I know, kill me. One more person posting a blog about Kanye, Beyonce and Beck.

But this is not really a blog about ‘justice for Beyonce’ or about how ‘Beck actually knows how to play instruments.’ Because if I’m honest, I’m a big fan of both of these artists!

And that’s the truth – they are both artists.

Of course that looks different for each of them because they have unique gifting, unique talents, and unique desires about how they want to use their craft to affect their listeners.

When it comes to artists, just like everything in life – one size does not fit all. One songwriter/musician/singer is no more of an artist than the next – their artistry just looks different because it comes from a different artist.

What makes an artist stand out is their ability to know their voice (not speaking of merely singing) and knowing how to effectively use it accomplish the desired result: to connect, to make a career, to build fans, and to influence and impact.

What makes artists stand out is their ability to be as Bob Dylan said in his 2015 MusiCares speech: ‘fearless and sensitive at the same time.’ Sensitive to their craft and calling, sensitive to their listeners, and sensitive to the broader artistic community.

You do not need to wonder if you are an artist based on the type of music you sing, play and write. You are an artist. The question you need to ask yourself is, do you know how to translate your artistry to effectively communicate your story. Let’s work through that together, email me here.

They say the music industry is dead.

I don’t believe that for a second. Sure, it’s changing, but that doesn’t mean it’s dead or dying. The distribution of recorded music looks different now than it did 30 years ago, but one thing that hasn’t changed? The live show.

There is still no replacement for a great band on stage creating a moment between the musicians and the audience. There is something unique in that moment.

Bands that understand their story know that these are five important elements that deserve consideration for their live show:

SET LISTS MATTER

It’s all about the flow. Disjointed songs that jump back and forth between tempo and content are like stopping and starting to the audience. Make sure it makes sense.

THE BANTER

Some bands have natural, easy, fun on stage banter. You can tell they feel comfortable with one another, and therefore the audience feels comfortable. Some bands are awkward and the audience feels uncomfortable as they robotically speak on stage. Practice, practice, practice what you’re going to say, and then practice again.

STOPING THE SHOW FOR TUNING

Until you’re at the stadium level, you probably won’t have a tech to tune your hundreds of guitars, which means it's all you. But for the love of all things holy, please don’t stop the momentum of your show for tuning your guitar. Plan your flow, and transitions accordingly.

NO MERCH

I’m always surprised when a band does not have any merch. These days it’s so inexpensive to have high quality t-shirts, custom posters, stickers, and recorded music, there is really no reason not to have some kind of branded merchandise. If you’ve converted fans with your show, give them the opportunity to show their affection – with a impulse purchase.

WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

Perhaps one of my biggest pet peeves – when a band never says their name. Do you want people to track you down online, on iTunes or social media? Make sure you say your name often, over and over again.

What you do in your live show is as much a part of your story as your songs, styling and social media. Is your live show telling a story consistent with your brand? Let’s determine that together. Email me here to get started.