United States

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.

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!!

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?

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

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

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

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.

So I have to purchase a Busk Ticket then?

So I have to purchase a Busk Ticket then?

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

how can i get gigs at local clubs?

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

how can i get gigs at local clubs?

Singing to backing tapes? That's karaeoke, no one's going to pay you until you are bringing in a crowd.

A busk ticket, hahahaha, that's funny.

It's a live performance toll.

Did someone just say "live performance troll"?

I can cover that.. lol

here is a song i plan to sing.

http://soundcloud.com/chadherrella/dont ... s-cover-by