10 years ago, using an online management software for your band was something only the large 'agency style' bands were using. It’s now 2024 and pretty much all established bands, musicians and artists have the option of an app to help manage their gigs, but what are the best software to help run and grow your band and make the booking process for your band easier than ever?
There’s loads of options out there and picking the right software for your business can seem overwhelming. In this article we’ll break it down so you can pick the best management software for your band.
Jump to...
- Top 12 most popular band management apps available in 2024
- Core band management features you need to run your band
- Must have performer management tools
- Additional features
- Band management pricing in 2024
- Usability
Top 12 most popular band management apps available in 2024
There's loads of apps out there which help you manage your band. Depending on your needs, some may be a better fit that others, but here are the top 12 most popular band management apps available in 2024.
| Tool Name | Founded | Description | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Back On Stage | 2020 | CRM, billing, contracts, team communication, shared calendar, set lists, and payroll. Tools to help live music providers monetize their performances in minutes. | Band leaders, artists, freelance musicians, music agencies |
| Band Pencil | 2019 | Artist and band management software built for people working in the music and entertainment industry to help organize every aspect of your event. | Band leaders, artists, freelance musicians, music agencies, entertainment companies |
| BandMule | 2012 | Plan gigs and rehearsals with ease using Band Mule. | Band leaders |
| Bandinq | Unknown | All-in-one band management software to elevate band success. Helps with finding music venues, managing setlists, and booking shows. | Band leaders |
| GigPlanner | 2019 | Manage gigs, organize your band, tour, or agency online. | Band leaders, musicians, agencies, classical music |
| Giggio | 2011 | Manage enquiries, bookings, invoices, payments, and reports from anywhere. No more boring admin tasks or paperwork stress. | Entertainment companies |
| Gigwell | 2013 | All-in-one platform providing everything needed to manage a roster, send contracts, streamline logistics, collect online payments, and track financials. | Artists, music agencies, entertainment companies |
| muzodo | 2013 | Scheduler for music groups, including Brass Bands, Concert Bands, Orchestras, Choirs, Jazz Groups, Pipe Bands, Marching Bands, Ukulele Clubs, and Honour Guards. | Band leaders, amateur music groups |
| Overture | 2015 | Software for booking agencies and artist managers. | Classical music, band leaders, artists |
| Prism.fm | 2016 | Tool to boost team productivity and profitability. Helps organize and execute all aspects of booking events, including calendar, settlement, advancing, relationship management, and data analysis. | Venues, promoters, music agencies |
| Stagent | 2019 | Efficient software for artists and booking agencies to get contracts signed, invoices paid, and tours planned. | Artists, music agencies |
| WheresTheGig | 2008 | Free band management software for the music community, designed by musicians for musicians. Features for organizing, maintaining, and publishing gig information. | Band leaders |
Core band management features
There are core features which you need to be able to run your band, and some are more essential than others. For example, if you’re paid to perform you really need a system which has contract and invoice management. You’ll notice the more generic CRMs (Customer Relationship Management systems) will only provide you with limited features as they’re catering for a wider audience. For example, Giggio won’t offer you any features specifically designed for bands, or music companies like setlist manager, or a band/line up builder.
Below are the top features to look out for:
1. Lead Capture Form
Lead capture forms are important as it enables band leaders to capture potential gig leads efficiently from their website or social media platforms, ensuring they never miss out on opportunities to book new gigs and expand their clientele.
| App | Lead Capture Form Availability |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✓ |
| Overture | ✓ (custom code required) |
| Stagent | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
2. Ability to Sync Gigs with Google/Personal Calendar
All band management apps covered here provide the ability to sync gigs with Google Calendar. In 2024, calendar integration is essential for band leaders to keep everyone in sync regarding gig schedules. It helps avoid scheduling conflicts, improves communication among band members, and ensures that everyone has an up-to-date calendar of upcoming performances.
3. Client Portal
A client portal provides a convenient and professional way for clients to access documents, setlists, and other necessary information. It enhances the overall client experience, ensuring transparency, easy communication, and providing a dedicated space for interaction, which can be crucial for customer satisfaction and repeat bookings.
| App | Client Portal |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✓ |
| Overture | ✓ |
| Stagent | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
| WheresTheGig | ✗ |
| Bandule | ✗ |
| Muzodo | ✗ |
4. Task (or To-Do) List Management
Task lists are vital for staying organized, ensuring that no detail is overlooked during event planning. For band leaders juggling multiple performances, creating to-do lists can help manage rehearsals, communicate song changes, track preparations, and make sure all members are ready for upcoming gigs.
| App | Task or To-Do List |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✓ |
| Overture | ✓ |
| Stagent | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
| Gigplanner | ✓ |
5. Setlist Builder
Setlist builders are important because they enable band leaders to create, modify, and share song lists efficiently, ensuring every band member is on the same page for a performance. It also allows for customization and flexibility, making it easier to adjust to audience preferences or specific client requests, which can greatly improve the overall performance quality and experience.
| App | Setlist Builder |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| WheresTheGig | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
| Bandinq | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✗ |
| Giggio | ✗ |
| Overture | ✗ |
| Stagent | ✗ |
| Bandule | ✗ |
| Muzodo | ✗ |
| Gigplanner | ✗ |
Performer Management
If you’re running a band you’ll also be managing the people you work with and we know this can be the most complicated and stressful part of running your band! Here's the comparison for some of the most important features when it comes to managing your musicans, performers, crew and technicians:
1. Ability for Performers to Submit Their Availability
This is important because allowing performers to submit their availability streamlines scheduling and minimizes back-and-forth communication, helping you save time and reduce conflicts. Most band management apps provide the ability for performers to submit their availability, including options like Band Pencil, WheresTheGig, and Back On Stage. However, some tools such as Gigwell and Giggio lack this feature.
2. Allow Performers to Submit Invoices to You
Having the ability for performers submit invoices through the app simplifies financial tracking and creates a more transparent process for everyone involved, making it easier to manage payments. Several band management apps, including Band Pencil and Gigwell, support the ability for performers to submit invoices directly. However, many alternatives do not offer this functionality.
| Application | Performer Availability Submission |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| WheresTheGig | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
| Bandinq | ✓ |
| Muzodo | ✓ |
| Gigplanner | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✗ |
| Giggio | ✗ |
| Overture | ✗ |
| Stagent | ✗ |
| Bandule | ✗ |
| Prism.fm | ✗ |
3. Provide a Portal So Performers Can See Gig Information Online
Most band management platforms, such as Band Pencil and Back On Stage, provide an online portal for performers to view gig information. However, some apps, like Gigplanner, do not offer this feature. A performer portal is highly beneficial as it keeps your musicians informed in real-time, allowing them to access key details like gig schedules, locations, and other important notes—leading to fewer miscommunications and greater efficiency.
| App | Performer Online Portal |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
| WheresTheGig | ✓ |
| Bandinq | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✗ |
| Giggio | ✗ |
| Overture | ✗ |
| Stagent | ✗ |
| Bandule | ✓ |
| Muzodo | ✓ |
| Gigplanner | ✗ |
4. Band/Line Up Builder
The Band Line-Up Builder feature is only offered by a few platforms, such as Band Pencil. Many popular tools, including Gigwell and Back On Stage, lack this specific functionality. This tool is important for bands and music organizers as it makes organizing the perfect lineup simple, allowing you to assign musicians and adjust based on availability easily.
Here at Band Pencil we have one of the best band lineup builders on the market. It allows you to build your band and easily see which musician is on what gig.
| App | Band Line-Up Builder |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Other band management software | ✗ |
Additional Features
For band management you can never have too many features! These are the ‘nice to have’ features but some can be pretty important when it comes to running a band in 2024. This is something you'll have to decide for yourself depending on your business needs.
1. Equipment Management
Most band management apps, including Band Pencil, Gigwell, and Giggio, offer equipment management features. However, many other platforms, such as Prism.fm and Back On Stage, lack this capability. This feature is essential for bands that manage their own gear, allowing you to keep track of instruments, sound equipment, and other items to avoid last-minute mishaps before events.
| App | Equipment Management Feature |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✗ |
| Back On Stage | ✗ |
2. Custom Form Builder
Only a few platforms, such as Band Pencil and Back On Stage, include a Custom Form Builder. This feature is not commonly found in most other band management apps. Having a custom form builder is crucial for tailoring forms to collect information specific to your needs, whether for client inquiries, band member details, or event feedback, making your workflow more personalized and efficient.
| App | Custom Form Builder |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✓ |
3. File Storage
Most popular band management apps, including Band Pencil, Gigwell, Giggio, Overture, and Prism.fm, offer File Storage functionality. This feature is valuable for keeping all of your documents in one place—from contracts to setlists. File storage allows your band or agency to stay organized, ensuring that all essential documents are readily available for easy access.
4. Event Pipeline (to Track Events)
Platforms like Band Pencil, Giggio, Overture, and Gigplanner provide an Event Pipeline feature to track upcoming gigs and events. Many others, however, do not include this helpful functionality. The event pipeline is key for bands and agencies to stay on top of their gig schedule, visually tracking each stage of event planning, which helps prevent double bookings or missed opportunities.
| App | Event Pipeline Feature |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✓ |
| Overture | ✓ |
| Gigplanner | ✓ |
5. Availability Checker
The Availability Checker feature, found on Band Pencil, Back On Stage, and Bandinq, helps bands and artists quickly see if they're available for a new booking. Having a built-in availability checker is a game-changer for musicians and managers who need to make quick decisions regarding their booking calendar, keeping things streamlined and avoiding scheduling conflicts.
6. Admin User Manager
Most band management platforms provide an Admin User Manager feature. Admin user management is important for larger bands or agencies that require multiple levels of access and responsibility. It helps keep workflows secure and allows different team members to manage different aspects of the business.
Referral Source Tracker
This feature is often missing from other popular band management apps, but is included in Band Pencil, Giggio, Overture, and Stagent. Tracking your referral sources can provide valuable insights into your marketing efforts, allowing you to optimize where you invest your resources to bring in more bookings.
| App | Referral Source Tracker |
|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✓ |
| Overture | ✓ |
| Stagent | ✓ |
Band management pricing 2024
Based off the starting plan for each of the 12 band management apps we're looking at in this article, the average cost of a band management app in 2024 is $35.85 per month. As you can see from the comparison table below, some will charge more and some less. A lot of the time vendors will offer large discounts when paid yearly, so that's one thing to consider and look out for.
Is price important? Yes, and no when choosing band management software, the price is an important factor as it often reflects the target market the software is designed for. For instance, if you're managing a large music agency, a software package priced at $29 per month might seem too basic, indicating it may lack the advanced features you need. Conversely, if $2,500 per month feels too expensive, the software might be tailored for larger organizations with more complex requirements and budgets. Understanding the price can help you gauge whether a particular software solution aligns with your specific needs and budget.
| App | Price per Month (Starting Plan) | Price per Month (Top Plan) | Demo Needed Before Sign Up? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band Pencil | $29 | $99 | No |
| Gigwell | $59 | $2,750 | No |
| Giggio | £25 | £70 | No |
| WheresTheGig | FREE | FREE | No |
| Stagent | €49 | €849 | No |
| BandMule | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed | No |
| Prism.fm | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed | Yes |
| Back On Stage | $49 | $99 | No |
| Muzodo | $7 | $11 | No |
| Bandinq | FREE | $7 | No |
| Gigplanner | €5 | €96 | No |
| Overture | £81 (billed at £980/yr) | TBC on Agents | Yes |
Why do some band management software require a demo call before signing up?
Some vendors require a demo call before signing up for their software to ensure the product meets the customer's needs. This is especially common for vendors with more complex offerings. The demo allows the vendor to assess the potential customer's specific requirements and demonstrate relevant features, ensuring the solution is suitable. This process helps avoid disappointment by making sure both parties have a clear understanding of what the software can and can't deliver.
Are the cheaper better band management apps better, or worse?
Whether cheaper is better or worse depends on several factors, including the specific needs of the user, the features offered, and the quality of service. While a lower price can be attractive, it doesn't necessarily mean better value.
For instance, apps like Band Pencil and Giggio offer more affordable plans, which may be sufficient for smaller operations or those with basic needs. On the other hand, more expensive options like Gigwell offer a comprehensive suite of features, potentially justifying the higher cost for larger organisations or those with complex requirements. WheresTheGig, being free, may seem ideal for budget-conscious users, but its feature set and support level might be limited compared to paid options. Overture's top plan, though potentially costly, offers unlimited access, which could be invaluable for large-scale operations needing extensive usage.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on balancing the budget with the required features and support level. Cheaper options might be better for those with simple needs, while more expensive options might provide greater functionality and support, making them a better investment in the long run. Look in details at each vendor's pricing table to understand what features and support you will receive with each plan to help you make a better informed decision.
Tiered pricing model explained
A lot of vendors will offer multiple different pricing, this is known as tiered pricing and it's something pretty much all band management softwares have. For example with Band Pencil, we offer three plans:
- Our standard plan is built for people working alone, who need to be able to manage their events online and don't need any of our power features.
- Our premium plan is our most popular plan, it is built for most event and band managers who manage many events and a team of members and need to speed up their workflow.
- Our ultimate plan is built for musicians, agents, or entertainment businesses managing a large scale operation, with a large number of events and members, or for those who want all the bells and whistles!
Each plan increases in cost, but for that you receive more features. This allows bands to grow into different plans as they get more established.
Usability
Usability is crucial for any software platform as it directly affects user satisfaction and productivity. An intuitive interface helps users complete tasks efficiently and without frustration, saving time and encouraging continued use. Good usability also shortens the learning curve, making it easier for new users to get started.
| App | iOS App? | Android App? | Web App? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band Pencil | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Gigwell | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Giggio | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| WheresTheGig | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Overture | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Stagent | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| BandMule | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Prism.fm | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Back On Stage | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Muzodo | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bandinq | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Gigplanner | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Why are there a limited number of IOS or Android apps for band management?
Most management tasks are complex and benefit from larger screens, which desktop or laptop setups provide. This reduces the need for mobile apps, as the primary users may prefer using these tools on larger displays for better usability and efficiency. Here at Band Pencil, although we don’t offer a mobile app, we’ve designed the software to work perfectly well on any mobile or tablet like an iPad.
Conclusion – band management apps of 2024
Band management software has become an essential tool for musicians and bands of all sizes, simplifying the complexities of managing events, finances, and performer relations. The market now offers a variety of solutions tailored to different needs and budgets, from comprehensive platforms like Band Pencil and Gigwell to more niche offerings such as WheresTheGig. Choosing the right software depends on your specific requirements, including core management features, performer management capabilities, and additional functionalities that can enhance your workflow.
While cost is a factor, it's crucial to consider the value provided by each platform. More expensive options may offer advanced features and better support, justifying the investment for larger operations, whereas more affordable or free solutions might suffice for smaller bands with simpler needs. Usability is also a key consideration, as a well-designed interface can significantly enhance productivity and ease of use, even in the absence of dedicated mobile apps.
Ultimately, the best band management software for you will align with your unique operational demands and budget constraints, offering a balance of necessary features and ease of use. As the music industry continues to evolve, leveraging these tools will not only streamline administrative tasks but also support the growth and success of your band.
If you want to discuss your band management needs with us here at Band Pencil, we’re always happy to help! We offer a 14-day free trial where you can try the software for free - no strings attached and no credit card required to sign up.
Disclaimer
Accuracy: This comparison is based on promotional information from the software platforms and may not reflect current features or updates. We strive to provide accurate details in good faith and will correct any inaccuracies as soon as they are brought to our attention.
Scope: The features listed may not include all available functionalities. Verify with the providers for complete information.
No Endorsement: This comparison is for general guidance and does not endorse any particular platform. Conduct your own research to find the best fit for your needs.
This comparison is from data as of Q1 2024.
*This is a subjective personal opinion.
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