Crash a Non-Music Event to Play a Barcelona Set (Like Tame Impala’s Art Gallery Move)
- Tapetown
- Aug 3
- 1 min read
Want to play a Barcelona venue like Razzmatazz but don’t know any bookers? Getting into Europe’s music scene can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. One way to stand out: slip into a non-music event like an art show or food market and play an impromptu set to catch venue attention. This post shares a low-key strategy to turn a side gig into a club booking, no contacts needed.
We’ll also look at how Tame Impala pulled off a similar move in an Australian art gallery, with an odd twist. Ready to sneak onto a stage and book gigs in Europe? Here’s how it works.
Play a Non-Music Event to Get Noticed
Performing at a non-music event lets you tap into new crowds and impress venue scouts who might be there. Here’s how to do it in Barcelona without connections:
Find the Right Event: Scout local happenings like art openings, food markets, or fashion pop-ups in areas like El Raval. Check platforms like Eventbrite or local Facebook groups for events open to performers. Aim for ones with a music-friendly vibe.
Sneak In a Short Set: Contact the organizer a week ahead, offering a free 10-15 minute acoustic set to add atmosphere. Bring a small amp or go unplugged to keep it simple. Record the performance with your phone for social media proof.
Pitch Venues with Your Video: Share the set on Instagram, using hashtags like BarcelonaMusic or LiveMusicCatalonia. Message Barcelona venues like Razzmatazz with the clip and a note: “We played this art show and drew a crowd. Can we do the same at your club?” Include crowd size to show your pull.
This works because it proves you can engage an audience, making you a solid pick for venues.
Tame Impala’s Art Gallery Move
Before Tame Impala filled festival stages, Kevin Parker was an unknown in Perth, Australia, looking for any chance to play. In 2008, he heard about a local art gallery opening and convinced the organizers to let his band play a short set among the paintings. They set up in a corner, playing psychedelic tunes to a small crowd of art fans and curious locals. The vibe caught on, with people lingering and sharing videos online.
A booker from a nearby club, Mojos, was at the gallery and liked the crowd’s reaction. He offered Tame Impala a slot the next month, a gig that helped them build a local following. The odd part? Kevin later shared in a music blog that a tipsy gallery guest spilled wine on his pedalboard, nearly shorting it out mid-song. He kept going, turning the mishap into a story. Tame Impala’s gallery gig shows how crashing non-music events can open doors, and Barcelona’s artsy scene is your chance to try it.
Playing a non-music event is a smooth way to book gigs in Europe’s music spots like Barcelona. Find an event, play a quick set, and pitch your video to venues. No contacts? No issue, just some hustle. Played an odd spot to land a gig? Share your story in the comments or tag us on social media. Want more ideas for European musicians? Subscribe for weekly tips and check out our post on curating a Spotify playlist for an Amsterdam gig.
Read about the legendary recording studio 'Sound City' here: