“Who needs a manager/promoter? We can conquer the music business by ourselves!”

It’s a popular sentiment, and there’s certainly no reason that you MUST have a promoter arranging your gigs. However, it will take quite a bit of legwork on your part, especially since you’re likely to be spending a lot of time on the phone talking with venues.

We have a few tips on hooking yourself up with some prime gigs!

Getting Ahead In The Music Business With DIY Booking

1 – Think Small

It’s counterintuitive, but you’ll understand the truth of it the first time you find yourself staring at a half-full hall and hearing every echo. The best thing you can say about any show, regardless of size, is “SOLD OUT!”

So, if anything, book yourself in venues that are slightly too small. They’re easier to find and book. Don’t book a bigger gig unless you are absolutely 100% certain you can fill it.

2 – Find An Opening Act

This is another reason why it’s worthwhile to maintain good relationships with other bands. Have some bands on-call who are a bit smaller than yours and would be happy to tag along on gigs. Pitching two acts to a venue will make you more attractive.

It’s even better if they’re out-of-town and you’re visiting their home turf. Then, you’ll get exposure to their fans.

3 – The Show MUST Go On

We’ve talked a quite a bit about professionalism in the music business and the necessity of always showing up to gigs. This goes double if you’re booking your own gigs. Missing even one could get you on blacklists, and then it becomes exponentially more difficult to book your own shows.

Great Booking Builds Bands

Even in the electronic age, your live shows are still one of your most important tools for building fans. With perseverance, you can find good gigs for yourself, but be ready to make plenty of calls and keep networking with other bands.

Is it worth trying to DIY your bookings, or is it better to just hire a manager? What do you think?