How to Get The Gig

For original music the real bottom line is who you know. Yes some venues might be receptive to email or facebook notes but most won't be. Even a small sized venue that has shows 4-5 nights a week likely has their messages and email blown the fuck up at all times. Maybe some will be more organized with their online contacts. But no matter what, the absolute best way to deal business with somebody is in person. And second to that, on the phone. Not texting...talking.

Those venues you've tried online, try them in person. Go to a show there, see what you think of it. Then talk to whoever the promoter is. Ask if he's got some room on a bill for you. Give him some info on where to listen to your music. Exchange contact info and make sure you follow up. Most smaller local bands are not very proactive. Often times simply following up can get you gigs just because you made an effort. Because you weren't just one of the 4 bands that randomly emailed him for that spot.

You know that local band that always seems to get shows at that one spot? You wanna know why they do? Because the venue probably knows them the most out of any others. And knows they can play shows at the drop of a hat and not flake on him. Knows they can generally have some crowd draw. He's closing in on a week till show night and ain't no bands acted like they were interested. They just sent useless or sketchy "dude can we play a show" emails. He calls up his pal who he can count on to fill out a bill.

Also some booking agents and promoters will talk to local recording studios to find out about available bands. If you've recorded in town, or plan to, that is also a very useful contact.
Another way is getting to know other more established bands in the area. Same thing. Go to their shows, talk to them. Explain you're trying to get your foot in the door. They know what it's like, they've been there. Most bands will say "yea man totally" but realistically very few will actually follow through on their end. So much of the bar talk, so to speak, is meaningless. Follow through on your end anyways and if they're receptive then you might can get on a bill with them.