1. Network And Reciprocate
The emphasis should be on the reciprocate. I'm personally sick to the back teeth of people moaning and groaning about how "people should support live music" and yet all they bother to do is spam people on social networking sites trying to get them to their own gigs. Never do these people ever, God forbid, go and support another band by checking them out on a wet Wednesday night at the Dog and Duck. Networking is essential if you want to progress and play more shows. Most people excel at doing this online. However the false economy of Facebook Likes illustrates that real networking is far superior and relatively easy. All you have to do is go over to people and say "Hi!" that's it. At your next gig when you show up to sound check, there is bound to be at least another band there, a promoter, the aforementioned Soundman and one or two bar staff. You may not realize these guys are integral to your music scene and a lot more important than what you may have first thought. It pays to be friendly and approachable and strike up conversations with them. The other band may look different to you and sound completely alien to your own music, but they are the same as you. They too have the balls to get up in front of people and play their own music. They too have slugged their gear to countless crappy venues and played to all of four people. They too have ambition and want people to enjoy them. Talk to them, share stories and get to know them. Some of the best people I know have come through bands and gigs. In my experience there is a kind of kindred spirit vibe going on, they understand where you are coming from instead of some bozo saying ""You should get yourself on X factor" etc. When I have turned up to gigs, whether it be friends in bands I've known for years or even people I have just heard about, the bands playing are genuinely appreciative of your support and interest. Struggling artists don't forget that and many will return the favor. Think of it as a type of musical Karma. Don't do it just to receive, do it for the love. Music isn't a competitive sport, and the more the merrier usually seems to be the rule of thumb. Promoters are human beings too. In fact, they love music so much they are busting their chops trying to make a living out of something they love. All of them are different and unfortunately there are some dodgy ones out there, but most I have come across have been funny and quite open about what they are all about. Bar staff who work in venues see bands all the time. If they like you, you are doing something right. They may even tell punters or fellow members of staff to book you back in. You see? Every little helps. Right, that's enough from me. I am playing tonight and I cannot wait! To all those with delusions of grandeur, gigging away and burning the candle at both ends, I salute you.