A few people I admire (and cyberstalk) are in the running for a panel at SXSW 2013 and you need to VOTE!

 

Okay, I’ve been privileged to sit on panels with Tess and Peter for NARIP and occasionally get to be around Gabe and Mark in LA. Without hesitation I am absolutely positive each person could be an outstanding single person presenter with more valuable information than you can handle. So you can imagine how intense a panel would be with all 4 of them? (“You’re gonna have to use your head, your brain and your mind too!”)

 

I would say Peter Sotos has the best firsthand information to share. Grayson Wray Project, a band he tour managed, actually drove all night from one gig to perform in my house the next morning during a music industry networking brunch. Peter is the co-founder of the Epic Proportions Tour, which provides a way for unsigned bands to make money while touring the country, as well as providing free concerts to high school students, and helping out local charities. All of this is accomplished through the use of alternative fuels, great booking skills, and lots of quick thinking and improvisation. A current tour of another band is being filmed for a reality show about life on the road, with exclusive footage of what really happens behind the scenes.

They have some of the most important information you should be seeking regarding bands, touring, sponsorship, and getting a draw in new market cities. Where most bands lose money, the Epic Proportions Tour is able to let bands share their music while getting paid, and keeping 100% of their merchandising sales. They will show you there are proven methods for making money while touring while discussing the common mistakes bands commonly make while trying to break into the touring scene.

 

You will also get answers these questions so you can live hardcore (And the legend of the rent was way hardcore!):

  • How do I find reasonable paying shows to keep the band earning money on the road?
  • How do I create a reasonable budget for road expenses?
  • How do I negotiate with a club owner or inside booking agent when I have no established draw in their city?
  • If I can only get a gig that pays on the door draw, what can I do to make sure that I bring fans to a city that I have never been to?
  • What types of companies are out there supporting new bands?

 

Vote at http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/vote/6181 and see them at SXSW 2013!