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How do independent musicians actually find paid gigs when venues don't respond?
Singer-songwriter Susanna Laird joins Radio Safa to share what it really takes to build a performing career — from sending countless emails and dealing with rejection to approaching venues, negotiating pay, and learning one of her biggest lessons: you have to be willing to ask.
Susanna also shares her unconventional journey from raising and homeschooling her children to performing professionally as a singer, guitarist, pianist, and songwriter. Today, she's found opportunities performing at nursing homes, wineries, breweries, bars, festivals, and other live venues.
In this conversation, you'll hear about:
• How Susanna finds and approaches venues for gigs
• What to do when venues don't respond
• How persistence turns into real bookings
• Finding paid performance opportunities beyond traditional bars and clubs
• Asking about compensation and negotiating gig pay
• Building a music career while balancing family and life
• The emotional side of songwriting and live performance
Susanna also performs her original song “The Creek” and demonstrates how emotions like anxiety, excitement, peace, and anger can completely change the way a guitarist approaches the same instrument.
If you're an independent musician trying to get more gigs — or you've ever wondered what it really takes to build a performing career from the ground up — this episode is for you.
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Radio Safa shares the stories of working artists and connects creative talent with real opportunities.
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