how to reach out to bars as a band

3 min read 23-11-2024

Landing gigs at bars is crucial for any band's success. It's where you build a fanbase, hone your performance, and earn some much-needed income. But knowing how to approach bars effectively can be tricky. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the strategies to successfully reach out to bars and secure those coveted spots on their stage.

Understanding Your Target: Different Bars, Different Approaches

Not all bars are created equal. Understanding a bar's vibe is key to a successful outreach.

Researching the Venue:

Genre Fit: Does the bar primarily host bands similar to yours? A punk band likely won't find success pitching to a jazz club.
Audience Demographics: Consider the age range and musical tastes of the bar's typical crowd. A college town bar will have different expectations than a high-end cocktail lounge.
Capacity: Match your band's size and following to the venue's capacity. A tiny acoustic duo won't fill a large, boisterous rock club.
Check Their Website and Social Media: Many bars showcase their past bands and event schedules online. This helps you gauge their style and target audience.

Identifying the Right Contact:

Don't just send a generic email to "info@". Find the booking manager, owner, or whoever handles live music. Check their "Contact Us" page, social media, or even call the bar directly. A personalized approach is always more effective.

Crafting the Perfect Pitch: Making a Memorable Impression

Your initial contact is your first impression. Make it count!

A Strong Subject Line:

Avoid generic subject lines like "Gig Inquiry." Instead, try something like:

"[Your Band Name] - Live Music Booking Inquiry"
"[Your Genre] Band Seeking Gig at [Bar Name]"
"[Your City] Band – Perfect Fit for [Bar Name]"

This immediately communicates your purpose and shows you've done your research.

Compelling Email Body:

Introduce Your Band: Briefly describe your band's genre, style, and experience. Include a link to your website or social media pages.
Highlight Your Strengths: What makes your band unique? Do you have a large following? Have you played similar venues successfully? Showcase any notable achievements (e.g., festival appearances, press coverage).
Attach Your Press Kit: This should include high-quality photos, a biography, and ideally a video showcasing your live performance.
Propose a Date(s): Instead of asking "Are you interested?", suggest a specific date or range of dates that work for your schedule. This shows initiative and makes it easier for the bar to respond.
Suggest a Compensation Arrangement: Be upfront about your fee or payment expectations (or your willingness to work on a percentage of door sales).

Following Up (Without Being Annoying):

If you don't hear back within a week, send a polite follow-up email. Keep it brief and reiterate your interest. More than two follow-ups might be excessive, however.

Leveraging Social Media and Networking: Expanding Your Reach

Don't underestimate the power of online presence and networking.

Social Media Marketing:

High-Quality Content: Regularly post engaging content (photos, videos, updates) to showcase your band's personality and talent.
Engage with Bars: Follow the bars on social media and interact with their posts. This increases your visibility and shows genuine interest.
Targeted Ads: Consider running targeted Facebook or Instagram ads to reach potential fans in the area.

Networking:

Attend Local Shows: Go to shows at the bars you're targeting. This allows you to network with other bands, bar staff, and potential fans.
Connect with Other Musicians: Other bands can be a great source of information and referrals.

Handling Rejection and Negotiating: Learning from Setbacks

Rejection is part of the process. Don't let it discourage you.

Learning from Rejection:

Analyze Your Approach: Did your email lack key information? Was your proposed date unsuitable? Use each rejection as a learning opportunity.
Refine Your Pitch: Based on feedback (if received) or your own analysis, adjust your email and press kit to be more effective.

Negotiating:

Be prepared to negotiate your payment. Understand the bar's typical payment structure and be flexible if needed, especially when starting out. Consider alternative compensation models (e.g., guaranteed minimum plus a percentage of door sales).

Conclusion: Persistence Pays Off

Landing gigs requires persistence, planning, and a professional approach. By following these steps, you'll significantly improve your chances of getting your band on the stage and building a strong foundation for success. Remember, every successful band started somewhere – and it often begins with a well-crafted email to the right bar.