Building a Touring Network from Your Base Part 2 (VIDEO)
Welcome to Untold Stories Recordings, your go-to Chicago recording studio where music comes to life. We strive to be more than just a space to record; we want to be your creative home for crafting songs that resonate. Today, let’s talk about how to take your music career on the road, connecting with new audiences, and making your mark in the music world.
Be the Maestro: Take Charge of Booking
When you think about going on tour, it’s not just about the shows—it’s about building a strategy from your home base. Picture yourself as the “King Booker” of Chicago, paving the way to connect with artists in cities you want to perform.
By becoming a local promoter, you can create a strong network that reaches beyond your hometown. These relationships will turn into valuable connections that can help you when you visit their cities.
Choose the Right Venues: Think Small and Intimate
Many believe that only large venues matter, but often, it’s the cozy spaces that help foster real connections. Places like dive bars, DIY venues, house parties, coffee shops, art galleries, and record shops can be perfect for nurturing relationships.
These spots are approachable and allow you to bond with venue owners who share your love for music. Choosing the right venues can enhance the experience for both you and your audience.
Build Alliances: Work with Other Musicians
Collaboration can open new doors for your music. Find musicians whose style matches yours, or who are just a bit ahead in their careers.
These artists often have a spirit of giving that leads to mutually beneficial partnerships. Research bands in the cities you want to visit, reach out to them, and use a friendly email template to start a conversation.
Create Win-Win Situations: Fair Deals Matter
When reaching out to potential collaborators, take a generous approach. Offer a fair split of ticket sales, and commit to covering any losses up to $100.
If possible, provide a place to stay and breakfast for your guests—this shows that you’re serious about building a supportive network. Such generosity can lead to meaningful, long-lasting connections throughout your tour.
Plan Your Path: Organize Your Tour
Planning is key to expanding your touring schedule. Start four months before your tour by connecting with artists you’ve played with back in Chicago.
Suggest dates for shows in their cities and keep things moving by using a well-structured email to book your performances. Leverage platforms like Google and Yelp to find venues ranging from small bars to cozy cafes.
Make Connections: Use Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for reaching new audiences in unfamiliar areas. Use local events and social channels to discover live performances happening around you.
These insights can shape your tour approach and help foster new collaborations. When you share the stage with local artists, you plant the seeds for future partnerships when you come back.
In Closing
At Untold Stories Recordings, we’re excited to help you break down barriers in your music journey. From stepping into the role of the king booker in Chicago to creating connections across cities, each step you take will guide your artistic path forward.
Keep an eye out for our next article, where we’ll share tips on promoting your shows—both locally and on the road. The world is filled with opportunities just waiting for you to engage with them.
