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In my prior band, many years ago, as conversations began over the evening’s set order, the drummer would make sure it was known: we, The Legendary Champions, had headlined our first show.
In his mind, this should have settled all matters as to when we should play.
I anticipated this playing of what he thought was a winning hand as we worked things out with the promoter. The truth was that each show situation always had some nuances and complexities to iron out whether we were playing with Of Montreal or Charm City Suicides.
In truth, what seems to be solved easily by common wisdom has as many exceptions as English language pluralization rules. Here are a few questions that may come up.
No, not necessarily. It depends on whether the touring band is a draw. Your show goal is get that touring band in front of folks, to have their hours of travel and tedium pay off to some degree. If a local band is the draw, then they should headline, ensuring the touring band is seen by those waiting for that group’s performance.
No, not necessarily. On a weeknight (and even on some weekends), the best spot is closest to when people tend to disperse, often due to AM work obligations. Baltimore’s “witching hour” falls around or before midnight, usually. A band is sometimes given the last slot of the evening, assuming it to be a prime time, only to find themselves playing in front of a much smaller crowd.
No, not necessarily. I once saw Matmos open a show at The Mercury Theater that folks assumed they were headlining as a member had to catch a flight. I have gone to house shows where the big draw plays first to ensure that they get to play, in case the event gets shut down.
No, not necessarily. A lot of things can happen on the way to the show, and the order can change. Being an early arriver at many shows, which I know is not the norm, I have heard the show order get worked out casually between all involved, somewhere between when the bands have dropped off their equipment and have gone to get food.
No, not necessarily. There is a pressure to publish set times before the event for those who are there to see a particular group and some venues and promoters strive to make sure this information is accurate and available. Now that lawsuits are being filed over late showtimes, I am assuming this pressure will only increase, but I have seen that information not “add up” in terms of how the night unfolds.
No, not necessarily. I wish you the best the next time you need to figure that out as performer, promoter, or attendee.
