40 Ways Bands Can Use Social Media to Increase Engagement at Shows

If you’re a musician, you’re probably using social media in some way to promote your music, invite people to shows, and stay in touch with your fans. We do this so often, we end up going through the motions of engagement without thinking about how the activity affects our SMARTER goals or how we can apply some … Read more

How to Pitch Your Music

We’re already in episode 9 of the new Music Business Hacks podcast! Have you subscribed yet? Today’s episode is on making the perfect pitch. I specifically cover the ideas needed for creating a better “hook” for your ask, whether you are looking to get into the door of a label who is not accepting demos to finding … Read more

Music Business Hacks podcast & free consulting/books!

I’m very excited to announce my brand new podcast, Music Business Hacks! The Music Business Hacks podcast is a daily show for musician who wants to revolutionize their career with information, inspiration, and direct application. During the week, you will learn about specific things that you can do to take steps for your music business. Every … Read more

Monetize Your Music Summit

I’m going to be a part of SongCamp 2018’s Monetize Your Music Summit next month. It’s a free, live event that will stream short videos from over 20 speakers covering different aspects of increasing your income as an artist. You can register for free here. Note: the live event is during March 11-18. It’s completely free … Read more

How to Get a Record Label Deal

Two of the best-performing articles I’ve ever written were Unsolicited Music Demos: How to Get in the Door of a Record Label and Record Labels That Accept Unsolicited Demos. This has consistently been the case for nearly five years. It shows that artists are still desperate in trying to unlock the secrets of getting a record deal. The points … Read more

Set Design for Touring Bands

Many bands don’t think of set design unless they’re touring large venues on a regular basis. Even then, some only go as far as putting a large backdrop or banner. However, touring acts have the ability to kick things up a notch by applying some creativity, lessons from theatre, and special effects from magic shows … Read more

8 Things Every Touring Musician Should Carry

I’ve written plenty of travel tips in the past, from articles on saving money to hacking fly-out shows. Today, I wanted to provide some recommendations for specific gadgets, tools, and things that every road warrior should have. Aside from the obvious (extra strings, quality cases, etc.), these are some of the things that I keep in my backpack … Read more

Looking for Artists and Music Industry Pros to Interview

I’m going to be launching a new effort and am looking for artists and those who work in the music industry to interview/be featured. If you’re interested, please send an email to info@laststopbooking.com with the following: Name:Contact Phone:Website:Social Media handles/websites: Role in the music business (artist, producer, entertainment lawyer, etc):Your best tip for aspiring/independent musicians:If … Read more

How to Keep Your Tour Bus/Van Properly Maintained

If you are going to be doing any kind of extended touring, it’s important to do some basic maintenance and preparation on the vehicle to prevent any unexpected breakdowns. Some of the basic things that you can check on your vehicle and/or trailer should include: You should also have an emergency road kit with extra … Read more

4 Strategies for Using Linkedin in Your Music Career

Linkedin is a social networking site that has a specific focus on careers, education, and industry networking. It also happens to be a site underutilized by musicians. Here are some of the key benefits of using Linkedin as a professional musician: Like anything else, the content on there should be taken with a grain of … Read more