Artist Showcase 101

As an artist manager and consultant, I have been to many artist showcases. Not only am I there to observe the talent, but also to observe the artists and how they handle themselves in that environment. Artists need to know that there is a lot more than just getting on stage and performing. In order to assure that the artist will have a successful appearance, artists need to put in the effort to also network, know how to approach the DJ, take pictures with potential fans and other artists.

As an artist, the one thing on your mind constantly is being the best at what you do. Therefore, your focus is all on the performance you put in the studio. Constant studio time is all that the artists are focused on. So, say you have the hottest song and decided to perform that song in a showcase. If you’re not networking at that same artist showcase, you will be quickly forgotten. A lot of times I see an artist perform at these showcases, and as soon as their performance is over, they bounce. No networking, no pictures (except what was taken of him/her on stage), no thanking the DJ after the show. NADA! Then they complain when the DJ doesn’t F#ck with them, they don’t have any extra followings in their social media, or more views on their new video. Well, here’s what needs to be done. In this episode Blog, “Artist Showcases 101”, MegaFamLove will outline what it takes to make your showcase a success.

The last time I attended a showcase it was the IndieFest 2018, hosted by the DJ Showtime and DJ Yo-Yo, an amazing event. I had four artists signed up for the event, and hired a videographer for the night. Here are some pointers:

As soon as you walk into the club, the first thing you need to do is approach the DJs, or the host, to let them know you’re in the building, and/or sign in for your performance. This is important whether or not you’re performing, to let the DJs know you support them.

• Then you should grab a table, flag a waitress and start ordering. The best thing is to buy a couple of bottles, but if you don’t have it, a couple of drinks for you and your guests, will do. I saw a lot of artists just standing by the bar watching other talents and artists perform. No drinks, no networking, no pictures. It was almost as if they were auditioning to open up for Lil Wayne or something. Not good. Even if you have a table with a couple of bottles, you cannot just hang out at your table all night without networking.

• After about an hour or so, you should get up, walk around, pass out some cards, share your social media, let the people know who you are, and that you’re about to do a hell of a performance. Don’t be shy to ask to support the performance and you would do the same, if s/he is performing.

• Taking pictures in the club, BEFORE turning up, is critical. You do not want to look faded in your photos, you’re there to work, not party. Other prospects that are looking to work with you, will not take you seriously. You can celebrate after work. Be sure to take pictures with the DJs and hosts as well.

• If you’re performing at a strip club and this very important, ask the DJ to shout you out while you’re showering one of the dancers with dollars. This way, you get the attention of not only the DJ, but also the people at the club, the ones that are about to watch you perform.

• Try not to get faded BEFORE the performances. You will start looking sloppy on stage, forget your lyrics, and maybe even stumble a few times. You don’t want to look faded in pictures either, so let the turn up for AFTER your performance.

• Before, and ALWAYS after your performance, be sure to show love to the DJs the, promoters, the club, the people. It is very important to always shout out your Instagram, and other social media, but NEVER forget the DJ, the promoters, and the club itself. You don’t want to come off as you don’t need them, or appreciate them.

• Don’t leave right after your performance. Stick around and continue networking. Visit the DJ booth and take pictures. Take some pictures with some fans and other artists. Ask the people if they liked your performance, what they thought of the song. It is very important to always continue engaging in these events.

• After watching others perform, be sure to come up to them after their performance and give them feedback on their song and performance. I know a lot of artists won’t do this, but believe it or not, you will be so surprised how many artists DO appreciate the love.

• When finally leaving the club, be sure to say goodnight to the DJ and/or the hosts. Say goodnight to some of the ones you networked with. Also, show love to the cashiers and door men. Trust me, they appreciate that too, and will remember the next time you come thru the club.

Well, this is just about everything you can do to assure a successful performance night. Artist, I cannot stress this enough when I say, you have to get yourself out there. Perform at almost every opportunity. Also, invite other artist you network with to perform on the same night. Get other artist and their fans to show love at your performances and let them know you will do the same. It’s all about getting supported to build a bigger brand.

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Gigi Feliz

MegaFamLove