We think we’re ready to go out on the road - what’s the next step?
So the band I’m in has been doing really, really good around here. We have an indy cd and we’ve been selling it online across the country. I think its time for us to go out on the road and tour my band isn’t so sure. What’s our next step?
-Stephan. Gainesville, FL
Congratulations on your online success and your hometown victories. As far as going out on the road I recommend you go to a map of your town and make three concentric circles around your home town. One at 90 miles, 120 miles, and then 200 miles. At that time I would concentrate exploring each circle one at a time. Hitting all the live venues within and then conquering those markets. It will be a lot simpler to hit the first two circles before you have to give up your day jobs. Are you willing to be homeless and drive around with your friends in a van for weeks at a time and living in hotel rooms (if you’re lucky)? Eating where you play? Then selling enough cds to pay for gas to get you to the next gig. If so please see my blog on booking. If not there’s no shame in having a great band that plays Friday and Saturday. The members will have a real life in a 9 to 5 with a 401k and insurance plan. It’s a tough life on the road and not for someone who wants a long-term family life.
