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How to collaborate with other bands
By BandManager · 1 min read ·
Bands that help each other grow faster. A shared show adds audiences, splits costs and opens doors to venues in another city.
Who to collaborate with
- Bands in a close but not identical style: you add audience without competing.
- Bands from another city who want to play yours.
- Acts with an active following and good relationships with venues.
How to propose it
- Write a short message: who you are, what you propose and why it fits.
- Offer a clear swap: "you play our city and we play yours".
- Link your press kit and a live video so they can judge.
- Offer something extra: an introduction to a venue or shared contacts.
What to agree beforehand
- Running order and length of each set.
- How the fee or the door is split.
- Who provides backline and who is the venue contact.
- Who promotes and on which channels.
- Shared costs: transport, accommodation, meals.
Keeping the relationship going
Keep to what you agreed, share their music and propose another date. A band you have played well with is the best recommendation to other venues and other cities.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gig swap?
Two bands from different cities arrange to play each in the other’s city, using each one’s local contacts and audience.
How do I split the money on a shared show?
Usually equally after costs, or by billing order and draw. Agree it beforehand, in writing.
What if one of the bands does not promote?
Make clear from the start what each band is expected to do. If they do not deliver, weigh whether to collaborate again.
Dates and contacts in order
BandManager brings together your shows, venues and contacts so you can organize swaps without losing track.
Keep reading
- How to get gigs with your bandA method to book shows without relying on luck: work out how many venues to write to, choose well, follow up and measure. With templates.
- How to split money in a bandHow to share income and costs between band members: a band fund, equal split or split by work, and how to avoid arguments.
- Tour day sheet: what to includeHow to prepare the day sheet for a show or a tour: times, contacts, load-in, sound and accommodation. With a checklist.
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