Author : Alicia Parker
Booking music artists for an event is one of the beneficial aspects for both, the artists and the organizer. For most musically inclined people musical events, shows, and promotion is a natural medium of introduction to the music industry. While there are many great reasons to promote a show, the most rewarding part is that you will be able to make good connections with the music artists, their teams, their managers, and whoever they work with just as production labels, publicists, and many others.
This way, a person becomes an ‘industry person’ sooner than ever. The music artists always look forward to approaching these organizers and so they should be quite aware of the responsibility and position. When it comes to rewards, satisfaction can be considered one of them. Organizing an event is as satisfying as playing in a great show. So you don’t just make yourself happy but thousands of other audiences who share the same passion for music.
The market is competitive and the promotion game is strong. So if you are looking forward to becoming a good quality promoter, here are the ins and outs of hiring a music artist and making an event promotion.
How to book a music artist with the management or agent?
Usually, a bigger band or music artist will always have a booking agent who is the contact to reach them. They help in booking the artist, negotiating a fee, and also setting the schedule for the act. They are responsible for providing all the necessary detail regarding the performance.
On the other hand, the managers handle the day-to-day logistics along with the guest list and other details. The artist can also have a publicist who helps to find more media opportunities for the event you are promoting. However, they work typically for the artist in order to provide for the limelight.
The following steps will help get done with the whole booking process.
- Contact the booking agent – Find the artist’s webpage and go to the contact page where you can find a booking and details of the agent. Make a simple approach via email by stating your role in the event, its purpose, and why you want the artist, and ask for a quote.
- Negotiate the fee – Don’t disclose your budget at the beginning if it is too small, the agent will dismiss you. Instead, you can negotiate the quote that has been offered. There is no harm in negotiation as you can always make adjustments. Make sure it is not exceeding your budget. You can bring the topics of free food, drinks, and lodging to support your negotiation.
- Send Contact – Once the deal is finalized, write the contract, send a contact and get the deal signed. The deal should be including all the key details such as date, venue, time, and length of the performance along with a clause that protects the contract details in case of cancellation.
- Advance payment – Send an advance to the agent of the manager to seal the deal. It should include all the details regarding the performance, sound system, and any pertinent details that the music artist needs to know.
How to book a music artist who manages himself? (Such as independent artists and bands)
In the case of independent and emerging music artists, they tend to manage themselves and you have to contact directly with the artist or the band in this case. Simply go to their official website to find contact details and send them an email regarding the proposal of performing in the promotion event. In case you are unable to contact them via email, you can also take the help of social media platforms and Whatsapp if the contact is provided. Remember, email is the most effective and professional medium of communication.
The mail should be including all the fore mentioned details of the event and why you are hiring them. The next comes to send an advance that saves time on both ends by establishing the deal. As a promoter, it is your responsibility to treat the musicians of all levels with respect and honor so that you can also earn that in return. Slowly spread your influence and value each music artist with a great experience.
How to book background musicians or a cover band?
The procedure is pretty similar in this case too but the deals are done in a more straightforward way since there are plenty of them. Be strict with your budget and if the musicians disagree with the numbers, you can always find other musicians to take that place.
Booking entertainment is one of the most valuable sectors in the industries and it helps to create a relationship with the mass as well as top musicians. Learn to promote while you offer people a fun and memorable experience.
