A LITTLE ABOUT LIVE PERFORMANCES

It is no longer breaking news that to make a statement and hold your position in the music industry, you have to be able to perform with a live band on stage. If you want to take your music seriously and are looking to eventually get a record deal or make a living from your music, then playing with a band is not an option.

What you need to know about performing with a Band

One of the most important characteristics of a live band performance is knowledge of how to work the crowd. You need to know how to appeal to and get and retain the attention of the audience, and also get them involved and enjoy their time with you. That being said, here are some guidelines to help your performance on stage.

KEEPING TO TIME: you need to realize that your audience paid to come and watch you do your thing. Keeping them waiting is rude and not acceptable. When you do get on stage, Know how long your set runs - this should be apparent rehearsal sessions. Stick to your set list and don't be tempted to add extra songs just for the audience - unless you know there is going to be time to spare.

ARRIVE FOR YOUR SOUND CHECK ON TIME:  Sound checks and performance slots will generally be set by the promoter. Find out when you need to be there and stick to that. You may even be refused a sound check if you are late.  Make sure you arrive at the venue in plenty of time. If you have been requested to be there for a sound check at a particular time, make sure you get there at least an hour before time to allow you to familiarize yourself with the venue, do last minute dress rehearsal and implement any necessary changes. You will also know when you are due to be on stage and make sure you are ready for that. You don't want to be looking for your drummer and backup singers 2 minutes before you are due on.

KEEP THE AUDIENCE INVOLVED IN YOUR PERFORMANCE:  Make sure to engage the audience as much as possible during your performance. This will help the audience feel like they are a part of the show. Audience participation is always a winner, so interact with your live audience by talking to them in between songs, sharing a joke or telling them what inspired the song you just sang. However, be careful not to talk too much.

BE ENERGETIC ON STAGE:  Show the audience that you're having fun. If you're having fun on stage, the audience will sense it and feed off your excitement.  Dance with your backup singers or dancers as the case may be. Even if you can’t really dance well, just learn a few simple steps that you can do together on stage.  You can also create a personal signature move for your band, and soon your audience will be making the same signature move. 

DON’T FORGET TO INTRODUCE YOUR BAND:  It’s important you introduce everyone on the band and let them have the spotlight for a few minutes.

After the show, make sure you stick around and socialize with other band members, artistes, stage people and industry people back stage. As an upcoming artistes, you need all the contacts you can get and you never can tell which one will come in handy.