NAMM show offer. Opinions?

Greyvagabond · #1 06-23-2009, 03:23 PM

Hey, my band just got offered a show for 2010 NAMM convention in January. I was wondering if any TB'ers had either played a show at the festival, or had gone to any there. We'd be flown in and put up in a hotel, but I was just curious if anybody had any experience with this, and if its a good time or crappy.

Thanks!

dmusic148 · #2 06-23-2009, 03:33 PM

Dude, it's a 'must do.' I went in '07 and had the time of my life. It really can't be described. In addition to getting to see all the new, cool stuff, you will meet tons of happening musicians and see great concerts. And go to the after parties at the convention center Hilton and Marriott- unbelievable. Just go.

Rick Auricchio · #3 06-23-2009, 07:01 PM

You have several months to get a solid contract in place, spelling out who is paying for everything. I'd make sure the promoter is paying in advance for air and hotel costs, so you don't get stuck with a bill.

WalterBush · #4 06-23-2009, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rick Auricchio

You have several months to get a solid contract in place, spelling out who is paying for everything. I'd make sure the promoter is paying in advance for air and hotel costs, so you don't get stuck with a bill.

+1. Two years ago one of my bands got booked to do the Marriot lobby, and it fell through due to a secretary of a certain company not putting an envelope in the right inbox; it was found shortly after the show was over. It wasn't a huge financial loss for us since we were all going to be there, anyway, but we were looking forward to playing.

Definitely do the show, and let us know when you're on so we can see you! NAMM is an experience, for sure!

Greyvagabond · #5 06-23-2009, 07:13 PM

Good call on the contract work, etc. I hope 6 months is enough time to get everything hammered out and in writting!

I promise to bring a camera and document the sweet gear pr0n!

Rick Auricchio · #6 06-23-2009, 09:11 PM

And, for best results, confirm with the hotel to be sure they've got reservations and payment.

Since the gig is a fly date, confirm you'll have backline rental; specify in a rider exactly what you need. Your instruments will fly as expensive checked baggage; you should be paid in advance for that, because the airline will want payment at check-in. Add the cost of insurance to the contract, and be sure you insure everything; don't trust someone else to do that.

You may need to buy or rent proper cases to protect the instruments in transit.

Add a clause for instrument rental if the airline delays or loses your instruments, so you have something to play for the show. You should be allowed reasonable choice of instruments so someone doesn't hand you a junker and expect you to play it.

Confirm that playing the gig includes passes to whatever NAMM events you wish to attend; don't assume.

Don't let the attraction of NAMM distract you from getting everything in writing. Twice.

Greyvagabond · #7 06-23-2009, 10:43 PM

Ohhh, great advice! God I love Talk Bass...

Thanks!