Gigging Tips

Right first off this is not going to be a definitive list. I expect to miss things out (it's been a while since I played a gig after all and the memory aint what it used to be) but others can add things in comments later if they like. Much of this is common sense but you'd be surprised how often young and inexperienced (hell even supposedly experienced) bands forget some or all of this stuff. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of playing the gig without thinking about how to make sure the gig goes as smoothly as possible.

So here goes, in no particular order:

1. Turn up on time.

This should be a no brainer. But if you're given a time to be at the venue then be there. Times are set for a reason, to fit into a schedule. The schedule is there so that everything can be set up and checked before doors open and so the bands (and staff) get some time to relax before the gig.

During the gig be on stage and ready to go for your alloted stage time. And don't play longer than you've been given. If you do you're a bunch of cocks. Simple. You might think you're acting like rockstars but you're just acting like dickheads and eating into someone elses time. Follow the times given to you.

2. Leads, plugs and batteries

Make sure you bring spare leads for guitars and plugs and fresh batteries for any effects you may have. Don't expect the venue or other bands to have because sod's law says they won't. You don't want to have to "make do" and get as close to the sound you want with just an amp you don't know and whatever effects still have life in them. If you use effects then make sure you bring what you need to use them on the night.

3. Strings

This is simple. There is no excuse for having to play through a set with a broken string. None. If you're about to open your mouth and give me an excuse then stop, don't waste your breath. There is no excuse! You have two options here. Bring spare strings and practice changing them quickly. Or the one I prefer, bring a spare guitar. It's quicker, and easier to change guitar than to change strings.

Also remember to change your strings before every gig and break them in. This means you're playing with fresh strings that will stay in tune and will be less likely to break. If you really have problems with string breakage then take your guitar to a shop and get it checked over. Key problem areas are the saddle and the nut. You could also look at your picking technique, perhaps you're digging at the string too much or pushing down too hard while palm muting. I've never broken a string live and can't remember the last time I broke one during practice.

4. Backline

Find ouy before the gig what you are expected to bring along. If you are required to take an amp but can't, then tell the promoter. Don't wait until the day of the gig for them to find out.

Drummers, even if you don't have to take your kit you will have to take your own cymbals, pedals and snare. Again don't expect the venue or other bands to help, they might not and you'll be screwed. The rest of your own band will hate you.

5. Practice

If you can't play the songs before the gig you won't be able to magically play them on the night. Practice and don't gig until you're ready. Unless you're some kind of miracle this will usually be 6 months to a year after your inception. Maybe less if you've already written the songs.

6. Tuners

Buy a tuner. It's one of the best purchases you can make. Don't buy a cheap one that sits on your table and you occasionally plug your guitar into at home. Buy a floor tuner like a Boss TU-2. They're fantastic, never break and they have a bypass so the audience don't have to listen to you tuning. Everyone should own one. Seriously. You can also power your other pedals off of one.

7. Don't apologise

Don't apologise because it's your first gig. If I hear you say this on stage I'll instantly dislike you. If it's your first gig then ok you might be more nervous than usual but don't apologise for it. As long as you know your own songs you'll be fine. No-one else has heard them so we don't notice if you fuck them up. Just take a breath, smile (or gurn if you're a metal band) and carry on.

Think that'll do for now. Obviously there's lots more to remember but these are the ones that really annoy me when watching bands who are just starting out. They're also the ones that are easy to fix. Most of these are common sense so why don't bands do them? You are booked to play a gig so you turn up when you're supposed to turn up, able to do the job you've been booked to do and with the correct equipment.