Information for musicians

Want to get booked here? Read the requirements before emailing.

Confirmed acts

How long do I play for?
You play two 45-minute sets, with a 15-minute break in between.
What instruments can I play?
Most performers play either acoustic guitar or keyboard, but you’re welcome to bring an electric guitar (as long as you keep it down), a djembe, a cello, or anything else relatively quiet.
Can I use a PA/do I need a PA?
Performers here have played both with a PA and unplugged. It’s up to you — whatever you’re most comfortable with.
Do you have a PA?
No.
Do you have a DI?
No.
Do you have a microphone?
No.

See a pattern here? (You’re responsible for bringing your own gear.)
Do you have 9-volt battery?
Yes.
Anything else?
I do have a pen, paper, a clipboard and assorted screwdrivers.
How many people can I have in my band?
Due to space constraints, only one or two people from the band can play.
What time should I arrive?
Load-in is at 6:30 if you have a PA. If you’re playing unplugged, you can come by around 7.
Can I have an opening act?
No. To keep the show logistics simple, and ensure the show is financially viable for you, I limit it to one act per show.
When do I get paid?
After your set, we pass a hat around, and everyone throws money in. Then you get the hat. (Then you take the money, and give me back my hat. :-) )
Do I get a guarantee?
No.
What do you need from me?
I need a high-resolution photo suitable for printing, your email address, your cell phone number, and what food and drinks you’d like in the green room.
Can I stay over?
I have a spare bed, which is usually available. If you need accomodation, let me know.

Prospective acts

I only book people I’ve gone out to see. This usually happens serendipituosly—I’ll like an opener or random band at a festival. Other times, I check out shows based on recommendations from friends. Unsolicited band requests make up at most 5% of the bands I book. (Note: I still need to see you perform first.) If you think my series would be a good fit, read on.

Requirements

For me to consider booking you, you must, at a minimum:

Please do not:

Please write a clear, succinct email. The following are examples of poor subject lines people have used when contacting me:

Here are a few examples of good subject lines:

How do you choose who plays at your place?
I ask people I’ve seen (and liked) to play here. I have to be confident a bunch of strangers who aren’t avid music fans (like me) will like you. I book acts who aren’t local to the bay area — people who wouldn’t otherwise get a chance to play a full gig here.
Can I play at your place?
If I haven’t see you play, let me know when you’ll be in the bay area, and I’ll check your performance out.
What if you’ve seen me play?
Well, if you’re on this list, you have an open invitation to play here at a mutually convenient time:

And some folks I’d really like to see live, but haven’t yet:

If you’re not, ask next time you see me.

There are, of course, other people who I’d love to see play here—but it wouldn’t be feasible for them to do so.

Should I send you a press kit?
No, please don’t. Just send me a link to your web site and let me know where I can see you play.