Over the past year I have been asked by many solo artists how they should go about finding band members. The general issues raised by the enquiring talent include questions regarding the quality of musicians required, their attitude and their commitment. How do you find musicians who rank highly in all these qualities? A few of the other points raised include how you keep them interested in your work, what image you should develop and once you’ve got the band where you go from there. From my personal experience and from the observation of the artists who appear to be making a name for themselves I’ll offer you the following tips. I won’t cover all these points but at least it will be a solid start to develop your act.

Musicians are easy to find

Just about everyone these days has been in a band at some stage or if not, have wanted to be. They are either retired, slogging out it dingy venues, touring the world or are sitting at home waiting for the dream to magically materialise. You should be aiming to fuse musicians from all of these categories so that you benefit from the experience of the more established musicians, the passion of the bedroom guitarist and bridge the connections with already gigging bands. The retired musician may still ghave great connections and offer management skills. Take your time and select your musicians carefully, judge them on their passion as well as musical ability because there is nothing worse than a live band playing without feel and who are static on stage. Place ads online, in your local music shops, in college, on your website, myspace, facebook and even on your topoftheox artist page. Let the world know you are looking for musicians or an established band to front. It will serve to promote your name as well as find you your perfect band.

A good attitude goes a long way
There is probably nothing more effective than being in a band with your close friends who all care about the project. You all know what makes each other tick and are likely to be in the band because of it. If you are searching for the right musicians you will no doubt come across the lazy musicians with more attitude than skill. I suggest you politely run as far as you can from them. Skill and attitude together can work but make sure the balance is right. So long as their attitude does not extend to the music in a negative way or it is positively channelled to it you could be onto a winner. You must remember, as the front man of the band you are under the spotlight and you have a responsibility to keep everyone happy within certain limits. Your positive attitude is also essential.

The music is why you are all there...probably!
If your musicians don’t dig your music you may as well find new ones. That doesn’t mean a single disagreement should result in you asking your drummer who doesn’t know the difference between a G minor and G major. Always listen to criticism and take it constructively no matter how it is put to you. You are not obliged to agree with it but if you lower your defences you may learn some big lessons. Rehearse like you mean it and don’t wait forever to approach venues for your first gig that may never happen. You’ll learn as much at your gigs as you do in the rehearsal room.

Fun, games and a sad story 
The early days of running a your first band may be come some of your most cherished memories. Enjoy the experience and take every opportunity to get your music exposed and have as much fun as you can. I have heard countless stories of bands ‘nearly making it’ but never quite. I’m told things like “we opened V fest”, “ we played glastonbury”, “ We won a competition” and then broke up. It’s a sad story. Musical differences often result in the death of these acts who are miles ahead of where they think they are. They have started the very needed promotional wave only to break up. Settle the differences and establish a long and prosperous career with your band.

Mark Hussey
(Session guitarist and songwriter)
www.markhussey.com

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