How I went from Cork to playing over 100 shows in just seven months in the US

Independent Irish musician Podge Lane offers a guide to making the most of gigging opportunities in the USA

Podge Lane, an Irish musician who has spent the past year performing and recording in the USA.

It’s a strange time to be an independent musician; venues are closing, touring costs are rising, and the new age of technology has both helped and hindered the reach of musicians. 

So how do you get a following, an income and a sustainable gigging calendar in a brand new country? Here is how I played over 100 shows in just seven months in the US.