The Reality of Booking Live Music in 2026 | Ep 13

Booking shows isn’t just answering emails and filling dates and in this episode of Between 2 Palms, Derek breaks down exactly why.From the real cost of opening the doors, to why “pay-to-play” is usually a misunderstanding, to what venues actually need from bands in 2026, this episode pulls back the curtain on live music booking. Derek and Mikey talk partnerships, marketing responsibility, oversaturation, and why creating demand matters more than playing everywhere all the time.They also cover:Why venues carry the financial riskWhat bands consistently get wrong when submitting to bookWhy some great bands struggle while others growThe future of the Boardwalk, including Free FridaysCommunity giving, blood drives, and giving people a hand upNew plans for Palm Tree Brewing Company and the rooftop patioIf you’ve ever wondered why it’s “hard to get booked,” or what venues are really looking for, this episode answers it honestly.🎧 Listen, share, and if you have something to say, say it. Just know Derek will read it.If you want to see how live music actually survives, stop guessing and start showing up.Check the calendar, buy a ticket, and support the rooms that keep bands on stages.👉 RockTheBoardwalk.comLive music venue Sacramento, Sacramento concert venue, independent music venue California, live music Sacramento CA, book a band Sacramento, how to get booked at a music venue, band booking tips, live music booking process, pay to play music venues explained, support local music venues, Sacramento rock venue, all ages and 21+ shows Sacramento, small venue concerts Sacramento, Boardwalk live music, RockTheBoardwalk, Sacramento nightlife live music, local bands Sacramento, touring bands Sacramento, live music industry insights, music venue operations, behind the scenes live music, Between 2 Palms podcast, venue owner podcast, Sacramento music podcast, California live music scene