Proven ideas to pack your next show

A good live show can be the engine that truly drives your music career. Let’s make sure people are there to see it!

You put your heart into your performance, but playing to five people and a bartender can be soul-crushing. The problem isn’t your talent or a perceived lack of ability, it’s the promotion.
Here are 7 action-oriented strategies to help you fill the room, whether you’re playing a local gig or heading out on tour.

1. Announce the Show Like It’s an Event and Not a Gig

You must pique their curiosity and make them feel like something unique or special will happen.Don’t just post a flyer and say, “Come out if you’re free.” 

Instead:

• Make it feel like a celebration or milestone
• Use phrases like “One night only,” “This Friday is going to be wild,” or “You have to see what we’re bringing this time”

Takeaway: People show up when they feel like they’ll miss out if they don’t.

2. Text Your Superfans Personally

DMs are good. Texts are better.

“Hey! Playing [venue] on Friday [date] would love to see you there! Want me to put you on the list?”

Even if they can’t make it, the personal touch builds loyalty. You can also include a quick teaser about WHY they should come out for this particular show.

10 personal invites > 100 flyer reposts.

3. Collaborate With Another Act (Or Two)

More bands = more reach. Even better: pick acts from different scenes (like the next major city) to cross-pollinate your audiences. If coordinated properly and ALL the artists and bands promote the show, it can be a big win for everyone!

Bonus:

• Create a joint flyer that features everyone (not just the headliner)
• Film a quick “See you Friday!” video together
• Encourage each act to promote like it’s their own show (because it is)
• In the last set, perform a collaborative song with all the acts from the night

4. Use Countdown Posts the Week Before

Don’t just announce it once, remind people often! The gravity on fans to stay home and just watch Netflix is strong. Use highlights from past shows to promote the upcoming show. It taps into the idea that leaving the house will not only be worth it, it will be an experience!

Post something like:

• “7 days out” – rehearsal clip
• “5 days out” – throwback to an emotional show moment
• “3 days to go” – throwback to a wild show moment
• “Tomorrow night!” – stage shot or new merch teaser

Takeaway: Repetition + momentum = attendance.

5. Make Your Poster Shareable

You need to give your fans (and usually the venue) the materials that make it easy for them to share and do promotion for you. Static JPEGs of a cluttered flyer won’t cut it. 

Instead:

• Make square/vertical versions for IG Stories & Reels
• Include your face or band pic, not just text
• Add a link QR code or simple link-in-bio info
• Use Canva or PosterMyWall to make it look Read More