Playing live shows is one of the best ways to create a name, build a fan base and even make some money in the process. One of the key indicators labels, managers and booking agents look for in a band before they sign them is what kind of crowd they draw when they play live. Early in an artist’s career getting paying gigs can be quite difficult and playing for free anywhere that will have you is often what it takes to build a name for yourself. Not only is it hard work to get gigs once the date is scheduled getting fans out to the show is the order of the day. Promoting your show and getting paying fans out to the venue is critical if you want to get booked again. Remember that the club only makes money when paying customers show up for your show, no matter how good you are. Do what it takes to get as many people to your show as possible, put up flyers around town announcing the show date and call everyone you know and beg them (and all their friends) to attend. Booking an opening spot for another band is a good place to get started, gain experience and get exposure.

Payments for playing a live show range widely and can be in the form of gas money, food, beer or simply “passing the hat” to collect from people attending the show for lesser-known artists. More established artists are typically offered a guaranteed payment or percentage of the ticket sales or some combination of the two. Playing live shows also provides a great opportunity to make money by selling CD’s and merchandise to fans at the venue.

When going out on tour two of the essential elements for success are route planning and tour promotions. If the artist has a booking agent, tour manger and publicist they will simply need to show up as scheduled at the venue and for press, radio and retail promotions.