It’s virtually impossible for a new artist to go out on tour and make money. Let’s even assume that everyone in the band has money from other means (aka.. A Day Job) and you don’t have to pay the musicians; The costs of rehearsal, equipment, travel, hotels, agents, managers, etc, are more than any new band fresh out of the gate can earn. Even mid-level artists are blessed to break even on the road. So why should you tour if this is the case? To become better known, build your following or fan base, sell more merchandise, products, and records. Let’s not forget the fact that experience helps you polish your act which hopefully equates to booking more shows, bigger venues, and that much needed exposure to help take you to the next level. Most new to mid-level acts break onto the scene, get booked as an opening act and has lousy performance skills that diminishes their chances of a long term career in the music industry.
Take your time, polish your act, and connect with your fans. Stay in the trenches for as long as you can. One of the many pros of performing on tour is your chance to make a difference in the life of your fans. Remember, it’s not about you. The fans didn’t pay to come hear you complain about how shitty your personal life is, but to help take them away from how shitty theirs may be.
John Calwile Vinestreet is currently consulting for several national and international independent artists as well as consulting on a music reality TV show being pitched to NBC with promising results. He is available for seminars, industry panels, motivational speaker, and industry conferences. For more info or to connect with him visit: http://www.vinestreetmusicconsulting.com, www.facebook.com/john.vinestreet, www.twitter.com/john_vinestreet
