Analysis: whether it's a folk duo, a jazz quartet or a metal band, there are a few things you can do to make the process run smoothly
Many people dream of starting or joining a band. While it might look fairly straightforward from the outside, being part of a band has all kinds of unexpected complications—especially if you want to play professionally. Miscommunications, creative differences, scheduling conflicts, tough business decisions, and personality clashes are just a few of the issues that bands encounter. But whether you’re starting a folk duo, a jazz quartet or a metal band, there are a few things you can do to make the process run smoothly.
Have a vision for the band
There are lots of reasons to start or join a band. You may want to have a career as a touring musician or play occasional shows at local venues or just want to have fun making music with friends. There’s no right or wrong reasons, but it can cause issues when people in the same band have conflicting expectations. Having a clear vision of what you want to do with your band will help you find the right people to do it with.
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From RTÉ 2fm's The Music Biz, artists and industry insiders talk about the importance of gigging and live music for new acts
Make sure everybody knows what’s expected of them
Finding the right people is not just a matter of picking the right instruments. The personality, playing style, and drive of the musicians are often even more important. A band needs to be able to work well together and handle stress if they intend to perform and tour. If you’re playing with friends, talk to them about their future plans; if you’re joining an existing band, ask them what their goals are; if you’re auditioning people for a band you’re starting, ask them what they want to get out of the experience.
Make it clear what the expectations are
Communicate clearly exactly what will be required of each band member. How much rehearsal time is required? Are band members expected to help fund purchases of equipment, studio time, marketing, publicity and all of that? What happens if a band member can’t make practice—or even a show? The more of these details that are decided on at the beginning, the less chance there will be for disagreements later on.
Have a written band agreement
Once you have the details worked out, make sure you write them down and get your band members to read and sign the agreement. This helps to ensure that everybody is on the same page, and gives you something concrete to refer to later on if issues do arise. A band agreement should also spell out who owns the name of the band, how any payments and royalties will be divided and how decisions are made within the band.
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From RTÉ 2fm's Dave Fanning Show, music business lawyer Willie Ryan's advice for new bands
Set goals for your band
Clear goals can help focus your practice time and give you something concrete to work towards. These goals should reflect what you want from your band experience. Maybe the point is just to have a good time playing music with friends, in which case your goals might be to learn new songs or just to walk out feeling great after practice. Performing bands might set goals such as writing new songs for an upcoming release or practicing for a show they have booked.
Pick a regular practice time and stick to it
Scheduling conflicts are one of the most common sources of strife for new bands. Schedules are always very busy, but a band's members must be committed if they are going to perform professionally. Setting a practice schedule and establishing clear rules for attendance is one of the best ways to make sure your band is progressing and your band mates are dedicated to the process.
Don't forget the business side
Making music is fun, but keeping up with the business end is generally not. If you want your band to be a business, you have to treat it like one. Make sure your songs are properly registered so you’re getting the right royalties. Talk to other bands to about what they’re getting paid for shows, so you know what to ask for when you book a gig. Make sure you’re marketing the band and building your audience.
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From RTÉ 2fm's Dave Fanning Show, Eoin Sweeney on some of the worst deals ever signed in the music business
Think about your brand and who your audience is
Each band’s sound is different, but thinking about other bands whose sound and aesthetic is similar to yours can help you identify your audience and find the people who are waiting to hear your songs. This will make your marketing a lot easier.
Find people whose advice your trust
Whether it’s an extra pair of ears to listen to a new song, or someone to discuss interpersonal issues within the band, you will need people you can trust to give honest advice and opinions. Some bands even designate someone outside the band to help settle internal disputes when they arise. These people can be family members, friends, a member of another band, or an artist manager; anyone whose advice you trust, and who cares about you and your music.
Get help when you need it
Lots of bands today are choosing to go DIY and do most of the work of being a band by themselves. There’s a lot to be said for this approach, but don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it. If you find marketing stressful, or you’re spending more time booking shows than practicing for them, look for somebody to help. And you should definitely seek legal advice before signing any contract that could have long-term impacts on your career.
Finally, remember that what matters most is the music, and that the people playing it are having a good time. If you love what you’re doing, people will love hearing you do it.
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or reflect the views of RTÉ
