Re: Getting the gig. Where did it all start?
So I want to know guys. I can't even count how many huge audio companies there are out there on tour with some of the biggest bands in the world. Where did they all start? how do you get a tour like that? We all know getting off the ground is tuff. Any suggestions on getting the gig?
First you don't get a tour as a start-not sure if that is what you are asking.
It appears as if you are asking one of three questions. One is how do you get started in the sound business. Another is how do you get a large tour. Another is how do you get in the rental business.
Correct me if I am wrong.
I don't know of any who started with a pile of gear-no experience- and went out on tour with anybody. They all "grew into it". Or already had some ties in the business etc.
You either get started in the business by working with local bands or working for a local sound company.
The only way you are going to get a tour is lots of experience or hooking up with a band and "riding along with them" as they grow.
Everybodies story is different.
I used to build all my own gear-because I had no money. So I started jamming with some guys (as a guitar player) and quickly realized that they were much better than me, but had no idea on PA gear. So I went to the other end of the snake to mix them. After a while we disagreed and since I owned all the gear (except a Sm58 and a broken mic stand) I started renting out my gear by placing ads in local free papers and posting ads on bulliton boards in music stores and so forth.
I never did an actual tours, but did a lot of regional stuff and "short runs".
Experience and trust is what will get you the most work. If the artist/promoter does not have faith in you, then you probalby won't get the gig.
It is one thing to work for a company and quite a different animal to own the company and have to wear all the hats. Different sets of responsibilities.
As I got more money-I got more gear (the endless cycle)