Strategic Tour Planning: How Bands Select Cities for Their Tours

Bands and their managers must carefully consider multiple factors to determine the cities they should include on their tours. This process involves assessing fan bases, conducting market research, selecting suitable venues, and considering logistics. Balancing these elements can help bands maximize their reach and ensure successful shows.

Understanding Fan Demographics

One of the primary factors bands consider is the fan base in each city. By analyzing data from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify, bands and their managers can identify where their audience is located. For example, if a band has a significant following in Paris and Amsterdam, these cities could be prioritized for live shows.

Conducting Market Research

Promoters and booking agents conduct market research to find where the band's genre is popular within a region. This involves analyzing ticket sales from similar artists and local music trends to determine which cities are most receptive to the band's music.

Selecting Suitable Venues

Choosing the right venues is crucial for a successful tour. Factors to consider include the size of the venue in relation to the expected audience and the logistical challenges of moving equipment between cities. Band managers often aim to find venues that can accommodate their fan base without being too small or too large.

Managing Logistics

Logistics play a significant role in tour planning. Bands need to consider travel routes, transportation costs, and the feasibility of moving equipment between cities. A well-planned route can help minimize travel time and costs while ensuring that equipment is safe and intact.

Building Relationships with Local Promoters

In some cases, established relationships with local promoters can influence decisions. Promoters often have valuable insights into the best cities and venues for a successful show. They can provide recommendations based on their experience and local knowledge.

Considering Season and Timing

Certain cities may be more favorable at specific times of the year due to local events, weather, or competing concerts. By being aware of these factors, bands can plan their tours strategically to maximize their chances of success.

Historical Performance and Cultural Significance

Historical data can provide valuable insights. Bands often revisit cities where they have had successful shows in the past as these locations typically yield a more predictable turnout. Additionally, cultural and regional factors can influence decisions. Bands may choose cities based on cultural significance or regional popularity to connect with local music scenes or festivals.

Estimating Fan Engagement Through Surveys

A direct way for bands to gauge potential fan engagement in various cities is by conducting surveys among their fans. Fans can be asked to rank their top cities for touring, helping the band to prioritize their tour stops.

Emerging Artists and Established Acts

For emerging artists, pitching venues and festivals can be challenging. They may need to provide evidence that they can fill venues of specific capacities. Established acts, on the other hand, rely on dedicated booking agencies to manage their tours. These agencies have a strong network with local, regional, and national promoters, enabling them to build comprehensive tour schedules.

The Role of Booking Agencies

Booking agencies handle much of the logistical and administrative work involved in tour planning. They negotiate fees with artists, ensure requirements are met, and review and finalize contracts. For example, Live Nation and AEG, two major booking agencies, often handle tours for internationally renowned artists, organizing shows in various regions or even on a global scale.

For instance, when working as a promoter in Bangkok, we frequently negotiated with renowned bands like Keane, Herbie Hancock, and Vampire Weekend for additional shows in the region. If bands are not on an agency's target list but are planning a tour, reaching out to their booking agencies with a well-structured proposal can sometimes result in successful collaborations.

Through careful planning and strategic decisions, bands can create tour schedules that not only meet their logistical needs but also resonate with fans and generate maximum impact.