When someone says it needs to be more commercial,what do you have to do?

[barneysdad]

Playing in a band is frustrating as some venues say "it needs to be more commercial" if we did that though we wouldnt sound like us what are you supposed to do?

[JSK]

do absolutely nothing!! keep playing as u wanna play.... thats what makes music so good - variety!!

[WaldoMcFroog]

What they really mean is, 'Can you attract a crowd?'. They're not really interested in whether you're some pop band or not - if you're Death Metal crossed with Sigur Ros (I'd listen to that!) but get a crowd in, that'll do.

Although many venues are run by music fans, they still have to pay the bills - which is why you see so many of the best slots - Friday and Saturday - taken up with cover bands. They may be horrid, but they get a crowd in.

If you don't get a huge crowd, do you know other bands with a compliamentary style but separate audience? Could you present yourselves as a package? My old band did that and it worked very well. Just try and keep your egos in check!

[kevb0444]

Hi..JSK and Waldo both make good points..but also look at the venues you play at. Where i live (and used to play) alot of venues themselves had there own "vibe" 1 club would do all the "Rawk" while 1 would do the more mellow stuff and so on. Try to pick a venue that suits you!! I know it can be hard but keep your ears open and check the places out first.

[josy]

Unfortunately barney Waldo is right, they are only interested in pulling a crowd and making themselves money. It depends if you are into doing the clubs to earn yourself a living, many of the pop tribute bands can earn upto �1500 a night cos there giving the punters what they want to here.Most people go out to get p"ssed and dance all night, and are'nt that interested in talented musicians. If you want to specialise in a certain sound then your going to have to get a following, fans who want to see YOU perform and appreciate what their listening to. You can do it, its a lot easier to get bookings if you've got a following, and if people are leaving the venue talking about the band they've just seen. Keep at it, and believe in yourself.