I realize that Soundmen / Soundpeople can be difficult to work with on occasion. Look at it from their perspective, they’ve had to listen to years of horrible bands, with horrible egos, make strange and annoying requests of them. BUT not all are like this, in fact a great sound person is NECESSARY as you expand your band’s success.

So where do you find that elusive sound person that is right for your band?  Here are some places to look:

• The bar that had the best sound you’ve ever experienced. – Start at the top. If there is a place where you’re fans told you that you sound the best, try and get the sound person who mixed you. Who knows maybe they’re up for a tour with your band, looking for a little fun and adventure.
• Is there a sound engineering school in your city? That could be a great place to start. Folks in sound school are typically eager to prove themselves. A sound gig with an up and coming band could be exactly what they’re looking for. Tempt them with the allure of the road, with the chance to get in with a band at the beginning…. or pay them really well.
• Your technically minded friend is another great place to start. Yes they might be green, but you might be too. As you learn so will your soundman. And having someone grow with you is a great thing for everyone involved.