by Robert Beatty Jr

Created on: January 11, 2007   Last Updated: May 15, 2007

Did you ever day-dream about becoming a rock-n-roll super star? Did you ever wonder what it would be like to drop everything and tour the country in a cargo van with your soon-to-take-over-the-world rock band?

If you answered, yes. You are not alone. Many people fantasize about this idea. However, very few have the knowledge, drive and dedication to achieve this dream. Are you one of the few? Do you have it?

First and foremost, we need to clarify the definition of rock-n-roll superstar. If you think your band is going to jump straight from the basement into the spotlight, you are gravely mistaken. Obviously, exceptions to the rule will occur, but let's be practical. Your band is not the exception. You will spend many nights playing empty clubs and eating 99 cent value meals. You will spend almost all your earnings on fuel and an occasional hotel room. The only rock-star treatment you will receive is if you're lucky enough to find a few kind souls willing to feed you and let you sleep on their floor.

If you're still reading, I'm going to assume you have the stomach and will to handle small crowds and an even smaller income. Let's begin.

Step one in the process of rock-n-roll domination is a question. Is your passion music? If you and your friends are starting a band for the sole purpose of becoming rich and famous these words will not help you. If you and your friends are creating music (art) because you actually enjoy writing music, you are on the right track. Hopefully, these tips will assist your journey as a touring musician/band.

However, before you can actually pack up the van and hit the road, there are a few things you must take care of at the home-front. First, practice makes perfect. Before you set foot on a stage, you should try to define your sound and live performance. If you don't have well-written songs or stage presence nobody is going to pay attention. Remember, you and a million others are vying for the attention of a small audience that is not easily impressed.

So you have your sound refined and your live show ready to go? It would probably be a good idea to record a demo or two. This will tell you if your band is, in fact, ready to rock the world.

So your recorded a few demos, and now you're ready to rock the world? The first place you should takeover is your hometown. If you can't win over an audience filled with friends and family, how can you expect to win over audiences of complete strangers? The more local shows you play, the better. If your

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