Industry tips Advice for artists to consider before accepting that performance gig As a musician, a little tip here and there could help you in navigating your way successfully in the Nigerian music industry.

Industry tips Advice for artists to consider before accepting that performance gig As a musician, a little tip here and there could help you in navigating your way successfully in the Nigerian music industry.

Don't be labelled an ‘Osho free’

play Avoid being labelled as ‘Osho free’ (Pulse)

 

As a new artist on the scene, it is counted wise and strategic to take on absolutely free gigs as often as possible, but as you begin to get around a number of events, you should probably begin to charge a performance fee for an entry level artist.

At the very least an amount to take care of your overheard costs – from things like accommodation, to transportation as the case may be. Don’t be afraid to stamp your feet for this. Get talking with experienced industry professionals on how to go about your pricing and negotiations.

Timing is everything

play Timing is everything (Instagram/bankywellington)

 

Be careful not to be scheduled to perform at a time when people will be less focused on what’s going on in the stage. If possible try to have your performance come at the beginning, or around the middle of the roster of performances, there are times shows may end up not seeing itself to the end.

More often than not the fault lies with the organisers, so if you could have a say in it, by all means do get your self to perform early enough.

If it doesn’t go with your brand, don’t do it

play "If it doesn’t go with your brand, don’t do it" (Pulse)

 

Safe to say this is a no-brainer. As an artist you should know the type of gigs you take. An R&B artist probably would likely be a misfit in a place like the New Afrika Shrine where “Afrobeats” artists and those repping the streets are taking center stage.

Also, any event that does not match your values as a person should probably be skipped, because it will likely cross path with your music persona if even if both personalities are somewhat distinct.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the performance

play Immerse yourself in the performance (Michael Tube Creations)

Passion for your craft must precede anything else here. As a performing artist, you are meant to assume the role of an actor. The way you perform should paint a vivid or imaginative picture behind the story of the song.

You should also try carrying along the audience by asking them to sing along on a hook, line, phrase or word in the song you perform to.

Let your instincts guide you

play Let your instincts guide you (Pulse)

 

If you get to an event and everything seems to be disorganized, from processing admission tickets to sound check flops and not seeming to have prepared for unforeseen events like rain falling.

You might want to consider bailing on the event planners. Hopefully, no losses get counted or are minimized if you have ensured your overhead cost is at least sorted like point 1 explains.

http://www.pulse.ng/buzz/advice-for-artists-to-consider-when-looking-out-for-a-gig-id7184226.html