Opener

What Is an Opener?

An opener is a band that performs before the main act. They play first. They warm up the crowd for the headliner.

Openers usually play shorter sets than the headliner and are usually less popular than the headliner. They may be up-and-coming artists or local bands.

Openers also typically enjoy less perks than the headliner. Priority typically goes to the headliner when it comes to things like soundcheck time and space for merch sales.

How Are Openers Chosen?

The headliner may choose who opens for them. They may have friends in other bands. They may want to showcase new talent.

The promoter or venue may choose openers. They may have relationships with certain bands. They may book local acts to draw a crowd.

Sometimes touring headliners rely on local booking agents for recommendations at each stop on the tour. And other times the openers tour with the headliners.

What Are the Benefits to Being an Opener?

Bands agree to open for several reasons.

Exposure is the main reason. Opening for a bigger band means playing for their fans. Some of these fans may become fans of the opener.

Networking is another reason. Opening gives the band a chance to meet the headliner and others involved in the tour. They may make connections that help their career.

Money can be a factor. Some opener slots pay well. Others may not pay at all but offer the ability to sell merch.

Typically, building a following is the main goal when touring as an opener. Every show is a chance to gain new fans. Opening for a popular band is a great way to do this.

What Is the Difference Between an Opener and a Supporting Act?

The terms opener and support act are often used the same way. But there can be a difference.

Any act that plays before the headliner can be called an opener or a supporting act interchangably.

But some would only refer to the act who plays first as the opener. Anyone else is either a headliner or a supporting act.

A support act might play second or third. They are supporting the headliner but not necessarily opening.