Our approach to live music
Most of our shows are booked through a mix of artist research, agent and manager conversations, recommendations, past relationships and direct submissions.
We are always listening for artists who feel like a good fit for Real Sounds. Sometimes that means a headline show, sometimes a support slot, and sometimes keeping an artist in mind for the right opportunity later.
We welcome music submissions from artists who are interested in playing a Real Sounds show.
When you submit, we’ll ask for your name, contact details, location and a link where we can hear your music. Please send your strongest material, along with anything useful that helps us understand your audience, recent shows, press, releases or touring plans.
We do listen to submissions, but because we programme a large number of shows, we may only reply when there is a suitable opportunity.
You can submit your music here.
If we think there is a good fit, we’ll get in touch about a specific opportunity.
That could be a headline show, a support slot, a special event or a future date we are developing. We think about the artist, the room, the audience, the date, the ticket price, the bill and the wider promotion plan before confirming a show.
Before anything is announced, we agree the key details of the show. This may include the date, venue, billing, fee or deal structure, ticket price, timings, technical requirements and promotional expectations.
For confirmed shows, we’ll also ask for the materials needed to announce and promote the event, such as a press photo, artist bio, music links and any relevant artwork or copy.
Once a show is confirmed, Real Sounds handles the event listing, ticket setup and core promotion.
Successful shows work best when everyone involved helps build momentum. We promote through our own channels, ticketing platforms, mailing lists, venue partners and advertising where appropriate. Artists, agents, managers and labels are also encouraged to share the event with their own audiences.
On the night, our aim is to create a well-run, welcoming live music experience for artists and audiences.
We work with venues and event staff to keep things organised, make sure timings are clear, and help artists focus on performing. Every show is also a chance to build relationships with audiences, other artists, venues and the wider music community.
After the event, we handle settlement according to the agreed deal.
Where appropriate, we may discuss future shows, support slots, return dates or other opportunities. Not every show leads immediately to another booking, but we are always looking to build long-term relationships with artists who are a strong fit for Real Sounds.