Eva: Transforming the Way Artists and Entertainers Connect with High-Paying Gigs

For many independent artists and entertainers, the path to sustainable income can feel elusive. Enter Eva, a groundbreaking platform co-founded by Channing Moreland and McKenzie Caldwell, which is reshaping the gig economy by connecting musicians, comedians, and other performers with lucrative private and corporate event opportunities. In an interview with No Labels Necessary, the co-founders shared their journey and vision for the platform.

Eva, an acronym for Events, Venues, and Artists, provides a streamlined way for entertainers to book performances. Since its inception, the platform has put over $6 million into the pockets of its users. By focusing on high-paying gigs, Eva is creating a new revenue stream for artists looking to supplement or even replace the traditional grind of bar shows and small-scale performances.

A Marketplace for Artists of All Levels

Eva is designed to cater to entertainers at various stages of their careers. The founders emphasized that users don’t need a significant social media following or industry connections to succeed on the platform. “We don’t have a minimum follower count,” Moreland explains. “Most of the artists we work with are self-represented and don’t have a manager or agent.”

The platform serves as a bridge between performers and clients who might otherwise struggle to find talent. Whether it’s a corporate awards gala, a holiday party, or a private celebration, Eva simplifies the booking process for event planners while providing artists with access to high-paying gigs. “Corporate events pay four to ten times more than your average bar gig,” Caldwell notes, highlighting the financial benefits of Eva’s model.

From Humble Beginnings to Corporate Success

The story of Eva began nearly a decade ago at Belmont University in Nashville, a city synonymous with music. Moreland and Caldwell started by helping friends book small gigs around town, from pizza joints to casual venues. Their guiding principle was clear: musicians deserve to be paid fairly for their work.

This commitment led to their first corporate client a year after graduation. “It was a lucky connection,” recalls Caldwell. “They needed entertainment for an event and reached out to us. That person eventually became our head of business development.” The corporate world opened doors to higher-paying opportunities, and Eva quickly pivoted its focus to this lucrative market.

Corporate Gigs: The Game-Changer for Artists

One of Eva’s most significant contributions has been dispelling myths about corporate gigs. Unlike the traditional stereotype of “party bands” playing covers, the platform has seen a growing demand for original acts. “More employers want authentic, local talent that reflects the city they’re visiting,” says Moreland.

Eva’s artists have shared inspiring success stories, with some making corporate performances their primary source of income. “We’ve had entertainers tell us, ‘I bought my house because of Eva,’” Caldwell shares. “It’s incredible to see how this platform has transformed lives.”

The Challenges and Rewards of Corporate Events

Performing at corporate events requires a unique set of skills beyond musical talent. Artists must be punctual, professional, and adaptable to various environments. “This isn’t your ticketed show,” Caldwell emphasizes. “You’re there on behalf of the client, and how you conduct yourself reflects on them.”

Eva supports its artists by providing clear guidelines and expectations. From crafting a professional rider to offering tips on reading the room, the platform equips performers to excel in these settings. Additionally, live performance footage and high-quality photos are essential for booking success, as they give clients confidence in an artist’s abilities.

Building Connections and Expanding Opportunities

One of Eva’s standout features is its ability to connect artists with a diverse range of clients. From HR representatives at Fortune 500 companies to startup founders planning launch parties, the platform serves as a meeting ground for varied opportunities. Artists who establish a strong reputation often find their bookings snowballing through word-of-mouth referrals.

“The key is focusing on an industry or type of event that resonates with you,” Moreland advises. “For example, if you want to work with a brand like Nike, incorporate elements of their style into your social media or performance aesthetic. It makes it easier for us to pitch you when those opportunities arise.”

Expanding Beyond Music

While music remains a core focus, Eva is branching out into other areas of entertainment. The platform now facilitates bookings for keynote speakers, comedians, and interactive experiences, reflecting the evolving needs of corporate and private event planners.

“Clients are looking for more than just music,” Caldwell explains. “They want experiences that engage attendees and leave a lasting impression. We’ve started booking everything from comedy acts to influencer appearances.”

Navigating the Hidden World of Corporate Bookings

Moreland and Caldwell also stress the importance of networking with local convention bureaus. These organizations play a pivotal role in attracting major events to cities and can be valuable allies for artists looking to break into the corporate market. “Every city has a convention bureau that organizes networking events and provides insights into who’s coming to town,” Moreland notes. “It’s a great way to get your foot in the door.”

The Future of Eva

With a proven track record and a growing roster of talent, Eva is poised for continued success. The founders envision expanding their offerings to include more types of entertainers and increasing the platform’s reach. “We’re excited to keep evolving and finding new ways to support the creative community,” Caldwell says.

Eva is more than just a booking platform—it’s a lifeline for independent artists navigating an increasingly complex industry. By bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, Eva is proving that the business of entertainment can be fair, rewarding, and accessible to all.