Starting the band

[Blues Disciple]

I've done this many, many times but this time I would like to start a band with the right sound, the right guys (as best as can be determined) and a well-thought out plan. In the past, I advertised for guys, we jammed, and if it sounded good...we were a band. Then we developed the songlist (jointly--each picked a few songs they wanted to do) and worked until we got some gigs. We had a great time, but the song selection was fragmented and too varied, the "look" of the band was all over the map, the guys eventually went their own ways, and just when it was going good, it all fell apart. I did better on other go rounds as far as having more continuity in set, sound and look, but we never got to where we had the potential to be.

 

So here it is: I want to start a band all over again (after a long break away from it--12 years) and want any hints on: finding musicians (tapes, videos, visit live performances, jamming, open auditions, etc.), and putting together a "musical package" as opposed to an eclectic mix of musicians. I want it to be all original music as well----and that original music be MY original music--again not an eclectic collection of original tunes from five musicians. And regarding the original music: Should each musician (when selected or auditioning) first receive a tape of songs, or should we just jam on some common, but similar style tunes then work into the original material after all members are selected? As for the plan, again I have my vision for dress style, audience to be targeted, appearance, etc...even down to various band names. As I am not getting any younger, I want to do it right the first time and hopefully be more successful.

 

As you can tell, I feel somewhat organized and know what I want.....any help on how to make it a reality?

 

BD

 

PS. Yes, I did post this on the Gig Magazine forums too, but I have enjoyed and learned from the comments on this board and am curious to get your thoughts and insights (even though this is not a keyboard-related thread)

[Jim Aikin]

Sounds like you want to be the leader. Which is cool. You'll do more work, but you'll be in a position to veto things (songs, appearance, band name, etc.) that don't work for you.

 

If I were an aspiring bandleader, I think I'd try to do two things: (1) Be clear with the other musicians from the start that I'll make the final decisions, so that they don't think it's a co-op band, and (2) make sure that they get some rewards and/or satisfaction out of being sidepeople.

 

For instance, invite them to bring songs they'd like to play (either originals or covers, depending on your concept). Make it clear that you want them to enjoy playing, but that you'll be the one to decide if the song belongs in the list or not.

 

--JA

[b_3guy]

Being a good band leader takes as much magic as being a good player or vocalist. You have to be flexable & accept other ideas yet at times be a dictator. Think & do everything yet still find time to learn your parts. Be likable yet still make decisions that can piss people off. Be able to pick people for the band that are good reliable players yet are not wicked musicians who show up at the gig without their guitar. I think it would drive me to drink.

[coyote]

To do what you're setting out to do, you must be willing to make yourself VERY clear on your objectives. Whatever solicitations you offer should read like a Help Wanted ad. If for example you want to do a Beatles cover band you'd have to specify which instruments you need, which era you'll be focusing on, how the band will dress, etc. The flipside is if you get the pros who'll fulfill your reqs you may need to pay them for rehearsal. And with that, you will be conducting auditions where you get to tell prospective band members what to play, and assess their talent & ability.

 

A completely different ballgame than having a garage band where all are equal....