While you might want to hire the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, or another globally famous band, they’re usually booked for months or even years in advance, not to mention coming with a steep price tag.
That often means turning to musical acts in your own local area, which will probably be a lot more affordable, yet the right one will bring plenty of excitement to any event you’re planning. Plus, when you hire a local artist, you’ll be supporting your local arts community, providing them with exposure and, likely, some much-needed income. And, you never know, you might be able to watch firsthand some of your favorites rise to stardom.
Attend Local Shows
If you have any venues in your town or a nearby city that host live music shows, start attending them as often as possible and talk to the bands you’re interested in afterward. Knowing the musicians in your area is one of the best ways to find top music talent in your own backyard.
Use an App
Talent apps allow you to book musical acts in your local area without having to go through a band’s or singer’s manager. That often means a lower price for you and more income for the talent as the “middle man” isn’t taking a cut. Apps like Special Guest App are easy to use and great for finding the best available option whether you’re looking for a band that plays classic rock and pop or in Oregon or rappers from Tennessee.
Be sure to read through reviews and find clips of prior performances so you’ll know what to expect.
Do a Google Search
Any band, singer or other musical act worth their salt will have a website which means a Google search can turn up plenty of options available right in your own backyard in most cases. Of course, if you live in a tiny town like Haines, Alaska, or any other remote location, the artists might be limited, but you could find one willing to do a livestream show for your event.
Check Out the Entertainment Available on YouTube
Performers have been flowing to YouTube to showcase their talents in recent years, which means you’ll have many to search through. While that takes time, it’s almost always fun listening to new music, and you might even discover a new favorite.
As there’s no charge for musical acts, or anyone else, to create a YouTube channel, many artists have been using the video streaming platform to get noticed and build a following. Odds are, there are at least a few in your city or a town nearby.
Ask Everyone You Know
Tell everyone you know that you’re looking for a great local musical act and ask them to ask people they know. The more contacts you have, the better, as odds are, someone will have a friend in a band, a friend that sings or does something else musically. When you get a recommendation from someone you know to have good taste (or at least likes a similar style), the act will probably be a great fit.