How to Book Gigs in LA for Musicians (part 1)

Gigging in LA Basics (Part 1)

LA is a really hard town to figure out as a new musician. Unlike most other cities, most venues require that bands/acts sell a certain number of tickets - even for their first show.

If you're looking to book your first show or still hustling to book your first few shows in LA, here are some tips to help you navigate the gigging landscape in LA.

3 Types of Shows/Ways of Booking Gigs - I'm going to get into actual locations and contact in separate videos.

Bringer / Guaranteed Tickets :: Mosting working with bookers and selling a certain number of tickets to get onstage. Many well known venues in LA book this way.

Open Mic :: Booking shows after playing an open mic at the venue.

Showcases :: Working with artist groups in LA to get in their monthly/bi-monthly showcases.

Submitting via Sonic Bids :: Online submitting to venues and festivals.

Putting Together Your Own Show

There are a few Drawbacks to each of these booking options : Things to Be Aware of /Look Out For
- Small Audience
- Burn Through Your Friends / they won't come to every show
- line-up isn’t always one genre - audience probably won't stick around

Best Practices
Spacing Out Gigs
Marketing (another video)
Have a clear reason to play each gig