Promoting Live Music - Market the Band Online

Market the Band Online: how bands and musicians can use social networking to create an effective online presence

In days gone by, people would surf the net for information. Not so anymore. Now you have to get your information to the people via social networking sites.

The more social networking you do, the more fans you'll have, the larger the turnout at your gigs, and the more money you'll make. It's all about spending time to make money. And, the more social networking you do, the more sites on which you have a profile, the more Google hits you'll get, the more fans you'll get ....

It's the way of web 2.0.

Here are my Top Four Picks for a band presence on the Internet, plus a few more suggestions.

1. Your own website
I know, I know. Having your own website costs $. You'll have to decide as a band if you can afford one or not. Personally, I think it's worth the investment, as long as its a GOOD website. If you just CAN NOT afford your own website, try http://sites.google.com or www.weebly.com.

Free or professional, your band website has to have EVERYthing

• - Links to your other social networking sites
• - Band bio's (1-line, 1-paragraph, full bio) plus links to band member bio's.
• - Photographs: professional press photos (at least one landscape, one portrait, in both black & white and color) plus fan photos
• - Music: discography, .mp3's, videos ... if your site plays music in the background, make sure it doesn't auto-start.
• - Gig schedule: include complete information. Dates and times, who else is playing with links to their sites, complete venue address, link to venue's website, all ages or 21+, cost. I would suggest having a calendar view (Google Calendar is handy), but also have a list view. List views are much easier for your fans (and the media) to cut & paste into their OWN social networking sites.
• - Show your love. Include links to your best fans, colleague bands, venues and other companies that support your band (hotels, restaurants, local music media, promoters, etc.) and encourage them to link back to you.

Oh, and be sure to use text on your website. Gig posters are great, but the content isn't searchable. Use keywords to direct traffic to your site. No splash page, and avoid fancy javascript and such - it slows load time, and users can't cut & paste your content. And sure enough, you WANT users to cut & paste your logos, pictures and information in as many places as they want. Make it easy for 'em.

2. MySpace
MySpace is going the way of the dodo, but still THE place for bands on the web. In the past I'd suggest having lots of information on your MySpace page, but not anymore. Keep your MySpace page clean and quick-loading. Just simply use it for your band's basic information and use links to your own website and other social networking sites if the reader wants more information.

For an example of a slow-loading MySpace, visit www.myspace.com/iconlive, and time how long it takes the page to load. Seriously. I'd stand in line just to NOT visit their page.

Include:

• - music genre (be honest)
• - based from where (city, state)
• - pictures (press photos, a few fan photos, gig posters)
• - music
• - tour dates
• - full band bio
• - blog optional, but if you do MySpace blog, include the date in the title
• - embed one YouTube video at most; more than that makes the page slow to load
• - band members' full names, instruments
• - contact information
• - links to other social networking sites

Do NOT include a gazillion videos, pictures, gig posters, maps, banners, etc. on your page - especially if they're hosted elsewhere and only embedded on MySpace. Slows the load! If your MySpace page takes longer than 20 seconds to load, I'll close it. Keep It Simple, Stupid. Instead, use links.

3. Facebook
If you're going to Facebook (and I think you should), do it right.

• - Get a vanity url
• - Make sure all your privacy settings are public
• - Totally and completely fill out the information page
• - Include professional band photos plus fan photos
• - Use the event functions for your gigs (see how to write a good press release)
• - Each band member should have a Facebook too. They can suggest that their friends "like" your band page.

4. Twitter
Twitter hasn't taken off in Idaho ... yet. But it will. You should have a specific twitter for the band, plus how ever many band members are interested in tweeting. Try very hard to bandtweet at least 4 times each week, daily is better, but not more than 5 or 6 tweets in a day. Oh, and check your mentions (@'s); reply to fans and RT as often as possible.

Cross Link!
Make sure each of the above 4 sites have links to the other three, embed real-time updates where possible. MySpace, Facebook and Twitter can all talk to each other now, so when you status-update in one, it's automatically updated in the others. Make sure you've set them so they'll do that.

Bookmark and Share!
Wherever possible, include bookmarking and share buttons (I know, I know ... I need to do that here too). Your share buttons should include Myspace, Facebook and Twitter, also Digg, del.icio.us, Reddit and StumbleUpon at least.

Optional, but good ideas
Wikipedia
Yes, you should be on wiki. Write a good band bio and post it up there.

YouTube
If you have music videos, it's a must. But even if you don't, YouTube can be used to host 30- to 90-second commercials for your band, with background music and/or with spoken word. Consider vlogs and encourage fans to link to and embed.

Blog
A great way to connect with fans. But if you start a blog, keep it up-to-date with a post at least once a week. If you can't commit to doing that, then don't even start. I'd suggest Blogger or WordPress (has better built-in social networking) and RSS feed (FeedBurner) it back to your website and other social networking sites via status updates.

Flickr or Photobucket
Personally, I like Flickr better. But a picture / video hosting site is a super terrific way to increase hits to your sites. Be sure to label each photo with your band name (again, increases searchability). Use their slideshows and embed on your own website (not MySpace).

Mailing list
A good email list is still the best social networking tool out there. Try to send an email no more than once a week, but not less than once a month. Keep it newsy but short. Include: a brief paragraph about recent events and upcoming gigs, plus links to all your other social networking sites with each email.

I like www.FanBridge.com. Check it out and see if it suits your needs. FanBridge makes four incredibly effective suggestions to build your mailing list:

* Give something away in exchange for an email address! By offering a free sticker, mp3 (which you can email them automatically via FanBridge), button, or even a free hug as a fan incentive you are much more likely to get new fans to
sign up.

* Announcing that you have an email list from on stage during the show may seem cheesy, but it's a sure fire way to know that your audience will hear what you have to say. You could even mention that people who sign up for the list get a discount on your merch (maybe a dollar or two off... it will be worth it) or they are entered in a giveaway for a free CD or t-shirt.

* Have a friend go around the room with a clipboard, or direct them to the merch table where they can sign up. This person should be friendly and excited about the music so that fans will want to join in on the fun. If you ask a person one-on-one to sign up for an email list, they are much more likely to respond positively. You can also have this person stand by the door when people walk in to make sure no fans get missed.

* If you have an extra laptop computer, you can use the FanBridge Merch Table Signup form. This is a downloadable program that you can open full screen on your computer and it lets fans type in their info directly. The program saves it all to a pre-formatted file on your desktop that you can import into your account whenever you are next connected to the internet.

Texting list (known as a mobile list)
Personally, I don't like getting gig announcements from bands via text message. But many people do. You should have that option available to your fans. FanBridge does that too.

Other network sites of interest
There are tons and tons of websites out there for bands and music these days, effective to varying degrees. Here are a few of my favorites: tumbler.com, last.fm, cdbaby, reverbnation, sonicbids, iLike.com, rhapsody.

See also:
How to Write a Good Band Bio
How to Write a Good Press Release
Online Event Websites

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
https://sites.google.com/site/slowloosegravel

Promoting Live Music - a Good Band Bio

How to Write a Good Band Bio

First and foremost, every band (no matter how small you are, no matter if your biggest gig was playing for your Mom in the garage) MUST have a good bio. You never know when someone might want to write about you or when someone will want to share their excitement about your music with their friends and family.

Many bands make the mistake of thinking that they only need to reach out to their already-established fans. Not so!

This is a Web 2.0 world - meaning that most people get their news and information from their friends and family via Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, blogs and so on. You NEED to tap into Web 2.0 by making written information about your band and music easily accessible to writers and bloggers, accessible to people who DO NOT ALREADY know you!

Moreover, consider your future gigs. The venue (if they're worth their salt) will need to be able to promote you. Make it easy for them by giving them the exact words they'll need to describe you and your music to their patrons.

Actually, you need three bio's.

1. A one-sentence statement
2. A one-paragraph bio
3. A full 350- to 500-word biography

Write the full biography first, then pare it down to the smaller two.

What should go in a band biography? Essentially, you want to answer the W's and the H: Who, What, Where, When, Why and How. Answer the following questions, then rewrite ALL of it in paragraph form. More on writing styles later. And yes, just like your 3rd grade teacher warned you: spelling, grammar and punctuation count.

Who:
Name of your band.
Who's in your band - first AND last names. No serious journalist will list first names only, unless they're Sting, Oprah or Prince. You may be popular, but you're not THAT popular ... yet. No one writes about Steven, but we do write about Steven Tyler. You may also want to include who runs your website, produces your recordings, does your pr, manages and/or books your band.

What:
What music do you play? I know that no band wants to commit themselves to a genre, but you HAVE to come up with some descriptors for your music. Just think about food writers who have to describe what they're tasting, so will you have to describe to your audience what they'll be hearing.
What instruments do you play? Also include a discography of your recordings.

Where:
Where are you from? Where are you based now?
Where have you played? We don't need an exhaustive list - but pick three or four venues of interest. That may include special one-time concerts at venues of note, or it may include your regular haunt. You may also want to include where you recorded, if its of interest.

When:
When did your band originally form? When did the current line-up form? When did you last record or release a recording (either audio, video or both) and / or when will you?

Why:
Yes, you really should come up with a reason why you're playing out. Why have you gotten into the music business? Why do you think people should come to your shows or buy your CD's? If this last one is hard to answer, just think about some positive comments you've gotten from the audience before and report that. You should also list any accolades or awards. They very well may answer WHY someone would want to listen to your music.

How:
This will be personal and individual for each band. You may want to say how your band formed, how well you've done, how you intend to get your music out there, how someone can buy your music or see your shows and / or how someone can find out more information.

Writing styles:
Think of newspaper and magazine articles you've read. Keep the tone mature, very newsy, informative and matter-of-fact. Yes, do use descriptive adjectives, but stay away from over-the-top language, particularly superlatives like "The Best," "The Most" or pretty much anything that ends with -est. Also stay away from euphemisms and slang. "Da Sickest Mo' Fo' Band from P-Town, Brah" just sounds STOOPID [sic] in writing.

Stay away from Jack Black-isms like "Melt Your Face" or "Searing Wicked Licks." They sound too trite, done and over. Furthermore, if you use "Off Da Hook," "Money" or "Kewl" in your bio, not only will I NOT write up your band, but I'll come find you and slap you silly, just on general principles. It is NOT 1996 anymore, folks, as much as Guy Fieri wishes it were. :-D

More advice:
Write your bio in a word processor and do both a spell-check AND a grammar check. If your computer has a reader, have it read the bio to you out loud. Then have five or six friends who know you and your band read it and give feedback, then have an English teacher read it and bleed all over it with his/her red pen. Really, you want this to be right.

Perma-link your bio in several places on the Internet. Certainly it should be on your website AND on your MySpace, but also consider posting it to Google Docs and make it available for anyone to copy and download.

By the way, when your good bio is done, you're about ready to post it to Wikipedia. Consider it.

Lastly, keep it up-to-date. Check your bio every 2 - 3 months for accuracy of information. NO writer wants to look the fool by reporting incorrect information. Save us that embarrassment, and we'll write you up again.

Always include contact information at the end of your bio, even if your contact information is listed elsewhere on the Internet. Include a contact name, phone number and email address.

See also:
How to Write a Good Press Release
Online Event Websites

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Column for March 3, 2010

There is a little bit of the new and a little bit of the old this weekend in Pocatello’s local live music scene.

On Friday the 5th, I Am Ghost headlines a rock concert for all ages at The Icon, North Main Street in Pocatello. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., cost is $10. Modern Day Escape, The Becoming, We Are the Arsenal and S3X are also on the bill.

I Am Ghost is based from Long Beach, California, originally formed by singer Steve Juliano in 2004. The band is currently signed to Epitaph Records, which is owned by Bad Religion guitarist Brett Gurewitz.

The dark lyrics in I Am Ghost’s demo single “We Are Always Searching” inspired their first full-length album, a hardcore / goth rock opera, “Lovers’ Requiem,” released in 2006. The band gained momentum and fans with a spot on Warped Tour in 2006 and 2007, followed by a successful tour in 2007 with Escape the Fate and others.

A few member changes later, 2008 saw I Am Ghost’s sophomore release, “Those We Leave Behind,” in October, followed by lengthy tours in the United States, Canada and Europe. Current members include Steven Juliano, bassist Ron Ficarro, Timoteo Rosales III and Chad Kulengosky on guitars and drummer Justin McCarthy.

I Am Ghost is currently on tour promoting their live recording, “Live in Orange County.” Find out more at www.iamghostmusic.com.

On Saturday the 6th, The Icon presents Automatic Loveletter, with Melody and Tyler, 500 Days, Atilast, All Bright and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., open to all ages; cost is $10.

Based from Tampa, Florida, Automatic Loveletter is an acoustic emo group, fronted by Juliet Simms on vocals and guitar and backed by guitarist Joe Nelson, Sean Noll on bass and Daniel Currier on drums.

When reviewing Automatic Loveletter’s performance on Warped Tour 2008, the LA Times wrote, "Paramore is the female-fronted draw of the day here … but Automatic Loveletter's Juliet Simms more than held her own …. Clad in an obligatory black hoodie and strumming an acoustic guitar, she wailed her way through a frenetic half-hour set split by a solo acoustic ballad. Get this band on a main stage and she’ll be receiving automatic love letters by the truckload." The band is listed on Van’s Warped Tour 2010.

Simms has guest performed on several singles released by other bands, LoveHateHero's "Theatre of Robots," Secondhand Serenade's "Fix You." All Time Low's "Remembering Sunday," and most recently Cartel's "Lose It". For more, visit http://automaticloveletter.com.

See The Icon’s current line-up of shows online at www.myspace.com/iconlive.

Also this weekend, the locally based funk and blues band Phat Bone is scheduled to play at Taps Bar on Garrett Way. There is no cover charge at Taps, music starts at 9:00 p.m., open to those 21+.

Portneuf Valley Brewing has booked Almosta Band for Friday night, the 5th and Soul Full of Blues for Saturday night, the 6th. Music starts at 8:30 p.m., no cover and open to all ages.

See the brewery’s full schedule of entertainment online at www.portneufvalleybrewing.com.

On Tuesday of next week, March 9, Revolt Revolt is slated to play at the Flipside Lounge, Main Street in Pocatello. Music starts at 8:00 p.m., open to those 21+.

Revolt Revolt is a punk rock band from Boise, Idaho. They are playing in support of their debut CD, “Chordata,” released in November of 2009.

Formed in October of 2008, Revolt Revolt recorded their debut full-length album with Seattle producer Conrad Uno (Presidents of the USA) in July of 2009. Their music is reminiscent of the northwest grunge bands of the 90’s with current pop hooks and melodies.

Members are Revolt Revolt are Chris Bock, Ben Brunn and Jasin Serna. For more, visit www.revoltrevoltmusic.com.

Learn more about the Flipside Lounge online at www.myspace.com/fliplounge.

One last note: tickets are now on sale for James Otto, in concert at the Stephen’s Performing Arts Center on the Idaho State University Campus. To purchase online, visit www.isu.edu/stephens/events.

James Otto is American country music artist who charted three minor singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts from his debut album, “Days of Our Lives.” His second album, “Sunset Man,” was released in 2008, produced by John Rich (Big & Rich) and Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts). The record spawned a number one hit, "Just Got Started Lovin' You."

Find out more about James Otto online at www.jamesotto.net.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Column for January 27, 2010

We have a full plate of live music entertainment in Southeast Idaho this week, with all-ages shows at The Icon, acoustic favorites at local restaurants and bars and two exciting concerts by favorite regional bands in the area.

Tonight, Wednesday the 27th, Abandon Kansas, Children 18:3, The Deception and more are performing at The Icon, located on N. Main Street in Pocatello; doors open at 6:30 p.m. And tomorrow, Thursday the 28th, Fire In the Skies, These Cities Passing, Above And Below, Chelsea Grin and more are on the bill. Visit www.myspace.com/iconlive for current information and upcoming shows.

Also on Thursday, Elvis Has Left the Building is scheduled to play at Senang Bistro, S. 1st. Ave. in Pocatello starting at 7:30. Formed in 1996, founding members Angier Wills and Greg Mladenka are joined by Bill Chalmers and when available, Richard Inouye. The group plays a blend of bluegrass, American folk and acoustic rock.

Available for purchase from www.cdbaby.com/cd/ehltb, Elvis Has Left the Building released a self-titled CD in 2007. For more on ELB, visit site.elbinfo.com.

Friday the 29th, Finn Riggins is in concert with locals Spawning Fondness at the Flipside Lounge, on S. Main St. in downtown Pocatello. Based in western and northern Idaho, Finn Riggins has been making Pocatello a regular stop.

Finn Riggins’ most recent release, “Vs Wilderness,” has been met with critical acclaim for their creative and elaborate indie rock. I find their music eccentric, pleasant, crafty, bright, fun and lively, and somewhat addictive (in a good way). For more, visit www.finnriggins.com.

Last week, you have have caught Unstable Ground at Portneuf Valley Brewing. If you missed that show, you can catch then again this Friday at Duffy’s Tavern on Main Street. Music starts at 9:00 p.m.; open to those 21+. No cover.

Based from Pocatello, Unstable ground is a four-piece band with guitarists Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook, Chris Willock on bass and Eric Stanley on drums. They have a large list of cover songs from which to play, tailoring each set appropriately for the crowd and venue.

This time, I’d expect Unstable Ground to crank it up with songs from AC/DC, the Beastie Boys, Bad Company or maybe a Limp Bizkit tune. For more on Unstable Ground, visit them online at www.unstablegroundband.com.

Speaking of Portneuf Valley Brewing, the pub on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello has two favorites on tap this weekend with Swingshift playing blues, jazz and pop on Friday night. And on Saturday, Bender is scheduled to play roots rock and reggae. Music starts at 8:30, no cover, and is open to all ages. Call (208) 232-1644 for more information.

Formed in 2008, Bender is an eclectic mix of musical instruments and styles. The bulk of their songs are original, a blend of American roots, rock, and reggae. They’ll also have a follow-up show on Sunday the 31st at the Pebble Creek Ski Area. Find Bender online at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello.

And on tap at Taps Bar on Garrett Way in Pocatello this weekend, Kaught Lookin’ is scheduled to play classic rock covers on both Friday and Saturday nights. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., no cover and open to those 21+.

*Oops - this show has been canceled*
On Saturday, Lybecker is in concert at The Icon with Somewhere In the Middle scheduled to open. Doors open at 6:30. Lybecker, a trio based from Seattle, WA plays alt. pop rock similar to Coldplay, Third Eye Blind or Switchfoot. Their most recent CD, “As the Sun Casts a Falling Shadow,” will be available for purchase at the show. For more, see www.myspace.com/lybeckermusic.

Somewhere In the Middle has recently returned from a tour through Nevada and Southern California in support of their most recently recorded songs. Keep up to date at www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.
*********************************

And the highlight of my live music shows this weekend, Scratch and 2am Logic open for Royal Bliss at the Peppertree Lounge in Idaho Falls, Saturday the 30th. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., open to those 21+. Tickets are available at www.78productions.com. I missed them last time; I won’t this time.

Royal Bliss has been hard at work self-promoting their most recent release, “Live and Acoustic in Studio A,” recorded last year at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, CA. The CD is a limited edition, available for purchase online or at live performances.

Having received little support from their label, Royal Bliss continues to move forward and is currently recording their next effort. Expect to hear new tunes and old favorites. The band received great exposure playing at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, UT last week. For more, visit www.myspace.com/royalbliss.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Column for January 20, 2010

A true-to-form Pocatello local live music this week, you’ll find a wide variety, a vastly eclectic mix of live music genres from which to choose for live entertainment in the area.

Friday the 22nd, Elvis Has Left the Building plays at Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st. Avenue in Pocatello. Music starts at 8:30, no cover and is open to all ages.

Formed in 1996, two Elvis Has Left the Building (or ELB, for short) founding members are still a part of the band; guitarists Angier Wills and Greg Mladenka are joined by Bill Chalmers and when available, Richard Inouye. Their original songs are largely written by Wills and Mladenka, falling somewhere between bluegrass, American folk and acoustic rock.

ELB’s members are all avid ‘outdoor people,’ passionate about appreciating and preserving our natural resources. From their website ELB writes, “having members from different walks of life gives a well-rounded perspective to the group that is reflected in their musical styles and songwriting.”

Available for purchase from www.cdbaby.com/cd/ehltb, Elvis Has Left the Building released a self-titled CD in 2007.

On Sunday the 24th, ELB has a mid-afternoon show at the Rock Bottom Saloon at Pebble Creek, starting at 4:00 p.m. They’ll be joined with special guest Jessica McAleese. For more on ELB, visit site.elbinfo.com.

On Friday the 22nd, The Clumsy Lovers make a welcome return to the First National Bar with The Bell Boys opening. Music starts at 9:00 p.m.; cost is $8 at the door and open to those 21+.

The Bell Boys, based from Portland, OR, are an acoustic / Americana folk group with Mike Quinter on vocals and banjo, Keef Simon on upright bass, guitarists Bear Parsons and Jay Cobb Anderson and Tyler Thompson on drums. Find them online at www.myspace.com/thebellboyspdx.

The Clumsy Lovers are one of the best-loved returning music acts in Pocatello. Their energetic and upbeat performances never fail to get the crowd up and dancing – be sure to wear flowers in your hair; Birkenstocks optional.

The group’s most recent release, “Make Yourself Known,” will be available for purchase night of the show, or it is available online at www.cdbaby.com/Artist/TheClumsyLovers.

The Canada-based acoustic folk and bluegrass group frequents Idaho State University’s outdoor concerts. But in the winter time, seeing The Clumsy Lovers at The Nash is the next best thing. Find out more at clumsylovers.com.

On Saturday the 23rd, Unstable Ground plays country rock at Portneuf Valley Brewing starting at 8:30 p.m. Based from Pocatello, Unstable ground is a four-piece band with guitarists Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook, Chris Willock on bass and Eric Stanley on drums. All share in vocals.

Unstable Ground has a large list of cover songs from which to play, tailoring each set appropriately for the crowd and venue. Expect songs from the Eagles, Johnny Cash, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Bob Seger and more. The band can crank out AC/DC too, but perhaps next time, eh?

For more on Unstable Ground, visit them online at www.unstablegroundband.com.

Also on Saturday the 23rd, there is an all-ages rock concert at the Elk’s Lodge on S. Main Street in Pocatello, with local bands on the bill. Sworn To Uphold, Forgiveness Denied, These Cities Passing and Above & Below play for just a $2 cover, starting at 7:00 p.m.

Of the Saturday night choices, I think the Elk’s Lodge would be my pick. Young local bands, playing for pennies, self-promoting … sounds like my kind of gig.

And a similar (although more pricey) all-ages rock show will be at The Icon on N. Main Street in Pocatello on the same night, with WatchOut There’s Ghosts, Elective Valentine and All Bright scheduled to play. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are $10 in advance through www.smithstix.com.

On Sunday the 24th, Silent Civilian, Blind Witness and Year of the Skies are the featured bands at the Icon, with These Cities Passing in an opening slot. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., open to all ages; tickets are $10 in advance, available at www.smithstix.com.

Also on Sunday the 24th, Sweatshop Union, a hip-hop / rap group from Vancouver, Canada, is scheduled to play at the Benton Street Bar starting at 8:00 p.m. Call first to verify 232-2222; find out more at www.myspace.com/sweatshopunion7.

And on Tuesday of next week, the 26th, Phat Bone, a locally-based funk and blues group is booked to play at Hooligans. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., open to those 21+.

L. Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Promoting Live Music - live music event periodicals

There are several print periodicals in the SE Idaho area who will print your events. Many of them need at least one month's advance notice. So book early and get the word out!

Idaho Monthly Events - idahomonthlyevents@gmail.com
The Bannock Alternative - http://thebannockalternative.com/ - debbie@vividconcepts.info
The Bengal - http://www.isubengal.com/ - bgchief@isu.edu
Inside Pocatello - http://www.insideidaho.info/pocatello/
Idaho State Journal - http://www.journalnet.com/
ISU Voice - http://www.isuvoice.com/
The JHub - http://www.thejhub.com/

.... more to come ....

Promoting Live Music - Press Releases

How to Write a Good Press Release

It's not the same as making a flyer or sending out a bulletin to your Facebook and MySpace friends. People in the media need serious information.

The first thing you'll have to do is decide if this is a BIG EVENT or an Ordinary Event.
-A big event is "newsworthy," something that happens only once a year, like an annual outdoor festival. Or it is something that's happening for the very first time, like this is the first time you're playing at a venue new to you, or the first time you're playing in Pocatello, a debut performance. A big event might also be a CD release party, a charity event or a fund raising event.
-An ordinary event is a show you've done before and will probably do again. You're just getting the word out that you're playing there.

A press release for a BIG EVENT needs special attention and consideration. I'll briefly outline that below. A press release for an Ordinary Event can be quite simple, just a bulleted list of information is all we really need.

I'd suggest creating your press release in a Word document, then save it as a .pdf, attached in an email. You should also copy all the text IN the email - use as little formatting as possible. Oh, some bold or italics won't hurt anything, but don't get overly fancy. Include all your upcoming shows in these releases. Consider sending them out weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.

In the body of your press releases, make sure you answer The Big 5 W's and the H - Who, What, Where, When, Why and How

- Who -
Tell us the names of all the bands (spelled correctly!) on the billing and in what order will they take the stage. The headliner should have a one-paragraph description of how incredible and exciting they are. Here is information on writing a Good Band Biography.

Include a two- or three-word description of each of the bands' genres. If there are two or less bands playing, it's ok to include the names of all the band members. If there are more than two bands, then that's too much information to include. The media member can do a bit more research if necessary. Remember to include contact information for each band - website, email and/or phone number.

Also include the name of the event or venue and the name of the person coordinating the effort (booking agent, producer, venue owner, etc.) Include that contact information also.

- What -
Tell us what the event is. You're playing at a bar? a coffee house? outdoors? Include any age limits or restrictions too. Essentially describe what will go down at this event - think to yourself, "what do I want people to tell their friends after they're done reading this press release?" Briefly describe the venue so people will know what to expect if they've never been there before.

Include if people should bring something to this event, like chairs, blankets, cans of food, etc. Also include information about additional things that may be for purchase at this event, and if so, is it cash only? This would be important.

- Where -
Give us the physical address of the venue, including the city, state and zip code! You'd be surprised at how important this is.

- When -
Give us the day, date, start and end times. For example: Saturday, June 13, 2009 from noon to 9:00 p.m.

- Why -
Include any superfluous information about this event, like information about a CD if this is a CD release party, giveaways, fund raising efforts, raffles, drink specials, etc.

- How -
Tell us the cost at the door or ticket prices. If there are tickets to purchase, tell us where to find them, including address, telephone number, website and/or url.

Example of a Press Release for an Ordinary Event:

v-------------------------------------------------------------------v

The Joe Schmuck Band Announces Local Performances

The Joe Schmuck Band is a roots rock / reggae / punk band from Idaho Falls, Idaho. They're known for their silly costumes and six-part harmonies. For more information visit www.thejoeschmuckband.com, email joe@thejoeschmuckband.com or call (208) 555-3333.

Saturday, June 20, 2009
Doors 6:30, Show 7:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Acoustic guitarist John Doe opens at 7, followed by the disco ensemble Chookoo Mookoo at 9. The Joe Schmuck Band plays from 11 to close.
www.myspace.com/johndoe
www.chookoomookoo.com

The Bar X Bar
123 East Main Street
Pocatello, ID 83204
(208) 555-2222
www.barxbar.com
Contact - Sherry Barry

The Bar X Bar is open to those 21+. Tickets $5 advance, $10 day of the show, available at Fine Records, 1st street Pocatello or online at www.weselltickets.com.

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Now for a BIG EVENT. Remember, this is "newsworthy." It's your job to convince the journalist that this deserves an entire spot or article, more than a mention. Essentially, you're writing the article for us; but we'll contact you for more information if we need it.

Example of a Press Release for a BIG EVENT:

v-------------------------------------------------------------------v

The Joe Schmuck Band

THE JOE SCHMUCK BAND HEADLINES 2010 IDAHO MUSIC FEST
Popular Regional Rock Band Releases New CD; Festival Expects Record Turnout

June 22, 2009, Pocatello, ID - The Joe Schmuck Band’s most recent release, “Schmuck-a-Luck,” hit the Billboard charts at #33 last week with support from heavy radio rotation and a viral YouTube video. Blah blah blah … (See how exciting that is? But don’t use over-hyped up words. Just the facts, ma’am. Just the facts. The leading date and place refers to the originating press release. The town is sometimes excluded if it may be confused with the location of the event. -SLG)

The Joe Schmuck band started fifteen years ago … blah blah blah … one paragraph bio.

Singer/songwriter John Doe takes the stage at 1:00 p.m., followed by the heavy metal band Screamo Creamo at 3:00 p.m. … blah blah blah … give me the line-up.

The Idaho Music Fest is a one-day event … blah blah blah … with grassy knolls and shady trees … blah blah blah … kids activity tent open from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. … blah blah blah … tell me about the venue and event.

Festival committee chairperson Jane Smith said, “Oh my heavens, this band just rocks!” … blah blah blah … Smith is hard at work preparing ... blah blah blah. (Note how the first and last name is given the first time, then only the last name is used thereafter. -SLG)

Ticket prices are $3 youths aged 7 to 12 years, $10 for adults ... blah blah blah. Tickets are available at the John Q Public Store, 123 East Main St. Pocatello, online at ... blah blah blah.

The Southeast Idaho Fairgrounds is located at 15243 Billings Rd., Pocatello, Idaho 83201

###
(these three #'s denote the end of the press release. -SLG)

For more information:
Put everyone’s names, web info and contact info here.

^-------------------------------------------------------------------^

<-- Here's an example of a press release for a BIG EVENT. Click to enlarge. Note: the boilerplate is a block of text you use on each and every press release - essentially it's the mission statement of your band, venue, cause, group or event.

For further tips, check out How to Write a Press Release.

Interview with 2 AM Logic

Who: 2am Logic
What: CD Release Party
Where: First National Bar, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Friday, April 3rd, 2009, 8:00 p.m.
How Much: $5 at the door

I caught up with Todd Thompson, guitarist and vocalist for 2am Logic about their new CD and upcoming shows in S. Idaho.

Peace and Rock, baby, Peace and Rock.

SLG: Describe your genre of music. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

TT: 2am Logic is a modern rock band. Not too heavy, melody driven with thick guitar riffs driving our sound. With story songs like Private Hell, spiteful songs like Get Bent, and ballads such as Bottled and Gone, we can run an audience through a full range of emotions, while keeping a high energy level throughout. I think that explains our broad appeal when it comes to our fan base. We have older and younger fans, we have people from all walks of life and a wide variety of musical tastes that dig our tunes. And that's always a good thing.

SLG: Describe the new CD in particular. As best as you can, what kind of other bands can we compare this music to?

TT: Our CD, Shattered, is out this week. It's a twelve-track, full-scale view of 2am Logic as a band. It starts with Again (For the Moment) and rolls though a great snapshot of our influences, from the bluesy Italy to the acoustic Soul For Sale. Overall, Shattered reflects our style.

We even had our good friend Scott Taylor [The Unread] co-write and be a guest vocalist on Human, and we are extremely proud of the work he put into this album. Mad props to Mr. Taylor; he's one hell of a producer and a great musician to work with.

To compare to other bands: 3 Days Grace meets Seether, but with a touch of blues/jazz thrown into the mix.

SLG: Who is in 2am Logic and what do they play? How long has this line-up been together?

Dustin Thueson – Guitars

Shawn “Piklz” Ringel – Drums
Kathy Brown – Bass
Cody Scheer – Guitars
Todd Thompson – Guitars, Vocals

In my humble opinion, we are a great mix of seasoned vets and young raw talent, with 3 of our members being in several previous bands, and the other two in their first band.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

TT: Rigby/Idaho falls, with 4 out of 5 born right here in Eastern Idaho.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

TT: We’ve shared the stage with a couple of great touring acts already this year, Pop Evil and Rev Theory, and in July we get to open for Great White and Firehouse at Sandy Downs in IF. That show is called Rock The Falls and will be hosted by Ambre Lake (from Rock of Love 2).

Upcoming Pocatello shows include April 19th with Broke City and Witness the Forecast at Barrie's, which should be a great all ages show.

Our tour schedule is listed at www.myspace.com/2amlogic if you’d like more details on any of our upcoming gigs.

SLG: Describe this particular show. What can ppl expect if they come to this show?

TT: Friday, April 3rd at The First National Bar is our CD release party. We snared some great bands to play along side us for this one: Scratch, an Idaho Falls straight-up rock band is kicking off the night, followed by Haxsaw Ridge, a solid heavy rock band, with The Unread next (those guys need no introduction, they’re one of the best bands out there) and then 2am Logic finishing off the night.

Basically we chose our favorite local bands to join us. And even though they all represent slightly different genres, the binding thread between all of them is great melodies with addicting guitar riffs, which is exactly what makes them great bands.

Doors are at 8pm, show at 9pm, and there’s a $5 cover charge. It’s 21 and up only, but if you are underage we encourage you to check out our show at Barrie's on the 19th; its all ages.

2am Logic - Photo by Scott Taylor

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

TT: The local music scene? I can’t say enough about the quality of musicians here and what great guys and gals they are. When I first came to Eastern Idaho I didn’t think there was much in the way of local music. But the more opportunities we've had to work with other local bands, the more I saw that not only are there some really talented players here, but they are all really cool people and have the common goal of promoting not just their bands but the whole scene. That kind of unselfish mentality creates a great atmosphere – check your ego at the door and let’s jam

SLG: Amen, my brothuh. Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

TT: CDs, of course! T-shirts and necklaces as well. The necklaces are made by Kathy Brown and Alicia Thompson and incorporate guitar picks with 2am Logic’s logo. Each one’s unique; they’re really cool.

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

TT: Myspace is the way to go. But if you are at a show, we encourage you to come talk to us (we don’t bite, well, sometimes Piklz does but he’s had his shots). Its always good to talk to people face to face; the internet is too impersonal.

Promoting Live Music - Online Event Websites

Are you in a band? Then your band had better have a MySpace page. MySpace is for live music what E-Bay is for auctions, what Google is for search engines and what YouTube is for home videos. You'd be surprised how many bands I know who do NOT have a MySpace page - it boggles my mind.

But MySpace isn't enough. Not for promoting your shows.

As many people as there are on MySpace, there are just as many on Facebook, and if they're not on either, they're on Twitter. And as many as there are on those social networks, there are ten, fifty or a hundred times as many who are NOT on either one. Get the word out ....

POWERFUL

www.zvents.com (also known as www.when.com)

For about $10, you can call in to zvents and they'll post your event for you. Or you can do it yourself for FREE. You can create an Event Page, a Venue Page or a Performer's Page. This site coordinates with cityguide.aol.com - one of the most popular search engines for local entertainment.
www.eventful.com
Post your event for free. The site also has The Demand, encouraging users to connect with friends via other social networks, like Facebook, to bring favored performers to the area.

upcoming.yahoo.com
Anyone who uses Yahoo! as their homepage is alerted to local events simply by moving their mouse over the Upcoming Events area, top right-hand corner of the page. This is huge.
www.google.com/calendar
The Google Calendar incorporates Google Maps - anyone doing a map search in the area will see your event listing.

POTENT, but less powerful

www.pollstar.com
Any concert-goers looking for an event would have to go to PollStar.com on purpose to look for it. But PollStar is a standard in the industry, like Billboard is to charts - if you're a serious band or venue, you need to be on pollstar.

www.jambase.com
JamBase was one of the first sites to host free event listings. Create a performer's page or a venue page and list your events. Again, any concert-goers looking for an event would have to go to JamBase on purpose to look for it - but your events will show up on internet searches. So there's that.

www.sonicbids.com
Not such a good site for promoting your events, but it is a standard in the industry for electronic press kits. Unless you're looking for gigs, sign on for the free version and keep it up to date.

AND I'LL BET YOU'VE FORGOTTEN

Contact the local press and media - newspapers, radio and t.v.

There are tons of writers, like me, just searching and looking for things to write about. Sure, buy advertising in the paper if you want to. But better than that, find out who's writing in the local newspapers and free entertainment papers and magazines. Contact them directly with your press releases - and give 'em something to write about!

Contact the local radio stations for interviews. Give 'em something to talk about!

Contact the local t.v. stations for interviews on their morning or noon shows.

If possible, get on their upcoming events listings, especially if your event has a charity or community-oriented spin. Hey, it's free advertising.

KEEP IN MIND - Earlier is better than later

T.V. stations need about one month advance notice. Newspaper journalists need about a 10-day lead time. Radio stations are much more flexible, but give 'em as much lead time as you can so they can do their thing.