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Hi,
I've been gigging in London for the last 8 years or so, as a solo acoustic singer/songwriter so I probably have played different venues, but I've picked up a few tips, so here goes.
You'll probably be on a bill with other bands, so be prepared to do a quick, professional soundcheck and get off. Also be prepared to share a drum kit and possibly amps with another band.
Nearly all venues in London operate a flyer system. The more flyers with your name on that your fans bring, the more you get paid. Be prepared to not get anything for the first 10 or 15 people, then about £1 per head for the remaining. Bear in mind this is only people coming to see you, as other bands flyers will have there name on! The rock garden in covent garden requires you to bring 50 (yes fifty!) people before they will pay you.
Be nice to the soundman! They are usually very pro, and can make you sound great (or **** if you annoy them). If youmake sure you always have a blank tape and a blank minidisc, they may be able to tape the gig for you, which can be really useful to see how you performed, and they can come out really well. I released one as a live album!
Do you own publicity - many venues don't even bother with an ad in Time Out, and you will often have to make your own flyers.
If you are asked to play for 45 minutes, do so, even if you have to miss out a song or two. I have known venues cut the PA mid song on a band that played to long.
Collect e-mails addresses or posteal addresses and build up a mailing list. Have details of your next gig available to the audience.
Read any contract carefully. I have been asked to sign contracts that require me to take full financial responsibilty for any damage to any equipment in the venue!
If you have CDs, advertise them, and try and sell a few.
London venues think that they are the be-all and end-all and that you should be very grateful to even get in the door. They aren't.
Enjoy it!
Cheers,
Phil Doleman
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