How can I determine the best locations for shows on my first tour as a DJ/Producer?
Getting your foot in the door of the music industry can be a challenging feat, especially if you’re a DJ/Producer starting out in the industry. However, if you’ve finally landed an opportunity to go on your first tour, it’s time to face the music and start planning. Check out these handy tips to help jump-start the planning process for your first stint on the road.
1. Define Your Budget
One of the first things you need to consider is your budget. Travel, accommodations, equipment transportation, and meal costs can quickly escalate if not kept in check. Before putting anything into action, plan ahead, and set a realistic budget. This helps you navigate through the many decisions you will have to make in the planning process.
2. Map Out Your Tour
Start by deciding on the cities and venues you aim to play in. It’s important to research beforehand and understand the musical tastes of the audience in each city. Tools like Songkick or Bandsintown can provide a wealth of information about potential concert goers and what type of music is most popular in a certain venue or city. Always plan the itinerary keeping in mind the drive time between cities, rest days, and, most importantly, on which days the chosen venues draw the biggest crowds.
3. Build A Tour Team
Going on tour is not a solo mission; it’s a team effort. Design your dream team by hiring professionals or staff that will help your tour run smoothly. This could include techies, sound engineers, managers, publicists, and booking agents. Each member will play a crucial role in organizing and managing different facets of your tour.
4. Create a Promotional Plan
Create a marketing strategy that suits your brand and music style. This could involve building a strong online presence through social media, creating promotional materials like posters and flyers, and collaborating with local influencers and bloggers for wider audience reach. Remember, the goal is to get as much publicity as possible ahead of your performances.
5. Prepare Your Track List
Finally, prepare a killer playlist that you know will entertain your audience and also showcase your best work. Having a well-prepared and versatile tracklist can make all the difference in creating memorable performances. Also, remember to prepare multiple tracklists for different types of venues or crowds.
Conclusion
Touring is not just about the music; it’s about creating a connection with your audience. Proper planning backed by a dedicated team and a solid promotional plan can truly make your first tour a success. So start planning and prepare for an exhilarating journey in the world of music.
