Palm Studio Update

PLAYING GIGS (And lots of them)

"Be prepared to play and play and play. If you don't have a gig, MAKE one. Set up benefit parties or concerts and donate the proceeds to different charities. Be sure to contact local newspapers and have them come see you. Be sure you get copies of the articles written about you. (Giving to a good cause is an amazing way to open doors. One of our client's donates 1/3 or their profits to CARE, and they have sold over 21,000 copies practically single-handedly because of the enthusiasm people feel about this kind of compassion and generosity.) The more free press you get the better (put copies of articles in your promo packs).

Self promotion at your gigs is very important. Don't be afraid to ask people if they would like to buy your cd! Sometimes people are waiting to be asked. Playing at your local coffee shop, or opening for a big name artist - it's all the same - you want people to listen to your music. If you are determined to make it, be prepared to play sometimes for nothing. These gigs could benefit you in other ways (like selling your CD) so pick up the phone (Self Promotion again) and make yourself available. Playing a "Live" venue is very important and so are the rules of playing "Live" (tons of tips on touring, management, and more here).


UNDERSTANDING FAMILY & FRIENDS

A lot of artists and bands can never understand why family and friends never understand the late nights, the playing for free, the obsession with gear... The nonmusical family and friends think that you can wake up one morning and make music and money like the Beatles... but we know this is not the case. Take charge, and in an easygoing way, educate those around you about your plans. Warning! Be prepared for some resistance and skepticism! (Just tell them that Walt Disney declared bankruptcy 7 times in his career!)

Let them know that you will be going out to play (possibly) with no immediate return. Ask for their assistance if you need a ride to a venue at one time or another. How about the 'big one" when you need time alone to write that Number 1 hit! Take every opportunity to communicate with them, tell them your goals and dreams and tell them it's going to be challenging for you as well as them from time to time. But with their support it could make all the difference. (Those fund raisers for charity is a great way to get family support, too.) If you don't get the support from family, find it in other people who you are close to. The support is out there - create it - never be victim to not having it." This was writen by someone else that wrote "How To Promote you CD" NOT me.