In the ever-evolving music industry, securing gigs and live performances has become a mix of art and strategy. Whether you’re an independent artist, part of a band, or managing musicians, booking gigs is essential to growing your career. Luckily, technology has made it easier than ever to connect with venues, promoters, and audiences through dedicated platforms. In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 websites musicians use to book gigs and live shows, and why they might be your next best friend.
But first, a funny observation: during research for this article, I stumbled upon a Reddit comment that said, “You need to go to gigs and make friends with promoters, not sit around on Google.” While it may sound harsh, it does carry some truth. Building relationships in person is important, but these websites are excellent tools to get your foot in the door—or onto the stage. So, let’s dive in!
1. Encore Musicians
Encore Musicians is a highly regarded platform for booking performances, particularly in the UK. It’s ideal for solo musicians, bands, and ensembles looking to connect with clients for private events, weddings, and parties.
Why Musicians Love It:
- It’s straightforward to create a professional profile showcasing your skills, repertoire, and past performances.
- The platform helps match you with clients based on your genre and location.
- There’s a built-in review system that helps build trust with potential clients.
Pro Tip: Keep your profile updated with high-quality videos and photos—these are often the deciding factors for clients.
2. GigSalad
GigSalad is a popular platform connecting musicians with clients in the U.S. and Canada. It’s perfect for booking private events, corporate gigs, and parties.
Why Musicians Love It:
- A wide variety of gig opportunities, from weddings to festivals.
- Customizable profiles to highlight your unique style.
- A simple booking system that includes secure payment processing.
Fun Feature: Clients can leave reviews, so delivering a stellar performance can lead to more bookings and a solid reputation on the platform.
Pro Tip: Use GigSalad’s messaging system to respond quickly and professionally to inquiries—it makes a great first impression.
3. Sonicbids
Sonicbids is a longstanding platform that’s been connecting musicians with opportunities for years. It’s ideal for booking gigs at festivals, venues, and competitions.
Why Musicians Love It:
- Access to a global database of gig opportunities, from local shows to international festivals.
- The electronic press kit (EPK) feature allows you to send a professional portfolio to promoters and venues.
- It’s a go-to platform for indie and emerging artists.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of Sonicbids’ festival opportunities—many events exclusively book through the platform.
4. Bandsintown
While Bandsintown is primarily known as a fan engagement tool, it’s also a great platform for discovering and booking gigs.
Why Musicians Love It:
- Its fan notification system ensures your audience knows about upcoming shows.
- Tools to connect with venues and promoters directly.
- Insights and analytics about your fan base and where they’re located.
Pro Tip: Use Bandsintown to not only book shows but also build your fanbase by keeping them updated on your live performances.
5. Gigwell
Gigwell is a comprehensive booking and tour management platform aimed at professional musicians and their teams.
Why Musicians Love It:
- A streamlined system for booking, contracting, and invoicing.
- Integration with tools like Google Calendar to manage your schedule.
- The ability to track payments and gig details in one place.
Pro Tip: If you’re managing multiple gigs or tours, Gigwell’s organizational features can be a game-changer for staying on top of your commitments.
6. IndieOnTheMove
IndieOnTheMove is a favorite among independent musicians looking to book gigs at venues across the U.S.
Why Musicians Love It:
- Access to a comprehensive database of venues and booking contacts.
- DIY (Do-It-Yourself) approach to reaching out directly to venues.
- Affordable premium services like email campaigns and booking assistance.
Pro Tip: Use the site’s “Venue Search” tool to identify the best spots for your genre and audience size.
7. Bands For Hire
Bands For Hire specializes in connecting musicians with high-paying private events, especially in the UK.
Why Musicians Love It:
- Focuses on quality gigs, often for weddings and corporate events.
- A user-friendly interface that simplifies the booking process.
- Helps with marketing by showcasing your band on their website.
Pro Tip: High-quality demo recordings are a must for this platform—clients often make decisions based on the audio samples they hear.
Conclusion
Booking gigs online has never been easier, thanks to these seven platforms. Whether you’re looking for festival slots, private events, or regular bar gigs, there’s a platform tailored to your needs. While tools like these are invaluable, remember that networking and relationship-building are still critical. That Reddit commenter had a point—sometimes, meeting people face-to-face can open doors that no website can.
Once you’ve secured a gig, it’s time to spread the word. This is where UR-PR can help. UR-PR is a powerful tool designed to get your press releases and show announcements featured on top African music and Afrobeats blogs. Whether you’re promoting a one-off performance or an entire tour, we ensure your news reaches the right audience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do musicians book gigs online?
Musicians use dedicated platforms like Encore Musicians, GigSalad, and Sonicbids to find and secure gig opportunities. These websites streamline the process by connecting artists with clients, venues, and promoters.
How can I book an artist for a private event?
Websites like GigSalad and Bands For Hire specialize in booking musicians for private events. Simply browse profiles, check availability, and contact the artist directly through the platform.
How do artists secure venues for tours?
Artists can use platforms like IndieOnTheMove and Sonicbids to connect with venue owners and book tour dates. Networking with promoters and local contacts also plays a crucial role.
How often do musicians get paid for gigs?
Payment schedules vary. Some platforms handle payments immediately after the gig, while others depend on the agreement between the artist and the client. Gigwell, for example, streamlines payment tracking for musicians.
How often do musicians go on tour?
The frequency of touring depends on the artist’s career stage and goals. Some musicians tour year-round, while others focus on seasonal or album-related tours.
