Plan

Planning is important. It’s easy for everything to fall apart if logistics are not properly handled. There have been incidences when artists don’t show up to events because they haven’t been paid or they don’t get their flight tickets. Make sure dates, travelling times and transportation are sorted out. Ensure the venue is booked and payment to headline or supporting acts are made. If any other artist is going on tour with you and your band, make sure their team is kept in the loop of all information surrounding your travel.

Create an itinerary

You may not follow this strictly but it helps to map out an itinerary planning every day for your tour group. The schedule should outline arrival times, hotel check-ins, interviews, sound checks and any other activities planned.

Promotion is key

Promotion of your event is major key. Don’t rely on the organisers or the event promoter to publicize your show. Begin promotion at least two months before your tour. Reach out to your fans and let them where you’ll be performing. One of the cheapest ways to engage with your fans is through social media. Get creative with your promotion.

Reach out to local press and audience in the city you are going to. Meet and greets are also good for pushing ticket sales.

Budget

Don’t just splurge, make sure you have a budget for all expenses even miscellaneous costs.

Who to take with you

Everyone who comes on tour with you should be useful in some way. To ensure things run smoothly, designate roles to each person (one person can help with gear, another with social media). It helps to have a road manager with you to oversee the tour and liaise with all parties involved.

Explore the venue

We can’t stress how important rehearsals are. Be sure to rehearse at the venue, do a sound check and get familiar with the stage.

Document the journey and have fun

Hit the road with a positive attitude. Take pictures and record video clips of you and your team you can you to create buzz when the tour is over.

Watch "Facts Only With Osagie Alonge" in the video below: