Factors Influencing Artist Choices for Concert Tours
Artists carefully consider several key factors when deciding which cities to choose for concert tours. These decisions range from market demand and logistics to local culture and fan base enthusiasm. In this article, we explore the various elements that influence these choices, with insights from both emerging and established acts.
Key Factors in Tour Planning
When artists and their booking agencies decide on tour destinations, they consider a range of factors:
Fan Base
One of the primary considerations is the size and loyalty of the fan base in each city. Artists often analyze data from ticket sales, social media engagement, and streaming statistics to identify areas where their listeners are most concentrated. Cities with strong fan support offer a better return on investment for both the artist and the venue.
Market Size and Location
Larger cities typically offer bigger venues and more potential ticket sales. Major metropolitan areas often have higher population densities, making them more lucrative for tour dates. Additionally, proximity to existing tours can make it more cost-effective to plan gigs in nearby cities.
Tour Routing
Tour routing is crucial for minimizing travel time and costs. Artists plan routes that allow for a logical progression from one city to another, often focusing on regions where they can maximize fan encounters and media coverage.
Venue Availability and Suitability
The availability of suitable venues is another important factor. Artists may select cities based on the types of venues available, such as arenas, theaters, or outdoor spaces that best suit their performance style. The flexibility of the venue to accommodate their set list and stage setup is also critical.
Local Promoter Relationships
Established relationships with local promoters can significantly influence city selection. Promoters who can effectively market and sell tickets play a crucial role in the success of a tour. They often have a better understanding of the local market and can provide insights into fan preferences that can sway tour decisions.
Local Culture and Music Scene
Artists often consider the local music scene and culture when choosing tour cities. Cities known for their vibrant arts communities or specific genres of music may be more appealing to certain artists. These cities can also offer promotional opportunities through local media and music blogs.
Timing and Seasonality
The timing and season of the year can also impact tour planning. Some cities may have festivals or events that align with the artist's schedule, making it advantageous to perform there. Alternatively, certain times of the year may be more popular for touring, such as summer months when the weather is favorable and more people are available to attend concerts.
Logistics and Costs
Logistical considerations, such as transportation costs, accommodations, and local regulations, also play a significant role in tour planning. Artists look for cities where they can tour economically, ensuring that their travel expenses and other costs are manageable.
Feedback and Requests
Some artists actively seek input from their fans through social media or surveys, asking where they would like to see them perform. Fan engagement and feedback can provide valuable insights that help tailor tour routes and city selections.
Strategizing a tour requires a comprehensive approach that balances market demand, logistical considerations, and personal connections. By carefully evaluating these factors, both emerging and established artists can create successful and profitable concert tours.
For emerging artists, it's essential to identify key cities and venues where their fan base is strongest. They can use analytics from social media and streaming platforms to pinpoint target areas. Alternatively, fan surveys can provide valuable insights into potential tour destinations.
Established acts often rely on booking agencies with strong networks of local promoters. These agencies can build tours in specific regions or worldwide, negotiate fees, and ensure all requirements are met. For instance, booking agencies like Live Nation and AEG have established relationships with venues and promoters that can facilitate successful tours.
Example: When working as a promoter in Bangkok, we successfully brought well-known artists like Keane, Herbie Hancock, and Vampire Weekend to perform. We contacted their booking agencies to propose extra shows, taking advantage of their regional touring plans to maximize their tour reach.