Keep Your Friends Close…

Posted on by Emily K Johnson
We’ve all heard the saying, “keep your friends but your enemies closer.” I’m here to tell you this is an awful perspective to have if you want a successful time in the music industry. The best thing you can for yourself is keep those who respect, like, and support you close to you. The industry is a cut throat place and the more people you have on your team, the easier it will be for you to expand your web of connections.Collaborating in the music business gives you many opportunities to gain experiences which will be mutually rewarding for both you and your collaborator. It will be so much easier for you to be referred to others if you are not only surrounded by positive people, but if you are surrounded by MANY positive people.
Tips –
1. Make a great first impression! Smile and make eye contact when you are talking with someone new so they know you are interested in what they have to say!
2. Create a contact sheet with the last time you talked to someone. This idea came from The Savvy Musician (The Savvy Musician) where the author mentions contacting people in your sheet at least once a year to keep the relationship alive!
3. Be the ‘Yes Man’ to everything that makes sense. Don’t necessarily always offer up your services for free, but if you’re just starting out in the industry it can’t hurt to gain some experience. People will likely remember you and be willing to return your favor if you are ambitious and complete your task with a good attitude.
So while the saying may advise you to keep your enemies closer, it’s so much more beneficial for everyone to just keep yourself surrounded by people who have your best interest in mind.
Until next week,
Emily

Questions That Will Save the Day

Posted on by Emily K Johnson
Last week, I mentioned the importance of having a set of questions to refer to as you are in the process of booking gigs for both artists and venues. Having these will ensure you are on track with a time line as well as with materials required for you event to be a success! Below are some of the more broad categories I would consider with a few basic questions, and then break the questions down even further to make sure you have the best understanding of the event possible.
INSTRUMENTS
What instruments does the venue already have on hand? 
What instruments does the artist need?
SOUND
Is the show going to be acoustic?
Is any sound equipment needed?
(A lot of this relates to the size of the venue. Smaller venues like restaurants won’t have a need for amplification where as a noisy bar or concert venue would.)
LIGHTING
Is there any need for extra lighting?
    for music stands or effects?
    (Again, this will likely relate to the size of the venue.)
HOSPITALITY
Will the acts have their own vehicle?
Will they need to be picked up at the airport?
FINANCE
Is the gig a paid event?
    Will the artist be paid before or after the show?
I have attached a blank document with the questions my Music Business class is working on answering for a show we are putting on in late April!
I know this is just a vague first step. But once you start brainstorming, you will continue to add questions!
Just remember – the sooner you start the planning process for a show, the better!
Until next week,
Emily