Unlike covers gigs (where you have to try keep the people already there entertained) with original gigs, you will be under pressure to get the people to come and then entertain them too.

In the past, you would definitely argue that live performances were essential before building a following but, as with most things, I think the internet has changed this.

I personally believe that although gigging is still beneficial, that it is more essential to get at least a few of your best tracks down professionally and uploaded to Spotify and Apple Music etc. if you are serious about making a real go at it. You may just enjoy the thrill of being on stage but if you want more who than that, you will definitely need to allow fans to find your social media and original material online, especially if you want them to keep up to date with future gigs.

The events will often be run by a promoter. Sometimes sleezy, sometimes super. You need to get to know the most reputable ones in your area. This means the one who is going to give you the best ticket cut, provide the better quality venue and even the better quality sound engineer. They may also only do certain nights. Convincing your mob to come on a Monday night, is much more difficult than a Friday or Saturday.

It is definitely annoying when a very average band bring lots of people and end up headlining or winning a battle of the bands because of it, even though you know your band is much better. You need to think about the opportunities this presents. Being a band lower down the bill, you are likely to be required to sell less tickets and most people will be there to catch at least a bit of your set. You can spread all your promotional material around and if you are any good and your music is a fitting, the gig can be looked at as a potential hotbed of new fans.

As usual, your approach will differ depending on what you are looking for from the original music scene. If you were to do both, you would immediately see that there’s a huge difference in not only the venues and the audience you are playing to but also the buildup to the gig. Expect to be a part-time salesman when it comes to your original music.