The Art of the Meet n' Greet

Over the last few years, I've been very fortunate to meet members of rock bands like Sevendust, Nonpoint, 10 Years, Otherwise, Theory of a Deadman, Black Stone Cherry and many others. When some of my friends have asked me how I've gotten to meet so many bands, I give them this advice:

1. Be polite. Whether you've paid for a VIP experience or are just hanging outside a band's tour bus hoping to chat with them, be polite. Show some respect, and it'll definitely make an impression with the musicians you're trying to meet. Sometimes, they might give you an extra memento, pose for a selfie or chat with you a little longer. You might even get to party with the band after the show!

2. Be realistic. Don't go to the show with a dozen items to have signed. Also, don't expect them to give you a detailed track-by-track synopsis of their latest album, and what their inspiration was for each song. In most cases, there's a limited amount of time that you'll have with the band, and they can only interact with all the people who showed up to meet them for so long. They usually have a curfew before they get back on the tour bus for the next show, and the more you expect of them eats into that time.

3. Do your homework. If you want a great experience, do some research. Follow your favorite bands on social media. If they have a personal or fan page, you can usually find out details about their hobbies and interests. Keep these tidbits in the back of your mind for when you meet the band - you never know the kinds of interesting conversations you can strike up!

4. Support the bands you love - they have to eat, too! The music industry just isn't what it used to be even a decade ago. Most artists aren't making the big bucks. When you're at a show, buy a CD, poster, T-shirt, etc. This keeps your favorite artists going on the road towards their next show and eventually their next album and tour. In most cases, smaller bands are usually working their own merch tables, and are very appreciative of every purchase. I've had several experiences this year like that, and have befriended some of these musicians quickly.

5. These rules apply to local musicians too. In most cases, there's one or two local working class bands that open for a national headliner. Don't disrespect or disregard these artists! Sometimes their performances outshine the headliners. You never know, these local artists could just become the next big thing!

Well that's all for now - next time, I'll be back blogging about the Fukn Awesome fest at the Skyway Theatre in downtown Minneapolis headlined by rockers Ill Nino. Until then, have a great weekend, everyone!