Where Can I play indie music in New york?
where should I start?
In the energetic and diverse landscape of New York City's music scene, finding the right venue can make all the difference for indie artists striving to get their music heard. From the charm of Brooklyn to the iconic stages of Manhattan, the city offers a plethora of opportunities for emerging talents to showcase their craft.
In this guide to the "Best New York Music Venues for Indie Artists," we delve into the importance of selecting the perfect setting for your performances. Beyond merely providing a space to play, these venues serve as platforms for exposure, networking, and artistic growth. Whether you're a singer-songwriter, a band, or a DJ, aligning yourself with the right venue can elevate your career trajectory and help you connect with your target audience.
From intimate clubs fostering a sense of community to larger establishments attracting industry professionals, each venue offers its unique blend of ambiance and opportunity. By strategically selecting where to showcase your talent, you can amplify your visibility, expand your fan base, and pave the way for future success in one of the world's most influential music hubs.
What are the best New York music venues for indie artists?
We’ll dive a bit deeper into our list later in the article, but we want to take a deeper dive into how to book your first gig. In this article, we’ll dive into how to reach out to a venue, how to set up a killer, eye-catching EPK and how to put your best foot forward once you’re on stage!
How to reach out to a venue as an indie artist:
Step 1: Research and Targeting
Venues get hundreds of outreach emails every single day. To really catch the attention of a talent buyer or booking manager, you want to make sure that you offer the maximum amount of value in the minimum amount of time. Begin by compiling a list of venues that align with your musical style, audience demographic, and career aspirations.
Consider factors such as venue size, atmosphere, and past performances to ensure compatibility. You want to make sure that you’re able fill out a venue and really make use of all of the space on stage. If venues typically book full bands, make sure you take note of that before you reach out. Look through online resources, the venue’s website and social media platforms to find valuable insights into each venue's ethos and booking process.
Step 2: Crafting the Perfect Pitch
With your target venues identified, it's time to craft a compelling pitch that sets you apart from the competition. Personalize your outreach emails to address venue bookers by name and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their establishment. This is where your research comes in handy - make sure you call out specifics about how you could bring value to their establishment.
On your initial outreach, introduce yourself succinctly, highlighting key achievements, accolades, and any unique selling points that make your act stand out. Be concise yet engaging, showcasing your passion for performing live and your commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for audiences. Don’t forget that on the other end of the email there is a person - if you focus on forming a genuine connection and be as personable as possible when you’re initially reaching out!
Step 3: Professional Presentation
In the digital age, your online presence is nearly as important as your stage presence. Ensure that your website, social media profiles, and promotional materials are polished, professional, and reflective of your artistic identity. The easier it is to identify and associate your online profiles together, the easier it will be for the talent booker to make their decision.
Include high-quality photos, live performance videos, and audio recordings that showcase your talent and stage presence. Providing easily accessible links to your music, upcoming shows, and press coverage can streamline the booking process and instill confidence in venue bookers. Don’t forget, the presentation matters just as much to the talent buyer as it does for the talent - if they have an easier time selling tickets, the more likely they are to book you.
Step 4: Follow-Up and Persistence
After sending your initial outreach emails, follow up with venue bookers within a reasonable timeframe to check in and see how things are going - you can feel free to ask if they had a chance to check out all of the material that you sent them and express continued interest in performing at their venue.
Be persistent yet courteous, recognizing that venue bookers are inundated with inquiries and may require multiple touchpoints before making a decision. Additionally, consider alternative avenues for securing gigs, such as open mic nights, showcase events, and networking opportunities within the local music community. As important as it is to get gigs (and it certainly doesn’t hurt if they’re paid gigs), it’s equally important to get exposure and get some reps in. By the time you hit the stage, you want to be as polished and precise as possible.
Step 5: Building Lasting Relationships
Beyond securing a one-off gig, cultivate lasting relationships with venue bookers based on professionalism, reliability, and mutual respect. Deliver exceptional performances, promote upcoming shows diligently, and express gratitude for the opportunity to play on their stage. You’re more than just a musician, you’re a person… and the same goes for them!
By nurturing these connections over time, you'll not only solidify your foothold in the New York music scene but also gain invaluable allies who champion your artistic endeavors and support your growth as an independent artist. A massive part of the music industry is who you know and being a friend to all can help you grow and thrive in the music biz.
how to craft a great epk (Electronic press kit)
Crafting a compelling Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is not just an essential skill but a strategic necessity for independent artists seeking to carve their niche in the dynamic realm of the music industry, particularly when aiming to grace the stages of the best New York music venues for indie artists.
How do I create a great epk as an indie artist?
Step 1: Choose the Right Format
Begin by selecting a format that best suits your style and genre. Common formats include PDFs (like the sample EPK above!), websites, or dedicated EPK platforms. Ensure that the format is easy to navigate and visually appealing.
Step 2: Include Essential Information
Provide a concise biography detailing your background, influences, and achievements. Highlight key milestones such as notable performances, press features, and awards. Include high-resolution promotional photos and album artwork that reflect your artistic identity.
Think of your EPK as your musical business card - make it POP!
Step 3: Showcase Your Music
Include samples of your music that represent your sound and style. Include links to streaming platforms, downloadable tracks, or embed audio files directly into your EPK. Consider including a press release for any upcoming releases or singles.
Step 4: Highlight Past Performances
Feature a list of past performances at reputable venues, festivals, and events. Include testimonials from venue owners, promoters, or fans to bolster credibility and showcase your live performance prowess.
Step 5: Provide Press Coverage
Include links or excerpts from press coverage, reviews, and interviews. Highlight any notable features in local or national publications, blogs, or radio stations to demonstrate media recognition and buzz surrounding your music.
Step 6: Contact Information
Ensure that your EPK includes clear and up-to-date contact information for booking inquiries. Provide links to your social media profiles, website, and booking agent, if applicable.
Our top 10 indie music venues in New york city:
Rockwood Music Hall
Rockwood Music Hall is a renowned intimate venue nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side. Known for its cozy atmosphere and stellar acoustics, it offers three stages hosting a diverse array of live music performances, ranging from emerging indie acts to seasoned musicians. With its unassuming charm and commitment to showcasing top-notch talent, Rockwood Music Hall remains a beloved gem in the NY music scene.
Bowery Ballroom
Bowery Ballroom, a legendary music venue located in Manhattan's Lower East Side, exudes historic charm and a rich musical legacy. With an impeccable sounding room and an intimate atmosphere, it has hosted iconic performances by both emerging artists and established bands since its opening in 1998, cementing its status as a cornerstone of New York City's vibrant live music scene.
The Red Lion
In the heart of Greenwich Village, The Red Lion is a beloved institution renowned for its vibrant live music scene. With its cozy interior adorned with eclectic decor and an intimate stage, it offers a quintessential New York City experience, showcasing a diverse array of talented musicians spanning various genres every night of the week.
Arlene’s Grocery
Arlene's Grocery in NYC: where the produce aisle meets punk rock and the checkout counter doubles as a stage. With its quirky blend of grocery store nostalgia and pulsating live music, this Lower East Side gem serves up a unique experience that's equal parts eccentric and electrifying.
Pianos
A Lower East Side hotspot combines the elegance of a piano bar with the edgy vibes of a rock club, creating a unique blend of sophistication and hipster chic. So grab a cocktail and settle in for the ride - it’ll be good one!
Gold Sounds
This Brooklyn haunt offers a quirky mix of vintage vibes and modern tunes, creating an atmosphere that's as Instagram-worthy as it is ear-pleasing. So grab a drink, shuffle in and get ready for the show of a lifetime.
Elsewhere
This multi-level venue in Brooklyn offers a labyrinth of dance floors, secret nooks, and quirky installations, making every visit an adventure. So lace up your dancing shoes, embrace the maze, and let the music lead you to unexpected delights at Elsewhere!
Pete’s Candy Store
A charming Williamsburg staple, Pete’s Candy Store offers an eclectic mix of live music in a cozy setting that's as sweet as candy. So grab a cocktail, indulge your taste buds, and enjoy the tunes at Pete's Candy Store - where the melodies are as addictive as the treats!
The Bowery Electric
One of the gems of the Lower East Side, The Bowery Electric boasts a gritty yet glamorous vibe, with its neon-lit stage drawing in crowds hungry for rock 'n' roll revelry. So plug in, turn up the amps, and let the sparks fly at The Bowery Electric - where the energy is electric and the music is electrifying!
Baby’s All Right
A sophisticated stage in Williamsburg that just oozes indie coolness. With its cozy atmosphere and eclectic lineup of live music acts, you’re bound to find something you love at Baby’s All Right. So grab a craft cocktail, kick back in a retro booth, and revel in the irony of feeling like a rebellious teenager at Baby's All Right!
Get out and play
From the iconic stages of Bowery Ballroom to the hidden gems like Pete's Candy Store, New York City is ripe with opportunities for indie musicians to shine. So, whether you're jamming at Pianos or lighting it up at Baby's All Right, remember to soak in the atmosphere, embrace the vibes, and let your music do the talking.
And don’t forget, if you need a hand navigating the labyrinth of the music industry, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Liminal Space Recordings. We'll help you find your groove and get your music out into the world - because in this city, the only limit is how much work you’re willing to put in!
