7 Proven Strategies for Artists
Getting booked at music festivals is a major career goal for emerging musicians, DJs, and performers. A festival performance not only boosts your credibility but also exposes you to new fans, industry contacts, and future opportunities. According to a 2018 global study by Live Nation and MusicWatch, approximately 90% of concertgoers reported that discovering new music is one of their primary motivations for attending live shows, this trend has continued to grow since the return to the stage after covid 19. The study surveyed over 22,500 individuals aged 13 to 49 across 11 countries, including the UK, US, and various European nations. For a significant majority of attendees, the live music experience serves as a platform for musical discovery. The study revealed also that among those who discover new artists at concerts, a substantial portion subsequently engages with the artist’s music through streaming, downloading, or purchasing. This behavior underscores the pivotal role live performances play in driving music consumption and fan engagement, and the part it can play in boosting awareness once you’ve started distributing you music. However, securing those coveted festival slots requires more than just good music. It demands planning, visibility, and professionalism.
At MN2S, we’ve helped hundreds of artists elevate their careers by via music distribution or talent by getting them onto top festival stages. If you’re wondering how to get booked at music festivals in today’s competitive industry, this guide outlines the key steps you need to take.
1. Build a Strong Live Performance Reputation
Festival promoters prioritize artists who can captivate a live audience. Your live show energy and stage presence matter just as much as your music. If you’re starting off it’s unlikely that you are going to receive booking requests in the same way a well known talent on our celebrity talent roster would so it’s important that you:
- Play regularly at smaller venues and local events
- Capture high-quality video clips of your performances
- Collect crowd reaction footage and testimonials
- Share live content on your social media platforms
Why it matters: Promoters want proof that you can entertain a crowd and deliver a festival-ready experience. Capturing content is the best way to promote yourself and attract attention as well as making those in person connections.
2. Release Music Consistently to Stay Relevant
One of the best ways to get noticed by festival bookers is by releasing music regularly. Frequent releases help you maintain momentum, grow your streaming numbers, and stay on the radar of curators and A&Rs.
- Drop new singles or EPs every few months
- Use pre-save campaigns and streaming platform tools
- Pitch your music to playlists and blogs
- Collaborate with other artists to expand reach
Pro tip: Momentum is key. The more buzz you build, the more attractive you become to festival organizers. Make sure to promote this on social channels; this is often where you will be discovered in a visual capacity.
3. Create a Professional Artist Press Kit (EPK)
Your Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is a one-stop shop that shows bookers who you are and why you’re a great festival fit. A professional press kit instantly communicates that you’re serious and ready for big opportunities. Have this on hand when reaching out to venues and festivals.
- Short, compelling artist bio
- High-quality press and promo photos
- Live performance videos or reels
- Links to your music and social profiles
- Career highlights and press mentions
Remember: Your EPK is often your first impression. Make it count.
4. Research and Target the Right Music Festivals
Don’t waste time applying to festivals that don’t align with your sound or stage of growth. Instead, focus your energy on events that feature your genre and support emerging artists.
- Create a list of niche, regional, or mid-tier festivals
- Research their past lineups and booking patterns
- Track their submission timelines and guidelines
- Personalize your pitches based on each festival’s style and audience
Smart strategy: Start small and build upward. Festival booking is often a stepping stone process.
5. Develop a Strong Visual Identity and Social Media Presence
In the age of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, your visual brand and online image are essential. Festival bookers are looking for artists who not only sound great but also look marketable and fit the event’s aesthetic.
- Consistent profile photos, artwork, and logo
- A clean, mobile-friendly website or link page
- Aesthetic Instagram feed and behind-the-scenes content
- Engaging video snippets from shows and studio sessions
Goal: Make your brand memorable and instantly recognizable. Think about your stage presence and your brand as an artist.
6. Network Within the Festival and Music Industry
Many festival slots come through industry referrals. Building strong connections with promoters, event curators, and fellow artists can lead to insider opportunities.
- Attend industry events and festivals even as a guest
- Engage with promoters and festival teams on social media
- Collaborate with artists who are already performing
- Join online communities and music groups relevant to your genre
Key insight: Relationships open doors that emails alone can’t. Community is everything.
7. Promote Yourself Like a Festival-Level Artist
Your promotion strategy should reflect the fact that you’re festival-ready. The more active and engaging your online presence, the more attractive you become to bookers looking for artists who bring value and energy to their lineups.
- Share teaser clips of your live sets
- Post countdowns to upcoming shows
- Highlight crowd interactions and behind-the-scenes moments
- Show appreciation to fans and other performers
Remember: Social proof builds confidence in your ability to draw and engage a crowd.