Looking to hire a cover band for an upcoming event? At GigSalad, we’ve connected thousands of people with the best live music in their area. Choose your city below to browse cover bands for hire near you. We also have answers to your frequently asked questions about booking a local cover band. Let us help you find the perfect entertainment to make your event unforgettable!
A cover band is a band that performs popular songs that were written and released by other artists as opposed to their own material. Musicians in cover bands generally perform recognizable hits for audiences, but some may add their own spin to well-known songs for a unique arrangement.
Cover bands come in all shapes and sizes, from small acoustic duos for more intimate gatherings to full-sized high-energy groups for larger events. Depending on their performance style and setlist, cover bands may also be referred to as party bands, wedding bands, or dance bands.
Cover bands typically perform songs by an array of different artists in different music genres. Tribute bands focus solely on one artist or band and pay tribute by performing in a similar fashion. Some tribute acts go one step further with their attire and makeup to match their look to the original artist.
Cover bands generally play a variety of music but the most popular genres include Top 40 hits, classic rock, and well-known songs from specific eras like the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and ‘00s.
On average, cover bands cost $500-$1500, depending on the length of the performance, the type of event, the number of band members, and their overall performance experience. Cover bands that play acoustic sets oftentimes charge less than bands that require a PA system. When researching pricing information, keep in mind that travel costs may also be added to the total if you book a band outside of your local area.
Many cover bands come fully equipped with speakers, amps, mixers, mics, and stands along with their instruments and gig kit. If the sound system and stage lighting are provided by the venue, be sure to discuss these details with the performer and include them in the booking agreement.
A cover band’s attire is typically unique to their own style and tastes. However, many live bands are willing and able to alter their look to fit the style or theme of the event. For example, extravagant weddings, corporate events, or award ceremonies may call for more formal apparel. Cover bands may also coordinate their look to the style of music they play. For example, an ‘80s cover band might rock out in stonewashed jeans, muscle tees, and big hair.
Most professional cover bands will have at least one video to show what their performance looks like. These could be professional promo videos or live footage of past events. Luckily, you can view videos and photos of your local cover bands on GigSalad so you know what to expect for your event. Whether they have a reel or not, you can also ask for the date of an upcoming gig to see them in action before hiring.
Live music is a popular choice for pretty much any type of event. Cover bands are most often booked for wedding receptions, festivals, campus activities, proms, and holiday parties. They are also a fun corporate entertainment option to get employees or clients out on the dance floor. Whether you're planning a public event for your community or a private event for a birthday or anniversary, a cover band will take your celebration to the next level!
There are numerous ways for a cover band to get noticed, so it’s good to use all the methods and tools you have available. Make sure you have a strong online presence and you actively connect with your fans and followers. Social media, band websites, and online marketplaces are all great options that can help you reach a wide audience and get gigs.
You also want to take advantage of as many performing opportunities as possible. Every gig—even those that pay little or no money—gives you a chance to gain new fans and can lead to future bookings.
Lastly, invest in your promotional media. High-quality photos and videos are crucial for cover bands that want to attract attention. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also show how serious you are about your career.
When a band covers another artist’s song, a license is required from a performing rights organization (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) to pay royalties to the appropriate parties. For live performances, the venue is generally responsible for paying the licensing fees that allow them to host cover bands.
For recording cover songs, the artist is responsible for obtaining a “mechanical license” which allows you to create a new version of a copyrighted song. If you’re covering copyrighted music in your performances, make sure you do your research and have the right licensing agreement before you hit the stage.
A cover band’s travel preferences are entirely up to them to decide. Many bands start out performing locally and then expand their travel radius as their budget allows. Other bands accept gigs that are far from them and factor the travel costs into their rates. If you do take a gig outside of your local area, try to coordinate your schedule to add bookings that are en route.
Cover bands, on average, make between $500 and $1500 per show depending on your location, experience, length of the performance, and the number of band members. Bands that have spent years performing and acquiring fans are typically able to charge more per gig than others. If you’re new to performing, you may want to start out with a lower asking price to build up your experience and gradually increase your rates as you go.
Commerce City, CO 
Cover Band
Cody U. said “Absolutely LOVE this crew. They brought such an energy to our wedding and engaged with us all evening. Their catalog is the most extensive of any of the…”
Oak Park, MI
Cover Band
18 Verified Bookings Brad F. said “Wow. Jarrod and his band were incredible from start to finish. We had Jarrod perform at our wedding this past September at the Ford Piquette Plant in…”
Denver, CO
Cover Band
14 Verified Bookings Jorian S. said “We had the Royal Street Ramblers 2-man band play our 55+ new home community grand opening and they could not have been more perfect. Their take on well-known…”
Hamilton, ON
Cover Band
13 Verified Bookings Paul B. said “This is an easy choice. They show up on time, great communication, excellent performance and good people. I would absolutely recommend them as they were…”
Cover bands know what the crowds want and have extensive setlists for any type of event. From weddings to corporate events to private parties, book a cover band to get your guests groovin’ on the dance floor. You can hire a cover band that specializes in a specific genre like Top 40 hits, or you can book a more versatile band that will play songs from a variety of styles across multiple decades.
When hiring a cover band, take the time to listen to audio samples and watch video clips of previous performances so you find the group that matches the style you want. If provided, look through their setlist to make sure you like their repertoire. You should also read reviews from past clients to see what it’s like to work with the group. Once you find a cover band you want to hire, get all the details in writing with a contract or booking agreement. When you book on GigSalad, all payments are handled securely through the site and are protected by our Worry-Free Guarantee.
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Using data from quotes sent through GigSalad, we’ve gathered average nationwide pricing for hiring Cover Bands.
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