Ok, so this blog is introducing the issue of lower turnout at rock shows, what's causing it and what can be done about it. I had a couple of non-specific thoughts in my previous blog, but here's my first "big" idea: reality TV. It's huge, everybody watches it, half the country participates in it. YouTube is out there for all the world to see, I say join in.
Shoot video of your band in rehearsals, hanging out, doing "stuff", doing nothing. Just keep shooting and then edit all that crap down to some cute/lame/funny 10 minute clips that you post to YouTube. And then promote the crap out of it. Get enough footage of the band actually playing music that people can hear/see what you sound/look like when you're playing. If they like what they see, if it looks like you're a fun, cool group of people having a good time playing music and hanging out together, they may want to join in.
On the other hand, if you're a bunch of immature drama queens with ridiculously poor judgment they might find you irresistible! Seeing how you are on your "reality TV show" might inspire some people to come see you live, whether they are fans or just can't resist the Simon Cowellish-ness of it all. Either way you're more than just a band playing music, you become a complete entertainment experience. Who knows, play your cards right and you could end up on same lame-ass MTV show -- and honestly who among us wouldn't jump at that! :-D
The problem and potential solutions are interesting. Add to the causes the fact that money is tight? Unemployment is high and disposable income for rock shows is less than a few years ago. Digital tools have made performances and DJs better than ever. DJs, I think, are cheaper than bands.
ReplyDeleteBut technology has also hurt some efforts. Why hassle with going to a show if you can just see/listne to it online for free?
I did try to buy tix for the B-52s this week and they were sold out, so people are still spending money for known groups. It's just the road for lesser known acts may be more difficult.
My ramble here may not provide a lot of insight, but I wanted to chime in.