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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 613
Top 500 Poster
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OP
Top 500 Poster
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 613 |
I do adult contemporary covers (Elton John, Billy Joel, James Taylor,) as well as slipping in some of my own original music that is in the same genre. I am in the process of trying to put together some promotional materials so that I can get more gigs. I have some friends who are willing to help approach restaurant/bar owners and give them my info, and I have a few cover songs recorded I can put on a CD, as well as a website that I am in the process of revamping. I have also released my own music on CD, but I'm really trying to get gigs as a solo performer doing covers right now.
Question - When approaching a restaurant/bar owner, what type of materials would work best? Should I put together a traditional press kit in folder format? Should I include a CD with a few recorded covers? Is a CD and a business card a better idea? Are there any other promo materials that would work well? I do not have any press quotes and have only played at a couple of places. But I do have a Bachelor's Degree in Music Business and I play several instruments.
Any advice much appreciated.
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Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 116
Serious Contributor
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Serious Contributor
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 116 |
Hi Richard, you really want to check out Sonicbids. They have an EPK system that you can use to help you get gigs. Also, see this interview with Sonicbid's CEO. Good Luck! ian
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 8,463
Top 20 Poster
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Top 20 Poster
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 8,463 |
I have many years experience doing exactly what you are asking about. I find the personal touch works best.....face to face meeting introducing yourself and asking if the venue puts on live music or would consider putting on live music and what sort of rates it would pay....if you get a positive response then leave a CD a poster and a biz card. No point in handing out CDs to folk who are never going to hire you. One tip.....make sure that you get to speak to a decision maker....no point in pitching to someone who does not have the power to say yes. I always introduce myself and say I am looking for work in this area. I ask if the owner/manager could spare me a couple of minutes. If he is not there get his name and when the best time to call back is. It sometimes pays to do a recce of the area and see if any bands play.....It seems that nowadays every time I go into a restaurant or bar.....I have an ulterior motive. Mail shots do not work...they are a waste of time and resources...they go straight in the waste basket usually.
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