What are the most effective ways to find musicians to start a band?
I am a female vocalist, and I’m trying to find a band to join or maybe even start one myself. I’m having trouble finding bands that need a vocalist – especially a female one – and anything in a genre I’d fit into. Music and singing has been my biggest passion for years, and I really want to get out there and perform. I’m just overwhelmed by how to get started.
I’m into lots of different types of music as far as what I listen to, but what I would be comfortable with and passionate about performing would probably fall under rock (pop rock – think Paramore, alternative rock like Death Cab for Cutie or Silversun Pickups, or classic rock – Led Zeppelin, CCR). I would also love to sing blues/jazz/folk – think Alison Krauss, Eva Cassidy, Sarah McLachlan, Carol King, Jackson Browne).
I’ve gone to some local shows, and I’ve looked on Craigslist and myspace, but I’m wondering if anyone has some advice for what else I can do?
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8 Answers
Maybe go to places that sell instruments and ask some people if they’re interested in starting a band. I haven’t done it, but it’s worth a shot :D.
Oh and also there might be wanted ads for musicians in some recording studios.
Hold auditions. (And, start small)
Put an ad in CL or similar looking for a guitar player, not a whole band.
Hold the interviews in a public place during the day, where you can sit outside and a bit away from people, coffee shop or at the mall, for safety. Someplace he/she can play and you can talk and maybe sing.
See if you can find someone you would like to work with. Be up front about what you are doing, trying to get some gigs. Find someone who is into your style already, and is willing to compliment your vocals.
If you find someone, try to get some gigs.
Secondly, use the auditions as a way to interview everyone you see, maybe some of them are in bands, or know other players to start a band. Write down this information for future reference.
Good luck.
musicians are everywhere. post some flyers in coffee shops and music stores. Or if you live in Buffalo give me a call ;)
Come here! I need a singer just like you! :)
The easiest way is to go around your town and find out if there are any jamming sessions or small concerts (even karaoke might do sometimes). Anywhere where you could get a chance to go on stage and sing, or at least get to meet the band easily (avoid big concerts with thousands of people).
The great thing is that you can choose the band you like, go listen to them first, then talk to them. If you’re any good, 9 out of 10 would be thrilled to try something out with you.
Your biggest problem is that, being a woman, and especially if you’re attractive (even a tiny little bit attractive), complicates things. You’ll never know if they like your voice or your body (this goes for the audiences too). Or if the guitarist is serious about wanting a girl in his band, or just wants to get laid. This is unfortunately something that has always been true in show business, which is why we end up with so many untalented sluts over the decades, and have driven all the true artists away to become housewives.
Get a copy of Dire Straits “Money for Nothing” and drive around playing it in a loudspeaker van.
I’d say you’re right on with Myspace and Craiglist, search them frequently as well as posting your own “ads”.....Where are you located? Music shops and record stores usually let you leave fliers or posters….....kind of old school but even I look at them just for kicks and I’m not even looking for other people.
My best advice would to write and complete as much of your own stuff anyway, so that even when you find anyone it will be quicker and smoother to get stuff down.
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