Be For FREE
If you are just a starting band, be aware of the reality that you are not going to get paid during your first few shows. Just think about the idea of playing for the glory of music, not for money. Contact a more established band and offer an opening gig for them. Opening gigs for free will help you have a great start in promoting your band to the public. A successful band needs to have great exposure. Take every opportunity of playing in front of the crowd whether it be a paid act or not. Every single bit of it would definitely help you reach success.