Band member Manager...or outside managment?

[thelucky13s]

Which is better...or better yet...what are the thoughts of bands with one or the other. Having a band member get you the gigs all the time...or get sombody as a manager?

Looking for some good thoughts.....

JP

[Merge]

I think it depends on your goals. If you're writing and recording, a manager can give you more credibility. If you are playing covers and writing originals just for yourself and your own enjoyment, then having a band member handling the booking and such is a good idea. Managers can't be booking agents in some states, so depending on where you live you would need both. Booking agents usually collect a percentage of your fee, usually around 10%-15%. I'm not sure about managers, the one that my last band worked with had the same type of agreement that the booking agent had. Like I said, it all depends on your goals.

[hannible]

Book your own gigs unless your on a tour...or can afford to pay someone 15-20 % to book you...you know more about your band, and you need the booking more than a so..called booking agent...so you will try harder...you also learn what the different club owners are looking for...don`t try to book into a club that has all heavy metal bands if your a blues band, (example)...research the managers by going to their facebook page and see what kinda music they like...I used to own Sundance Productions, ...booked 80 bands also have International Promotions Unlimited, booked 80 dancers..If you can`t get bookings, you may be charging too much, or you don`t know how to approach the club managers, or maybe your band isn`t good enuff to make the club moneyyy!! Bottom line for the club owner is profit!!!

[thelucky13s]

Very cool thanks...

We play both Originals and covers...obviously..in a bar we do more covers..but have enough to drop a LP in recording...which we are looking to do soon. Money...really at this point is not a goal for the band, Id say getting our stuff out there and seeing what the people like...and or dislike is the primary consern, then tailoring a show accordingly. Even if it were sombody that had there foot in the door (meaning sombody who knows the venues...and how to get in) could be a plus. Being we are new and have some but not enough contacts...we might be looking for sombody.

Its a toss up I guess...any more thoughts?

Thanks again
JP

[Flaw]

Unless your playing nationally, i really don't think there is any point to hire anyone to find shows. If you need help with shows out of town find a promoter, or someone from the area to book the show, tell them how much you want and let them advertise. after they pay you what you want, they can make what's left over.

[hannible]

Do what I do and most other bands do..If its a bar, go in ,order a drink, then ask the bartender who does the bookings for bands...talk with that person...tell them your a new but good band, and would like to play their venue...That person will ask, can you pull a crowd...you say YES WE CAN...even if you can`t!!! You tell him your looking for exposure and will play for what he thinks your worth after the gig..if he books you, you better break your butt to get at least 20 people to come in the door with you..If you bring 20 people who spend money, you will get booked back...He wants to fill his room, and he could book a band that really draws, and makes him money, instead of wasteing his prime money makeing nite with a new band...many bands fail because they can`t make money for the club...maybe he can book you on a slow nite during the week...tell him you will work with him...GOOD LUCK...I admire you for trying...Do your own booking and you will learn how to do it...Gotta go play Rubines tonite...maybe see you there!! THE HOUSE BAND!!tomr

[Naga]

Another thing is, get out to a few shows before you book somewhere, and watch some of the acts. Get to know some people, talk with them, mix, mingle, discuss the business. Ask if they know where would be looking for your kinda band, or if they're similar, ask about who may or may not bring in your bands' styles

Be good to the other bands as well. Treat em all with respect. Granted, some will deserve otherwise. That's at your discretion. However, as a general rule of thumb,... Be careful of what bridges you make, which you cross, and which you burn

[thelucky13s]

Rock on everybody...great info

Thank you again!

JP