Musician Forum - Band Discussion Board - BandMix

Posted: **Thu Jul 19, 2012 4:11 am**

Hi I have a PA speaker, mic and instrumental music (ipod). I am ready to start busking in the los angeles area - like santa monica, venice beach.

How much can I earn doing this on the weekend?

I have a repertoire prepared. around 8-10 songs. about an hour.

thanks for advice in advance.

Posted: **Thu Jul 19, 2012 1:15 pm**

I assume this is a battery-powered set-up. If you're in a busy place (lots of foot traffic), cops don't hassle you and you're a good singer, you might get a few dollars an hour. People are unlikey to throw much money down to someone singing 'kareoke' and not playing an instrument.
You'll make more money working at McDonald's than busking.
8-10 songs in an hour? That would be a bunch of 6-8 minute long songs!!

Posted: **Thu Jul 19, 2012 1:38 pm**

Is it even legal to "busk" in LA ? Most cities will bust your chops for making a dime without paying into their tax structure.
I say try it for fun ... see what comes up?

Posted: **Fri Jul 20, 2012 2:02 pm**

Sounds like you would be better off playing some gigs at local clubs.

Posted: **Fri Jul 20, 2012 3:21 pm**

venice beach is your best bet since nobody walks in LA

I've seen a few people busking there...one guy has been there every day since 1973.

good luck

Posted: **Fri Jul 20, 2012 4:49 pm**

I use to live in Burbank back in the mid 80's... we would sometimes go to Venice. And I remember the performers would get shut down peridically by the police. Seemed usually when the crowds became to large.

Something I found on-line may help you...
Poster comment:
"Santa Monica Prominade is a good spot.. but ya got to spend 37 bucks for a permit.. it is well worth it though.. because You can make it back in 2 hours easy. ya need to got to the city hall and fill out a form pay the cash.. and wait till the next bizness day to get your permit... "

Additonal comments I found were similar.
But it sounds like there are plenty of folks busking at the Prominade and it can get crowded with performers. These comments were from a thread in 2005 so take it for what it's worth...

If nothing else the weather is great 10 months out of the year.
Enjoy :wink:

Posted: **Fri Jul 20, 2012 6:53 pm**

You have to buy a permit to busk in the subway in Boston, too, but they dont' offer anythign for above ground. The few times I tried it, I got 'move along' from the cops. Depends where you are.