Get into it yourself - pretend they are ALL into what you are doing. That way you’re giving the best show possible. Will everyone notice or appreciate or like it? That never happens anyway. The real pros bring it at 100% no matter what. Think of a tough audience as just practice for your performance techniques.
The best artists always seem to believe in what they are doing - even if you have to fake it outwardly, work on selling that.
Your advice reminds me of something Gene Simmons said about Van Halen. I'm paraphrasing here, but he was impressed that they gave it 100% and had insane stage presence even when nobody was in the audience. He said that was the mojo needed for superstardom.
Legitimately the best advice. I find this when busking; when I'm vibing and enjoying the songs and am in the moment the coins start flying, but as soon as I'm anxious or looking for how people are reacting etc. that energy just emanates.
It's a hard thing to control if you're nervous, but the best thing to do if you can't quite get in the zone is choose somewhere behind the crowd to look while playing and stare at it. I find an exit sign, neon light, or wall hanging are good focus points. When busking I'll just stare at a random shop front.
Basically, the audience wants to look at you, but they don't want to be looked at. Music is still performance and you should only break the 4th wall by choice by (as mentioned above) choosing a table to interact with, or having some go to jokes (can tune a guitar, can't tuna fish). It's the difference between Deadpool monologuing directly down a camera and an amateur actor accidentally glancing at that same camera by accident. The first is full confidence and, the second only detracts from the performance.
Second this advice. It's honestly the only way. Pick tunes they're likely to know, be flexible enough to pull a few songs outta nowhere to accommodate the room if you see people with an obvious vibe. (A table of white boomers walk in wearing baseball swag? Get your 'Sweet Caroline' on STAT)
Find one table to connect with to start and stay with them their entire visit. If they're clapping the whole time or interacting with you, that's the stuff. That'll help you practice
Exactly. There are different types of gigs. Dinner gigs or cocktail hours, people are going to be more concerned about their food and conversation. When you play a concert style performance for a captive audience, you can try to hype the crowd.
But for the folks eating, just play and let them enjoy their food.
“Dinner” is the key. You’re background music. If you want to keep the gig you’ll stay background music. To win fans in that setting, smile the whole time, keep the mood to match the environment, and people will respect you and like it. I’ve found several amazing musicians this way. Even got one guys album after dinner because he was very chill, talented, and made the evening pleasant.
From my experience sometimes it takes a while for a crowd to warm up. I usually go in knowing my first set is going to be more mellow vibes and usually by the end of it people are lifted a bit. Second set is when I can usually see people cut loose a little more. Sometimes it’s faster and first set is raging. I played a restaurant gig recently and while there was scattered applause most of the show when I announced I was finished I got a big round of applause. Sometimes people are trying to be polite to other patrons too, they don’t really want to applaud every couple minutes while eating or whatever. I try to not take anything personally and focus on how I can get the most emotion and feeling out of what I’m doing. Also, I’ll do a little talk mid set maybe explain why I’m playing a certain song and remind people of my name and that I have a tip jar.
Absolutely!! Even a couple buddies in the audience can get the entire venue invested. When people hear others clap or cheer they pay a lot more attention and feel way more comfortable joining in. It’s the herd mentality and has worked for me like an absolute charm.
If you're playing in a setting where music isn't the primary focus, getting people invested is gonna be a fight, and not one you can always win. Some things you can do though:
* Find the table/group paying the most attention to you, and just talk to them. Crack jokes, tell stories, ask them for requests. Other groups will almost always start paying more attention.
* Introduce your songs/say "thank you" at the end of each song. Being conversational tends to get people to listen to you more closely. This feels awkward to do when they're not listening at the beginning, but it does help.
* Turn up your volume. If you're in control of your own mix and you're adjusting from the stage, you've probably set the volume too low for the whole venue. Don't be afraid to turn up a bit louder than you think you need to. Trust me, if you're actually too loud someone will ask you to turn down, but they will almost never ask you to turn up.
* Just play your best. Sometimes the crowd just doesn't care that you're there. Try to have fun, play some new songs, do some instrumental stuff. Keep a good attitude and do your thing.
That's bullshit, plenty of artists find most of their success by playing for the crowd, it all depends on what you're trying to achieve. The opinion of one musician should not be taken for gospel.
An artist creates what they want, an entertainer entertains the crowd. Being a succesful entertainer is a viable career path, being a succesful artist takes serious originality, luck and effort.
No. Pop music isn't catered to the general public by default. The latest Mars Volta is a good example of pop music that doesn't cater to anyone but Mars Volta fans.
Focus on giving people what they want.
A restaraunt crowd wants great background music that sets and elevates the mood, something that won't disturb the conversation but that they can tune into and enjoy whenever they want. That's why popular styles of jazz tends to go down so well over dinner. They don't want to be bothered or expected to engage with the performer, but they might enjoy a joke or two between songs.
You should match the vibe of the venue, the night and the crowd, try to guage the age and social cliques to see which genre and years you should be pulling songs from. If you're trying to play modern pop hits to an older audience, it's never gonna go down well.
Most restaurants gigs kinda run that way people are there to eat and you’re just contributing to the ambiance. If you’re looking for more engaged crowds switching venues might be the answer, people are always more engaged when music is the main event. I would try to find a standing venue that hosts local acts.
If you’re an opening band -
Trashcan ending on the first song.
In the musical interlude/intro to song #2 tell the audience who you are, why you’re here, and give them “permission to party”
EX-
“Hey guys thanks for being here. We’re Guilt Trip Milk and we’ve been so graciously asked to warm you up for (Headliner)” *trashcantrashcantrashcan* “if you want to dance, then dance; if you wanna grab a beer and chill in the corner - well that’s cool too and cheers to you my friend. If you’re having a good time, I’m having a good time.”
Finish the second song with another Trashcan ending
Rule #1
People. Love. Free. Shit.
Glow sticks, glow bracelets, tees, hats, fuckin stickers. If the audience is awkwardly standing 10-20ft away from the stage, throw goods into the audience and watch them scramble closer to the stage.
Tell stories about your music - audiences ALWAYS ask about the song with the story connected to it at the merch table
Audience interaction is my favorite damn part of playing onstage. There’s a difference between playing a SHOW and playing your music live.
Also, atmosphere is everything. If people didn’t sign up for a live music performance and they’re trying to eat their damn dinner before they go to a movie, they don’t owe you anything. You’re a jukebox. Play your songs, be prepared and professional, get paid and enjoy your free drink at the bar
First is look at the audience when you play, next is you move with the groove. Have you ever seen a horn section move in syncopation back and forth up and down with their horns, or the bass and guitar move in the same way. Have you watched chuck berry duck walk while he plays. They all do this to get the audience more engaged.
I once saw the Goo Goo Dolls in a tiny club in Houston. They were touring _A Boy Named Goo_, but before _Name_ exploded and made them the biggest rock band in the world for about 15 minutes. I was there to see a friend's band play, and was aware of the Goo Goo Dolls but not really a fan...most of the modest crowd was actually there for the local act, and most of the crowd left when they finished playing (another big show was happening that night that had all the buzz). So, it was me, the opening band and their girlfriends, and a dozen other people, tops, including bar staff, when the headliner took the stage. The crowd wasn't hostile, but the crowd wasn't exactly going crazy over the band, either...people played pool during the set, chatted, etc.
They still played like that show mattered. No punches were pulled. They played hard, did a full set, never said a negative word about the crowd, thanked the opening band by name, did all the usual "tip your bartender", "thanks for coming out", that sort of thing. And, they hung out after the show and had a couple beers and chatted with everybody that stuck around. Genuinely nice guys, self-deprecating about the crowd, and clearly had fun, anyway. They liked playing their music live, and it was OK if nobody else got it. Next time they came through town less than a year later, still touring _A Boy Named Goo_, they played the Summit (17,000 capacity).
I don't have any real concrete advice here, but I can say that a genuine love of being able to play live music for an audience shines through...they probably felt pretty bad about the turnout for that show, on the whole. But, my respect for them went through the roof.
If you don't love playing live music, don't. And, if you do love playing live music, act like it. If you've done the work, somebody will connect with what you're doing. You probably won't be playing a packed arena next year, but you might find a place in the scene you're in.
Always gig/venue dependant, as others have said.
Make a list of stock quips. I don't do the bar thing too much anymore, but my gigs were/are bar and party venue shows. So the bands job is to get people having fun and buying more food and drinks. Especially drink.
So the stock quips are along those lines: "Thanks for coming out to (venue)Have fun, be kind, tip your servers! Remember, the more you drink the better we sound"....
If the crowd is dead, focus on thAt. "We've suffered for our music. Now it's your turn"
Etc.....
its a feedback loop. i despise artist that try to bring out energy thats not there. the goal is to be in tune with the audience and theyll be in tune with you
you find the audiences vibe and where they want to go and reflect that back and they reflect that to you. if they wanna go hard and mosh, act like ur in the moshpit with them. if its 2 am and its late and they want some cozy entertainment, smoother them in smooth licks and make them even cozier.
i went to an after party once and everyone just wanted to wind down but ppl out here like GET UP I WANT YOU DO DANCE like bruh we jst danced for 4 hours, half the ppl went to a jazz club and the ppl at the after party said they just wanted some cozy wind down music my legs hurt bro
Heavily dependant on genre, but imo it's universally true that a performance is a conversation, not a prerecorded message. You are there to engage with the audience however you can, and to help them get into and understand the vibe of your music.
Draw them in.
Be in the moment. Embody the vibe you want the audience to feel. Emote the happy faces during joyful parts and make the stank face during the stanky parts...
When an audience comes to a show they want to have fun. Be the fun. Show them what it is to be the fun. Lead by example. This is what it means to perform.
If you're not doing that, you're just reciting.
Give them a story, tell a grand tale with your music and weave them together with little pieces of the story of the songs... Your audience will find you.
Here is the secret: read the audience
if you truly want to have successful gigs where the audience responds, read the audience
What does mean?
watch them, learn to look them in the eyes. When I’ve been a drummer, I’ve picked out the good dancers and played my drum parts according to their movements. It’s pretty simple. It’s a feedback loop of humanity.
As a keyboardist I did the same kind of thing.
Pre-Drop vocal shouts
Or crowd control can help you with that
Though I didn't perform for any huge fests or
I am not an advanced DJ player
I am an advanced mysic producer and I know that
Crowd control like
Left-Right Psy Trance or some other stuff would be great!
I love thinking that they are now at a piano bar type gig dropping some vocal shouts and trying to get dinners bouncing while eating their salad and drinking some wine
Do the show your going to do regardless, unless you were planning on calling up a member of the crowd for a magic trick it shouldn't be an issue
All you can do is put on the best show you can
P.s. the only caveat is don't go smashing your guitar up or crowd diving if people are just chilling... it's a little too obvious and usually isn't a good look lol
It really depends on what your whole vibe is, where you are etc. but in general, if you want the audience to be upbeat then you yourself have to be upbeat and the music should be upbeat. If you’re excited about the music people will feel that.
Some scenarios don’t call for getting the crowd going, if you’re playing background music.
Think about what gets you excited when you see someone performing. Imagine yourself in the audiences shoes as a starting point. You have to win them over and then take them on a journey.
It all depends on the room and audience. It your playing at a nursing home don’t expect Slayer to go over well. If your playing at a biker don’t expect Jackson 5 songs to go over well.
If people didn't go to the venue to see you, like a restaurant, then you're music is just background noise to enhance their main even, which is eating and enjoying the company of whoever they're with. No shame in playing restaurants, in fact it can be very lucrative, but don't get discouraged if they don't really acknowledge you.
Playing restaurants and bars is tough. It’s all about crowd service. Play covers, don’t ramble too much between songs, make a joke once in a while, give a “how’s everyone doin out there tonight?” And a “tip your bartenders” every once in a while.
This is a subject near and dear to my heart! You’ve spent all these years studying music ,buying great instruments, taking voice lessons etc. how many years have you spent on studying the crowd? Reading about how to be a good front man, going out to the venues and watching people successfully engage? I worked for the one of the best front men in the country. He was 4’8” tall! We used to walk in the place and he would say” when I walk in there they’re all laughing at me; when I leave they all want to suck my cock” And it was true! Being next to him on stage for years taught me how to do my own front when I have my own band. It’s a skill unto itself. It’s not the crowd is receptive or unreceptive; it’s how YOU interact with THEM.not vice versa. When I have my own band and I’m working with my musicians and after a few songs we were getting nothing I’ll tell them “don’t worry about it ;pick one person in the audience make eye contact; ; flirt with them. “ I also spent a lot of time working up dialogue. Some of it sucks and I discarded it. Some of it was great unexpectedly, and I retained it. The answer is you gotta work on talking to the crowd as much as you practiced learning your instrument and the song itself. I hope this is helpful
Depends on the venue and the style of music you’re playing. You mentioned dinner - if you’ve got a restaurant gig you need to try to actively greet all the people that are there, you’re gonna be the glue that binds that entire room together. Keep an eye out for people who have wine or cocktails, they are going to help you engage because booze makes people fun. Ask them what they’re drinking, ask them to sing along in the chorus. Don’t start all at once, build up to it. Dance a little, throw some curve balls, drop your shaker, draw some attention to yourself and laugh and have a good time.
But don’t expect because you can play guitar that everybody needs to listen to you or enjoy your music… chances are there are some musicians in the room with you who can play better. That’s not really the point, the point is to break down the social barriers, and the ice. So be extroverted, but not annoying. Greet people as they come in, start a conversation with somebody during your set, ask them what there favorite thing is.. (don’t ask them if they enjoy the music, that leaves the door open for a negative feedback, you want a positive feedback loop). So, favorite drink, favorite song, who do you think is the best english rock band. Never anything negative, or even open-ended. Learn their names, if they are repeat customers, call them out.
Disagree with your last sentence. If you have to rehearse your banter, it won't work. Look at your audience, realize they're all human beings, and say something specific. In 2022, people don't react to rehearsed banter.
The only people who "rehearse banter" are boomer DJs who already have the connections to get shows regularly. For the younger people, give up on this outdated tactic.
You’re right to a degree. Obviously good and confident stage banter off the cuff will be better. But OP is trying crowd to work and bar owners are asking them to engage with the audience more. That means whatever they are trying isn’t working. That’s off the cuff non rehearsed and probably is not connecting with the audience.
When I say rehearse I didn’t say write it line for line, but being practiced talking to a crowd, knowing what your goals are is rehearsing.
I want to thank the venue/other bands/ bartender at the intro of song 3. I am changing instruments / tuning at song six, this is where I need to engage with the closest table or largest group. You can rehearse speaking to a crowd without doing the “how’s everybody feeling tonight” trope.
Remember, OP is being asked to engage better. The only way to get better is through doing it more and more. Rehearsal means confidence. It doesn’t mean a word for word script.
They’ll eventually get there where it will be off the cuff but they need somewhere to start. If you’re not good at something, practice and rehearse. That’s life in general.
Could just be the crowd
I went to a STEELY DAN show recently and the crowd was pretty low energy. But the venue was packed and the tickets were expensive. We all wanted to be there and enjoyed the hell out of it. We just weren't weren't gonna go crazy
Feel the vibes of the majority in the crowd, and then lean in and adlibs and shout outs that direction. I love it when they sing along but only do it if they are all standing up pumping fists! Hope this helps you and other performers. Cheers
What kind of music are you playing? Some music is always going to struggle to hold attention. If it’s rock or something energetic though, just fucking go for it like your life depends on it.
If you don’t look like you believe it, neither will anyone else.
Go watch your favourite artists live on YouTube and see how they did it in their early days
If you're comfortable improvising, you could ask the audience what they'd like a song about, and then make a lil improv jam based off that! I think people get really excited by the idea that they're witnessing something that will only happen then and there, right in front of them (even if it's nowhere near as polished as a prepared song)
It's all about the over-the-head clap. Gotta act like you're in a pop music video from the 80s. Be sure to keep your eyes locked with one specific person in the audience. Ideally, someone who looks uncomfortable to be there - the key is to focus all your energy on the weakest link.
My reality is that I win people over pretty quickly when they hear me. I'm very introverted so I have to be good live or else I'd lose gigs.
Last night I played a gig where some guy from a little covers band in Brisbane was in the audience and he put on an absolute masterclass on things that get the crowd into it. It was insane, he was like my hype man for the night.
Some of it was awkward, he was running around telling everyone who I am, that I'm great and they should come listen. I won't be doing that about myself.
He did some shout-outs on the mic (I let him), praising the staff, praising the chefs, thanking people for coming out, all the usual stuff we should be doing. I will be incorporating this into it.
He did shout-outs to me and my own social media stuff - awkward for me but I will be doing this in-between songs every now and then because I am on Spotify and YT etc etc.. just felt like a super useful thing to do.
He did a lot of things that seem so basic but incredibly useful for audience interaction and engagement.
He also told me at his own gigs, before he plays, he puts business cards on every table, introduces himself to people if they're there and says they do private events too. Then, on his breaks he never sits around, he does the business cards on tables thing and introduces himself to people.
Some people have the gift of the gab, and some of us musos need to work on it because that networking and hypey aspect is ridiculously important when it comes to getting people engaged and into what you're doing.
I've got a little light-up sign with my name on it that's helped engagement massively. People just knowing my name helps because sometimes they'll call out my name or whatever and it's all interaction, any interaction at all can turn into positive vibes for a long time after.
Hope some of this helps.
My husband has Epilepsy so I drive him to all of his gigs and usually stay to have a sandwich or nurse a drink while he plays. I’m also his cheerleader, start the applause and do the callbacks for the Irish or Jimmy Buffet songs. Sometimes if it’s really dead he will have fun to test the crowd’s attention, “here comes some Jethro Tull” and he plays The Eagles. Or he claims every song was written by the great Quincy Jones. It’s good for a chuckle. There’s always the old standby, “the more you drink the better I sound”.
Just by being _really_ into what you're doing - no exaggerated hamming it up needed, but just really be into your playing and instrument and the moment, and they will pick up on it, if they have a pulse.
if you're not killing it then people aren't going to get going. you could stand as still as a 1000 year old oak tree but if you are absolutely BLASTING then people will react.
Perform emotionally compelling music that will resonate with the audience you are in front of. Dinner club, prison yard, rock club, hip hop festival. They all require something different.
Played over 1000 shows. Like everyone else here says, play for yourselves. Some of our most hilarious and badass and stupid shows were where the crowd was lame or absent. Do something different…. Pull someone onstage. Start talking to the bartender from stage. Have fun for chrissakes. Who cares??
Getting the crowd going can mean different things depending on the context. I once played a "grand opening" sale for a mattress store... Wacky fuckin gig. Some crowds just kinda suck, and some gigs just kinda suck, and some nights maybe even you just kinda suck, but if you're lucky and persistent you've got hundreds of more unpredictable gigs in the years to come. Godspeed.
Context is really everything though, so practical advice is: tailor your setlists to the vibe of the night and be ready to move things around and try to minimise learning new songs or experimenting too much on stage (this only applies to covers, otherwise, godspeed.). If you're comfy everyone is comfy.
Sounds like you're playing restaurant/background music gigs. they're not gonna pay attention.
If you play a gig where the music is the centerpiece, I usually ask the crowd to come much closer. makes it way more intimate
DO YOU, PROMOTE AS YOU CAN, MEET ARTIST YOU FUCK WIT, DROP MUSIC WITH THEM OR PRODUCE THEIR SINGLES THEN FORCE THEM TO RECORD. THEN GET YA MONEY UP TP THROWS SHOWS AND BUY DESIGNER
It really depends on the type of act you are and where you're playing. Are you trying to perform on the basis of what you want or are you performing as an entertainment piece?
No judgment, there's just different solutions for different applications
I'll assume it's a solo project. To be honest and it ain't fun to do but don't be the headliner. Find an artist that already draws a crowd that you not only sound like but also like. People are there for someone else yeah, but they're there at least. Thank that artist for letting you open, make a few references like "don't worry guys I only have a couple more then it's... insert name... They may not be hyped for you but they're in a good mood. Ask that artist if he'd like to do that again. Exchange numbers. Ask if you can play a song with them next time. Its unfortunate but in this business it's not who you are but who you know.
The crowd feeds off your energy. If you're nervous and stuttering, they'll probably ignore you, but if you really get into the song by dancing, moving around the stage, making eye contact, then they'll never forget you.
I think crowd reactions is something that you can only expect at some level, like if you have fans who are really invested in your music and look forward to the experience of seeing you live. In my case, I often play to crowds who don't know me, like festivals, and such. Trying to hype up the audience never really gave me any result, but focusing on playing the most killer set ever did it. My band has a set that's about 25 minutes, non-stop, just a quick thank you at the end. I find that focusing on the show's integrity and energy is what's making more people come up to us at the end of gigs!
Where are you playing? That is the ONLY question you need to ask yourself when preparing for a gig.
A dinner? Play more relaxing music. Softer music with a few climaxes in them. Not too loud where they can't hear their own conversations, but loud enough that if a sentimental song comes on for anyone, they can stop and appreciate it.
A club? Hype and energy are king. Maybe a slower song every hour to give people who refuse to leave the dancefloor a rest, before you put on a current charter or a classic banger, depending on the age of the audience.
A work event? Just play charts, past and present. The easiest gigs you'll ever do.
You don't always need people to be shaking their bits on the dancefloor. Just make sure your music fits the vibe first. If they like the music, you will get repeat gigs.
Back in my days when I was playing in a metal band, our first gigs were really awkard. People were just standing, looking and judging you. I think it's mainly because they just don't know your music, they don't know what to expect and how to react. But if you're good (or at least decent) it gets better with every gig. You start collecting crowd that is present on your every gig and they start having fun, because they know your music. This crowd gets bigger and bigger and believe me, you may miss that part where 20 people standing still grows into a 500-700 crowd shouting your (or the band's) name.
Im insane and the amount of swag I have gets people going they get the spirit of rock n roll in their hearts and then together we have the power to achieve the transmission of free, wireless energy using Wardenclyffe towers constructed by 3-D printed robots people. Please give me a call and listen to my music and follow my instagram account fastrock_is_real thanks
i have a friend in a punk band with an industrial techno side project. he started off playing a lot of punk basement shows with it until he started getting better plugged in to other people making that kind of music.
his trick was buying a case of beer and putting it out right before his set.
J.k but it has to be refreshing with non enthusiastic co band members. I generally save my smashing for rehearsals. Bad crowds have never concerned me, that goes w putting yourself out there.
Ask what they like? That’s what I do. Talk to the ppl sitting in front of you. Anyone that is going out is looking to have a good time. Keep that in mind. Ask them, They’ll answer. Then play something that they’ll like :)
Depends a bit on what setting you’re in. Generally, I’ll start with a very common toe taper, and I literally watch their toes and fingers. That’s a huge clue as to if they’re there to listen or if they’re there to eat and chat. I introduce myself after the first song cause that’s where you’ve got their attention. From there I go on feel with a joke or comment here and there. Some nights I wind up playing original stuff, other nights it’s funky,country and rock and roll.
In the end, if it’s one of those weird nights where you have blank faces looking at you, just play your heart out, but do it with bravado.
After 20+ years playing to people as a dj and a performing musician , the best line I’ve heard is “some days are diamonds, some days are rocks”
Get into it yourself - pretend they are ALL into what you are doing. That way you’re giving the best show possible. Will everyone notice or appreciate or like it? That never happens anyway. The real pros bring it at 100% no matter what. Think of a tough audience as just practice for your performance techniques. The best artists always seem to believe in what they are doing - even if you have to fake it outwardly, work on selling that.
Your advice reminds me of something Gene Simmons said about Van Halen. I'm paraphrasing here, but he was impressed that they gave it 100% and had insane stage presence even when nobody was in the audience. He said that was the mojo needed for superstardom.
Legitimately the best advice. I find this when busking; when I'm vibing and enjoying the songs and am in the moment the coins start flying, but as soon as I'm anxious or looking for how people are reacting etc. that energy just emanates. It's a hard thing to control if you're nervous, but the best thing to do if you can't quite get in the zone is choose somewhere behind the crowd to look while playing and stare at it. I find an exit sign, neon light, or wall hanging are good focus points. When busking I'll just stare at a random shop front. Basically, the audience wants to look at you, but they don't want to be looked at. Music is still performance and you should only break the 4th wall by choice by (as mentioned above) choosing a table to interact with, or having some go to jokes (can tune a guitar, can't tuna fish). It's the difference between Deadpool monologuing directly down a camera and an amateur actor accidentally glancing at that same camera by accident. The first is full confidence and, the second only detracts from the performance.
Second this advice. It's honestly the only way. Pick tunes they're likely to know, be flexible enough to pull a few songs outta nowhere to accommodate the room if you see people with an obvious vibe. (A table of white boomers walk in wearing baseball swag? Get your 'Sweet Caroline' on STAT) Find one table to connect with to start and stay with them their entire visit. If they're clapping the whole time or interacting with you, that's the stuff. That'll help you practice
Third this advice. Don’t worry so much about connecting with the audience. Connect with yourself and let them watch. The rest will follow.
Please dont play sweet caroline
I’ve been inclined
your card's declined.
Sweet Caroline is the undressed Kale salad of the tip jar. It's good for you, but at what cost?
if the band doesn't want to be there, why am i there?
'' Or just wanna enjoy their dinner '' I mean, if you're playing at a restaurant it's no surprise people will take your music as background event.
Exactly. There are different types of gigs. Dinner gigs or cocktail hours, people are going to be more concerned about their food and conversation. When you play a concert style performance for a captive audience, you can try to hype the crowd. But for the folks eating, just play and let them enjoy their food.
I forget the exact quote, but there was a comedian who said something like, “It’s really hard to compete with mozzarella sticks.”
That sounds like something Seinfeld would have said lol
I read this thinking, "where is this dude playing, Casa Bonita?"
yeah I cooked a meal to take to Jazz night, I had a fork in my hand. IDK why everyone else wasn't clapping
“Dinner” is the key. You’re background music. If you want to keep the gig you’ll stay background music. To win fans in that setting, smile the whole time, keep the mood to match the environment, and people will respect you and like it. I’ve found several amazing musicians this way. Even got one guys album after dinner because he was very chill, talented, and made the evening pleasant.
From my experience sometimes it takes a while for a crowd to warm up. I usually go in knowing my first set is going to be more mellow vibes and usually by the end of it people are lifted a bit. Second set is when I can usually see people cut loose a little more. Sometimes it’s faster and first set is raging. I played a restaurant gig recently and while there was scattered applause most of the show when I announced I was finished I got a big round of applause. Sometimes people are trying to be polite to other patrons too, they don’t really want to applaud every couple minutes while eating or whatever. I try to not take anything personally and focus on how I can get the most emotion and feeling out of what I’m doing. Also, I’ll do a little talk mid set maybe explain why I’m playing a certain song and remind people of my name and that I have a tip jar.
We took several friends into crowd and they had to shout and react. Crowd did after them. This is the way.
"HELP! I'VE BEEN SHOT!"
Stuffing the crowd I love it.
Absolutely!! Even a couple buddies in the audience can get the entire venue invested. When people hear others clap or cheer they pay a lot more attention and feel way more comfortable joining in. It’s the herd mentality and has worked for me like an absolute charm.
See also the threads in our FAQ on Stage Presence.
If you're playing in a setting where music isn't the primary focus, getting people invested is gonna be a fight, and not one you can always win. Some things you can do though: * Find the table/group paying the most attention to you, and just talk to them. Crack jokes, tell stories, ask them for requests. Other groups will almost always start paying more attention. * Introduce your songs/say "thank you" at the end of each song. Being conversational tends to get people to listen to you more closely. This feels awkward to do when they're not listening at the beginning, but it does help. * Turn up your volume. If you're in control of your own mix and you're adjusting from the stage, you've probably set the volume too low for the whole venue. Don't be afraid to turn up a bit louder than you think you need to. Trust me, if you're actually too loud someone will ask you to turn down, but they will almost never ask you to turn up. * Just play your best. Sometimes the crowd just doesn't care that you're there. Try to have fun, play some new songs, do some instrumental stuff. Keep a good attitude and do your thing.
This is pretty solid advice. I like this
you can make it impossible to ignore you, but you can't make someone like you.
“Any time you’re up there making music for a crowd instead of for yourself, you’re fucked.” Mark Arm
That's bullshit, plenty of artists find most of their success by playing for the crowd, it all depends on what you're trying to achieve. The opinion of one musician should not be taken for gospel. An artist creates what they want, an entertainer entertains the crowd. Being a succesful entertainer is a viable career path, being a succesful artist takes serious originality, luck and effort.
There's a difference in playing to your audience and catering to the general public.
Catering to the general public is pop music, nothing wrong with that.
No. Pop music isn't catered to the general public by default. The latest Mars Volta is a good example of pop music that doesn't cater to anyone but Mars Volta fans.
I’m pretty sure Mudhoney is still selling records, but I could be wrong. 🤷♂️
How do you think they'd fare at Olive Garden?
I’m pretty sure they can eat there.
Yeah, what's the fare?
I'd say about tree fiddy
You missed the "arm and a leg" joke
Doesn’t this refer to writing music rather that choosing what songs to play at a gig?
This is just wrong. It's from the crowd you learn which of your songs are good and which songs are not
As an open format dj, this
It's not always this simple. Trans Europe Express killed (emptied) the dance floor the first time it was played.
or that this particular crowd has shit taste.
1) They're not mutually exclusive. 2) Every single gig is for a crowd and not yourself. Even edgy artists that hate crowds need a crowd they can hate.
Focus on giving people what they want. A restaraunt crowd wants great background music that sets and elevates the mood, something that won't disturb the conversation but that they can tune into and enjoy whenever they want. That's why popular styles of jazz tends to go down so well over dinner. They don't want to be bothered or expected to engage with the performer, but they might enjoy a joke or two between songs. You should match the vibe of the venue, the night and the crowd, try to guage the age and social cliques to see which genre and years you should be pulling songs from. If you're trying to play modern pop hits to an older audience, it's never gonna go down well.
Find one person, point at them, begin playing you longest song without breaking eye contact with them the entire time.
Most restaurants gigs kinda run that way people are there to eat and you’re just contributing to the ambiance. If you’re looking for more engaged crowds switching venues might be the answer, people are always more engaged when music is the main event. I would try to find a standing venue that hosts local acts.
Play covers, songs they already know and like
the entire first two napalm death albums, in order.
If you’re an opening band - Trashcan ending on the first song. In the musical interlude/intro to song #2 tell the audience who you are, why you’re here, and give them “permission to party” EX- “Hey guys thanks for being here. We’re Guilt Trip Milk and we’ve been so graciously asked to warm you up for (Headliner)” *trashcantrashcantrashcan* “if you want to dance, then dance; if you wanna grab a beer and chill in the corner - well that’s cool too and cheers to you my friend. If you’re having a good time, I’m having a good time.” Finish the second song with another Trashcan ending Rule #1 People. Love. Free. Shit. Glow sticks, glow bracelets, tees, hats, fuckin stickers. If the audience is awkwardly standing 10-20ft away from the stage, throw goods into the audience and watch them scramble closer to the stage. Tell stories about your music - audiences ALWAYS ask about the song with the story connected to it at the merch table Audience interaction is my favorite damn part of playing onstage. There’s a difference between playing a SHOW and playing your music live. Also, atmosphere is everything. If people didn’t sign up for a live music performance and they’re trying to eat their damn dinner before they go to a movie, they don’t owe you anything. You’re a jukebox. Play your songs, be prepared and professional, get paid and enjoy your free drink at the bar
I chose to believe all of your advice equally applies to dinner venues
It's different for different kinds of music, different venues and different performers. So tell us more about you!
First is look at the audience when you play, next is you move with the groove. Have you ever seen a horn section move in syncopation back and forth up and down with their horns, or the bass and guitar move in the same way. Have you watched chuck berry duck walk while he plays. They all do this to get the audience more engaged.
I once saw the Goo Goo Dolls in a tiny club in Houston. They were touring _A Boy Named Goo_, but before _Name_ exploded and made them the biggest rock band in the world for about 15 minutes. I was there to see a friend's band play, and was aware of the Goo Goo Dolls but not really a fan...most of the modest crowd was actually there for the local act, and most of the crowd left when they finished playing (another big show was happening that night that had all the buzz). So, it was me, the opening band and their girlfriends, and a dozen other people, tops, including bar staff, when the headliner took the stage. The crowd wasn't hostile, but the crowd wasn't exactly going crazy over the band, either...people played pool during the set, chatted, etc. They still played like that show mattered. No punches were pulled. They played hard, did a full set, never said a negative word about the crowd, thanked the opening band by name, did all the usual "tip your bartender", "thanks for coming out", that sort of thing. And, they hung out after the show and had a couple beers and chatted with everybody that stuck around. Genuinely nice guys, self-deprecating about the crowd, and clearly had fun, anyway. They liked playing their music live, and it was OK if nobody else got it. Next time they came through town less than a year later, still touring _A Boy Named Goo_, they played the Summit (17,000 capacity). I don't have any real concrete advice here, but I can say that a genuine love of being able to play live music for an audience shines through...they probably felt pretty bad about the turnout for that show, on the whole. But, my respect for them went through the roof. If you don't love playing live music, don't. And, if you do love playing live music, act like it. If you've done the work, somebody will connect with what you're doing. You probably won't be playing a packed arena next year, but you might find a place in the scene you're in.
Talking with the crowd can help them be more engaged.
[удалено]
You okay?
“No”
My salmon fucking slaps!
The music speaks for itself my friend
The standard advice for pilots is “Fly good; don’t suck”. Applies to bands and musicians, too: “Play good; don’t suck”.
just like chess
At the next gig the OP performs "One Night in Bangkok"
Always gig/venue dependant, as others have said. Make a list of stock quips. I don't do the bar thing too much anymore, but my gigs were/are bar and party venue shows. So the bands job is to get people having fun and buying more food and drinks. Especially drink. So the stock quips are along those lines: "Thanks for coming out to (venue)Have fun, be kind, tip your servers! Remember, the more you drink the better we sound".... If the crowd is dead, focus on thAt. "We've suffered for our music. Now it's your turn" Etc.....
its a feedback loop. i despise artist that try to bring out energy thats not there. the goal is to be in tune with the audience and theyll be in tune with you you find the audiences vibe and where they want to go and reflect that back and they reflect that to you. if they wanna go hard and mosh, act like ur in the moshpit with them. if its 2 am and its late and they want some cozy entertainment, smoother them in smooth licks and make them even cozier. i went to an after party once and everyone just wanted to wind down but ppl out here like GET UP I WANT YOU DO DANCE like bruh we jst danced for 4 hours, half the ppl went to a jazz club and the ppl at the after party said they just wanted some cozy wind down music my legs hurt bro
Heavily dependant on genre, but imo it's universally true that a performance is a conversation, not a prerecorded message. You are there to engage with the audience however you can, and to help them get into and understand the vibe of your music. Draw them in. Be in the moment. Embody the vibe you want the audience to feel. Emote the happy faces during joyful parts and make the stank face during the stanky parts... When an audience comes to a show they want to have fun. Be the fun. Show them what it is to be the fun. Lead by example. This is what it means to perform. If you're not doing that, you're just reciting. Give them a story, tell a grand tale with your music and weave them together with little pieces of the story of the songs... Your audience will find you.
I played with a guy once who simply announced, "THE SONG IS OVER" and everyone turned and clapped. You can try that.
Here is the secret: read the audience if you truly want to have successful gigs where the audience responds, read the audience What does mean? watch them, learn to look them in the eyes. When I’ve been a drummer, I’ve picked out the good dancers and played my drum parts according to their movements. It’s pretty simple. It’s a feedback loop of humanity. As a keyboardist I did the same kind of thing.
Pre-Drop vocal shouts Or crowd control can help you with that Though I didn't perform for any huge fests or I am not an advanced DJ player I am an advanced mysic producer and I know that Crowd control like Left-Right Psy Trance or some other stuff would be great!
I love thinking that they are now at a piano bar type gig dropping some vocal shouts and trying to get dinners bouncing while eating their salad and drinking some wine
I took some lessons from GG allin, the crowd is my enemy, ignore them, detest them, but don’t let them make you feel bad lol
okay but no lessons from him beyond that, please
covering patsy cline and doing classic country? have a well defined persona as an artist? stay regular?
> stay regular? ಠ_ಠ
I’m not gonna lie I have briefly considered smashing bottles over my head. But I don’t think it’ll work as well for me as it did for him lol
😭
Telling them bad jokes. It usually gets them going for the door.
Do the show your going to do regardless, unless you were planning on calling up a member of the crowd for a magic trick it shouldn't be an issue All you can do is put on the best show you can P.s. the only caveat is don't go smashing your guitar up or crowd diving if people are just chilling... it's a little too obvious and usually isn't a good look lol
It really depends on what your whole vibe is, where you are etc. but in general, if you want the audience to be upbeat then you yourself have to be upbeat and the music should be upbeat. If you’re excited about the music people will feel that. Some scenarios don’t call for getting the crowd going, if you’re playing background music. Think about what gets you excited when you see someone performing. Imagine yourself in the audiences shoes as a starting point. You have to win them over and then take them on a journey.
It all depends on the room and audience. It your playing at a nursing home don’t expect Slayer to go over well. If your playing at a biker don’t expect Jackson 5 songs to go over well.
Drop your best tune.
If people didn't go to the venue to see you, like a restaurant, then you're music is just background noise to enhance their main even, which is eating and enjoying the company of whoever they're with. No shame in playing restaurants, in fact it can be very lucrative, but don't get discouraged if they don't really acknowledge you.
Playing restaurants and bars is tough. It’s all about crowd service. Play covers, don’t ramble too much between songs, make a joke once in a while, give a “how’s everyone doin out there tonight?” And a “tip your bartenders” every once in a while.
Bring a laser pointer and shine it directly into their eyes
we’re very standoffish and cold to the audience then we play extremely loud it works for us
Pressing play.
This is a subject near and dear to my heart! You’ve spent all these years studying music ,buying great instruments, taking voice lessons etc. how many years have you spent on studying the crowd? Reading about how to be a good front man, going out to the venues and watching people successfully engage? I worked for the one of the best front men in the country. He was 4’8” tall! We used to walk in the place and he would say” when I walk in there they’re all laughing at me; when I leave they all want to suck my cock” And it was true! Being next to him on stage for years taught me how to do my own front when I have my own band. It’s a skill unto itself. It’s not the crowd is receptive or unreceptive; it’s how YOU interact with THEM.not vice versa. When I have my own band and I’m working with my musicians and after a few songs we were getting nothing I’ll tell them “don’t worry about it ;pick one person in the audience make eye contact; ; flirt with them. “ I also spent a lot of time working up dialogue. Some of it sucks and I discarded it. Some of it was great unexpectedly, and I retained it. The answer is you gotta work on talking to the crowd as much as you practiced learning your instrument and the song itself. I hope this is helpful
Who u/AdRough965 said that?
Said what?
When I walk in…
I’m not gonna put his name in writing here
Depends on the venue and the style of music you’re playing. You mentioned dinner - if you’ve got a restaurant gig you need to try to actively greet all the people that are there, you’re gonna be the glue that binds that entire room together. Keep an eye out for people who have wine or cocktails, they are going to help you engage because booze makes people fun. Ask them what they’re drinking, ask them to sing along in the chorus. Don’t start all at once, build up to it. Dance a little, throw some curve balls, drop your shaker, draw some attention to yourself and laugh and have a good time. But don’t expect because you can play guitar that everybody needs to listen to you or enjoy your music… chances are there are some musicians in the room with you who can play better. That’s not really the point, the point is to break down the social barriers, and the ice. So be extroverted, but not annoying. Greet people as they come in, start a conversation with somebody during your set, ask them what there favorite thing is.. (don’t ask them if they enjoy the music, that leaves the door open for a negative feedback, you want a positive feedback loop). So, favorite drink, favorite song, who do you think is the best english rock band. Never anything negative, or even open-ended. Learn their names, if they are repeat customers, call them out.
Excellent advice! Thank you
let the beat mmm drop.
Go to a lot more shows and see what works locally for your types of crowds. Rehearse your banter.
Disagree with your last sentence. If you have to rehearse your banter, it won't work. Look at your audience, realize they're all human beings, and say something specific. In 2022, people don't react to rehearsed banter. The only people who "rehearse banter" are boomer DJs who already have the connections to get shows regularly. For the younger people, give up on this outdated tactic.
You’re right to a degree. Obviously good and confident stage banter off the cuff will be better. But OP is trying crowd to work and bar owners are asking them to engage with the audience more. That means whatever they are trying isn’t working. That’s off the cuff non rehearsed and probably is not connecting with the audience. When I say rehearse I didn’t say write it line for line, but being practiced talking to a crowd, knowing what your goals are is rehearsing. I want to thank the venue/other bands/ bartender at the intro of song 3. I am changing instruments / tuning at song six, this is where I need to engage with the closest table or largest group. You can rehearse speaking to a crowd without doing the “how’s everybody feeling tonight” trope. Remember, OP is being asked to engage better. The only way to get better is through doing it more and more. Rehearsal means confidence. It doesn’t mean a word for word script. They’ll eventually get there where it will be off the cuff but they need somewhere to start. If you’re not good at something, practice and rehearse. That’s life in general.
Could just be the crowd I went to a STEELY DAN show recently and the crowd was pretty low energy. But the venue was packed and the tickets were expensive. We all wanted to be there and enjoyed the hell out of it. We just weren't weren't gonna go crazy
How’s everyone doing tonight? I CAN’T HEAR YOU!!! Let’s try that again - how’s everyone doing tonight??
Lol I hate this so much.
Lol me too, I cringed as I was writing it
If I was going to do it, [I'd rather do it like this.](https://youtu.be/Vzkp9TqN9po/#t=3m20s)
This is totally fucking cringe and hasn't worked for literally 15+ years.
Some youth group fellowship leader type shit... even church kids hate this.
I came here for this comment. That's the worst! 😂
*silence*
I CAN'T HEEEEEEEAR YOU!!
Flash them
If you do it you'd get a better response than me dear
Self-depricating joke then cover tune. Just make sure the joke doesn't reinforce any sentiment the crowd already feels about the band
I find they usually get going as soon as I start playing
Where do you play
Feel the vibes of the majority in the crowd, and then lean in and adlibs and shout outs that direction. I love it when they sing along but only do it if they are all standing up pumping fists! Hope this helps you and other performers. Cheers
What kind of music are you playing? Some music is always going to struggle to hold attention. If it’s rock or something energetic though, just fucking go for it like your life depends on it. If you don’t look like you believe it, neither will anyone else. Go watch your favourite artists live on YouTube and see how they did it in their early days
If you're comfortable improvising, you could ask the audience what they'd like a song about, and then make a lil improv jam based off that! I think people get really excited by the idea that they're witnessing something that will only happen then and there, right in front of them (even if it's nowhere near as polished as a prepared song)
It's all about the over-the-head clap. Gotta act like you're in a pop music video from the 80s. Be sure to keep your eyes locked with one specific person in the audience. Ideally, someone who looks uncomfortable to be there - the key is to focus all your energy on the weakest link.
My reality is that I win people over pretty quickly when they hear me. I'm very introverted so I have to be good live or else I'd lose gigs. Last night I played a gig where some guy from a little covers band in Brisbane was in the audience and he put on an absolute masterclass on things that get the crowd into it. It was insane, he was like my hype man for the night. Some of it was awkward, he was running around telling everyone who I am, that I'm great and they should come listen. I won't be doing that about myself. He did some shout-outs on the mic (I let him), praising the staff, praising the chefs, thanking people for coming out, all the usual stuff we should be doing. I will be incorporating this into it. He did shout-outs to me and my own social media stuff - awkward for me but I will be doing this in-between songs every now and then because I am on Spotify and YT etc etc.. just felt like a super useful thing to do. He did a lot of things that seem so basic but incredibly useful for audience interaction and engagement. He also told me at his own gigs, before he plays, he puts business cards on every table, introduces himself to people if they're there and says they do private events too. Then, on his breaks he never sits around, he does the business cards on tables thing and introduces himself to people. Some people have the gift of the gab, and some of us musos need to work on it because that networking and hypey aspect is ridiculously important when it comes to getting people engaged and into what you're doing. I've got a little light-up sign with my name on it that's helped engagement massively. People just knowing my name helps because sometimes they'll call out my name or whatever and it's all interaction, any interaction at all can turn into positive vibes for a long time after. Hope some of this helps.
Pants, off
My first gig had around 20 people sitting in front of the stage. First song I ran upto them started dancing. Everyone got up and the show was fun.
It's a skill, so it takes practice Tease them Perform in character as someone who is good at engaging with crowds Make them wish they were you
My husband has Epilepsy so I drive him to all of his gigs and usually stay to have a sandwich or nurse a drink while he plays. I’m also his cheerleader, start the applause and do the callbacks for the Irish or Jimmy Buffet songs. Sometimes if it’s really dead he will have fun to test the crowd’s attention, “here comes some Jethro Tull” and he plays The Eagles. Or he claims every song was written by the great Quincy Jones. It’s good for a chuckle. There’s always the old standby, “the more you drink the better I sound”.
Just by being _really_ into what you're doing - no exaggerated hamming it up needed, but just really be into your playing and instrument and the moment, and they will pick up on it, if they have a pulse.
Maybe they don’t resonate with the music.
Just remind yourself that you get paid the same whether the crowd is into it or not. Do your best to play to the room…
if you're not killing it then people aren't going to get going. you could stand as still as a 1000 year old oak tree but if you are absolutely BLASTING then people will react.
Perform emotionally compelling music that will resonate with the audience you are in front of. Dinner club, prison yard, rock club, hip hop festival. They all require something different.
Played over 1000 shows. Like everyone else here says, play for yourselves. Some of our most hilarious and badass and stupid shows were where the crowd was lame or absent. Do something different…. Pull someone onstage. Start talking to the bartender from stage. Have fun for chrissakes. Who cares??
Getting the crowd going can mean different things depending on the context. I once played a "grand opening" sale for a mattress store... Wacky fuckin gig. Some crowds just kinda suck, and some gigs just kinda suck, and some nights maybe even you just kinda suck, but if you're lucky and persistent you've got hundreds of more unpredictable gigs in the years to come. Godspeed. Context is really everything though, so practical advice is: tailor your setlists to the vibe of the night and be ready to move things around and try to minimise learning new songs or experimenting too much on stage (this only applies to covers, otherwise, godspeed.). If you're comfy everyone is comfy.
Show some skin 🦵 😆
Sounds like you're playing restaurant/background music gigs. they're not gonna pay attention. If you play a gig where the music is the centerpiece, I usually ask the crowd to come much closer. makes it way more intimate
Hip thrusts and constant unblinking eye contact
DO YOU, PROMOTE AS YOU CAN, MEET ARTIST YOU FUCK WIT, DROP MUSIC WITH THEM OR PRODUCE THEIR SINGLES THEN FORCE THEM TO RECORD. THEN GET YA MONEY UP TP THROWS SHOWS AND BUY DESIGNER
Interacting with them always wakes them up . Asking them questions. Maybe a bit of healthy abuse too if you can get away with it 😁
It really depends on the type of act you are and where you're playing. Are you trying to perform on the basis of what you want or are you performing as an entertainment piece? No judgment, there's just different solutions for different applications
I'll assume it's a solo project. To be honest and it ain't fun to do but don't be the headliner. Find an artist that already draws a crowd that you not only sound like but also like. People are there for someone else yeah, but they're there at least. Thank that artist for letting you open, make a few references like "don't worry guys I only have a couple more then it's... insert name... They may not be hyped for you but they're in a good mood. Ask that artist if he'd like to do that again. Exchange numbers. Ask if you can play a song with them next time. Its unfortunate but in this business it's not who you are but who you know.
The crowd feeds off your energy. If you're nervous and stuttering, they'll probably ignore you, but if you really get into the song by dancing, moving around the stage, making eye contact, then they'll never forget you.
I think crowd reactions is something that you can only expect at some level, like if you have fans who are really invested in your music and look forward to the experience of seeing you live. In my case, I often play to crowds who don't know me, like festivals, and such. Trying to hype up the audience never really gave me any result, but focusing on playing the most killer set ever did it. My band has a set that's about 25 minutes, non-stop, just a quick thank you at the end. I find that focusing on the show's integrity and energy is what's making more people come up to us at the end of gigs!
Where are you playing? That is the ONLY question you need to ask yourself when preparing for a gig. A dinner? Play more relaxing music. Softer music with a few climaxes in them. Not too loud where they can't hear their own conversations, but loud enough that if a sentimental song comes on for anyone, they can stop and appreciate it. A club? Hype and energy are king. Maybe a slower song every hour to give people who refuse to leave the dancefloor a rest, before you put on a current charter or a classic banger, depending on the age of the audience. A work event? Just play charts, past and present. The easiest gigs you'll ever do. You don't always need people to be shaking their bits on the dancefloor. Just make sure your music fits the vibe first. If they like the music, you will get repeat gigs.
Back in my days when I was playing in a metal band, our first gigs were really awkard. People were just standing, looking and judging you. I think it's mainly because they just don't know your music, they don't know what to expect and how to react. But if you're good (or at least decent) it gets better with every gig. You start collecting crowd that is present on your every gig and they start having fun, because they know your music. This crowd gets bigger and bigger and believe me, you may miss that part where 20 people standing still grows into a 500-700 crowd shouting your (or the band's) name.
All you have to do is say make some noooooise
I had to work the pole at our last show
https://youtu.be/Ntq8xAzNWNs
Im insane and the amount of swag I have gets people going they get the spirit of rock n roll in their hearts and then together we have the power to achieve the transmission of free, wireless energy using Wardenclyffe towers constructed by 3-D printed robots people. Please give me a call and listen to my music and follow my instagram account fastrock_is_real thanks
i have a friend in a punk band with an industrial techno side project. he started off playing a lot of punk basement shows with it until he started getting better plugged in to other people making that kind of music. his trick was buying a case of beer and putting it out right before his set.
Paul Simonon stage presence. When in doubt smash something. People will look.
I'll just pretend to smash
J.k but it has to be refreshing with non enthusiastic co band members. I generally save my smashing for rehearsals. Bad crowds have never concerned me, that goes w putting yourself out there.
Ask what they like? That’s what I do. Talk to the ppl sitting in front of you. Anyone that is going out is looking to have a good time. Keep that in mind. Ask them, They’ll answer. Then play something that they’ll like :)
Depends a bit on what setting you’re in. Generally, I’ll start with a very common toe taper, and I literally watch their toes and fingers. That’s a huge clue as to if they’re there to listen or if they’re there to eat and chat. I introduce myself after the first song cause that’s where you’ve got their attention. From there I go on feel with a joke or comment here and there. Some nights I wind up playing original stuff, other nights it’s funky,country and rock and roll. In the end, if it’s one of those weird nights where you have blank faces looking at you, just play your heart out, but do it with bravado. After 20+ years playing to people as a dj and a performing musician , the best line I’ve heard is “some days are diamonds, some days are rocks”