What Performing Live Has Taught Me
By Danun Todd
Performing live has taught me to expect anything and everything. I've been performing live with bands now for well over thirty years, as a guitarist, bassist and even singer in my early days.
Performing live is tough, sometimes physically and mentally draining, but it's also the most rewarding thing you can do as a musician. There is no better feeling than putting your heart and soul into a live performance and then to see the audience respond to your creative efforts.
There's no better feeling than coming together as a band, smiles on faces and embracing, knowing that you've put on a great show.
The thing is that every show is different. Different crowd, different venues, different engineers, lights, monitors, different vibe, different sound.
There can't be a creative industry that throws so many different demands at you, so be prepared as much as you can.
Get the basics sorted before you go on stage and you'll be prepared for anything. It'll be hot, sweaty, noisy, cables at every turn to trip you over. Where can I put my beer?
Rehearse well. Restring your guitar, bring a spare, check your cables, batteries, bring your earplugs, write out the set list.
Never turn up to a show with a bad attitude either. All the bands and crew are there to enjoy the gig and do the best they can. Leave your everyday shit at home.
Everyone has issues and problems to deal with, even the audience. You play shows in a band because you love music and you want to entertain. So make sure you do that.
This all sounds a bit anti rock n roll I know, but it's not the 1970s anymore. Sure have a beer or two, have a good time, but ultimately, try and put on a good show.
But hey this is me. This is how I do it and maybe you're thinking "nah man, I'll do it my way!" And that's the thing, you do it your way. You're the musician, the entertainer, and we'll all want to do it differently. That's what makes performing musicians all so different.
My advice is for you to take it or leave as much as you want. Do your own thing.
Just make sure you enjoy it, because if you do then there's a good chance your audience will too.
About Danun Todd
Hi, my name is Danun Todd, guitarist, songwriter, teacher and qualified sound engineer. I’ve been working in the music and creative industry for over thirty years and will probably carry on for another thirty years, so long as my ears let me.
