01
Practice until it's second nature
Plain and simple, when you are on stage it should be second nature. Rehearse your live show. Stay within your given timeframe. Thank anyone you need to thank from the stage and load out quickly.
LEVELPLAY
ARTIST PLAYBOOK · 01
BEST PRACTICES
The ins and outs of being a true music professional, what separates the bands that get booked again from the ones that don't.
HIGH-LEVEL FUNDAMENTALS
Ten habits that turn a good set into a real career. Print it, pin it, live it.
ON & OFF THE STAGE
10 rules02
Know who you're working with
Introduce yourself to the other bands, venue bookers, promoters, sound technicians and staff. Make yourself memorable off the stage as well.
03
Make 100 fans
Real, devoted fans beat passive followers every time. Win them one show, one conversation at a time.
04
Keep a win-win mentality
When you succeed, the venue succeeds, the staff succeeds, the fans succeed, and you succeed again.
05
Don't get discouraged
If we told you it was going to take a certain number of “No's” to get a “Yes,” how quickly would you work to get through that number? Make sure every opportunity you are presented or create, you pursue with purpose.
If it takes a certain number of “no's” to get a “yes” how fast would you work to get through that number?
06
Know your business
You should be able to rattle off the last few shows you've played and know the attendance numbers. Don't inflate them, be transparent and honest about your journey. Decide who will settle your shows after each performance; this person should know the deal before ever stepping into the venue. Have pertinent tax information ready if needed.
07
Treat every room with respect
Don't trash a greenroom because you think it's rock and roll. Adhere to the rules of the clubs and if you are unsure, ask.
08
Know the lingo
Talk like a pro. Learn the language of load-ins, settlements, and stage plots so you can hold your own in any room.
Open the Lingo Sheet09
Work the merch table
Go to the merch table after your set. Meet fans. Make sure your fans are engaged with all the music happening that evening, not just yours.
10
Gather content from every show
Pictures, videos, and recordings let you analyze the performance and give you tools to keep promoting your shows and building your social presence.
Know your numbers cold. You should be able to rattle off your last few shows and their real attendance, never inflate them. Be transparent about where you are in your journey, integrity goes a long way.
RULE ELEVEN
Support the scene. Support your community. Have fun.