New Year? It's Time for New Goals ✅

The beginning of each year is a great time to put together some action steps that will help improve your show, uncover new potential opportunities, plan out your income targets, and address potential issues concerning the effectiveness of your band, brand, or live show. For many of us live performers, January and February tend to be a slower period for shows and the perfect chance to make some plans for your year. 

Watch this video we filmed last year to get yourself started...

In order to help you plan out your year, we have made a document for you to try. Included here is a link here for you to grab your free copy of the Performer Yearly Planner below.

Making Plans

Here are the things you need to evaluate in order to gear up for a year of live music success.

1. Your Show - (Music)

• Innovate and Refresh: Begin by revisiting and refreshing your setlist. Consider incorporating new songs that align with current musical trends while staying true to your unique style. Collaboration with other artists can add a fresh element to your music.
• Rehearse Rigorously: Schedule regular rehearsals to ensure each band member is in sync. Focus on tight transitions, dynamic range, and expressiveness to enhance live performance quality.
• Technical Perfection: Pay attention to the technical aspects like sound checks, equipment maintenance, and acoustics for each type of venue.

2. Your Show - (Stage Visuals & Presentation)

• Engaging Visuals: Invest in quality stage visuals such as lighting, backdrops, and props that complement your music style. Consider themes that can tell a story or create an immersive experience for the audience.
• Interactive Elements: Look into interactive technology like LED screens or projection mapping. Engaging your audience visually can make your performance more memorable.
• Consistent Branding: Ensure your visual elements align with your band's branding for a cohesive and professional look.

3. The Venues You Work With

• Scout and Select: Research and select venues that align with your audience demographic. Consider the size, location, acoustics, and reputation of the venues.
• Build Relationships: Foster good relationships with venue managers and staff. This can lead to better performance slots and opportunities for repeat engagements.
• Venue-Specific Adjustments: Tailor your show (both music and visuals) to suit different venues, whether it's a small intimate setting or a large concert hall.

4. Marketing and Social Media

• Strategic Online Presence: Leverage social media platforms to create a buzz around your shows. Use a mix of live videos, sneak peeks, and engaging posts to build anticipation.
• Email Marketing: Keep your fanbase engaged with regular updates via newsletters. Share behind-the-scenes content, upcoming show dates, and exclusive offers.
• Collaborations and Influencers: Collaborate with other artists or influencers to tap into their followers, expanding your reach.

5. The Money You Make

• Financial Planning: Determine the minimum income needed for each band member to make the endeavor sustainable. Consider costs like travel, equipment, and promotion.
• Diversify Income Streams: Explore various revenue streams such as merchandise sales, digital downloads, streaming royalties, and fan memberships.
• Ticketing Strategies: Experiment with ticket pricing strategies like early bird discounts, VIP packages, and bundle deals to maximize revenue.

6. The People In Your Group

• Assess and Address: Regularly assess group dynamics. If there are conflicts or performance issues, address them promptly through open communication or intervention.
• Skill Development: Encourage band members to continually improve their skills and offer opportunities for professional development.
• Tough Decisions: Be prepared to make difficult decisions if a member is consistently underperforming or causing issues. The cohesiveness and professionalism of the group are paramount.

Final Thoughts

Preparation is key to a successful year of live performances. By focusing on these areas, a music performer can not only enhance their live shows but also strengthen their brand, audience connection, and financial stability. The goal is to create an unforgettable experience for your audience while ensuring the sustainability and harmony of your music group.