Starting your music career in a new town can be a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that building a loyal audience in your local scene is a great way to establish yourself as a musician before trying to conquer the world.
Here are some tips for breaking into your local music scene:
- Begin by researching the local music scene. Learn about the different venues, bands, and musicians in your area. This will give you a better understanding of what type of music is popular, and where you might fit in.
- Be a student of your new music scene. Attend shows, listen to local bands, and talk to other musicians. This will give you a sense of the local culture and help you understand what people are looking for in a musician.
- Don’t ignore the music stores. Local music stores are a great resource for finding bandmates and other collaborators. They can also give you insight into the local music scene.
- Contact the local “cool guy.” Everyone has a friend or acquaintance who is well-connected in the local music scene. Reach out to them and ask for their advice on how to break in.
- Find the club that welcomes new acts. Not all venues are open to hosting new musicians. Find the ones that are, and start building a relationship with the venue owners and bookers.
- Build a reputation – with video proof. One of the best ways to build a reputation as a musician is by providing video proof of your performances. You can do this by filming your shows and posting them online.
- Help gatekeepers solve problems. Gatekeepers, like venue owners and bookers, have a lot on their plates. Offer to help them out, and they’ll be more likely to give you a chance.
- Be nice to everyone. The music scene is a small world, and you never know who will be in a position to help you out in the future.
- Don’t count on an unrealistic draw. Building a loyal audience takes time, so don’t count on an unrealistic draw at your first show.
- Remember, your friends are not your fans. Just because your friends come to your shows doesn’t mean they are your fans. Make sure to build a relationship with your fans and keep them engaged.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to breaking into your local music scene and building a loyal audience. It may take time, but with persistence and hard work, you’ll be able to make a name for yourself as a musician in your new town.