Growing your career as a muscian requires practicing your craft, building your fanbase, and branding yourself so that fans remember your name. One way to grow your fanbase is by opening for bigger-name acts. SonicBids artists have a chance today to do just that by opening for rapper Pharaohe Monch. 

Growing your fanbase

Getting in front of new audiences is key. With so many ways people  find new music these days, there's no single place for discovery anymore. But one thing's certain: nothing can replace the live show. All the digital downloads and streaming services won't replicate the feeling of a bass groove in a dark club. The people that go to live shows are the dedicated music fans. They are the mavens that find new bands first among their friends. That's why these are the fans you want to win over first. 

Switch it up

If you're used to headlining shows at 80-100 cap rooms, maybe it's time to switch it up. Take an opening spot with a bigger act in a bigger room. You get the chance to perform for the headliner's core fanbase, and potentially win some new fans. Exposing new ears to your music is key to getting ahead. 

This business is all about relationships. Performing with other bands and acts enables cross-pollination of fanbases. You should encourage your fans to come early and stay after your set to hear the other groups performing with you. Spread the goodwill around. No group wants to see the floor empty after the previous band finishes. 

Find the right artist to open for

This is where Sonicbids can help—we post opening and support-slot opportunities all the time. Check out our Gig Finder page to search for your area. See what's available today, and use your membership to apply. Opening for someone elses album release is the perfect chance to get more fans. The audience for these shows are dedicated music fans, who like to support the artists they like. Sounds like just what you're looking for. 

Meet Pharoahe Monch

A rapper from Queens, New York, Pharoahe Monch was one half of Organized Konfusion. His album PTSD comes out on April 15. We sat down with him to get his advice for rising Hip Hop artists.

SonicBids: As a hip hop legend, what qualities do you look for when choosing a support act for a live show?

Pharoahe Monch: [They've got to be] unique, original talent, along with a distinct voice or content. Also stage presence and respect for the opportunity is key.

SB: How can a support act make their performance stand out with the time that they have to showcase their craft?

PM: They have to make a connection with the audience. Always put out their most powerful music at the top of the performance.

SB: What is the most important asset for an artist on the rise to bring to the table when working with a well known act?

PM: A showing of love for the arts, as well as the foresight on their career and longevity.

SB: What were some stepping stones that helped advance your career?

PM: Practice. perform. practice. perform.

Check out Monch's website to see what he's all about. Then apply to open for him at his album release show in New York on April 15. Pharoahe knows how to put on a good show, and he's bringing some amazing guests to perform with him. If you are serious about expanding your fan base, you don't want to miss this opportunity.