Let’s say there are two bassists—both talented, both with great gear. One is booked solid, while the other rarely leaves the bedroom studio. What gives?
The difference might just be one word: Networking.
I get it—"networking" can sound cringey, fake, or downright intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be! In fact, building your network is more accessible (and more authentic) than ever. Here are some simple, practical steps you can take to start turning connections into opportunities:
Will Social Network for Gigs
Every bassist who wants to gig more—whether live or in the studio—should have active social media profiles. Your Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook pages can serve as your 24/7 promo kit.
Post videos and clips of your playing, but also share bits of your personality. People want to work with musicians they feel like they know. If you’re not sure what to post, look at the profiles of bassists you admire. What are they sharing? What gets engagement?
And don’t worry about fancy audio/video gear—your phone is more than enough to start.
Connections and Groups
Once you’ve got your profiles rolling, follow and engage with other local musicians. Many will follow you back, and you’ll start building visibility. Like and comment on their posts—it’s a low-key way to get on their radar.
Also follow local venues and music stores. Look for regional musician groups on social media, especially bassist-specific ones. If you can’t find one? Start one. Invite players, encourage discussion, share gigs and gear tips, and plan real-life meetups. I have gotten many more gig referrals from bassists than from any other instrumentalists.
Music Stores Are Hubs
Social media is powerful, but it’s no substitute for shaking hands and making eye contact.
Drop by your local music stores and introduce yourself. When I worked in a music shop in the '80s, we knew everyone in the scene. Ask if they have a bulletin board and pin up a “Bassist Available” flyer. (Don’t forget to include your socials!)
From the Audience to the Stage
Seeing local bands play isn’t just fun—it’s a great way to make connections. Introduce yourself to the band and the venue staff after the show. If there are open mics nearby, go—and bring your bass. Sitting in can lead to real gigs faster than you'd think.
Front Yourself
One of the most direct ways to plug into your local scene is to start your own project. I saved this one for last because, yes—it takes more effort. But leading a band gives you total creative control and puts your name out front.
Use set breaks and post-show moments to connect with people in the crowd. You never know who’s watching.
Final Thoughts
These ideas are just a few ways to start building the kinds of relationships that lead to gigs. If you’re already active, feel free to add your own tips in the comments!
And hey—if playing at home brings you joy and creative fulfillment, that’s totally valid. But if you're looking to take the next step and get out there, I hope this gives you a good starting point.
Story by Dale Titus
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Dale has been a professional bassist for 40 years and during that time was an instructor/counselor at the Bass Institute of Technology, a freelance writer for Bass Player magazine as well as the Editor of Bass Frontiers magazine. He also released The Ultimate Beginner Series for Bass videos and book for Alfred Publishing, as well as the Everything Bass YouTube channel.