Taking Your Music to the Streets

If you're a musician you've probably thought about giving busking, in other words performing on the streets, a go at least once in your career.

Busking is a great way to test out your charisma, your endurance, your ability to draw fans and most importantly your songs. Here is our guide to busking etiquette, yes, there is such a thing.

Busking in NYC

Since feature.fm's headquarters are located in New York City, we thought we'd start off by giving you the low-down on busking in NYC legally and in style. Class is now in session.

Background

Let's start off with a little history.

In 1935 the city of New York banned street music and street entertainers. The toll that The Great Depression took on the US in the 20s and 30s meant that many people turned to busking as a source of revenue. Therefore it was heavily associated with begging and crime. The ban was finally lifted in 1970 after being declared unconstitutional.

Keep in mind

1. Busking is allowed in the street and inside city parks. Performing in NYC's streets and parks is legal according to the law, but you will have to abide by certain rules.

2. The hours are limited

You can't perform between the hours of 8 p.m. and 9 a.m. if you're within 50 feet of a residential building. If you are not, it's between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m. You will need a permit for a number things including an amp, which is $45 and to perform in a park, which is $25.

3. Don’t block anything

This is a given. Be sure you're avoiding creating traffic surrounding sidewalks, elevators, doors or fire extinguishers.

4. No CD or merch sales

We hate to break it to you, but busking is not your way to make music sales. You are able to accept donations, but leave it at that or you'll be faced with a hefty ticket.

5. Don't be louder than the subway speakers

People have to hear the subway announcements. Be respectful to the people who don't want to hear the music and just want to get from place to place.

For a more in depth look into busking in NYC, check out this blog post by Sonicbids. Thinking of busking outside of NYC? Make sure you check out what the rules are when it comes to performing in public spaces in your respective city.

Our Favorite Buskers

Bandits On The Run
Mr Reed
The Boyd Family
Mountain Animation
Coyote and Crow