Ways Musicians Can Make a Great First Impression
In the music business, as much as any business, other people’s perception of you and the reputation you carry has as much impact on your career as your music ever will. From the moment you reach out and begin a business relationship with someone in the industry whether it’s a promoter, another musician, a manager, etc. you need to be conscious of the impression you’re leaving.
We are not telling you to be “fake nice,” because people can always tell. But be genuinely nice. Be on time. Know your material. Deliver a professional performance. These are the things that will leave people wanting to have you back. We may still have a lot to learn, but we can share a few things we have learned so far in this regard through our own mistakes and by watching others.
1. Talk about money confidently
You should never, ever feel bad about talking money with someone you’re working with. Unfortunately, We have had a really valuable relationship become awkward because both parties were too shy about discussing the considerable amount of money involved. We find that being very direct and up front about the money, while it may seem pushy, is often appreciated. As soon as you get that out of the way, you can move on to the creative, fun things!
It also never hurts to get the money, your tech requirements, your accommodations, and food written down and signed into a contract. Less so for legal purposes and more for the ability to reference an agreement that both parties were included in.
2. Always be on time
It’s obvious of course, but seriously. People seem to be constantly late.
Nothing feels better than being on time. Being on time, or even early, also gives you a bit of a leg up when you’re meeting a promoter or other industry person. If you’re early and the other party is late, you can be gracious and forgiving, which people always appreciate.
3. Always take time to meet anyone who wants to meet you
It makes a great impression when bands take the time to meet their fans after shows. Try your best to say hi to everyone, sell your merch, sign stuff, thank people, etc. Why wouldn’t you? These are the people who pay your bills. We consider the post-show meet-and-greet an important part of the job. We have, sadly, seen many bands forget this as their success grows.
4. Be professional during your soundcheck, load-in, and teardown
Soundcheck, load-in, and tear down are not the times to mess around. Especially if there are tight changeovers. Everyone appreciates it when a band loads in and sets up efficiently.
Then, when soundcheck happens, play when you’re asked to play, and otherwise don’t play. We know you might want to constantly noodle, because you love your instrument. But don’t it’s annoying for everyone. Check each instrument, then check the whole band. Try not to let a sense of urgency stop you from having a good sound. Try your best to get exactly what you need in the monitor, because it allows you to play your best.
5. Try to not forget things
Okay, seriously, we should not be telling anyone not to forget things, because some of us are the worst and have been known to do terrible things like leave entire suitcases in other cities, instruments at home, and cables in godforsaken places. But if you can not forget things (considering trying out these easy organization tips for musicians), do it. It’s a pain in the neck for everyone when you forget something, and it’s just a better way to operate.
6. Give your absolute best performance, every time
Sometimes, there isn’t a good turnout. Sometimes your sound onstage will be bad. Sometimes you’ll get ripped off. But it doesn’t really matter. If anyone at all is there, you need to give your best performance.
There was a time when a poor turnout would discourage some of us and we wouldn’t play as well. Or we would be distracted. Now, We are just happy to play! It’s literally our favorite thing in the world to do. If you put on a heart-stopping performance for next to no one, you’re going to leave anyone there with a solid impression of the band.