Hello,

I wish to start a local directory for live bands in my area. While the local scene is getting bigger, some of the venues just can't be bothered with the "hassle" of booking gigs. What can i do to get these acts some work and recognition? not to profit right now but to get the place pumping. Please tell me?

You may be falling into the trap of wanting to help the bands too much.

The bands really should be finding the work themselves. Offering a free half hour as a taster to local wine bars, pubs etc. who have the notion to encourage live entertainment.

At the end of the day, if a band is good enough, has gorgeous band members, play the potential chart music that 12-18 year olds will buy, have the right light show, sound presentation, the right guys picking up the snail mail/Email addresses for the fan base and flogging the merchandise...then the venue is going to benefit. Next week/month will have the 'sold out' signs outside and everyone benefits. The band wins [from the white label sales and database expanded] the venue wins from booze sales and food sales...so it's a total win/win situation.

So really what I am saying is that it is useless trying to 'help' bands who cannot help themselves. Talent and good looks is what the 'today' punters want.....very little to do with musicianship, sadly, so the bands who deliver will win. No amount of helping bands with directories will amount to anything! Sad but true!

Regards
DEC