What's the best way to book shows?

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​Re: Lucas N: Quite honestly, the only way to book shows is to start off small and go bigger at a reasonable rate. Some bands try to start off big and bombastic then get into a situation they're not quite ready for. Play an open mic, play a bar, play a mall, and get a feel for putting on a show and how to work with venues. After that you can start booking at legitimate venues, get your friends to go, eventually you will amass a fanbase then can book for bigger crowds. One thing that's important to remember is that once you start playing bigger shows, you should still book smaller gigs in between. This summer my band opened for Blondie at a big theater in LA and the night after we played two shows, one in a friends backyard and the other for a friends private birthday party. This keeps you playing constantly and keeps your performance skills sharp, but also makes more people aware of your presence. If you just play big shows you won't be playing as often, and it will actually make it harder for you to get your name out there.

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Re: Nicholas B. (Permission To Fly): Three things: For one, have *good* music, an *engaging* performance, and be *good* people after shows. Do more than your part to make the show go well and get the crowd going when you're watching. It helps to clean up after as well. Second, If you genuinely enjoy music, going to shows, and playing; Put on your own shows! I have dropped about $1000 on equipment now, but I started with just $300. When you put on these shows, don't prioritize your own band. Bring in other bands and make friends with them. Finally, follow people who put on shows, other bands, and venues on social media. Be cordial and funny in the comments section. Social media is the new town square where everyone is talking. The thing is that everyone is talking but hardly anyone is listening. So... when those people post, have stories and you think the posts and stories are genuinely funny, tell them and keep that funny energy up! It's like a preview for when you come and be #1 in person. Don't comment just "yuh" or "yeet". Unless the context is established where you don't need to prove your cordiality and can easily joke around. But if not, put authenticity and effort into appreciating what those people are saying. People like being listened to.