How to Book Shows as an Indie Artist: A Comprehensive Guide

Booking shows as an independent artist can be both exciting and challenging. Without the backing of a record label, indie artists must navigate the gig booking process on their own, from contacting venues to promoting their shows. With persistence, organization, and the right strategies, you can secure live performances that help build your fanbase, boost your career, and grow your network in the music industry.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to book shows as an indie artist, along with some helpful tips on using Muibas to collaborate, network, and prepare for your gigs.

  1. Build a Strong Online Presence

Before reaching out to venues, you need a professional online presence that showcases your music and helps promoters understand who you are as an artist.

Steps to Build Your Presence:

  • Create an EPK (Electronic Press Kit): An EPK is like a digital resume for musicians. It should include your bio, professional photos, press coverage, music, social media links, and performance videos.
  • Keep Social Media Active: Post regularly about your music, shows, and any behind-the-scenes content. Promoters often look at social media activity to see if artists can draw a crowd.
  • Upload Live Performance Videos: If you have any live footage, upload it to platforms like YouTube or Vimeo. Promoters want to see how you engage with an audience.

Muibas Connection: Use Muibas to collaborate with other musicians and finalize your recordings. You can also share tracks with your iBand and get feedback before making them part of your EPK or social media content. Networking with other musicians on Muibas can also open opportunities for joint gigs.

  1. Research and Identify Suitable Venues

Not every venue will be the right fit for your music. It’s important to target venues that align with your genre and audience size. Start by researching venues in your area or in cities where you’d like to perform.

Tips for Researching Venues:

  • Look for Similar Artists: Find out where other indie artists in your genre are playing. This can help you discover venues that support your type of music.
  • Check Venue Websites: Most venues list upcoming shows on their websites, which can give you an idea of the music they typically host.
  • Size Matters: Make sure the venue is appropriate for your current following. Smaller venues are better for artists who are still growing their audience.

Muibas Connection: Once you’ve identified venues, use Muibas to connect with local musicians or bands. Collaborating with others in the same area can help you get booked for joint gigs or learn more about the venues you’re targeting.

  1. Contact the Venues

When you’re ready to reach out to venues, you’ll need to craft a professional email that explains why you’re a good fit for their space. Include essential details like your EPK, links to your music, and your availability.

Tips for Pitching to Venues:

  • Keep It Short and Professional: Introduce yourself briefly, explain why you’re reaching out, and provide links to your EPK and music.
  • Highlight Relevant Achievements: If you’ve played notable gigs, received media coverage, or have a growing fanbase, be sure to mention it.
  • Be Specific: If you’re targeting a specific date or event, mention it in your email. If you’re open to multiple dates, offer a range of availability.

Example Pitch Email:

Hi [Venue Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m an indie [genre] artist based in [city]. I’ve recently released new music and am looking to perform at [venue name] this [month/season]. My recent shows include [mention a recent performance] and I’ve built a growing following in the local music scene.
I’ve attached my EPK with links to my music, bio, and live performance videos. I’d love to discuss booking a show at your venue!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]
[EPK or Website Link]

Muibas Connection: If you have musicians in your network on Muibas, mention that you’ll be performing with a full band or collaborating with local artists. Venues may be more interested in booking you if you bring additional value or a more diverse live performance.

  1. Leverage Booking Platforms

Several platforms specialize in helping indie artists find and book shows. These platforms simplify the process by connecting you with promoters, venues, and gig opportunities.

Popular Booking Platforms:

  • Sonicbids: Connect with venues and promoters around the world and apply for live gig opportunities.
  • GigSalad: Great for booking local events like parties and weddings.
  • Bandsintown for Artists: Promote your shows and find live opportunities in your city.
  • Indie On The Move: A comprehensive resource for indie artists looking to book gigs across the U.S.

Muibas Connection: After booking a gig through one of these platforms, use Muibas to collaborate with other musicians in your area, refine your setlist, and rehearse together. You can also organize your iBand to prepare for live shows, making sure every aspect of your performance is polished.

  1. Promote Your Shows

Once you’ve secured a gig, promoting it is key to ensuring a great turnout. Use your social media, email list, and local contacts to spread the word about your upcoming show.

Tips for Promoting Your Gig:

  • Create Event Pages: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Bandsintown to create event pages where people can RSVP and get updates.
  • Collaborate with the Venue: Ask the venue to promote your show on their social media channels and website.
  • Flyers and Posters: If you’re playing a local gig, create simple posters or flyers to distribute around the area. Even in the digital age, physical promotion still works!

Muibas Connection: After sharing your upcoming gig on social media, use Muibas to reach out to other musicians and invite them to perform with you. Muibas makes it easy to collaborate, whether you’re playing with an established band or looking for new musicians to join you on stage.

  1. Collaborate for Live Performances

Booking shows isn’t just about getting on stage—it’s about delivering a great performance. If you need more musicians for your live set or want to collaborate with other artists, platforms like Muibas make it easy to find musicians in your area.

Benefits of Collaboration:

  • Create a Full Band: If you’re a solo artist, consider working with a band to make your live performance more dynamic.
  • Collaborate with Other Local Artists: Connect with other musicians to co-headline a show or support each other by opening for one another.
  • Expand Your Setlist: Use Muibas to share and rehearse new material with other musicians before performing it live.

Example: If you’re planning a tour and need to collaborate with a bassist or drummer, use Muibas to find musicians in each city where you’ll be performing. You can share your setlist and work on songs together before meeting for rehearsals, making your live shows more polished.

  1. Be Persistent and Follow Up

Booking shows as an indie artist can take time and patience. Venues and promoters often receive dozens of requests, so it’s important to follow up if you don’t hear back right away.

Tips for Following Up:

  • Wait a Few Days: If you haven’t heard back from a venue after a week, send a polite follow-up email asking if they’ve had a chance to review your submission.
  • Stay Professional: Even if you’re not selected for a gig, thank the venue for their time. Building a positive relationship with venues can lead to future opportunities.

Muibas Connection: Stay connected with your Muibas collaborators even after the gig is booked. You can continue refining your music, planning future shows, and expanding your network with musicians who might introduce you to new venues or performance opportunities.

Conclusion: Booking Shows as an Indie Artist with Muibas

Booking shows as an indie artist requires persistence, research, and strong communication with venues and promoters. By building a professional online presence, targeting the right venues, and using booking platforms, you can secure live performances that help grow your career.

With Muibas, you can enhance this process by networking with musicians, collaborating on live sets, and creating an iBand to rehearse your songs and prepare for live performances. Muibas helps you connect, network, and finalize your tracks with fellow artists, ensuring you’re ready to deliver a polished performance every time you hit the stage.