Explore every episode of the podcast The Book Your Band Podcast

The last few weeks I have been getting lots of questions on social media about the ins and outs of house shows...especially after my recent episode with Derek Webb where he shared all of the ways his career has benefited from switching from touring mid-cap venues to exclusively playing house shows.

So in this episode, I address three of the most commonly asked questions about house shows:

1) How do I book a house show?

2) What are the logistics of a house show?

3) How do I get paid from house shows?

If you would like to learn more, I also have a blog post on my website that you can read here.

While you are on my website, be sure to also sign up for the Garage to Stage Crash Course. You can learn more about it here.

Getting burned out busting your rear to sell tickets at traditional music venues, only to have little-to-no money to show for it at the end of the night? Tired of the unending rat race of trying to play bigger venues in front of more people to feel like you've, "made it?"

Legendary singer/songwriter, Derek Webb, decided to get off that hamster wheel and instead built a career around playing for the smallest audiences possible.

In this episode we talk with my top Book Your Band Podcast dream guest, Derek Webb, about why he stopped touring mid-cap venues to focus on exclusively playing house shows.

This episode is filled with over thirty years of wisdom and experience from one of my all-time musical heroes. We discuss "the intimacy business," building your tribe, and finding more fulfillment (and better paydays) playing in living rooms than packed out mid-cap venues.

Again, a huge thank you to Derek for his time and kindness. Hanging out with him was a dream come true for this lifelong fan. Be sure to visit Derek online at www.derekwebb.com and @derekwebb on social media.

Are you a musician who has a dream of turning your passion into a career, but you don't know how to start? Sign up for the FREE Garage to Stage Crash Course at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com

Episode 03: How to Organically Grow Your Band's Following on Social Media with Drew Small of Brddg Guest: Drew Small, Founder of Brddg (www.brddg.co) Host: Tony Neely (www.bookyourbandpodcast.com) Episode Overview: In this episode of The Book Your Band Podcast, host Tony Neely chats with Drew Small, the mind behind Brddg, in an enlightening conversation about innovative strategies for building a social media presence in the music industry. Drew shares Brddg's unique approach, emphasizing the power of being an active follower on social media platforms to cultivate a genuine and engaged following. Key highlights include an in-depth discussion of Brddg's successful strategies, such as the "70-20-10 Rule" for content creation, which balances music-related content, personal insights, and direct promotions. Drew also sheds light on setting realistic, measurable goals for artists, and underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between artistic integrity and commercial viability in today's digital landscape. The conversation provides valuable insights for aspiring musicians and industry professionals alike, offering actionable advice on how to navigate the complexities of social media marketing and audience engagement in the evolving world of music. Key Topics Discussed Brddg's Social Media Strategy: -The significance of being an active follower to build a following. -Engaging genuinely with other accounts and communities. Content Creation Principles: The '70-20-10 rule': -Balancing music content, personal engagement, and promotions. -Importance of authenticity and relatability in content. Goal Setting and Career Growth: -Importance of setting specific and measurable career goals. -Understanding the balance between artistic expression and commercial success. Navigating the Music Industry: -Adapting to the digital age and the role of streaming services. -Strategies for effective audience engagement and brand building. Drew Small's Contact Information: Instagram: @itsdrewsmall Website: www.brddg.co Thanks for checking out this episode! If you are enjoying the show, please hit that subscribe button, leave us a review, and share with your friends. You can listen to all of our episodes on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. You can also engage with The Book Your Band Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. All of these links are available at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com

Book Your Band Podcast - Episode 02: From Working at Best Buy to Selling Out Arenas - A Conversation with Jonathan Roberts

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode of the Book Your Band Podcast, host Tony Neely speaks with Jonathan Roberts, the Vice President of Global Touring at Premier Productions (Nashville, TN). The discussion unfolds Jonathan's remarkable journey, evolving from a music enthusiast during his college days to a pivotal figure in the live music industry. Jonathan offers an in-depth look into the intricate world of concert promotion and underscores the vital role of fostering the growth of artists' careers. All with a humble and welcoming tone.

Throughout the episode, Tony and Jonathan touch on working with a variety of renowned artists and acts. These include the influential worship group Hillsong United, the soulful voice of Lauren Daigle, the dynamic duo For King and Country, the viral sensation Oliver Anthony, and even family favorites like Dude Perfect and Bluey.

This episode of the Book Your Band Podcast is more than just an interview; it's a comprehensive exploration of the music industry from the perspective of one of this generation’s key players. It's a must-listen for anyone aspiring to understand the dynamics of touring and concert promotion.

Key Highlights of the Episode:

• Jonathan's Musical Pathway: The episode delves into Jonathan's early days, where his passion for music took root while playing in bands. An unexpected turn in his college baseball career led him to explore and ultimately carve a niche in the live music industry.

• A Start in the Unlikeliest of Places: Jonathan's narrative includes an intriguing twist – a part-time job at Best Buy that serendipitously opened the doors to his first significant role in the music industry. This eventually paved the way for his ascent to the role of Vice President of Global Touring.

• The Intricacies of Concert Promotion: Jonathan takes the listeners behind the scenes, discussing the nuances of booking and promoting shows. He talks about the complexities involved, from selecting the right venues and managing financials to ensuring a flawless concert experience for both artists and fans.

• The Growth of Premier Productions: The conversation highlights Premier Productions' evolution. Initially focused on promoting contemporary Christian music, the company has broadened its horizons to include a diverse range of shows, encompassing family entertainment and mainstream music acts.

• Guidance for Aspiring Artists: Jonathan shares invaluable advice for emerging talents in the music world. He stresses the significance of acquiring live performance experience and creating music that resonates deeply with audiences, a key to long-term success.

Where to Find Jonathan Roberts:

• Online at Premier Productions: www.premierproductions.com

• Social Media: Jonathan D. Roberts on Instagram and Facebook, and LinkedIn

Special Notes:

• Sign up for the Book Your Band mailing list for updates on future episodes.

• Follow the podcast on Facebook and Instagram through links on www.bookyourbandpodcast.com.

Listen and Subscribe:

To hear more insightful conversations and tips for musicians, subscribe to the Book Your Band podcast on your favorite podcast platform. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider sharing it with your friends/family.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Book Your Band podcast, the show that helps demystify the live music industry so musicians can get out of their garages and onto the stage. Tony Neely here, and for today's episode, we are joined by artist, producer, and talent development consultant, Matt Adler. In our conversation, Matt shares how he went from being a teenager playing guitar in a church praise band To booking over 125 gigs a year, touring with major label artists such as Grammy award winning Casting Crowns, and even having one of his guitar heroes play on his last album. Throughout our discussion, Matt also talks about how community has been key to his success as a touring musician, the importance of creating thematic content for social media, playing for cereal, and a host of other experiences from his life as a Texas indie rocker. You can find Matt online at www.mattadlermusic.com or @mattadlermusic on socials. Be sure to go to www.bookyourbandpodcast.com to sign up for my mailing list to be the first to learn about upcoming episodes.

Our discussion today, inspired by insights from Michaela D. Jordan of Golden Poppy Music, addresses the challenges young musicians face transitioning from online performances to live audiences. We explore why talented artists struggle to book gigs and engage live crowds, emphasizing the gap in understanding how to navigate the music industry's intricacies, from booking to sound checks and show promotions.

Introducing the Perform Framework In this episode, host Tony Neely introduces the PERFORM Framework, a strategic guide developed to provide clarity and actionable steps for musicians aiming to book and excel at their first paying gigs. This framework is the backbone of our new FREE training, which promises a step-by-step approach to mastering the live performance scene.

What to Expect in the "Garage to Stage" Course Tony breaks down the five-day course structure, each day focused on a crucial aspect of becoming a gigging musician:

• Day 1: Preparation - Laying the groundwork with open mic nights, crafting engaging set lists, and refining performance skills.
• Day 2: Engagement - Emphasizing the importance of community connections, leveraging social media, and the benefits of collaborating with other artists.
• Day 3: Representation - Professional self-representation through an EPK, and effective communication with venues and talent buyers.
• Day 4: Foster Relationships - Strategies for marketing your shows, partnering with local businesses, and using digital marketing tools.
• Day 5: Rock Out and Momentum - Tips for a successful show day and maintaining energy post-performance, including soundcheck protocols and networking.

Who Should Join? This course is tailor-made for those new to gigging or those who need a refresher on the basics of booking and performing live. It's a perfect start for musicians ready to step out of the garage and onto the stage.

Call to Action Although FREE, spaces for the "Garage to Stage" five-day crash course are limited, so listeners are encouraged to sign up quickly to secure their spot. Registration is open at www.bookyourbandpodcasts.com/perform.

In this episode of The Book Your Band Podcast, we dive into the essentials of planning a successful music tour. We discuss four different strategies that indie bands can use to book tours more effectively, helping you to maximize your reach and revenue without burning out. Whether you're hitting the road for the first time or looking to improve your touring game, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Episode Summary:

1. The Shotgun Approach:

   • Description: Sending mass emails to venues across the country.
   • Drawbacks: High effort, low return; often cost-inefficient.

2. The Circuit Model:

   • Description: Booking one show per city in a pre-planned circuit.
   • Pros: Potentially high-paying shows.
   • Cons: Little time to experience each city; very demanding schedule.

3. The Linked Circuit Approach:

   • Description: Combines high-paying anchor shows with smaller gigs in nearby towns.
   • Benefits: Increases the number of shows while covering more ground.
   • Strategy Tips: How to select anchor shows and schedule intermediate gigs.

4. The Base and Link Strategy:

   • Description: Setting up a temporary home base and booking multiple shows within a short travel radius.
   • Advantages: More time to explore and connect with local audiences; efficient and profitable.
   • Planning Advice: How to choose a base city and maximize local opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a strategy that fits your band’s goals and logistical preferences.
• Each strategy offers distinct advantages and challenges; understanding these can help tailor your touring approach.
• Relationships and good planning are crucial for a successful tour.

Conclusion: We wrap up by encouraging bands to consider their long-term goals and available resources when planning a tour. Effective strategy selection can transform the touring experience from stressful to rewarding.

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Sign up for the FREE Garage-to-Stage 5 Day Crash Course at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com

Ready to hit the road, but not sure where to begin? Overwhelmed by logistics and afraid your tour is doomed before it even starts?

In this episode, we cover the ins and outs of booking 200+ shows a year with husband and wife road warriors, The Dark Waters Project!

From meeting at a Bible study and merging their musical talents to becoming a renowned act in Nashville, their story is nothing short of inspiring. They open up about the hardships of losing venues during the pandemic and the resilience required to navigate the music industry's challenges.

Discover the strategy behind their successful tours and the importance of community support in reviving live music.

With lots of valuable advice on making it in the music business, this episode is a goldmine for any musician looking to carve out their path in today's live music scene.

Key Points Covered:

• Introduction to Cherish and Adam Hamby and Dark Waters Project: Their musical journey, meeting, and forming Dark Waters Project.
• Navigating the Pandemic: The impact on live music venues and their strategy for touring post-pandemic.
• Booking and Performing Strategies: Insights into their approach to booking shows and engaging with their audience.
• Generating Income: The importance of merch, guarantees, and tips in making a living as touring musicians.
• Mental Health and Support: Balancing life on the road and the significance of supporting each other in the music community.

Cherish and Adam's Contact Information:

• Website: DarkWatersMusic.com
• Social Media: Follow Dark Waters Project on major platforms (sans TikTok).

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms at @BookYourBandPodcast for more updates and insights into the live music industry.

Ready to get out of your garage and onto the stage...but don't know where to start? Sign up for our FREE 5-Day Garage to Stage Crash Course at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com

Episode Overview:

Are artists in your town struggling to build a thriving music scene? If so, this episode is for you!

Discover the critical components that transform a city's collection of artists into a vibrant, supportive music scene. Stratton Tingle, Executive Director for SoundCorps, breaks down the essentials for creating an environment where musicians, and their community at-large, prosper from a vibrant live music scene.

Join host Tony Neely on the Book Your Band Podcast as he welcomes Stratton Tingle, the dynamic force behind SoundCorps. Stratton pulls back the curtain on the live music industry and reveals how artists can step out from their garages to the grand stage. Discover the essence of community engagement in music, the economic and cultural impacts of a vibrant music scene, and Stratton’s unique journey from performing artist to executive director. This episode is an invaluable resource for any musician looking to understand the business and expand their musical influence.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Introduction to Stratton Tingle and SoundCorps:

  • Understanding SoundCorps’ mission and services.
  • Stratton’s personal evolution in the music industry.

• The Interplay Between Community and Music:

  • The role of SoundCorps in fostering Chattanooga’s music scene.
  • The difference between a music scene and a thriving music economy.

• Supporting Music Careers and Education:

  • SoundCorps’ focus on professional development for musicians.
  • The impact of educational initiatives on artists’ growth.

• Navigating the Festival Scene:

  • The current state and future of music festivals in Chattanooga.
  • How SoundCorps addresses the gap in the festival economy.

• Digital Presence vs. Live Performance:

  • Balancing online engagement with traditional musicianship.
  • The evolving nature of content creation for artists.

• Promoting Mental Health in the Music Community:

  • The reactive approach to mental health crises in the music industry.
  • The role of organizations like Nuci’s Space in supporting artists’ well-being.

• Advice for Emerging Musicians:

  • Tips for musicians to make the leap from private jams to public performances.
  • Stratton’s philosophy on creating and enjoying music.

Stratton Tingle's Contact Information:

• Website: SoundCorps.org
• Social Media: Find SoundCorps on all major platforms using the handle @SoundCorps

Follow The Book Your Band Podcast on Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms at @BookYourBandPodcast

Why are some artists constantly on the road while others can't get past their hometown gigs? In this episode, we talk with Will Johnston, booking agent at Intrepid Artists to better understand the ins and outs of working with booking agents to expand your music’s reach.

Episode Title: Why Do Some Bands Tour Non-Stop While Others Never Leave Home? Understanding the Role of Booking Agents

Guest: Will Johnston - Booking Agent, Intrepid Artists (www.intrepidartists.com / @interepidartists) 

Host: Tony Neely

Topics Discussed:

• Role of a Booking Agent: Will Johnston explains the daily tasks of securing gigs for artists, from concerts and festivals to private events, and the negotiation process involved.

• Intrepid Artists' Genre Focus: Intrepid Artists primarily deals with blues, blues rock, and related genres like New Orleans roots, funk, and soul rock and roll.

• Booking Independently vs. Agency: Will discusses the advantages of booking with an agency, like leveraging established relationships to secure better gigs.

• Choosing Artists for Representation: Will shares how Intrepid chooses artists, from online discoveries to artist submissions on their website.

• Artist Submission Do's and Don'ts: Will emphasizes professionalism in communication, demonstrating previous success, and showing potential for growth.

• EPKs and Websites: The importance of having a detailed website or EPK for a quick and comprehensive view of the band's profile is discussed.

• Looking for in Booking Agents: Will advises artists on what to look for in booking agents, such as genre fit, and active touring artists on the roster.

• Agency's Payment Structure: Intrepid Artists typically takes 10% of the gross deal, with some variations depending on the situation.

• Merch Sales: Will clarifies that Intrepid never takes a cut from a band's merchandise sales.

• Handshake Deals: Intrepid operates on handshake deals, allowing flexibility and ensuring that both parties are satisfied with the partnership.

• Booking Process: Will describes the collaborative process of booking shows and festivals with artists.

• Getting Booked at Festivals: Challenges for independent bands to get festival slots and strategies to stand out are discussed.

• Finding Talent Buyers: Tips on identifying talent buyers for festivals, including city contacts and Pollstar Pro account usage.

• Effective Communication with Venues: Will advises on the balance between being persistent and annoying when reaching out to venues.

• Opening Slots for Bigger Acts: Strategies for landing opening slots for bigger acts and the typical structure of such deals are covered.

• General Advice for Artists: Will encourages persistence, improving one's craft, and networking within the industry.

Upcoming Events:

• Intrepid Artists' 30th-anniversary celebration in Charlotte, NC, from November 8-10, with performances from their roster. Check the Intrepid Artists website and social media for more information.

As always, if you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and following us on social media. Links are available at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com

Episode Overview:

Join Tony Neely on the Book Your Band Podcast for an eye-opening chat with Randy Ojeda, a lawyer who specializes in music and entertainment law. In this episode, Randy breaks down the complex world of music law in a way that’s easy to digest. Get the lowdown on why every artist should have a lawyer in their corner, the ins and outs of copyright and trademark law, and why understanding the fine print of contracts is so  vital to your career. We’ll dive into real talk about the legal landscape for musicians, with Randy giving crucial advice on how to safeguard your artistic rights.

Key Topics Discussed:

Journey Into Music Law:

• Transitioning from musician to legal expert.

• The Chicago music scene's influence and managing emerging talent.

When Musicians Need Lawyers:

• Collaborations as a trigger for legal aid.

• The value of legal advice before signing with managers or labels.

Contracts & Agreements:

• Understanding split sheets, management, and label agreements.

• The intricacies of live performance contracts and touring agreements.

Copyright Infringement:

• Debunking myths and understanding the complexities of infringement.

Trademarking Band Names:

• The process and expected costs of trademark registration.

Randy Ojeda's Contact Information:

• Website: www.randyojedalaw.com

• Socials: @randyojedalaw

Educational Disclaimer:

Please note that this episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listeners are advised to consult their own legal professionals for specific advice and counsel.

Do you afraid of signing a bad record deal? Are you fearful that you are going to get a manager who takes advantage of you? Don't want to become one of the horror stories of the music industry?

If so, you'll want to listen to this discussion with Michaela D. Jordan - founder of Golden Poppy Music - as they discuss artist empowerment and the importance of protecting musicians from predatory practices in the music industry.

Episode Overview: In this captivating episode of The Book Your Band Podcast, host Tony Neely engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Michaela D. Jordan, the visionary founder of Golden Poppy Music. Delving deep into the realm of artist empowerment and innovative music management, Michaela unveils her journey from musician to industry game-changer. They discuss the inception of Golden Poppy Music, a company that's reshaping the artist-management and label dynamic by offering services on a unique hourly basis, allowing artists to retain full control of their careers. Michaela shares insights on the detrimental traditional structures of music management and labels and how their approach fosters transparency, trust, and artist autonomy.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Golden Poppy Philosophy:

• Conceptualizing a new artist management model.
• Addressing the pitfalls of traditional management and label practices.
• Ensuring artists retain control and rights to their music.

Artistic Empowerment and Industry Navigation:

• The importance of registering with PROs and understanding publishing rights.
• How Golden Poppy advocates for artists' interests and ensures fair treatment.

Sync Licensing:

• Explaining what sync licensing is and its importance for artists.
• The potential financial benefits and exposure from sync licensing deals.

Live Music Industry Projections:

• Predicting a return to authentic live performances without backing tracks.
• The trend towards smaller venues and exclusive, intimate shows.

Michaela D. Jordan's Contact Information:

• Instagram: @michaelad567 and @goldenpoppymusic
• Golden Poppy Music: www.goldenpoppymusic.com

For more episodes and to join the Book Your Band Podcast community, check out Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and the podcast website at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com."

Struggling to sell tickets? Can't figure out how to get people other than your family and friends to come to your shows? Want to know how one of the busiest music venues in the country sells out night after night? If so, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Book Your Band Podcast, host Tony Neely sits down with Chris Lopez, the Marketing Manager for White Oak Music Hall. They delve into the intricate world of live music marketing, discussing the nuances and strategies essential for musicians to transition from garage gigs to the big stage. Chris sheds light on the multifaceted role of a marketing manager, the importance of understanding your audience, and the art of crafting impactful marketing campaigns. With his hands-on experience at White Oak Music Hall, Chris provides listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at promoting shows, engaging with the local music scene, and maintaining a venue's indie ethos amidst industry giants like Live Nation and AEG. Key Topics Discussed Marketing Live Shows: -Chris Lopez’s role at White Oak Music Hall and his approach to marketing live music events. -Strategies for identifying and reaching out to target audiences effectively.

Venue Insights: -The unique aspects of White Oak Music Hall and its significance in the Houston music scene. -The experience of marketing shows for a venue with multiple stages and varying capacities.

Engaging Local Talent: -White Oak Music Hall’s commitment to supporting local musicians and integrating them into larger events. -The venue's initiatives to feature local artists through social media playlists and spotlights.

Marketing Deep Dive: -In-depth discussion of targeted social media advertising and the use of data to refine marketing efforts. -The balance of marketing responsibilities between the venue and artists.

Community and Industry Relationships: -The role of partnerships with local businesses and other entities in successful event promotion. -Chris's insights into navigating marketing challenges and finding creative solutions.

Concert Promotion Essentials Checklist: -Importance of controlling your narrative as an artist. -The impact of naming and presentation on marketing and audience perception. -Strategies for emerging artists playing smaller venues, with an emphasis on organic reach and engagement.

Chris Lopez’s Contact Information: Instagram: @whiteoakmh / @itsoundsbetterlive Website: www.whiteoakmusichall.com

Closing Remarks: Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and spread the word to fellow music enthusiasts. For more episodes, visit us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Engage with The Book Your Band Podcast community on Facebook, Instagram, and through our Threads. All links are conveniently located at www.bookyourbandpodcast.com.