So how do I find a booking agent? You’ve asked the 64,000 dollar question, maybe besides ‘How do I get a record deal?’. But at any rate, finding a booking agent is not hard. Convincing one to bring you on is a lot more difficult. The best way to find an agent is to look who other artists are using or industry publications like pollstar Magazine. You can also never underestimate the simple act of playing around town and building connections and relationships. Just asking what others are doing and letting others know what you need is important.
Booking agents want to know a couple of things; how many shows are you already playing, and how much money are you bringing in at those shows. Since they work off a percentage, typically 10%, these are obvious questions. It’s a catch 22. Agents want artists with good income potential, indies need agents to get the higher paying shows that promoters are use too.
My last thought, being an independent musician in the music business is 10% music 90% business. Like it or not, this is the truth. So, I would put your booking efforts ahead of anything else you do. I know that’s not a glamorous thing to say, but in the end it’s up to you. But keep in mind, you’re not alone in dealing with this frustration.
Keep up the hard work!
Ben
SevenHat
