1. Not correct mistakes. 2. Not rest your ears (loud gigs). 3. Not follow up (with the people who hired you). "Thanks for hiring us" 4. Not make connections. (use band breaks) 5. Handle band issues. (fights) 6. Not make sure you have all your equipment. (double check) 7. Drive under influence. (Self and others)
I'm guilty of not getting everything. One time, we did a show in Harrisburg, Pa (about an hour and a half from home) and I left my pedal board in the case sitting by the side of the stage. We had a show about 2 hours away from there the next day. I had to leave work early, haul ass to Harrisburg, grab my gear, jump in the car and "Warp Speed, Mr. Sulu" my ass to Scranton. I NEVER left my gear again
Good tips. I’m glad you hit on resting your ears. I’ve been playing for 45 years, using IEMs the last 10 but hearing damage was already done by then. I avoid doing gigs without at least a day or so break in between.
I'll add another. Don't dump on your bandmates if you are the one that made trouble. I did a gig with an alt-country trio. I play bass. We'd decided the set list and practiced it for months, all originals. The singer/rhythm guitarist/songwriter decided to throw out the set list just before we started. Then he called out a song we'd rehearsed once like 6 months earlier, never really perfected, and never really got a sound we liked to make it worthy to put into our set list. I made a joke I didn't remember the chords, but let's have some fun. (I ended up remembering them, but the lead guitarist had no clue, and I had to verbally tell him when to take a solo. While the singer forgot his own lyrics at one point! The song went over great, and we were even shocked. Even the frontman said that was fun. Well, immediately after the gig I got my ass reamed, and told that if I didn't want to learn the songs I could have sheet music, and I ruined the whole song. What? I played everything, but was blamed for the singer forgetting or the guitarist not knowing when to play? Are you kidding me? This is why we had a set list. There were other issues between us, so I left the band.
Jee the Grateful Dead never had a predetermined set list. Jerry always forgot the words. If the Dead were in town for a 3 night run. Ya got a different show each night, they didn't play the same song twice in that run! Garcia died in 95 & there still the biggest cult band in America. d&c has taken residency at the Sphere! Look up the Garcia band playing Werewolves of London in 90 on Halloween. After the song started Jerry had to tell John Kahn to turn on his bass, It was kinda funny! They just went on stage, kept there mouth shut, tuned up & played!
I hate last minute set list changes. Our band doesn't get enough practice in as it is, but when there's a change, it throws things off and among other things lowers the quality of our product. We're just starting off in our life as a band, so in my eyes it's imperative we stay tight and everyone knows their cues. As a member (not the leader) of the band I've made my feelings known about this, but it falls on deaf ears. I guess all I can do is practice beyond the set list to include any other possible songs, so I'm not caught flatfooted.
Connecting with the audience has made the difference for me. After a three hour set, when all I want to do is go home, I step off stage and visit with folks. Thank them for investing their time to listen and watch. They have a million things they could be doing, and they chose to hang out with me. WOW, how cool of them! I am grateful. In addition, I also like to get to know my audience, so there's an added benefit. It does allow me to know who my audience is, which is telling in getting feedback, and helpful for future shows. And club managers and owners DEFINITELY notice my care for THEIR customers, too. Yes, I am there to play and sing. But I am also there to help the bottom line of the venue by giving the listeners a great and genuine experience. Amazing how far we go when we make this our goal...performer or otherwise. Thanks for serving us up great tips, @Terence Fisher!
As an audiologist playing in bands: thanks for bringing up the resting your ears! Very solid advice! I can't count the number of times that there is a DJ after our set and it's even louder than the band is, sometimes playing while we are breaking up the stage... Put your earplugs in when that happens!
Got done with a gig and went home! The next day discovered I left my pedal board with the effects pedals and my stage attire!! Luckily there are still some awesome people in the world that kept my stiff and I got it back in tact!!
Seven - Do not drive under the influence. Gig or not, don't ever drive under the influence. It can ruin your life in a split second. But at a gig, it's a social courtesy not to be under the influence at all. I have a two-beer limit with lots of water in-between at gigs. You really have to see it as "you are at work". People love to chat with the band so be sober and be polite. Again, you're at work and like the reality of it or not, those people listening or dancing ultimately are your boss.
Can't stress this one enough. So irresponsible and short-sighted. I had gear stolen because of this, and though not the night of the gig, but next evening party, got a DUI on the way home. Play sober, then party at home or wherever you're staying for the night.
A dude from my local Punk scene died on a car crash 5 yrs ago. He was just 23 and had his whole life ahead. He got on the car (pressumably) drunk and/or tired from the concert and he fell off the side of a bridge in a river.
I left a proprietary power supply for my mixer once... had to order a new one which took a while. So like you said always check your equipment. Also back in the day I did a few DJ gigs when they were just becoming popular and a box full of records disappeared while I was loading up gear. They just walked away and no one saw a thing.
Thank you for making these videos! I am a professional musician (it's how I make the majority of my living), and even someone like me needs to be reminded of these things from time to time (especially points 3 and 4). So yes, very grateful for your channel and content; I've learned a lot from your videos!
Thanks for establishing this channel. A class act channel and ethical sound advice. I'm not perfect, and have screwed up alot of potential with future gigs over the years. Some of your advice seems common sense, tho as musicians we often get tangled up in the rhetoric and don't even think about what could open up new opportunity. Appreciate you posting these vids and giving some insight of your experiences
@@HermelJaworski “Help everyone pack up” wasn’t meant to be taken literally. 🙄 If someone doesn’t want help, you obviously don’t force your help on them.
I left a banjo at a venue once, and when I got back there were two banjos! Just kidding. This is a great series of tips. I wish I’d known some of these tips 50 years ago.
You’re correct about the ears. I personally try to get outside between every set.(after talking to a few people on the way out ) It’s one way to keep guitarist from getting louder through the night. The ears actually start swelling to protect themselves , after a few mins outside focusing on a soft distant sound (like a cricket) will open them back up. 53+ years pro touring engineer FOH and performing musician.
7:45 helpful tip: I typed out and laminated a check list. I stopped forgetting pieces and parts by using it loading up the truck for the gig, as I'm loading in at the venue and as I'm loading out. Even this progressed to digital with that list in my phone. I haven't forgotten a piece since.
One of my after gig petpeves is when bandmates take for ever to pack up. Granted everyone is probably tired. But I like to pack up my crap and be done with it!!! Or divas!! Bandmates who don't help load in or out, and don't help set up.
I’d say this is number one, people want to go home it’s late. And go ahead and fire the dude that doesn’t load in or out and if he deals with the booking.. fire yourself
There is sometimes an exception to this when someone - bandleader or frontperson - makes themselves available to talk to punters, potential clients or even deal with merch sales. It helps if that person has the least packing up to do.
It depends on what they’re doing instead of packing up, e.g. chatting to fans; hustling for more gigs; winding down after playing 3-4 sets. Sometimes it looks unprofessional for a band to finish their last song to rapturous applause, with the audience believing they’re amazing, only to have them start unplugging and winding up cables. Put your instruments away in cases if it’s a rough bar or you expect someone might want to “audition”, but leave them on their stands to extend the aesthetic for a little while, say until the punters leave.
Great video, You play better when you're sober. I prefer to play with musicians that don't drink during the gig. Pretty much all of them aren't as fun to play with after they've had a few beers. Also, chairs are for sitting. Not storing your gear. How many times have you gone to sit down in the green room and all the chairs are taken with everyone's crap.
I never have more than one beer max before a gig and well... after the gig I need to carry equipment. Ruining the gig by being drunk and on top of that carry sensitive expensive equipment while being drunk is... a stupid idea. It might work for an artist big enough to have a road crew but... it would be like being a drunk boss at a workplace which doesn´t look good for the people working hard and helping you gain success in your field.
I never drink during the gig…. but plenty BEFORE the gig 😂. No, seriously, you‘re right. Unless they are full-blown alcoholics, pretty much everybody including myself plays better without any drink before/during a gig.
These are ALL great suggestions. After 45 years of playing bass, being in various bands, playing with various musicians, meeting hundreds of people and making contacts, I can confidently say, I’ve incorporated each and every one of these suggestions, and more, which make for a more amicable, smoother, professional environment.
Secure your equipment and always check the area for wayward equipment no matter how tired you are I found marking my cables and other equipment with fluorescent tape helps identify it at the end of the gig.
If you are opening up for a band, get your gear off the stage as fast as you possibly can. Don't go talk to your friends, get your stuff off quickly then get your taps on the head.
Also, immediately after don't bitch out your band members and then wonder why a venue doesn't want you back ... and then go to the venue trying to tell them a long sad sob story about how you are a victim. They don't want drama. They have enough.
...and don’t play longer than your allotted time, even if the crowd is chanting for more, you’re being paid for a certain amount of time and unless the club owner is willing to pay more for a last minute longer set, then stick to definitive quilting time, and don’t start taking end of night song request from patrons.
Band break had always been a great time to meet others. A lot of the stuff we done were parties and we were expected to party too. It didn't often lead to something new, but people do remember us better when friendships are made. Even though it was parties with drinks, I never drank, still don't, 57 now, and never once been intoxicated. But for me, though, I get a high just from the music. Still do, it's what keeps me sane. I don't gig anymore, but I do go to gaming parties once a week, with drinks available for free. I don't even have to drive as it's walking distance away. Oh, we performed original music, if mistakes were make, nobody other than us knew about it. We did stick to music that kept the feet moving. So beat was important. Band keeping a solid beat and sticking to chord prograssions other than that we were rather open. Sometimes going into unexpected solos. We were in tune mentally for that so when someone hits upon something catchy, we'll let them take over, harmonize too if we're all in the groove. Rarely had vocals, but we've been asked to play along vocalists a few times, where we did have to prepare for.
Another thing is to make sure there’s always someone on either end of the load-in & load-out to make sure your equipment doesn’t sprout legs. Also, during gig: No matter how f’d up a note was missed by someone, don’t glare, and admonish them during the show. Smile, laugh, and move on. Only the musicians in the audience will notice a mistake whilst the rest of the people are swilling their beer or trying to hit on a hottie.
6:54 "Leave your equipment". I know a guy touring with a fairly successful starting-to-ascend band and he had $10K+ worth of software that required an iLok USB "key". He lost the key, and the software maker _would not_ work with him. The guy could produce receipts and everything. He was just "out" of use of that software.
Thank you so much for your videos. We are older musicians who recently formed a band and are playing small venues (now for fun and experience as a group). Your advice is spot on and we will definitely be discussing before our next performance.
This is super helpful, esp for people starting out. I’m a vinyl DJ and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost records (some of which are not replaceable) because I left a couple propped up behind the booth. Cords, headphones, needles… this stuff is expensive. Don’t leave your gear, have a checklist!
I left a brand new K&M utility stand at a Friday night gig that was an hour and a half away. Couldn’t reach anyone on the phone all day Saturday, but new that there was a show there that night, so drove there around what I thought would be Soynd Check time, and sure enough, my (expensive!) K&M stand was right where I’d left it. Well worth the minor road trip!
@@Raphaelmusicofficial I didn’t think I had to say this but yes watch the band .or 2 before you play. My point was support the other bands. Great attitude there…
One of the things that drive me up the wall is when people insist on blasting loud music after the gig is finished instead of having a bit of peace and quiet.
The ear rest is a great advice. I always put in a set of foam earplugs for the gear packing time, that's usually when dj comes blasting it twice as loud as we did.
You are correct, sir. 57 year old here. All good tips, but the driving under the influence one is pretty poignant to me. I've literally lost BEST friends and talented musicians due to drugs and alcohol. I'm nobody's daddy or mommy. I have had my share of either and I don't begrudge you anything if you want to imbibe. But watch out for each other, people. You never know when you might be saying goodbye at a venue or party to a brother or sister and little do you know it's for the last time. Again, I do not judge or begrudge. You do you, but watch out for your brother or sister.
On resting your ears: some good musician's earplugs are well worth the investment. They make things quieter without sounding muffled like regular hearing protection.
There's actually a whole lot of common sense going on here...."don't drive under the influence" well if you do that, and you get caught, your drivers license will get suspended, effectively inhibiting you from driving to your next gig...
I have never had a "day job" where I could drink alcohol. You should treat your gigs the same way, be respectful to your fans and employers. Musicians would earn more money if they took their jobs seriously.
I had to learn over 40 songs in 35 days when I joined my current band. I had to play with my computer on stage like an amateur for notes and progressions. But I pulled it off. My fretting hand was fish hooks by the end of that month.
We always called it the „idiots walk“ where at least one band member is looking on stage and back stage if there are some things left that belong possibly to some of the bands musicians.
Great video!!! I may add 1 or 2 Lil extra things... I know this video is things you do after the gig but... 1.- Be on time!!! Arrived at venues 5 mins before your slot is a big No No 2.- Do the soundcheck if you have the chance to do it
I really like your video's, I think its pretty much all solid advice, I break some of the rules, but I bet we all have one or two things we know we shouldn't do that just... ya know.... meh, lol..... I play in a bunch of cover bands and get pretty drunk on stage,... not so much that my playing suffers but I have a good time. I'm 40 and the idea that I'm still gonna build a bigger career, specially now that most of the live music venues are gone, is kinda funny talk I guess, I just wanna have fun now.
I’ve noticed that using IEMs is easier on your ears after a gig. I use earplugs for our breaks, i.e. when venues put on even louder music. Sometimes I’m “music’d out’ after gigs, but sometimes I continue the party back home, usually with music that contrasts to what we’ve just been playing, but sometimes music which is of the style or quality that I wish we’d just been playing.
@@SoulcriticI’m not a rock star either but I’ve found that the two most likely options are to hook up with a groupie at the gig venue during or immediately after the gig - either inside or outside in the vicinity of the venue (say an alcove, behind a tree, or in a vehicle) - or the most likely scenario: swap contact details and hook up on another occasion. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve managed to convince someone to wait while the houselights come on bright; the band packs up all their gear whilst trading dumb jokes; then squeeze into my 20 year old Suzuki Swift for the ride back to my place. I’m pretty sure Mick Jagger and Bill Wyman didn’t have to contend with these challenges.
Don't perform while drunk or high. I used to play games with this singer who was always baked at every single gig. He would forget the lyrics or forget where he was in the song or simply staring off into space not engaging with the audience.
A few things I'd like to add that could help a lot if people did them: - Don't just rely on your memory, make a checklist of things you brought to the gig, and check everything that you put back into the car and than into the rehearsal room. - If you borrow equipment, be aware that you are responsible for it and make sure you bring it back, pay for necessary repair in case of defects that come from you using the equipment. Also make notes in case the owner tells you to leave that thing, he'll take care of it and will take it with him. Ask on the day after the gig if he didn't forget it. If he did, it's hopefully still possible to contact someone there and get it back. Better: Don't borrow equipment. Don't lend equipment unless you are part of the gig and can take care of it yourselves right after the gig. - Be awake and check if your colleagues pack all the things they brought. Ask if you're not sure who owns things. That way everyone helps everyone and prevents equipment loss. - Watch out for souvenir hunters that do not belong on the stage. - Make your attitude clear to colleagues and ask them if you can expect the same from them. Take care of things yourselves regardless of their answers.
Seems there's always that one dude on stage who can not stop complaining about the monitor situation? Can you discuss how bands will pack up up after they have played while the next band is playing? I don't play gigs anymore but I see this happen and it drives me nuts.
Directly after or even pre-gig I encourage my band mates to not drink more than 1-2 drinks even if they are comped . The venue has eyes and ears everywhere , and fans have phones and may even be streaming . I can't tell you how many times I have seen a band put on a great set , then turn around and get sloppy drunk, make fools of themselves in front of staff and attendees and even shout over the acts following as they party . Several have even been blackballed from the venue .
I have tremendous anxiety during and after a performance. I have to acknowledge the idea that the anxiety probably comes from not really knowing the material, to varying degrees. It's so easy to get caught up in the excitement of the performance, at the expense of my knowledge of the material.
I think its 2 kind of anxiety. You can be prepared but have the anxiety to fail. And you can have the anxiety to fail because you know you didnt practice enough. Whatever your level of anxiety, being prepared is better no matter what. A teacher once said that you can always see the preparation, even if the performance is not "wow".
My son played a battle of the bands years ago - he went to pack up his gear and someone had pinched his cymbal vault (a nice high end vault I got him for Christmas). I thought that was about as low as it goes.
8. Taking 2 hours to load out from a bar gig. 4 piece talking to themselves on stage shooting the shit like they haven't seen each other in ten years. Myself running sound for the bar and the waitstaff just waiting for them to get their ass in gear. Bar closed, patrons gone, lights being turned off and I still had to go up and tell them we want to go home please finish loading out.
I have one: if you’re in a band where your lead singer is talking about you behind your back, and the people you trust are trying to tell you, don’t wait to leave. I once played with a guy who would always talk about me behind my back and I never wanted to believe the people who were telling me what was going on, especially my brother. Anyway, we recorded an album and played a few times together until for some reason, he just stopped talking to me, and of course playing with me. I have autism, and for me, it’s hard to make lasting friendships with people. And then I saw something on Facebook that he posted that really pissed me off: he wrote “Should we go back to bullying people with glasses?” I was appalled!!!! And I wrote something on it that I don’t really want to mention. Suffice it to say we’re not friends anymore and we will never play together again.
My guitar instructor long ago played a gig where they got rained on. They put all the gear in a trailer wet and it sat in the sun for several days, maybe a week. He said the strings on his 72 strat rusted onto the frets.
For those befuddled as to what the thumbnail for this video attempts to convey (as was I), I have attempted to provide a helpful explanation for it: The red arrow is pointing at the line of separation between the cloth of that person's shirt and the skin of their shoulder. What he is trying to say is that one's shirt should stay pulled _over_ their shoulder, whether it be before, during, or (most importantly) after a gig. He is merely looking out for others, encouraging that they maintain orderliness in their attire, so as to prevent an awakening of ill-feeling among onlookers.
the band i played in for most of my life broke up in public. we were fighting over who was pocketing the cash after the gig. It was in the parking lot and there were at least 50 people watching as we fought. Some of the onlookers had been coming to our shows for over 10 years. The bass player and I had been partners in the band since we were teenagers. Several tips on this list could have saved us some trouble. We still dont speak. the little things matter. oh....and no farting in the other dudes face while he is crashed in the van. it builds stinky resentment.
I've got one. Right after you're done with your set move all your gear off the stage as fast as you can for the next act. So many times things have gotten pushed back because a drummer is talking to someone in the crowd and the whole drum set is just sitting there. Then the next band is forced to move your gear off the stage. I used to be pretty chill about it when I was younger but these if I see that stuff going on I run up on stage and start being a dick about it. You have the whole damn night to talk and get wasted. Just get your sh*t off the stage in a timely manner.
After a gig, here are 10 recommendations you should consider: 1. Never ask someone from the crowd if he liked your music. Only ask the person who gave you the gig if the show was successful. That´s the only one´s opinion that matters. 2. Never talk about politics. I don´t think I have to explain that one. 3. Never talk to much. Whoever you run into after a gig, let him or her be the one who talks and you listen. Remember that talking is giving away info for free and listening is learning and that´s what you want. 4. Never tell anyone what money you make at gigs. 5. Never forget to bring at your gigs a box of CD´s of yourself you have recorded. Many people like to be able to buy a CD (with your autograph and a dedication if possible) directly from a musician because that CD for them can be a life long memory of that very special moment. Do not underestimate it. For you it´s just one more gig... for them it might be the only time ever they were able to come and see you playing live. 6. Never chew gum after gigs. 7. Never ignore a phone call from your mother or father, never. You have only one mother and one father so always attend them, even after a gig and even if you are very tired. 8. Never act as if you are someone special or above anyone else if the gig was "perfect" or if people come to you and say you are "the best" or "a true virtuoso.." and stuff like that. Always think that you only did the musical tricks you know best and that´s all. Stay humble and keep on learning. 9. Never laugh too much or make too many gestures, keep a poker face as much as you can. 10. Never trust a random guy like AIexOut-A-Magic-x6w to tell you what is best for you but feel free to make mistakes and learn from your own experiences and then make your own decisions. 11. There is no nr.11 because I said I had 10 recommendations for you.
1. Not correct mistakes.
2. Not rest your ears (loud gigs).
3. Not follow up (with the people who hired you). "Thanks for hiring us"
4. Not make connections. (use band breaks)
5. Handle band issues. (fights)
6. Not make sure you have all your equipment. (double check)
7. Drive under influence. (Self and others)
Oh, that’s why it always cost us money, we weren’t serious!
I'm guilty of not getting everything. One time, we did a show in Harrisburg, Pa (about an hour and a half from home) and I left my pedal board in the case sitting by the side of the stage. We had a show about 2 hours away from there the next day.
I had to leave work early, haul ass to Harrisburg, grab my gear, jump in the car and "Warp Speed, Mr. Sulu" my ass to Scranton.
I NEVER left my gear again
Perhaps a better title for this video, considering the double negatives, would be ‘7 Things Not To Do After A Gig’.
Good tips. I’m glad you hit on resting your ears. I’ve been playing for 45 years, using IEMs the last 10 but hearing damage was already done by then. I avoid doing gigs without at least a day or so break in between.
@@MisterWade74 Yeah, otherwise worse than what?
I'll add another. Don't dump on your bandmates if you are the one that made trouble. I did a gig with an alt-country trio. I play bass. We'd decided the set list and practiced it for months, all originals. The singer/rhythm guitarist/songwriter decided to throw out the set list just before we started. Then he called out a song we'd rehearsed once like 6 months earlier, never really perfected, and never really got a sound we liked to make it worthy to put into our set list. I made a joke I didn't remember the chords, but let's have some fun. (I ended up remembering them, but the lead guitarist had no clue, and I had to verbally tell him when to take a solo. While the singer forgot his own lyrics at one point! The song went over great, and we were even shocked. Even the frontman said that was fun. Well, immediately after the gig I got my ass reamed, and told that if I didn't want to learn the songs I could have sheet music, and I ruined the whole song. What? I played everything, but was blamed for the singer forgetting or the guitarist not knowing when to play? Are you kidding me? This is why we had a set list. There were other issues between us, so I left the band.
Yeah that really sucks. Egos are a major obstacle to harmony.
Egos and attitudes kill music and the fun we all love
Jee the Grateful Dead never had a predetermined set list. Jerry always forgot the words. If the Dead were in town for a 3 night run. Ya got a different show each night, they didn't play the same song twice in that run! Garcia died in 95 & there still the biggest cult band in America. d&c has taken residency at the Sphere! Look up the Garcia band playing Werewolves of London in 90 on Halloween. After the song started Jerry had to tell John Kahn to turn on his bass, It was kinda funny! They just went on stage, kept there mouth shut, tuned up & played!
I hate last minute set list changes. Our band doesn't get enough practice in as it is, but when there's a change, it throws things off and among other things lowers the quality of our product. We're just starting off in our life as a band, so in my eyes it's imperative we stay tight and everyone knows their cues. As a member (not the leader) of the band I've made my feelings known about this, but it falls on deaf ears. I guess all I can do is practice beyond the set list to include any other possible songs, so I'm not caught flatfooted.
Yep it sounds like leaving that band was a sensible and inevitable decision.
Connecting with the audience has made the difference for me. After a three hour set, when all I want to do is go home, I step off stage and visit with folks. Thank them for investing their time to listen and watch. They have a million things they could be doing, and they chose to hang out with me. WOW, how cool of them! I am grateful. In addition, I also like to get to know my audience, so there's an added benefit. It does allow me to know who my audience is, which is telling in getting feedback, and helpful for future shows. And club managers and owners DEFINITELY notice my care for THEIR customers, too. Yes, I am there to play and sing. But I am also there to help the bottom line of the venue by giving the listeners a great and genuine experience. Amazing how far we go when we make this our goal...performer or otherwise. Thanks for serving us up great tips, @Terence Fisher!
Fans are recurring revenue.
The idiot check is one of the most important things ever. I always do a quick sweep of the place before we leave.
Lost a crash cymbal this way.
even for rehearsals.
We always do an idiot check.
I know exactly what gear I take and it always leaves with me too.
He’s the guy who collects the spare cables…
I call it the "idiot walk" too. I also pick up cups and other junk WE may have left around. I know that is appreciated
As an audiologist playing in bands: thanks for bringing up the resting your ears! Very solid advice! I can't count the number of times that there is a DJ after our set and it's even louder than the band is, sometimes playing while we are breaking up the stage... Put your earplugs in when that happens!
that is very annoying to pack up the gear while the ultra loud DJ is blasting music!
Got done with a gig and went home! The next day discovered I left my pedal board with the effects pedals and my stage attire!! Luckily there are still some awesome people in the world that kept my stiff and I got it back in tact!!
You stopped playing, set yout guitar down and went to your car and drove home?? And you "didcovered" that you left it at the venue??
@raidone7413 ...what I left behind as I said was my pedal board and stage attire. I had both my guitars.
Seven - Do not drive under the influence. Gig or not, don't ever drive under the influence. It can ruin your life in a split second. But at a gig, it's a social courtesy not to be under the influence at all. I have a two-beer limit with lots of water in-between at gigs. You really have to see it as "you are at work". People love to chat with the band so be sober and be polite. Again, you're at work and like the reality of it or not, those people listening or dancing ultimately are your boss.
I practice for 2 hours after gigs. You are warmed up, you played your set, your in the zone to process a lot of learning.
Thank you for all of your great nuggets. I have really grown by listening to your videos
Don't PERFORM under(too much of) the influence, either, let alone driving home in that kinda shape.
Can't stress this one enough. So irresponsible and short-sighted. I had gear stolen because of this, and though not the night of the gig, but next evening party, got a DUI on the way home. Play sober, then party at home or wherever you're staying for the night.
A dude from my local Punk scene died on a car crash 5 yrs ago. He was just 23 and had his whole life ahead. He got on the car (pressumably) drunk and/or tired from the concert and he fell off the side of a bridge in a river.
@@CodyCockyote7046 Condolences. Very unfortunate.
Pfft.
Covered Fleetwood Mac's Dreams, high af. 30 years later, I still cringe about it.
On the way home after rehearsals and gigs alike, I do not listen to any music. As you mentioned, I rest my ears and decompress.
Always load in, load out and help your bandmates
I left a proprietary power supply for my mixer once... had to order a new one which took a while. So like you said always check your equipment.
Also back in the day I did a few DJ gigs when they were just becoming popular and a box full of records disappeared while I was loading up gear. They just walked away and no one saw a thing.
Always have one person out at the vehicles and another at the stage while loading. Microphones disappear, even snare drums.
Thank you for making these videos! I am a professional musician (it's how I make the majority of my living), and even someone like me needs to be reminded of these things from time to time (especially points 3 and 4). So yes, very grateful for your channel and content; I've learned a lot from your videos!
Thanks for establishing this channel. A class act channel and ethical sound advice. I'm not perfect, and have screwed up alot of potential with future gigs over the years. Some of your advice seems common sense, tho as musicians we often get tangled up in the rhetoric and don't even think about what could open up new opportunity. Appreciate you posting these vids and giving some insight of your experiences
After the gig. Help everyone pack up; guitars , pedals, mikes , drums, etc. You're in a group!
yes, but also sometimes people want to pack up their own gear because they have their own logic (and pack your own stuff before helping others!)
@@HermelJaworski “Help everyone pack up” wasn’t meant to be taken literally. 🙄 If someone doesn’t want help, you obviously don’t force your help on them.
Be sure to connect with the other bands on the bill. A music scene can be a very cliquey place so networking can be critical.
I left a banjo at a venue once, and when I got back there were two banjos! Just kidding. This is a great series of tips. I wish I’d known some of these tips 50 years ago.
You’re correct about the ears. I personally try to get outside between every set.(after talking to a few people on the way out ) It’s one way to keep guitarist from getting louder through the night. The ears actually start swelling to protect themselves , after a few mins outside focusing on a soft distant sound (like a cricket) will open them back up. 53+ years pro touring engineer FOH and performing musician.
7:45 helpful tip: I typed out and laminated a check list. I stopped forgetting pieces and parts by using it loading up the truck for the gig, as I'm loading in at the venue and as I'm loading out. Even this progressed to digital with that list in my phone. I haven't forgotten a piece since.
One of my after gig petpeves is when bandmates take for ever to pack up. Granted everyone is probably tired. But I like to pack up my crap and be done with it!!! Or divas!! Bandmates who don't help load in or out, and don't help set up.
I’d say this is number one, people want to go home it’s late. And go ahead and fire the dude that doesn’t load in or out and if he deals with the booking.. fire yourself
There is sometimes an exception to this when someone - bandleader or frontperson - makes themselves available to talk to punters, potential clients or even deal with merch sales. It helps if that person has the least packing up to do.
I always help the drummer load out.
It depends on what they’re doing instead of packing up, e.g. chatting to fans; hustling for more gigs; winding down after playing 3-4 sets. Sometimes it looks unprofessional for a band to finish their last song to rapturous applause, with the audience believing they’re amazing, only to have them start unplugging and winding up cables. Put your instruments away in cases if it’s a rough bar or you expect someone might want to “audition”, but leave them on their stands to extend the aesthetic for a little while, say until the punters leave.
Bandmates that don’t lend a helping hand, definitely call them out.
Great video, You play better when you're sober. I prefer to play with musicians that don't drink during the gig. Pretty much all of them aren't as fun to play with after they've had a few beers.
Also, chairs are for sitting. Not storing your gear. How many times have you gone to sit down in the green room and all the chairs are taken with everyone's crap.
I never have more than one beer max before a gig and well... after the gig I need to carry equipment. Ruining the gig by being drunk and on top of that carry sensitive expensive equipment while being drunk is... a stupid idea. It might work for an artist big enough to have a road crew but... it would be like being a drunk boss at a workplace which doesn´t look good for the people working hard and helping you gain success in your field.
I never drink during the gig…. but plenty BEFORE the gig 😂. No, seriously, you‘re right. Unless they are full-blown alcoholics, pretty much everybody including myself plays better without any drink before/during a gig.
These are ALL great suggestions. After 45 years of playing bass, being in various bands, playing with various musicians, meeting hundreds of people and making contacts, I can confidently say, I’ve incorporated each and every one of these suggestions, and more, which make for a more amicable, smoother, professional environment.
Secure your equipment and always check the area for wayward equipment no matter how tired you are I found marking my cables and other equipment with fluorescent tape helps identify it at the end of the gig.
If you are opening up for a band, get your gear off the stage as fast as you possibly can. Don't go talk to your friends, get your stuff off quickly then get your taps on the head.
Also, immediately after don't bitch out your band members and then wonder why a venue doesn't want you back ... and then go to the venue trying to tell them a long sad sob story about how you are a victim. They don't want drama. They have enough.
...and don’t play longer than your allotted time, even if the crowd is chanting for more, you’re being paid for a certain amount of time and unless the club owner is willing to pay more for a last minute longer set, then stick to definitive quilting time, and don’t start taking end of night song request from patrons.
lame
I agree, you’ve been playing for 4 hours, it’s midnight or 1am and the staff just wants to go home.
I played a gig on Saturday where one particular guy just kept tipping and tipping, asking for more. This was acceptable for me
@@ChrisThomasBone as long as the proprietor doesn't mind you playing longer, heck it's more income.
Why is it always about money… my band plays for free …if they want to pay us that’s cool but that’s not why we do it
Band break had always been a great time to meet others. A lot of the stuff we done were parties and we were expected to party too. It didn't often lead to something new, but people do remember us better when friendships are made. Even though it was parties with drinks, I never drank, still don't, 57 now, and never once been intoxicated. But for me, though, I get a high just from the music. Still do, it's what keeps me sane. I don't gig anymore, but I do go to gaming parties once a week, with drinks available for free. I don't even have to drive as it's walking distance away. Oh, we performed original music, if mistakes were make, nobody other than us knew about it. We did stick to music that kept the feet moving. So beat was important. Band keeping a solid beat and sticking to chord prograssions other than that we were rather open. Sometimes going into unexpected solos. We were in tune mentally for that so when someone hits upon something catchy, we'll let them take over, harmonize too if we're all in the groove. Rarely had vocals, but we've been asked to play along vocalists a few times, where we did have to prepare for.
Another thing is to make sure there’s always someone on either end of the load-in & load-out to make sure your equipment doesn’t sprout legs. Also, during gig: No matter how f’d up a note was missed by someone, don’t glare, and admonish them during the show. Smile, laugh, and move on. Only the musicians in the audience will notice a mistake whilst the rest of the people are swilling their beer or trying to hit on a hottie.
6:54 "Leave your equipment". I know a guy touring with a fairly successful starting-to-ascend band and he had $10K+ worth of software that required an iLok USB "key". He lost the key, and the software maker _would not_ work with him. The guy could produce receipts and everything. He was just "out" of use of that software.
It's a hard way to make a few bucks but your advice is well taken.
Solid points, all. Good vid.
Thank you so much for your videos. We are older musicians who recently formed a band and are playing small venues (now for fun and experience as a group). Your advice is spot on and we will definitely be discussing before our next performance.
This is super helpful, esp for people starting out. I’m a vinyl DJ and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost records (some of which are not replaceable) because I left a couple propped up behind the booth. Cords, headphones, needles… this stuff is expensive. Don’t leave your gear, have a checklist!
I left a brand new K&M utility stand at a Friday night gig that was an hour and a half away.
Couldn’t reach anyone on the phone all day Saturday, but new that there was a show there that night, so drove there around what I thought would be Soynd Check time, and sure enough, my (expensive!) K&M stand was right where I’d left it.
Well worth the minor road trip!
We’ve played a gig at a casino. Our guitarist lost all of his pay at the roulette table.
Hang around and support the band or bands playing after you!!! Don’t just grab your crowd and leave…
If the bands who play after me have not already been there to hear my gig then they can never expect me to listen to their gig.
@@Raphaelmusicofficial I didn’t think I had to say this but yes watch the band .or 2 before you play. My point was support the other bands. Great attitude there…
What if you are in the only band? I never made a nickel on those 3 or 4 bands the same night gigs.
@@TaterwheelOk then ya leave.
One of the things that drive me up the wall is when people insist on blasting loud music after the gig is finished instead of having a bit of peace and quiet.
Very Insightful Information, Thank you.
The ear rest is a great advice. I always put in a set of foam earplugs for the gear packing time, that's usually when dj comes blasting it twice as loud as we did.
You are correct, sir. 57 year old here. All good tips, but the driving under the influence one is pretty poignant to me. I've literally lost BEST friends and talented musicians due to drugs and alcohol. I'm nobody's daddy or mommy. I have had my share of either and I don't begrudge you anything if you want to imbibe. But watch out for each other, people. You never know when you might be saying goodbye at a venue or party to a brother or sister and little do you know it's for the last time. Again, I do not judge or begrudge. You do you, but watch out for your brother or sister.
A 57 year old nobody.
@@TheFriendlyPsychopath and you are?
Hey “Friendly Psychopath”: I guess one of the words in your name is accurate.
Glad I found your channel
On resting your ears: some good musician's earplugs are well worth the investment. They make things quieter without sounding muffled like regular hearing protection.
Bro your final point is the best heads up any musician should take notice of! Thank you bro!
Glad I found this site. Great tips, very thoughtful stuff.
Yeah, you just got a new subscriber here. I love your posts! 🤘🤘🤘
There's actually a whole lot of common sense going on here...."don't drive under the influence" well if you do that, and you get caught, your drivers license will get suspended, effectively inhibiting you from driving to your next gig...
Very helpful tips. Thanks for the insight!
Okay, I'm sold. I'm subscribing.
I have never had a "day job" where I could drink alcohol. You should treat your gigs the same way, be respectful to your fans and employers. Musicians would earn more money if they took their jobs seriously.
many of the employees at nightclubs drink. Alcohol is the at the center of most nightlife. bottoms up.
I played for 25 years from local gigs to touring with Hall of Fame artists and this stuff is just good, practical advice. Spot on man.
I had to learn over 40 songs in 35 days when I joined my current band. I had to play with my computer on stage like an amateur for notes and progressions. But I pulled it off. My fretting hand was fish hooks by the end of that month.
Thank God I don't do any of these things. I guess that why I am working. Great advice. Thanks
Great stuff here. I agree with everything you've said.
We always called it the „idiots walk“ where at least one band member is looking on stage and back stage if there are some things left that belong possibly to some of the bands musicians.
Great video!!! I may add 1 or 2 Lil extra things... I know this video is things you do after the gig but...
1.- Be on time!!! Arrived at venues 5 mins before your slot is a big No No
2.- Do the soundcheck if you have the chance to do it
Good points. The last band I was in imploded after a gig because a conflict escalated and got physical.
lol i've seen some venues have a room in the basement or something that's just filled with stuff that musicians have left behind.
Excellent videos, Terence. Please add chapter markers to your videos.
Great advice, not just the expected ones :)
sub'd and many thanks!
I really like your video's, I think its pretty much all solid advice, I break some of the rules, but I bet we all have one or two things we know we shouldn't do that just... ya know.... meh, lol..... I play in a bunch of cover bands and get pretty drunk on stage,... not so much that my playing suffers but I have a good time. I'm 40 and the idea that I'm still gonna build a bigger career, specially now that most of the live music venues are gone, is kinda funny talk I guess, I just wanna have fun now.
2. Not rest your ears is one my Father could not understand. After a Church gig , he would want us to stay in the church while other Groups performed.
I'm not a rock star, but, after the gig, shouldn't ya be hooking up with a groupie!
I’ve noticed that using IEMs is easier on your ears after a gig. I use earplugs for our breaks, i.e. when venues put on even louder music. Sometimes I’m “music’d out’ after gigs, but sometimes I continue the party back home, usually with music that contrasts to what we’ve just been playing, but sometimes music which is of the style or quality that I wish we’d just been playing.
@@SoulcriticI’m not a rock star either but I’ve found that the two most likely options are to hook up with a groupie at the gig venue during or immediately after the gig - either inside or outside in the vicinity of the venue (say an alcove, behind a tree, or in a vehicle) - or the most likely scenario: swap contact details and hook up on another occasion. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve managed to convince someone to wait while the houselights come on bright; the band packs up all their gear whilst trading dumb jokes; then squeeze into my 20 year old Suzuki Swift for the ride back to my place. I’m pretty sure Mick Jagger and Bill Wyman didn’t have to contend with these challenges.
Some good reminders and good for thought, thanks.
Good solid advice well presented.
Great advice man!
Glad i found yer channel! Real Diggs!
Much Respect!
Good stuff man, thanks for the knowledge
Great video sir I appreciate you videos 😊
Hi, Terence Fisher.
Your videos contain plenty of good advice.
Don't perform while drunk or high. I used to play games with this singer who was always baked at every single gig. He would forget the lyrics or forget where he was in the song or simply staring off into space not engaging with the audience.
I’m on the opposite side. I’d Im sober I’m so hyper focused that my stage presence is negative. It’s about balance
A few things I'd like to add that could help a lot if people did them:
- Don't just rely on your memory, make a checklist of things you brought to the gig, and check everything that you put back into the car and than into the rehearsal room.
- If you borrow equipment, be aware that you are responsible for it and make sure you bring it back, pay for necessary repair in case of defects that come from you using the equipment. Also make notes in case the owner tells you to leave that thing, he'll take care of it and will take it with him. Ask on the day after the gig if he didn't forget it. If he did, it's hopefully still possible to contact someone there and get it back. Better: Don't borrow equipment. Don't lend equipment unless you are part of the gig and can take care of it yourselves right after the gig.
- Be awake and check if your colleagues pack all the things they brought. Ask if you're not sure who owns things. That way everyone helps everyone and prevents equipment loss.
- Watch out for souvenir hunters that do not belong on the stage.
- Make your attitude clear to colleagues and ask them if you can expect the same from them. Take care of things yourselves regardless of their answers.
This is a great post. Lots that need to be heard. Thank you. 🎹♥️
Seems there's always that one dude on stage who can not stop complaining about the monitor situation?
Can you discuss how bands will pack up up after they have played while the next band is playing? I don't play gigs anymore but I see this happen and it drives me nuts.
Even if you are part of a band you should join the musicians union. It opens doors and helps you make connections
ALWAYS do the dummy check
Directly after or even pre-gig I encourage my band mates to not drink more than 1-2 drinks even if they are comped . The venue has eyes and ears everywhere , and fans have phones and may even be streaming . I can't tell you how many times I have seen a band put on a great set , then turn around and get sloppy drunk, make fools of themselves in front of staff and attendees and even shout over the acts following as they party . Several have even been blackballed from the venue .
I have tremendous anxiety during and after a performance. I have to acknowledge the idea that the anxiety probably comes from not really knowing the material, to varying degrees. It's so easy to get caught up in the excitement of the performance, at the expense of my knowledge of the material.
I think its 2 kind of anxiety. You can be prepared but have the anxiety to fail. And you can have the anxiety to fail because you know you didnt practice enough.
Whatever your level of anxiety, being prepared is better no matter what. A teacher once said that you can always see the preparation, even if the performance is not "wow".
@@ÉdouardBrasseur Nice, thank you!
My son played a battle of the bands years ago - he went to pack up his gear and someone had pinched his cymbal vault (a nice high end vault I got him for Christmas). I thought that was about as low as it goes.
Excellent info..!!💯
It's simple, after the last note: Pack up your stuff. Wait to get paid. get Paid. Pack your car, then LEAVE
Wait why don't you have roadies?
Absolute truth!
8. Taking 2 hours to load out from a bar gig. 4 piece talking to themselves on stage shooting the shit like they haven't seen each other in ten years. Myself running sound for the bar and the waitstaff just waiting for them to get their ass in gear. Bar closed, patrons gone, lights being turned off and I still had to go up and tell them we want to go home please finish loading out.
I have one: if you’re in a band where your lead singer is talking about you behind your back, and the people you trust are trying to tell you, don’t wait to leave. I once played with a guy who would always talk about me behind my back and I never wanted to believe the people who were telling me what was going on, especially my brother. Anyway, we recorded an album and played a few times together until for some reason, he just stopped talking to me, and of course playing with me. I have autism, and for me, it’s hard to make lasting friendships with people. And then I saw something on Facebook that he posted that really pissed me off: he wrote “Should we go back to bullying people with glasses?” I was appalled!!!! And I wrote something on it that I don’t really want to mention. Suffice it to say we’re not friends anymore and we will never play together again.
well...glasses are pretty dorky. a mean look or a friendly boot to the arse could do a four eyed poindexter some good. just sayin
Funny I do all these things and other musicians think I am a prick. I had to get back to believing in myself and being a pro.
This excellent Godmy advise❤I have made all these mistakes
so far I will add one more thing to this: if you are having issues with hearing than you are playing toud ..simple as that
My guitar instructor long ago played a gig where they got rained on. They put all the gear in a trailer wet and it sat in the sun for several days, maybe a week. He said the strings on his 72 strat rusted onto the frets.
Marching band is fun.I have had to abandon the aonf and run for cover with my saxophone when the rain suddenly pours down!!!
that's some very good advice!
For those befuddled as to what the thumbnail for this video attempts to convey (as was I), I have attempted to provide a helpful explanation for it:
The red arrow is pointing at the line of separation between the cloth of that person's shirt and the skin of their shoulder. What he is trying to say is that one's shirt should stay pulled _over_ their shoulder, whether it be before, during, or (most importantly) after a gig. He is merely looking out for others, encouraging that they maintain orderliness in their attire, so as to prevent an awakening of ill-feeling among onlookers.
Well spoken.
DONT FORGET YOUR STUFF!!! 🤣🤣🤣 oh man, I think my first band left something at every gig we played lol
the band i played in for most of my life broke up in public. we were fighting over who was pocketing the cash after the gig. It was in the parking lot and there were at least 50 people watching as we fought. Some of the onlookers had been coming to our shows for over 10 years. The bass player and I had been partners in the band since we were teenagers. Several tips on this list could have saved us some trouble. We still dont speak. the little things matter. oh....and no farting in the other dudes face while he is crashed in the van. it builds stinky resentment.
Making money in the biz is never easy.
These are very useful tips for those who are pursuing this livelihood 😎
I’m not a musician but it’s obvious these practices should be done in all walks of life, great job!!!
What do you mean when you say "passive" income?
I've got one. Right after you're done with your set move all your gear off the stage as fast as you can for the next act. So many times things have gotten pushed back because a drummer is talking to someone in the crowd and the whole drum set is just sitting there. Then the next band is forced to move your gear off the stage. I used to be pretty chill about it when I was younger but these if I see that stuff going on I run up on stage and start being a dick about it. You have the whole damn night to talk and get wasted. Just get your sh*t off the stage in a timely manner.
After a gig, here are 10 recommendations you should consider:
1. Never ask someone from the crowd if he liked your music. Only ask the person who gave you the gig if the show was successful. That´s the only one´s opinion that matters.
2. Never talk about politics. I don´t think I have to explain that one.
3. Never talk to much. Whoever you run into after a gig, let him or her be the one who talks and you listen. Remember that talking is giving away info for free and listening is learning and that´s what you want.
4. Never tell anyone what money you make at gigs.
5. Never forget to bring at your gigs a box of CD´s of yourself you have recorded. Many people like to be able to buy a CD (with your autograph and a dedication if possible) directly from a musician because that CD for them can be a life long memory of that very special moment. Do not underestimate it. For you it´s just one more gig... for them it might be the only time ever they were able to come and see you playing live.
6. Never chew gum after gigs.
7. Never ignore a phone call from your mother or father, never. You have only one mother and one father so always attend them, even after a gig and even if you are very tired.
8. Never act as if you are someone special or above anyone else if the gig was "perfect" or if people come to you and say you are "the best" or "a true virtuoso.." and stuff like that. Always think that you only did the musical tricks you know best and that´s all. Stay humble and keep on learning.
9. Never laugh too much or make too many gestures, keep a poker face as much as you can.
10. Never trust a random guy like AIexOut-A-Magic-x6w to tell you what is best for you but feel free to make mistakes and learn from your own experiences and then make your own decisions.
11. There is no nr.11 because I said I had 10 recommendations for you.
One more thing... Don't leave your empties and trash on stage! Someone has to deal with that -- be a decent person and pick up after yourself.
These videos are addicting. Sub'd.