YJY are one of the big success stories of 2015. After a relatively short time together as a band, Steve Sachs, Dave Sachs, Tim Fitzpatrick, and Ricky Lorenzo signed a lucrative deal with Sniffling Indie Kids. Their touring schedule took them from the historic towns of West Central New Jersey to the basements of Central Central New Jersey to the stages of East Central New Jersey. They even scored "The CoolDad Interview."
Along the way, they picked up valuable knowledge about what it takes to become a successful band. When they offered to do their year-end list in the form of a series of tips for up and coming bands, I had a difficult time imagining anything that could be more valuable.
If you or someone you know are in a band that aspires to the heights achieved by YJY, then read carefully.
[Note: I'm breaking one of the Weird Tricks to Help Your Blog Succeed by not putting each item of this click-baity list on its own page, but that's because I love you.]
8 Weird Tricks to Help Your Band Succeed in 2016
by YJY
Wow! What a year it’s been! There were highs and lows; excitements and disappointments; laughs shared and memories made. In 2015, we truly learned what it takes to be a successful band, and now we’d like to share that knowledge with our friends in the scene and beyond. Here are 8 Weird Tricks to Help Your Band Succeed in 2016.
BE EXCLUSIVE
People like mystery. They want to feel like they're a part of something no one else knows about. How can you be sure no one knows about your shows? Easy. Don't promote them. Then everyone will want to go.
THE MORE THE MERRIER
People want bang for their buck. In an economy where we all want more for less, quantity equals quality. When playing or booking a show, there's no such thing as too many bands. Remember, it's important to keep concertgoers on their toes - for five straight hours.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
People often say, “Make sure you donate to the touring band.” Really? If they're on tour, they've already made it. Use the money to subscribe to Spotify. It's only 10 bucks a month, and bands get paid for every stream.
STEP UP YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME
These days it's easier than ever to record and distribute your own music. Anyone with a computer and access to the Internet can be a star. The real question is this: How do you stand out on social media? The answer? Post memes. Songs only last three and a half minutes. Memes are forever.
SHARING IS CARING
Sharing gear can be a touchy subject and that's understandable. Your Mexican Strat and Fender Frontman amp combine for a tone that's uniquely yours. Sharing your gear means sharing your sound, and that could be dangerous. It’s much safer to just share microphones. Use your sleeve to wipe off the last guy's spit, but be sure to leave it moist for the next guy.
ONLY PLAY SAFE SPACES
When you enter a DIY venue, it's important to take a close look around and make sure that it's a safe space. It seems like people became more conscious of this one in 2015, but it's still up to you to call out violations whenever you see them, so stay vigilant.
Be on the lookout for exposed electrical wires, leaky pipes, and broken glass. All exits should be clearly marked, and the venue should never exceed max capacity. If you feel that venue you are playing is not a safe space, stay calm and call the police.
"NO JERKS"
Tired of playing to hostile crowds that won't show you the respect you deserve as an artist? Just write these two words in your Facebook event page and no jerks will show up. For added emphasis, use all caps - NO JERKS.
UPGRADE YOUR DRUMS
You know better than anyone that your drums sound like shit, so you definitely shouldn't play them at shows. Here's a simple solution: first, come to the show empty-handed. Then, five minutes before your set, tell the singer of the headlining band that you need to use all of their drummer's stuff.
Best of luck to everyone in 2016!
- Steve, Dave, Tim, and Ricky of YJY
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