Selling Yourself Through Your Live Performance
by Chris Cofoni
In previous articles I have discussed how to assemble a press kit, a team of individuals, and create your demo recordings. It is important to remember that while these steps are important and crucial in being taken seriously by industry types, the live show is what ultimately sells them. Developing a set that works, a stage presence, and having your speech limited and well thought out are all integral parts of getting to where you want to be. I have seen many bands that have an amazing stage show in my life, and it is important to break down what made them interesting, entertaining and fulfilling to the audience.
The set list is the first step in putting on a stellar performance. It should be thought out ahead of time along with transitions between songs. Start with strong material you feel the most comfortable playing. This is conveyed to the audience. Do not attempt to start with something new and risky, as you run the risk of starting your set out on the wrong foot. The first song should be something that catches the ear of the audience. You may have people in the room from the previous artist, and you want to keep them in the room and keep them listening. My suggestion is to play your first song, then let people know who you are, where youbre from, acknowledge anyone that went on before you, and give the title of the first song and the next song in the set. Do not go on and on, as you lose people with too much talking.
Talking between songs is important, but should be well thought out. Oftentimes, trying to be cute onstage comes off wrong and turns off the audience. Keep words to a minimum and only talk when introducing the band, letting people know the song titles, telling a short and concise story regarding one of the songs or the band, and giving props to the artist before you or coming on next. Also make sure you have your e-mail list to pass around, or a central location for your merchandise and e-mail list together. This should be announced before your last song. Your last song should be one of your strongest so that you start and end the show on the right foot. Plus, if people have come early for the next artist, you may win over some new fans.
