When Am I Ready to Tour?

**As featured in Indie on the Move's Touring Tips Section.

If you are considering going on tour, there are a few prerequisites that must be met in order for you to make everything happen:

To begin with, you MUST have a band website, IndieOnTheMove.com profile, or any other webpage or online destination where music venue bookers and talent buyers can listen to your music and get a vibe of what you’re up to.

+Free eBook: Quick Fix! 12 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Band Website

You should also have a hardcopy press kit or EPK (electronic press kit) at your disposal if a booker requests it, but from our experience a direct link to your music and a YouTube video clip goes a long way when pitching your band to a new music venue.

+What Should I Include in my Press Kit and/or EPK?

Above all else, prepare yourself and your bandmates for the LONG journey ahead.

+10 Things Artists Often Overlook

+How to Get From "Local Artist" to "Touring Musician"

+Blasko Talks About the Touring Business

Show Booking Strategy


As far as booking strategy and breaking into new markets goes, we recommend starting small and scheduling weekend trips and regional tours before tackling the entirety of this great country. From there, radiate outwards from your hometown in growing concentric circles.

+How Do I Plan A Tour?

As you develop a presence and reputation (preferably a good one) in new markets, use those as your anchor dates as you try new cities. Over time you will slowly build your own circuit and a reliable network of other bands with which you can really make touring a full time gig.

+Establishing New Market Contacts

And NEVER forget to nurture your relationships and professional resume in your hometown (+Don't Kill Your Hometown Crowd), that is your bread and butter.

Related Blog Posts:

+How To Delegate Tour Booking & Promo Responsibilities