How to Make a Band: Starting A Band The Right Way

In a perfect world, a great band would come together without much work – just you and your three best friends making rock ‘n roll magic. In reality, learning how to make a band come together requires a lot of hard work, networking and trial and error. If you’re considering starting a band, you need to focus on a few vital factors:

Musicians: This is obvious, but where do you find them? Potential band-mates might be lurking anywhere: Your workplace, the music store, your neighborhood. Go to local shows featuring the type of music you want to play, and get to know people. If you’re still at a loss to find compatible band members, look online. Sites such as Band Mix help bring musicians together with their music-only online classifieds. These classifieds could be a crucial step for you when figuring out how to make a band.

Equipment: It should go without saying that when starting a band all potential members of the band should be serious enough to have his or her own equipment. Instruments and amps aside, a PA system is a must-have if your band is serious. You don’t necessarily need one in the early stages, however, so if you don’t have one, put it on the to-do list, but don’t let it hold you back from getting the ball rolling – and don’t choose members solely based on whether they have a PA, either.

Practice space: A space to practice is absolutely vital when starting a band. If you’re lucky, one of your band mates will have a garage or basement suitable for practice. If you and your band mates are all tiny apartment dwellers or otherwise can’t use your own space, you’ll need to rent practice space. The upside of renting space by the hour is that it makes it serious – you’re not going to goof around when you’re paying for space, and the acoustics will likely be superior.

A demo: Once your band is formed and you’ve managed to develop some songs of your own, you’ll need to make a demo to give to club owners and booking agents. You can make a decent recording using home recording software for your computer if you know what you’re doing, but plan on pooling your funds to invest in a professional recording session. If you want to learn how to make a band get some good paying gigs, then remember that this is a necessary step when starting a band.

Web presence: It’s never been easier for bands and their fans to connect – and even if you’re not yet at the point of having a fan following, you need web presence to help develop it. Utilize Facebook as a supplement to your official site. Can’t afford a high-priced web designer? Check out our homepage to learn how to make a band website that’s professional and affordable.

A press kit: Young bands often snub press kits as being too commercial, then wonder why they’re not getting attention (and the bookings) they crave. Press kits should never be over looked when learning how to make a band. You don’t need a press kit if you’re content to play in your basement and the occasional battle of the bands; otherwise, it’s a necessity. Your band’s press kit can be digital or physical, and should always include a promo copy of your music, a professional photo and a professional bio. Treat your band as business as well as art, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals.

If you are one of the many people trying to find out how to make a band, then following these steps will make your life a lot easier, and your band more professional.  Remember, starting a band the right way will save you tons of time and headaches.