I’ll be the first to tell you it’s not a crime to ask for guestlist. While there might be conflicting sentiments floating around on social media—and I do believe if you can afford to pay and you don’t need AA, definitely just buy a ticket—there’s no real harm in asking if someone has room on their list. The worst you can realistically do is annoy the shit out of them.
I’ve annoyed countless people and I’ve been annoyed countless times, which means I’m the perfect person to guide you through the guestlist gauntlet.
There are a bunch of music folks on here, so I’ll keep it quick for those who aren’t an artist or journalist or some other form of industry person. You should only ask for guestlist if you’re: close friends with the person you’re asking, broke, or have no shame. But if you’re in the two latter groups, at least remember to follow the person and ask nicely.
For music industry people who aren’t as bold, here are the things you should consider before asking for guestlist:
If you’ve interacted with the person you’re asking. If you’ve collaborated, supported, or worked with them in any capacity, don’t be shy! Even exchanging some words on social media should make you feel more comfortable about inquiring.
If you can make it to the event. I’m guilty of this too, so if you’re unsure if you can make it, maybe refrain from asking.
If they have a lot of friends in the area. For example, an out-of-towner is coming, but you know they’re tapped in your scene, they might not have room.
How big and strict the venue is. This comes with experience, but maybe I can write more on this later.
How much lead time you’re giving. You come to me on the day of my show asking me for guestlist?
Rather than asking the artist, asking someone on their team. If they have a manager or agent, it might be worth asking them since a lot of artists don’t like handling guestlist requests anyway. You could even try the venue/promoter if you have some prior connection.
You’re on the list. Now what?
Confirm your name was sent the day before the show.
If you find out you can’t make it, try to let them know at least 24 hours before. If you can even give a 2-hour heads up, they might be able to give your name to someone else.
Share the flyer! It’s the least you can do. Ticket link too if you’re real.
Be there for the set of whoever listed you.
Take videos at the event and tag them.
Should go without saying, but if you made it backstage, please don’t eat or drink from someone else’s rider. Also, unless someone literally asks…save promoting your own music for the DMs or email 😩
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