Last installment dealt with setting up a showcase, and getting someone there to see the band play. As we discussed, it's sometimes hard to get that all-important executive to come out, even with meticulous planning and preparation.
The best method to insure that the executive attends is to attempt to get the label to rent a rehearsal studio, such as S.I.R. Studios in New York or Los Angeles, or Montana Studios in New York, for a private showcase. This isn't uncommon for a label to do if there is real interest. While it does preclude inviting any other labels, it will certainly bring at least one, if not several, key label people out to see the group perform.
Even if the label won't pay for the studio rental, a showcase in the studio has many advantages. By having it during the day, it's a lot easier for label people to be motivated to come, since they don't have to stay in town for a late night. Additionally, you can completely control the environment, with an extensive soundcheck, equipment of your choice, and no rush to get on and off for other bands. It also alleviates the pressure to get a crowd, as the label execs will realize it's a studio situation.
If you do end up doing your showcase in a club setting, there are several things to keep in mind. Most club shows feature a number of bands, so there may be pressure to get on and off quickly, and you may not get a soundcheck. That's a big disadvantage when you're trying to impress someone who holds your future in his or her hands.
The best scenario is to go on first. Let the promoter know this is a big night, and they will usually bend a little to make sure you get a good soundcheck. Depending on the club, it might pay to bring in your own soundman, someone who will give you that extra effort, and who will have listened to the music ahead of time to get a feel for it. If you do use the club soundman, slip him a little something before you go, and let him know you are doing a showcase. Hopefully this will motivate him to do a good job for you. Many house soundmen are jaded from too many nights of five or six bands, and just have a "set it and forget it" mentality.
And finally, get your friends, relatives, and anyone else you can, out to see you. Many A&R people figure if you can't draw people to a local club, how will you do on a national level? They often look for a positive response from the crowd, and it will influence them either on a conscious or subconscious level. Get your friends to make a lot of noise. It seems a little contrived, but it makes a difference1x
