Marc Solheimshow promoter:Mad Planet

How bands book shows in Milwaukee:

Established bands usually contact the venue they are trying to book directly.  Phone or email both work.  Though each club promoter/owner has his/her own preferences.  I personally prefer email.  I will answer all requests.  Though a good amount of the time may not be the answer the band is looking for.  If you do not receive a response, I would advise making one more attempt to reach the club.  If you still don't get a response, you may want to take a hint.  To reach us via email: madplanetbooking@hotmail.com.

If you're just starting out:

If you are a newer band, I would recommend trying to get added to friend's band’s existing shows.  Going on early in the night will gain the band experience and increases the chances of getting shows.  Another idea would be to play "off nights".  Playing a Thursday night with 2 or 3 other bands will show the club that you are willing to work with them and will give the venue a chance to see the band and get a better feel for your draw and musical style. 

For established bands:

From time to time, the opportunity to open for a national act may arise.  This is generally reserved for established bands.  Remember, just because you personally like a band does not mean that your style is appropriate, or that their fans would be interested in seeing you.  I generally look for acts that will not only help the draw of the show, but will be enjoyable for the patrons who are paying to see the headlining act.

How to never get asked back to Mad Planet:

Let's start with breaking gear.  Don't treat the club's equipment like it is yours to break.  Being rude to the venue staff: just because you are performing does not give license to talk down to or argue with anyone at the venue.  Being late.  While things do come up, if you are excessively late, I keep that in mind for next time.  Lie about your draw: while you may want the gig, do not inflate your draw to get a show.  There are a lot of people who are counting on people coming to the event and their jobs depend on people being at the club.  Sneaking people into the venue (do I need to say any more?). 

Getting paid:

There are several payment methods we use.  Some artists get a guarantee (i.e. National acts/local bands that tour consistently).  For the most part the bands take 90% of the door after sound and lights are paid for.  In these cases I usually leave the distribution of money to the bands.  The money for every event is paid out at the end of the night.  All ages shows are handled in a slightly different manner.  On a local all ages show, each band is given 50 tickets to sell to their fans (usually done through their websites).  This is not a pay to play scenario.  The bands return any unsold tickets day of show.  They are paid $2.00 each per ticket sold.  Then an even cut of the door money.

Promotion:

We handle the ads in the local papers and www.mad-planet.net. If it is an act with national recognition, we will handle radio promotions and have a custom poster designed.  We will distribute posters throughout metro Milwaukee.  If it is a show primarily comprised of local acts, they will deign and distribute their own promotional materials.  We require that posters are limited to record shops, coffee shops, and other legal spots.  No telephone poles or bus stops!!

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