There are a lot of bands everywhere, and a lot of people trying to play shows and somehow make money in the music industry. That said, there are just as many ways to be successful with the rising number of bands and musical acts vying for attention. Here are a few:
1 Don't Compete, Cooperate There seems to be a lot more musicians than places to play, and because of that perception, some people tend to think that they have to compete to get gigs with the few venues there are. Venues and promoters might add to this perception by making the process of booking a show into a game that rewards the band that sells the most tickets, but that tends to suck a lot of the magic out of the music. Making friends with other musicians is the best way to get shows, next to being polite and being on time. If you help someone out on social media by promoting their show or their new album or whatever else, then they will most likely help you too.
2 Respect Your Elders, and the Sound Guy Whether you're a bunch of youngsters, middle-agers, or oldsters, you have to give some love to the people who have been in the scene longest. Chances are, they are the reason for a lot of the bars staying open to musical acts. Bowing may not be appropriate, but if you get the chance, thank them for continuing to play. They may also be the sound guy if you're playing an open mic. In that case, your sound is in their hands, and they may decide they've heard enough of you.
3 Remember that Plans Often Fall Through If you're just starting out, then it's likely no one is going to make your music a priority, especially if the band members have jobs, significant others, and similar obligations. There is no guarantee that any practice or any show is going to happen. My Dad likes to quote a line printed in the Nightlife section of the New Yorker : "Musicians and night-club proprietors lead complicated lives; it’s advisable to check in advance to confirm engagements." This is true for any musician, for the simple fact of being a musician. From the moment you plan a practice or book a show, up until the moment you planned the practice or are set to go on stage, you are subject to a change in plans; it's not worth getting frustrated over.
4 Listen You have to know your sound and keep your ears to the ground to make your opportunites. Gigs can materialize out of thin air, and its up to you to decide if its worthwhile for you and your bandmates.
5 Book Yourself If you see a chance to play music, take it and make the best out of it. Venues can be anywhere and anything, and you and your friends can play a party or in a park or a parking lot. Wherever and whenever possible, play out and get the experience.
