Here’s the problem: we have a part-time band called BonJourney (Canada) which is getting amazing reviews – but no one in the festivals and event planning knows us, or has even heard of us Our website is: www.superiorimagecom.com/bonjourney.htm and you can go onto YouTube and type canada bon journey – and it seems to find us.
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Jay’s Answer: Start by listing your site on tribute band lists, such as: Tribute Band (where “Gary’s” Bon-Journey band is listed: http://www.bon-journey.com/).
Ideally, the website for the band should have its own website, not be part of http://www.superiorimagecom.com/ In fact, typing “BonJourney” finds your competitor in PA before you.
Have you looked at: FestivalNet? It lists the festivals and the type of music performed so you can apply to those with the “right fit”.
For event planners, have you looked at: Gig Masters or All-Time Favorites?
What about any of the meeting planner newsletters or magazines: http://www.mimegasite.com/mimegasite/about_us/subscriptions.jsp (for targeted mailing lists)?
Finally, how about networking with the fan clubs around the world? They love the bands you’re performing as tributes, and they’d no doubt like to see/hear you as well.
The other trick is not to pick a name already being used and then leave your employers confused as to who they hired. We’ve received assorted phone calls and emails regarding trying to get our rider information and publicity information regarding shows we were not aware of. It’s bad form. There are numerous tribute acts out there and tons of names. The party either did not do their homework and now is upset because the name is already in play or they did their homework and they are simply profiting on another. Either way — bad form.