. Should I be using all the social media platforms? Not necessarily – it’s better to focus on a few platforms and do them really well than to spread yourself too thin trying to be everywhere at once. Choose the platforms that make the most sense for your brand and your audience, and focus your efforts there.

Look, I get it – social media can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to juggle it with all the other demands of being a musician. But here’s the thing – if you want to succeed in today’s music industry, you can’t afford to ignore it.

By crafting a consistent and authentic online persona, creating eye-catching visuals, engaging with your fans, and using paid advertising strategically, you can build a loyal fanbase that will support you through thick and thin.

It won’t happen overnight – building a successful social media presence takes time, effort, and a whole lot of trial and error. But if you stay true to yourself, keep putting in the work, and never stop learning and growing, you’ll be well on your way to creating an online presence that’s as fascinating and unique as your music.

So what are you waiting for?

Source Links:

• https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-for-musicians/
• https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/Your-Career/Social-Media/10-Social-Media-Tips-for-Musicians
• https://www.mobilebeat.com/social-media-marketing-guide-musicians/

MORE FREE ADVICE

Being a musician in today’s cutthroat industry is no walk in the park. Between the constant pressure to create, the grind of touring, and the never-ending hustle to stay relevant, it’s no wonder so many artists struggle with stress and burnout. But here’s the thing – if you don’t prioritize your mental health and learn how to manage stress effectively, you’re not going to last long in this business.

I know, I know – talking about mental health isn’t exactly rock and roll. But trust me, taking care of your mind is just as important as honing your craft. That’s why I’m here to give you some proven strategies for managing stress, coping with industry pressures, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. So, put down that bottle of Jack, take a deep breath, and let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways on Managing Stress:

• Stress is an inevitable part of the music industry, but it doesn’t have to control your life
• Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries are essential for maintaining mental health
• Coping strategies like meditation, exercise, and therapy can help manage stress effectively
• Building a strong support system is crucial for navigating industry pressures
• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to long-term success and happiness

The Pressure Cooker: Understanding Industry Stress

Before we dive into how to manage stress, let’s take a moment to acknowledge just how fucking stressful the music industry can be. From the constant pressure to create new material to the cutthroat competition for gigs and deals, it’s no wonder so many musicians struggle with anxiety, depression, and burnout.

But here’s the thing – you’re not alone. A recent study by Record Union found that 73% of independent musicians have experienced stress, anxiety, and depression in relation to their music creation. That’s a staggering number, and it highlights just how pervasive mental health struggles are in this industry.

So, what exactly is causing all this stress? Well, there are a few key culprits:

1. Creative pressure: The constant demand to churn out new music, innovate your sound, and stay relevant can be exhausting and creatively draining.
2. Financial instability: With streaming royalties at an all-time low and gigs being canceled left and right due to the pandemic, many musicians are struggling to make ends meet.
3. Industry politics: Navigating the complex web of labels, managers, agents, and publicists can be a full-time job in itself, and the constant power struggles and ego clashes can take a toll on your mental health.
4. Public scrutiny: In the age of social media, every move you make is under a microscope. One wrong tweet or controversial interview can tank your career in a matter of hours.

It’s a lot to handle, and it’s no wonder so many musicians turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs and alcohol to numb the pain. But trust me, that shit will only make things worse in the long run. If you want to survive and thrive in this industry, you need to learn how to manage stress in a healthy, sustainable way.

Self-Care Strategies: Putting Yourself First

So, how exactly do you manage stress in the face of all these industry pressures? The first step is to prioritize self-care. I know, it sounds like some woo-woo bullshit, but hear me out.

Self-care isn’t just about face masks and bubble baths (although those are nice, too). It’s about taking a proactive approach to your mental health and making sure you’re taking care of yourself on a daily basis.

Here are a few strategies to try:

1. Meditation and mindfulness: Taking even just 10 minutes a day to sit in silence, focus on your breath, and quiet your mind can do wonders for your stress levels. Apps like Headspace and Calm are great resources for getting started.
2. Exercise: Moving your body is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood. Whether it’s going for a run, hitting the gym, or even just dancing around your living room, make exercise a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.
3. Healthy eating: What you put in your body has a direct impact on your mental health. Make sure you’re fueling yourself with plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limit your intake of sugar, caffeine, and alcohol – and quit fucking smoking (signed a 20-year smoker).
4. Sleep: Getting enough rest is crucial for managing stress and maintaining your mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down.
5. Hobbies and interests: Having a life outside of music is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, whether it’s reading, painting, or hiking. Try to skip the Netflix binges, though.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s a necessary part of being a healthy, functioning human being. And when you’re taking care of yourself, you’re better equipped to handle the stresses and challenges of the music industry.

Building a Support System: You Don’t Have Manage Stress Alone

Another key strategy for managing stress in the music world is building a strong support system. Let’s face it – this industry can be lonely as hell, and trying to navigate it all on your own is a recipe for burnout.

That’s why it’s so important to surround yourself with people who get it – whether it’s other musicians who are going through the same struggles, a therapist who specializes in working with artists, or just friends and family who are there to listen and support you.

Here are a few ways to build your support system:

1. Join a community: There are tons of online communities and forums for musicians where you can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Whether it’s a Facebook group or a Discord server, find a place where you can share your struggles and get advice from people who understand.
2. Find a mentor: Having someone who’s been through the industry wringer and come out the other side can be invaluable for navigating the stresses of the music world. Look for a more experienced musician or industry professional who can offer guidance and support.
3. Go to therapy: I know, therapy can be expensive and time-consuming. But if you’re struggling with serious mental health issues like depression or anxiety, it’s worth the investment. Look for a therapist who specializes in working with artists and creative professionals.
4. Lean on your loved ones: Don’t be afraid to reach out to your friends and family when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes just having someone to vent to can make all the difference.

Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Building a strong support system is crucial for managing stress and maintaining your mental health in the long run.

FAQs on How to Manage Stress:

1. What if I don’t have time for self-care? Make time. Seriously, your mental health should be a top priority, and self-care is non-negotiable. Start small – even just 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
2. What if I can’t afford therapy? Look for low-cost or sliding-scale options in your area. Many therapists offer reduced rates for artists and freelancers.
3. How do I know if I’m experiencing burnout? Common signs of burnout include exhaustion, cynicism, detachment, and feelings of ineffectiveness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, and like you’ve lost your passion for music, it might be time to take a step back and reassess.

Look, I get it – being a musician is fucking hard. The pressure to create, the financial instability, the industry politics – it’s enough to make anyone want to throw in the towel. But here’s the thing – you’ve got something special. You’ve got a gift, a passion, and a drive to create something meaningful in this world.

And if you want to keep doing that, you need to prioritize your mental health and learn how to manage stress in a healthy, sustainable way. That means taking care of yourself, building a strong support system, and being proactive about your well-being.

It’s not going to be easy, and there will be days when you feel like giving up. But trust me – it’s worth it. Because when you’re taking care of yourself and managing your stress effectively, you’ll be able to show up as your best self – both on and off the stage.

So, take a deep breath, put on your favorite album, and remember – you’ve got this. And if you ever need a reminder, just come back to this post and read it again. I’ll be here, cheering you on every step of the way.

Source Links:

• https://www.recordunion.com/blog/the-73-percent-a-look-at-the-music-industrys-mental-health-crisis/
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/creativity-and-personal-mastery/202009/why-self-care-is-essential-your-success-and-happiness
• https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/Your-Career/Health-and-Wellbeing/Stress-and-Mental-Health

More Free Advice

If you’re a musician in 2024 and you’re not jumping on the virtual concert bandwagon, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. I’m not talking about those half-assed, low-effort live streams that flood social media. I’m talking about creating an epic, immersive, and profitable virtual concert experience that will blow your fans’ minds and keep them coming back for more.

But here’s the thing – creating a successful virtual concert isn’t as simple as setting up a camera and playing a few songs. It takes planning, creativity, and a willingness to hustle. In this post, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting an unforgettable virtual concert, from technical setup to audience engagement and monetization strategies. So sit down and take some notes.

Virtual Concert Key Takeaways:

• A killer virtual concert starts with a top-notch technical setup
• Engaging your audience is key to creating a memorable experience
• Monetization goes beyond just selling tickets – get creative
• Promotion is just as important as the concert itself
• Virtual concerts offer unique opportunities to connect with fans globally
• Continuously improve your craft and adapt to new technologies

Technical Setup: Don’t Half-Ass It

If you want your virtual concert to be epic, you need to invest in your technical setup. This isn’t the time to rely on your shitty laptop webcam and built-in microphone. You need professional-grade equipment that will make your performance look and sound like a million bucks.

First and foremost, invest in a high-quality camera. You don’t need to break the bank, but you should aim for something that can capture HD video and handle low-light situations. A decent DSLR or mirrorless camera will do the trick.

Next, audio. Don’t even think about using your camera’s built-in mic. Invest in a good external microphone that will capture your sound clearly and minimize background noise. If you’re performing with a band, consider using a mixer and multiple mics to ensure every instrument and voice is heard.

Lighting is also crucial. You don’t want your virtual concert to look like it was filmed in a dimly-lit basement. Invest in some basic lighting equipment, like softbox lights or LED panels, to brighten up your space and create a professional look.

Finally, make sure you have a reliable internet connection. Nothing kills the vibe of a virtual concert faster than buffering and lag. Use an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi if possible, and do a speed test before your show to ensure you have enough bandwidth.

Audience Engagement: Make Them Feel Part of the Show

One of the biggest challenges of a virtual concert is creating a sense of connection with your audience. You’re not in the same room, feeding off their energy and reactions. But that doesn’t mean you can’t engage with them and make them feel like they’re part of the show.

First and foremost, acknowledge your virtual audience. Talk to them directly, give shoutouts, and encourage them to participate in the comments. Make them feel seen and heard, even if you can’t see their faces.

Consider incorporating interactive elements into your performance. Take requests, ask for feedback, or even bring a fan on “stage” for a virtual duet. The more you can make your audience feel involved, the more invested they’ll be in your show.

Another way to engage your audience is by creating a sense of exclusivity. Offer behind-the-scenes content, Q&A sessions, or even virtual meet-and-greets for VIP ticket holders. Make them feel like they’re getting an experience they can’t get anywhere else.

Monetization: Get Paid for Your Craft

Let’s be real – you’re not putting on a virtual concert just for shits and giggles. You’re a professional musician, and you deserve to get paid for your hard work. While ticket sales are an obvious revenue stream, they’re just the tip of the iceberg.

One way to monetize your virtual concert is through merch sales. Create exclusive, limited-edition designs that tie into your show’s theme or setlist. Promote your merch throughout the concert and provide easy links for fans to purchase.

Another option is to offer tiered ticket packages. In addition to a base ticket price, create VIP packages that include exclusive content, merch discounts, or even a virtual hangout with the band after the show. Fans are often willing to pay more for a premium experience.

You can also explore sponsorships and brand partnerships. Look for companies that align with your music and values, and offer to promote their products or services during your show. This can be a win-win situation – you get paid, and they get exposure to your engaged audience.

Promotion: Build the Hype for Your Virtual Concert

Creating an epic virtual concert is only half the battle. You also need to promote the hell out of it to ensure people actually show up. This is where your social media and email list come in handy.

Start promoting your virtual concert at least a month in advance. Create a buzz on social media with teaser videos, behind-the-scenes clips, and exclusive previews. Encourage your fans to share the event with their friends and family.

Send out regular email blasts to your list with updates, sneak peeks, and ticket information. Consider offering early bird discounts or bundled packages to incentivize early purchases.

Don’t forget about paid advertising. Facebook and Instagram ads can be a highly effective way to reach new audiences and drive ticket sales. Experiment with different ad formats and targeting options to see what works best for your show.

Continuous Improvement: Always Be Leveling Up

The beauty of virtual concerts is that they offer endless opportunities for growth and experimentation. Each show is a chance to learn, improve, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

After each concert, take time to review your performance and gather feedback from your audience. What worked well? What could be improved? Use this information to refine your setup, setlist, and engagement strategies for future shows.

Stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in virtual performances. Attend other artists’ shows, join online communities, and continuously educate yourself on best practices. The more you learn and grow, the more epic your virtual concerts will become.

Virtual Concert FAQs:

1. What if I encounter technical difficulties during my virtual concert? Have a backup plan in place, such as pre-recorded segments or a secondary streaming platform. Communicate openly with your audience and work to resolve issues as quickly as possible.
2. How long should my virtual concert be? Aim for a sweet spot of 60-90 minutes, with a mix of music and audience interaction. Any longer, and you risk losing your audience’s attention.
3. Can I perform covers during my virtual concert? Yes, but be sure to obtain the necessary licenses and permissions to avoid copyright issues. Consider performing unique arrangements or mashups to put your own spin on popular songs.

Creating an epic and profitable virtual concert is no walk in the park, but it’s a necessity in today’s music industry. By nailing your technical setup, engaging your audience, getting creative with monetization, and promoting the hell out of your show, you’ll be well on your way to virtual concert domination.

But here’s the thing – the world of virtual performances is constantly evolving. What works today might be obsolete tomorrow. The key is to stay adaptable, keep learning, and never stop experimenting. Treat each virtual concert as an opportunity to level up your skills and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, rally your crew, and start planning your next epic virtual concert. Your fans are waiting, and your bank account is ready. It’s time to show the world what you’re made of, one pixelated performance at a time.

Now, go forth and conquer the virtual stage like the badass you are. And don’t forget to have some fucking fun while you’re at it.

Source Links:

• https://www.makeuseof.com/tips-for-better-virtual-concert-livestream/
• https://blog.promolta.com/how-to-make-money-from-your-live-streams-as-a-musician-9ede28648060
• https://www.musicgateway.com/blog/how-to/how-to-put-on-a-virtual-concert

MORE FREE ADVICE