Written by Linda McDermott
Photographs by Linda McDermott
For emerging rock bands, getting noticed without a strong social media presence has become a massive hurdle. Today’s music industry heavily prioritises online followers and streaming numbers, which leaves grassroots bands who have little funding at a disadvantage. Take for example, a rock band such as Kill Bolt that has honed a great solid 10/12 song rock set, have great energy, and draw a respectable crowd wherever they play. They have had several support slots in the Scottish Borders and played at Rockinburgh, Edinburgh, but haven’t yet released any singles or EPs due to limited resources. Despite their potential, they struggle to grow as they search for gigs, and festival slots. As of yet they haven’t built up a significant social media following (Facebook 186) and haven’t released any music online, though there is a video on You Tube. It’s a catch 22 scenario, no gigs, no followers, no followers, no gigs, and it’s the same for other talented bands.
The question for music promoters and venues is whether they would consider taking a chance on bands such as Kill Bolt, bands that have undeniable talent and potential, but in the absence of a digital footprint, are being overlooked.
Should Kill Bolt spend years building up their profile, spending time and money they don’t have, to gain online visibility, or could promoters recognise their appeal and give them opportunities based on their performances potential rather than their follower count?
The current landscape can be discouraging for such bands. Many in the industry, such as festival organisers, booking agents, and venue managers, rely heavily on social numbers, assuming they represent audience interest and ticket sales. However, in cases like this band, with their ability to draw a crowd and engage in a live setting, speaks volumes about their potential to attract an audience, even without a digital following. Some promoters and venue managers might see this as an opportunity to connect with an authentic, grassroots talent on the rise, thereby fostering a more diverse, vibrant live music scene.
If promoters and venues take a leap of faith on such bands, it could help shift industry expectations and create a pathway for talented acts without substantial online followings to make an impact. Alternatively, if building a profile is a non-negotiable step, these bands could benefit from guidance on manageable ways to establish a digital presence, even with minimal resources. This might involve strategies for DIY recording, live-streaming small gigs, or finding cost-effective marketing methods to engage with fans.
This kind of opportunity could not only benefit a band but could also help venues stand out as places that champion fresh, genuine talent. By taking a chance on a band with solid live appeal, promoters might help bridge the gap between digital metrics and actual musical quality, offering bands an alternative route to success.
Another thing to consider on how to bring on bands is to do with large ticket companies using dynamic pricing, setting unreasonable prices to maximise profits from popular events. Given these ‘inflated’ sales, these companies could allocate a small percentage of their profits to a dedicated fund supporting grassroots bands. This fund could provide financial support for emerging artists to access gig and festival opportunities, recording music, buying merch, and putting together a promotional package that can otherwise be out of reach. Such a model would not only benefit up-and-coming musicians but also enrich the music industry by diversifying talent. Investing in grassroots music would foster future headline acts, ensuring long-term benefits for both artists and the industry.
Ultimately, bands like Kill Bolt have the talent, but what they need is access. It begs the question: can the industry make space for genuine talent, or is the digital rat race inevitable?
Just saying………….
If you want to support Kill Bolt, check out the video below, give it a like, follow them on Facebook, share and help them on their way if numbers are what counts.
Video
Here Comes the Pain
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