How to Apply

If you would like to book a show or other event at Rock Island, you must submit a request using a Sonicbids account. The Sonicbids EPK (Electronic Press Kit) is an easy-to-use, web-based graphic interface that contains all the basic information of a musical act such as music, photos, date calendar and riders and can be either emailed to anyone with a click of the mouse or submitted in online promoter accounts through a virtual "Drop Box." If you are not yet a Sonicbids member and want to submit online, click here and sign-up for the Sonicbids Combo Package (includes your submission AND a discounted Sonicbids membership). If you are already a Sonicbids member, log in to your account and visit the Promoter Drop Box to submit.

Rock Island Cafe Submissions on Sonicbids

Answers to Your Questions

What types of shows do you have?

We will book most types of performances, as long as the performers and their fans are respectful.

How big is Rock Island?

It's cozy. Maximum capacity is 60 people.

Where is it located?

We're at 303 N Commercial St in Neenah, WI. This is on Doty Island, a few blocks from downtown Neenah.

Where should we enter/unload/park?

We do not have a parking lot, but there are many public parking areas nearby.

If there are any openings, the best place to park for unloading and loading is on the side street, E Forest Ave. The small door facing that street is our side entrance. You can bring in smaller items through that door, but please bring larger drums and such around through the front (N Commercial St) door.

If you can't park on Forest Ave, park on the street that goes behind the Human Services building (across Forest Ave from us), which has slanted parking spaces. There are also eight marked public parking spaces in the parking lot for the restuarant next door (Choices), but please do not park in any of their private spaces out of respect for their property.

Depending on how much stuff you have, you might want to wait to bring it in until just before you perform, if you're not performing first. We don't have a green room or any sort of backstage area.

What sound equipment do you have?

We have one PA used mainly for microphones. If you have an amp for your instruments, you will not need to run it through the PA due to the small size of the room. We also have 4 or 5 microphones with cords, a few microphone stands, and one monitor.

Do you have someone to run sound for us?

Not usually. You must run your own sound. It's not a big deal because you will need very little amplification due to the small size of the room. We can also help you get the mix right.

Can we collect tips and sell merchandise?

Yes.

Can we play covers?

We do not book cover bands, but you can play a cover or two during your show if you want.

What time are shows and when should we arrive?

We book shows on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM, and occasionally on other nights of the week. We usually book 1 or 2 performers each night, with approximately 60-90 minutes per performer. If you are booked for a show, you should arrive by 6:30 PM.

How can we contact you on the day of our show?

Do not e-mail us if you need a response within 48 hours. Call Rock Island at 920-722-0014.

Can I play with X performer/band?

If you know what other bands you want to share a show with, let us know when you e-mail. We can usually make it work.

Do you charge a cover for shows?

Almost never. Shows are typically free to attend, and you get paid in tips/donations.

How much do you pay performers?

All bands are paid by the same method. We calculate the sales for the night between 6 PM and the end of the show, and all performers split 15% of that amount. The amount prior to splitting is usually $10-$40, but we make no guarantees. The more people you bring in (and the more you convince them to spend during your show), the more money you make.