demo strategy

[LI Slim]

So you really want this gig. They get many demos. How do you get them to listen to yours? Do you send them a complete CD, or are you better off picking your three "best" songs? Five best? 30-second excerpts instead?

What do you think?

[Gidge]

Do something different that will set you apart from the rest.....what? I have no idea......

maybe a Live demo.....go do a show somewhere where you know youll get good crowd response and blend in some crowd noise into the mix....sounds cheesey doesnt it?....

[Wallycleaver]

I'd like the 30 second idea. lets you hear an album worth of ideas is 3 minutes, plus if they like it, they'll want more, and book you!

[billycatfish]

i packed everything up in an old pizza box (out of necessity at the last minute) and sent it to the fireside bowl here in chicago.
i called it the little billy catfish "pizza box set"
...and never got called back.
go figure.

[Tom Hicks]

Demos for club owners or bookers should be brief medleys of the hook or really strong parts of the tunes,not the whole thing.Gotta grab them fast.Also ,go hunting gigs mid week when they are less busy.Don't give the tape to a bartender or waitress,because it'll probably end up in the round file.Always speak personally to the owner or booker.Don't be pushy or insistant.Smile and shake their hand.Follow up with a phone call a week later.These guys book three months or so in advance so NOW is the time to book X-mas and New Years Eve.

Tom

[mikeh]

I agree - about 30 seconds per tune (like verse, chorus, quick fade). Highlight your best material (or best aspect) - obviously vocals sell any act. 4-6 songs tops (you won't keep their attention past that).

It's best to include some type of press kit (copies of any reviews, or write-ups from papers, trade mags, etc.). Band/artist photos can be a good tool (assuming your "look" is right for the club).

It's best to reach the club owner (or manager that handles booking) by phone in advance to confirm when they will be there. If at all possible, hand your marketing material directly to the person in charge (not a bartender). Follow up with a phone call a few days later.

With some clubs you may have to initiate contact several times before you can actually lock in a gig. Be patient and always be professional. As previously stated many clubs are booked 3-6 months in advance. The good news - once you get in a club (and assuming you play well and act professional) the odds are good that you will get into a rotation.

On a local level you can normally get a date (weekend ??) once a month. On a regional level (depending on your touring schedule) you may be able to book a date every three months or so.

[LI Slim]

Thanks Tom and Mike for the valuable input.