10 different ways to get your band a show

I know of at least a few bands Ive seen on Facebook or MySpace that have a bunch of recorded music, but don't play any shows. Getting a show doesn't require much. You need:

1. A reasonable set length. I know it seems obvious but to play a show when your band only has one song ready is not only ridiculous, but allot of work for eeverybody (unless your song is 15 minutes long or something.)
2.  Your own gear. At the least have gear borrowed before you show up. You don't want to show up and be running around asking other bands for gear. Trust me, it sucks.
3. Some recorded music that you can give to anybody your trying to get a show with. Even having something recorded on a program like audacity helps.
4. A reliable form of transportation. There is nothing worse than breaking down on the way to a gig. Again trust me, it sucks.

Once you have these it should be relatively easy. One thing that I didn't know how to put on that list is that its easier to get shows if you know some people. Getting out there and going to shows greatly increases your chances of meeting someone who can get you a show.

10 ways to get a show:

1.  Possibly the easiest way on this list is to talk to another band and ask if you can open for them. often times they can get you a show relatively easy.
2. Often times in smaller venues you can get a show by just talking to the venue owner and making a good impression.
3. You can do this face to face but its more likely that email will work better. Ask the booking agent if there are any open dates in your genre that need a opener (telling them you don't need to get paid increases these odds).
4. Find a few other bands that are looking for shows and ask a promoter if you can put one together with him. Remember though, allot of promoters are slime balls and will cheat the bands out of what they deserve. Just be careful.
5. If your starting to get some shows you can ask bands if you can get on there shows in exchange for putting them on yours.
6. You can just post on Facebook that your looking for a show to play on a certain date and someone will likely have a show they need a band for.
7. Set up a acoustic set, play on the street, and give out demos. its a good way to meet new people and make a little money.
8. Throw a party!
9. Anytime someone else throws a party its pretty easy to get a show. If you hear about a birthday party, Halloween party etc; then ask to get on. Generally they will be totally down. 
10. This last one is a whole lot of work but will give you allot of publicity. Put on a benefit show and get two or three other bands to play. Make the door cost a can of food or a donation and give whatever you make at the door to a charity organization. These shows are the best type because it gives you publicity, and helps out people who need it.

There are many other ways to get shows but these are some easy ways to get your music out there.  check out my band Skatter Bomb