a gURL guide to starting a rock band

Going Pro

1. Record a demo.
You should make a rehearsal tape so people can get the idea of what you sound like. If you have friends with ProTools or audio recording software, see if they will record a song or two for you. Use your CD to try to get gigs (shows). (Booking agents at real venues expect you to have one.)

2. To copyright or not to copyright
Do you want to play Napster and protect your art from pirates? If you want to copyright your songs as proof that your brilliant lyrics and music are yours, you can get a "poor man's copyright" by mailing yourself a copy of your recorded music (tape or CD). Do not open it. You'll need to keep it in the sealed, post-marked envelope. (A lawyer gave us this tip.) Or check out the copyright office website (www.copyright.gov) for instructions on how to register your songs. (You might want to wait until you have an entire CD, since each time you register something it costs about $30.)

3. Look for a venue.
If you've got songs memorized, you're ready for your first gig! Does your school have a talent show? Or can you play at a friends party or throw your own? Is there a local band that you've seen play? Ask them if you can open for them sometime. See if you can play at a local coffee shop or community event.