Live · 6 min read
Support slots > headlines (for now).
A half-full headline is a slow-motion morale killer. A packed support in front of a new audience is rocket fuel. Until you can reliably sell 300 tickets in a city, supports are the smarter build.
Why supports win right now
You play to a room that's already sold out. The headliner's audience is your target demographic. The promoter carries the risk. You walk away with a mailing list bump, socials followers, and — if you're good — a call for the next tour.
How to actually land them
Promoters book supports 6–10 weeks out. Follow the promoter, not just the venue — Parallel Lines, DHP, Bird on the Wire, Communion, Eat Your Own Ears. Send a short email with a live clip (not a studio track), your recent draw in that city, and 3 dates you can play.
The 30-minute set
Six songs, no album deep cuts, no gaps for tuning. Open with the loudest, close with the singalong. Say the name of the band three times. Tell them where to find you once. Get off stage on time — always.
Working the room
Merch table before the headliner, not after. Stand at it yourself for the first 20 minutes. Have a QR code to your mailing list next to the vinyl. A friendly hello converts better than any marketing spend.
Want this unpacked for your release?
Post in the community and we'll pull the whole roster into it.
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