As an independent artist, there are many important decisions you’ll have to make throughout the course of your career. Hiring a booking agent is a choice that can help elevate your career to the next level. But before you pull the trigger, make sure it’s something that you actually need and that it’s something you’re ready for.

Here are a few reasons to hire a booking agent:

• They’ll save you time. Booking shows and tours is very time consuming. Hiring a booking agent to do it for you will save you a lot of time and allow you to concentrate more on your music.

• They have contacts. Booking agents have a slew of existing contacts at venues and with promoters. With these contacts in-hand, they’re in a better position to negotiate better deals at venues that you may have had trouble getting in touch with.

• They have a bigger network. Booking agents are more likely to have a network of out of town venues that you don’t have, and this network and knowledge can save you from booking shows at unwanted venues or on unwanted dates. It will also help you broaden your tour area and nab new fans along the way.

Playing shows is a key aspect of building your fan base and a booking agent can help you book bigger shows at better venues and nab you opening slots for bigger acts. When considering hiring a booking agent, make sure the timing is right and you’re ready to hit the road running. Before you head off on tour, our website should be in tip top shape and your social media should be streamlined in order for you to connect with all of your new fans. And don’t forget to update your tour dates!

Tell us what you think! Have you worked with a booking agent? Was it a hard decision to make?

Up next: What are the features and benefits of being a SongCast artist?

The SongCast Crew