| How to create a successful band website |
| 1) Always make your home page (index) is simple and able to load quickly. The index page should load within 20 seconds on DSL or 40 seconds on 56k. Quick tips for quick load-ups: a) Stay away from java based "flash" if you feel you must have a flash site. Give the surfer the option of the "Flash" or "HTML" version. b) Reduce photo or graphics to the smallest "kb" size possibile. This can be achived easily by using almost any photo editing program. c) On your index page list the menu options. Also some sort of welcome message is always nice. Along with a picture or logo of the group. |
| 2) Group (promo) Photos: Photos or Pics are always a good idea. Try to get a few group pictures with either a landscape background, a blank solid back drop or professionaly quality shot in a studio. a) Pictures taken outdoors in the daylight will always show more detail. b) Pictures taken indoors can manipulate light so that certain features of group members can be emphized or minimized. |
| 3) Band info or Biography page: a) Band history - Summerize, You don't have to go into ALL the details. Generally include when (you all met), where (you started) who (met who first). Also list some artists that influence your style. b) Band member info - Each member should summerize thier career in 1 paragraph. Basically "Name","Instrument played", "Years of experience" and "List some groups you've played with". Then add whatever you like "equipment, etc...But keep it brief!! Oh another thing "Don't put your age or birthdate down!!!" I see alot of young bands do this, It makes you seem immature and inexperienced. "Let your music show your craft"! |
| 4) Mp3's & demos: I believe that every successful band website should have at least 2 mp3's on their site. Select 2 songs that you do well and don't sound alike. Generally 1 rocker and 1 mellower song. This will show diversity and skill. Mp3's are easy to make with "audiograbber" it's a user friendly freeware. As far as a space to store it. Most pay web host will allow you to upload files 5MB or less. (note: it's a good idea to make a sample mp3/rm. and a full download of each song) If you don't already have a storage place shop around for a host.(or try geocities it's the cheapest that I've seen) |
| 5) Video, mpeg,rm,etc... Video on the web is a great way to get people to see your group before they pay. A few suggestions to get your group noticed. a) When filming try to get 2 cameras filming at the same time if possible. This will double your chances to get some great shots. b) Try to get some interesting angles. Don't be afraid of getting on stage with the band, or getting down on your knees. But always move the camera slowly without sudden jerks or zooming in and out consistantly. c) Get the audience, especially good looking females!! :-) Encourage people to wave or smile at the camera. And don't be afraid to interview people. d) Make people laugh! You want to seem as if everyone is having a great time. e) Capture the best clips on your PC, then compress the clips into "real media", "mpeg" or "Windows Movie". If you can't compress them, make very short "AVI" clips. Always remember to keep the files small, but if you have to make some larger files. Make sure that they are worth the wait! |
| I don't claim to be an expert on building a band website. However, since I started building this website 4 years ago I've visted literally thousands of band sites. These are some things that I noticed and I hope the information is useful in your construction. Good Luck! Mat |