5 tips for booking shows as an indie artist

Playing live is still one of the best ways to build a real fanbase. It can also be one of the most fun and rewarding parts of being an artist. But that first step — booking your first show — can feel pretty daunting.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to play more regularly, these five tips can help you land better shows and build real momentum.

1. Know your fit — venue, vibe, and lineup

Before you reach out, make sure your sound fits the room or the bill. You don’t need to sound exactly like the other acts, but if you're opening a death metal show with soft acoustic songs, that’s probably not going to be much fun - or as effective at reaching new fans.

Of course, there are always exceptions, but starting with a good match gives you a better shot at making real fans and getting invited back.

Also, be honest about your draw. If you say you can bring 200 people and only 10 show up, it’s going to be obvious. You’re better off saying you're new and just starting to build a following. Everyone starts somewhere — even headliners played opening slots.

2. Connect with other artists

One of the easiest ways to get booked is by getting to know other bands. Go to local shows, talk to artists after their sets, support them by buying merch, and stay in touch. If there’s a genuine connection, it’s totally fine to ask if they ever need an opener or want help filling out a bill.

Music communities thrive on mutual support — when you show up for other artists, they’re more likely to return the favor.

3. Stay active on socials — and use them to promote

Before they book you, most venues and promoters will check out your online presence. They're not necessarily looking for huge numbers — they just want to see that you're active, engaged, and know how to promote.

Posting regularly, sharing past shows, tagging venues and other artists — all of that helps. And once you do get booked, use your socials to promote like crazy. It shows you’re invested in the show’s success and makes everyone involved more likely to work with you again.

4. Treat every show like it matters

Whether you're playing for five people or 200, take it seriously. Show up early. Be kind to the staff. Thank the sound engineer. Play like it’s a packed house.

Smaller shows are still valuable — you never know who’s in the room or who’ll be talking about your set afterward. Showing up fully, no matter the size of the crowd, is one of the best ways to grow your reputation and get booked again.

5. Make it easy to say yes

When you reach out to a venue or promoter, keep it short and to the point. Lead with what you offer, not just what you’re asking for.

Something like:

“Hey, I’m [Name], a [Genre] artist based in [City]. I’ve been playing locally and usually bring 30–40 people. I’d love to open a future show at [Venue] — especially something that fits [Genre/Vibe]. Here’s a live video and my site — happy to jump on short notice if needed.”

Also, make sure you’ve got a clean link or site that includes:

• a short bio

• a live video (if you have one - even a solid phone clip is fine)

• recent or upcoming shows

• contact info

No fluff — just what someone needs to hear you, see you, and book you.

Some final thoughts
Getting booked isn’t about hype — it’s about showing up, fitting in, and being ready. Be honest about where you’re at, support other artists, and treat every show like it matters.

And while live shows are one of the best ways to grow your audience, they’re not always easy. Many artists — including some of the most successful ones — deal with anxiety or stage fright. If that’s something holding you back, it’s completely normal. The good news is, it can be managed.

Check out this post and video on stage fright for practical ways to work through it.