Tips for Hiring a Rock Band on The Bash

A live music performance creates a unique atmosphere and fun vibe at any event, big or small. If you want your celebration to really rock, then you should hire a rock band (obviously!). But, how do you know how to hire a rock band? Well, that's where we can help. 

Here are some tips to hire a rock band on The Bash:

Do Your Research

It’s important to learn as much as you can about a band before you book them. The more research you do, the better your chances of having an enjoyable music experience at your celebration.

For starters, look for bands that play the style of rock music that you think would fit best with your event. This will help guide you in your search. While it may be easy to assume that every rock band is able to play your favorite type of rock music, it’s important to avoid that assumption. 

Most bands have their own style and sometimes have a specific genre/era that they like to play. An easy way to figure out whether or not their music fits your taste is to watch videos of past performances on their profile on The Bash, or even ask to see if you can come see them perform live.

Moonshine guitarist Jeff Boomhower advises, "When hiring a rock band, look for a band that fits the demographic of the audience and adds to the atmosphere of the event you are having. Rock Bands can range from soft rock to hard rock. Make sure you listen to a range of the bands' songs. Remember, Grandma doesn't want to listen to death metal and hard core rockers don't want to hear Elvis!"

Hire a Professional

Professionalism is a vital characteristic that any performer should have in order to be successful in satisfying their client's needs. Grant Petty, lead guitarist of The Sun Dogs emphasized the importance of booking a band with a track record of professionalism and reliability, as shown by client feedback, but also by their responsiveness to any questions or concerns that you may have.

The first thing you want to look at in a band is their reputation. Do they have a reputation for being good at what they do? Look online to see if they have videos of their performances so to see what they look like live. Also, if they have any social media platforms, look if they handle themselves professionally online.

Discuss Details Ahead of Time

Before hiring a rock band, it is essential to communicate your event details to the potential performers. Describe your desired vibe, dress code, unique information about the guests attending, and schedules. 

Be prepared for the band to have some questions as well, including, choosing the right location for the band, power requirements, and alternate power sources; and a proposed timeline for the entire event including load in time, set up, food, down beat, breaks, teardown, and load out. 

Once you have hired a band, make sure to let the band know any song requests you may have. Some bands are willing to learn new songs if asked with enough notice. And of course, check out the band's current song list. It is important that both parties understand and agree on the music. 

"Great bands have a large list of music they can play. The client should look it over and make selections.  Pick more selections than the band could possibly play and then have the band create their setlist around your wishes.  Then you know they'll play what you want to hear," advises lead vocalist Robert Adams of STEAL DAWN.

Ask Questions Before You Book

Before hiring a prospective rock band, here are some questions you should ask:

• What styles of rock music do you play?
• Have you done this type of event before?
• Is your music specifically covers, original songs, or a mixture of both?
• How many gigs have you played?
• Where have you performed in the past?
• What type of equipment do you have? (Lighting, sound, amplifiers, etc.)
• Do you have any references?
• Does the band allow or encourage participation from the audience?
• Do you take requests?
• How long has the band been together?
• What are your overtime rates?

Asking questions will help narrow down your field of prospective bands to aid you in choosing the best fit for your special occasion. Check out our other article on 7 Topics to Discuss before paying a non-refundable deposit for some more questions that can be helpful when you hire a rock band.

Find a rock band on The Bash today.

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