Do you want to get a music booking agent?
Looking to snag a music booking agent? Well, hold onto your guitar picks because we’re about to dive into the juiciest secrets of the trade.
Let’s start by peeling back the curtain on how these agents earn their bread and butter. Spoiler alert: it’s all about the moolah. Like you, they’re not in it for the love of free gigs. They typically rake in a percentage of your booking fee. For instance, if you score a $5,000 gig, they pocket $750. Sounds sweet, right? Hold that thought.
Sure, $750 for a single booking sounds like hitting the jackpot. But here’s the reality check: landing gigs ain’t a one-and-done deal. It can take weeks, even months, of hustling to seal the deal. So that fat paycheck suddenly doesn’t seem so cushy, does it?
Now, here’s the kicker: many artists jump the gun and start hunting for a booking agent before they’re ready for prime time. Picture this: you’re still scoring gigs for a couple of hundred bucks. Would you, as a booking agent, want to invest your time and energy for peanuts? Probably not.
So, how do you set yourself up for agent-snagging success? Buckle up, ’cause here’s the roadmap:
#1 Know The Music Business – How to get a music booking agent #1
You can’t snag a booking agent if you’re clueless about their game. Understand how they rake in cash and what makes ’em tick. It’s all about business savvy.
I know it sounds frustrating but in the early stages of your career, it’s the way that it goes. You’ll have to do the leg work yourself or hire friends and family and pay them outright before you will attract larger booking and management agencies to do that on your behalf. For a booking agent, you may want to look at local booking agencies that have a roster of many clients. Then when a venue asks for an artist that fits who you are and what you do, they will try and get you a booking. The downside is they don’t work exclusively for you, you generally don’t get many bookings from them and you will still have to do much of the booking yourself.
#2 Don’t Be Invisible – How to get a music booking agent #2
If you’re MIA online, good luck snagging an agent. They need to see you, hear you, and feel your vibe. A killer website, killer tunes, and killer videos are non-negotiable.
If I can’t find you, how can I book you? When your fanbase is small then I have to question how long you’ve been performing and if you are capable. Videos allow me to see your stage presence or your show, this way I know that when I book you, you won’t be a complete flop.
It’s the equivalent of trying to get a non-entry-level job when you have no experience or a resume. So why then, do you expect you will be able to find a booking agent when you don’t even have a resume?
#3 Set Up The Basics – How to get a music booking agent #3
Got a website? Check. Awesome tunes? Check. Eye-catching videos and pics? Check, check. Oh, and don’t forget to whip your socials into shape. It’s all about looking like the total package.
#4 Act Like A Professional – How to get a music booking agent #4
Imagine walking into a job interview without a resume or a clue about the company. Sounds absurd, right? Yet, many aspiring artists approach booking agents with little more than a fleeting request. Your introduction should be a symphony of professionalism, showcasing your talents and what you bring to the table. Craft a cover letter that sings your praises and demonstrates your value. It’s not just about landing gigs; it’s about forging meaningful connections that propel your career forward.
In the realm of music, humility is the key that unlocks countless doors. Sure, you may possess unmatched talent, but a hefty ego can be your downfall. Nobody wants to collaborate with a diva who believes the universe revolves around them. Cultivate kindness, humility, and professionalism—traits that resonate louder than any melody. After all, success is not just about making music; it’s about harmonizing with others to create something truly magical.
#5 Don’t Get Ahead Of Yourself – How to get a music booking agent #5
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your music career. Don’t rush into snagging an agent before you’ve mastered the ropes. Learn the ins and outs, and trust me, your patience will pay off.
So, there you have it, folks. The insider’s guide to snagging that elusive booking agent. Now, go forth and conquer the stage!
Looking for more career advice? Check out our blog!
