Alicia Rose – The woman behind the curtain

Club bookers can be an elusive bunch, but they stand between you and your next gig. Click HERE to check out our podcast interview with Alicia Rose, one of Portland’s most respected talent-buyers. She has tons of great advice to share, but here are 3 of her key points:

1) Know how to say hello! Getting to know the people behind the scenes is an important step that many musicians neglect and then suffer the consequences.

2) Don’t take things personally. Bookers get hundreds of emails a day. Just because they write back a quick no (or ignore you completely) doesn’t mean they don’t like you or your music. Just because they say “yes” doesn’t mean they DO like you or your music. Develop thick skin, and be persistent.

3) Don’t lie about your draw. Be realistic with your expectations for the evening, but sell the booker on why the show WILL be special, no matter how many people attend. Bookers are also interested in giving lesser-known acts a chance to grow into the venue.

Check out the podcast interview HERE and take her words to heart as you approach the club bookers in your local music scene. Now go get your foot in the door and your band on stage!

(note: at the time of this interview, Alicia was booking at a club called The Doug Fir Lounge. She is currently a partner and lead talent-buyer for Mississippi Studios. Both of those establishments are premiere mid-sized venues in Portland.)

-Chris R. at CD Baby

Start Sell Your Music on iTunes, CD Baby and More!