Don't be plastic.
If you want to generate buzz that will pack the house and multiply your fan base, check out these 7 helpful hints.
1. Add some cover songs to your set list
It’s always fun to hear a song you know when you’re listening to live bands. Although your original music can be great and your fans came to hear it, throw in a cover song here and there. It helps keep the audience’s interest and it gives you the opportunity to spin your own version of an older song and bring it back!
2. Creative newsletters
When you want to email your fans about your next show, don’t just say, “Hey, come to our show!” You want to make each newsletter something interesting to read. If you don’t, soon they won’t even bother opening up your email. Include some interesting facts or stories about your band members or about your songs and gigs. Then, mention your band is paying a show and you would love to see them there. This way your followers will look forward to your emails to get the inside scoop on the new things going on in your band as they get to know you on a more personal level.
3. Internet and venue promotion
Let’s say you don’t really have a fan base or a mailing list yet: you should definitely advertise your upcoming gig online. Social media networks are the best place to promote your band’s show. MySpace, Facebook and Twitter are the most commonly used Internet sites, but if these are the only ones you’re currently using, you should consider trying out other great sites for music and bands like ReverbNation, BandsUp, and Numubu.
Also, get permission from the venue manager or owner to market your band and upcoming gigs at the show spot. The venue may be a favorite hot spot to hear music for many people, so advertising your band there may bring in the regulars as well as others who see your flyers. Include something unique or interesting about your band on the flyer.
4. Stock great merchandise
When you open your merch booth at a show you want it to draw attention. If your t-shirts, posters, and CDs look like everyone else’s they won’t attract people. You need creative designs on your merchandise. Come up with a sick logo that represents the band but also just looks cool on its own. A good test to see if your shirt will get interest is the question, “Would you buy this shirt even if you didn’t know the band?” If the answer is yes, you’ll make a lot more sales. Your merch could be in Hot Topic or Spencer’s one day. And if people don’t know your band but think your shirt looks F*#^%*@! awesome, they’ll buy it!
5. Give away merchandise
A great way to boost your sales is by having a package deal or give-away. A package deal is a great way to get your music out there. If someone buys a t-shirt, give them a poster for half-off. You can do this deal with any merchandise items. The best deal that seems to bring people to the merchandise booth is buying a CD and getting a free, cool t-shirt with your band logo. Not only are you making a sale, you’re also getting your band free advertising and a potential fan.
6. Get on the same bill as better-known artists
Whether you’re just getting started or trying to get a bigger fan base, playing with locally popular bands is a great way to get more exposure. It’s best to play with bands of your genre.
7. Make each show an event
There’s nothing better than having audience members talking about your band after the show. Interacting with your band mates and the crowd makes a more interesting performance. Don’t be afraid to try something outrageous. You can’t get too much attention!
I’m no Lady Gaga, but that’s what I say.
