Lots of singers and music makers struggle with the idea of forming a band—it’s tough! Starting to create your band can be super fun if everything falls into place. You can make your music even better and help each other grow.
Working with a group can make you feel more responsible and motivated. Knowing others are counting on you to write songs or finish a project pushes you to do your best.
But forming a band has its challenges. People might not always agree on ideas, and some might not pull their weight. It’s also hard to organize everyone.
In this article, we’ll talk about what to think about before starting a band and how to find the right people to work with on your music.
Let’s begin!
Things to Think About Before You Create Your Band
Type of your Band to create
Are you into classic rock? Hardcore? Metal? Maybe you’re into indie rock? Or perhaps you’re a singer-songwriter looking for a band to back you up?
It’s important to have a clear idea of the type of music you want to create. Sharing what music inspires you can help everyone understand your vision better.
Keeping an open conversation where everyone shares the music they love or recordings they want to emulate can keep everyone motivated and on track.
The role of each individual
Bands come together in various setups. Some have all members contributing equally, while others have core members with additional hired musicians or even a rotating lineup.
Usually, a solo artist takes the lead in forming the band and hires musicians like drummers, bassists, or guitarists to join them.
Though it’s less common, there are cases where all members have an equal say in the band’s direction.
For instance, Stewart Copeland, the drummer of The Police, also managed the band in its early days.
Apart from creating music, other important roles include recording engineers, mixers, managers, booking agents, and other administrative tasks within the band.
Often, band members handle these roles themselves instead of hiring external help.
Take the English rock band The 1975 as an example, where each member has a distinct role—Matty Healy as the frontman, George Daniel as the producer, and other members manage art direction and more.
The 1975 illustrates how bands can function effectively with members contributing to the group effort in diverse ways.
Strategies to work together
It’s always a good idea to figure out the best ways for everyone to collaborate effectively.
Having clear rules about how to bring new ideas and songs to the band can make it easier to work on new songs together and ensure that nobody’s time is wasted.
Do we need to record a demo with lyrics before we work on a song as a group? Do we have to bring chord sheets with lyrics to our practice sessions?
How do we decide whether to keep working on an idea or to move on and how do we communicate that decision?
While it’s fun to just jam and see what happens, it’s usually better to come to practice sessions with a specific idea that everyone can work on.
How to Create Your Dream Band?
Sign up for a local band program
Whether you’re still in school or if there’s a local academic institution nearby, there might be a band program you can join at little to no cost.
If this option is available to you, I highly recommend taking advantage of it. Not only will you receive excellent instruction and gain practical skills, but more importantly, you’ll have the chance to connect with others who share your interest in playing instruments.
Many talented musicians and bands have emerged from academic settings. For instance, Bad Bad Not Good, The 1975, Vulf Peck, and Arcade Fire all originated from high school or university music programs.
If you’re not currently enrolled in school, there might still be adult music groups in your area where you can play together. Even if you’re not an experienced player, consider looking for community choirs or bands that welcome amateur musicians!
Participate in the local scene
If band class isn’t your thing or isn’t available to you, don’t worry—your local music scene might be the perfect fit.
In a big city, there’s always a lot going on. Keep an eye out for local shows that interest you.
Even in smaller towns, there’s usually some kind of punk, rap, or electronic music scene.
Wherever you are, be open to exploring venues where local bands play.
Look out for posters on billboards and social media advertising shows, and make an effort to attend and meet people at smaller local gigs!
Meeting other musicians and going to shows is great, but your networking efforts will go further if you…
Create and distribute music demos
Actions speak louder than words. Instead of just talking about your ideas and desire to start a band, why not show other musicians in your circle what you’re working on?
Creating demos involves setting up a home studio and becoming familiar with recording techniques. Thankfully, modern music production tools make it easier and more affordable than ever to produce quality demos at home.
If you’re interested in building a basic home studio setup, you can find helpful information in our previous article.
Generally, you’ll need a computer, headphones, an audio interface, a microphone, and music production software to get started.
Once you’ve made some demos, share them in easily accessible places and don’t hesitate to let potential collaborators hear what you’ve been working on.
Organize a solo show
Although it can be daunting, performing a solo show can be a powerful way to attract musicians who share your interests.
Consider starting by searching for an open mic night at a local bar or cafe and signing up to perform two or three of your songs.
On stage, your music and style are showcased, giving others a clear idea of your musical direction and talents.
Record your performance either through video or audio. This serves as both a promotional tool and a way for potential bandmates to gauge your stage presence and musical abilities.
Take advantage of this opportunity to express your vision. Share what kind of band you want to form and the type of musicians you’re seeking.
Plan a jam session
Hosting a jam night provides a relaxed environment for musicians to come together and make music.
Select a friendly venue and invite guests who have various musical backgrounds and styles to encourage inclusivity and diversity.
You could also introduce themed nights, focusing on specific music genres or artists, which can attract musicians with similar tastes.
Approach the event with an open attitude and realistic expectations—jam sessions are about having fun and being spontaneous, allowing for experimentation and the exploration of new musical ideas.
Following the jam night, reach out to those you connected with. Even if they aren’t suitable for your band, they might be able to recommend others who are.
Wrapping up
Building your band is an exciting journey that combines passion, creativity, and a little planning.
Explore options like joining local band programs and connecting with musicians in your community. Each step brings you closer to finding the perfect bandmates so you can create your dream band.
Stay true to your musical passions and keep making connections with other musicians in your scene.