Search results
- For all bands, regardless of their popularity, a strong set list is the foundation to putting on a good show. Whilst it can be fun to perform without a set list (especially for bands with a pre existing following) a well designed set list allows a band to win over an audience that might not have heard them before.
www.lastminutemusicians.com/how_to_get_gigs/writing-a-set-list/How to write the perfect set list for your band - How To Get Gigs
People also ask
Should a band have a set list?
What makes a good band setlist?
How do you write a band set list?
How do you create a setlist for a band?
Does a set list prepare you for a gig?
What is a set list?
Building the perfect set list for your live show is an art form. As a musician, it's a good idea to understand the key components that make up a great show. Writing a killer set list is so much more than just choosing the order of your tracks.
- Social Media
If you are looking to grow your fanbase as a musician,...
- FAQs
Damian does one livesession a week, where you will be able...
- Forget Password
Founding the world’s largest set of music colleges (BIMM),...
- Subscribe
DK Music Business Academy is a resource for musicians and...
- Social Media
- What Is A Set List?
- Begin with A Bang
- Have The Energy of Your Songs Form “An Arc”
- Leave Room For Improvisation
- Ensure That Your Set List Flows
- End with A Showstopper
- General Tips
If you are new to performing live, a set list is simply a list of what songs you would like to play, and in what order. While that is its simplest form, putting together a great set list that really works can be a bit of an art form in itself. John Mayer’s setlist for April 7th 2017 at Wells Fargo Centre, Philidelphia PA. Photo Credit: Daniel Prako...
First impressions are extremely important and the first song on your set list should give the audience an overall impression of your bands sound – a real “statement of intent”. However, before you even get to the first tune, there are a couple of tricks you can use to kickstart your performance; If you’re a rock or metal band, consider kicking the ...
Although it’s slightly genre-dependent, you probably wouldn’t want to see a band that constantly performs songs of the same tempo and mood, after all, a bit of variety never goes a miss! Now it’s important to understand that by “forming an arc” we don’t mean anything about animals going 2 x 2! A good way to structure your performance could be to st...
Again, this will be slightly genre-dependent, but if your band is beginning to attract a fan base, it will become increasingly important to allow some room for improvisation and experimentation within your set. This could be done by adding in new songs, changing a solo or even changing the arrangements songs. For example playing an acoustic version...
From the perspective of the audience, a band that stops between every song, perhaps mumbles a few words and then clumsily begins the next song can become incredibly tiresome. This sort of performance can be seen pretty regularly, but if we’re being brutally honest, it can potentially turn new fans away. Similarly, long gaps in between songs can als...
It could well be argued the most important bit of the set is the end of the performance and a band should aim to make as memorable impact on the audience as possible. Depending on the genre, this could be an opportunity for one last sing along with the audience, the lead guitarist’s last chance for a solo (or both!). Either way, make sure you have ...
Always over prepare. It’s better to have more songs ready and cut some than to not have enough. That said, if you’re playing a bill with multiple bands, keep one eye on the time as you don’t want t...Make sure everyone has copies of the set list and compares notes beforehand. The last thing you want is the drummer launching into a different introduction to the guitarist!Keep a sharpie handy for last minute set changes. This should be part of your gig bag. For more advice on what to keep in there, check out this LMM guide.If you’re a function or covers band, decide as a group if you want to take requests. Be realistic, given the amount of material you have prepared. You can always offer the audience alternatives IE...- (16)
- Know Your Audience. Understanding your audience is essential when planning your setlist. Are they die-hard fans, or are they just discovering your music?
- Start and End Strong. A strong beginning and ending are crucial elements of successful setlists for bands. Choose songs that have a catchy hook or a memorable chorus, and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
- Mix It Up. A well-rounded setlist should include a variety of songs that showcase your band’s versatility. This means incorporating a mix of upbeat tunes, slower ballads, and even a cover or two.
- Create a Natural Flow. Your setlist should flow seamlessly from one song to the next. This means considering the tempo, key, and mood of each song and how they transition into each other.
Oct 3, 2014 · The better bands I work with will have a list of all the songs - numbered. (That's one of the reasons they're called numbers !) The bandleader/ frontman will decide what gets played judging by the audience. If they are ready to dance, or just want to sit and chat, or even want to sit and listen.
Feb 8, 2023 · There’s an art to crafting a good set, and here are some set list tips to consider when preparing for your next live show. Table of Contents: • Your set list should not be one-size-fits-all • Open strong • Consider your vocalist (s) and soloists • Split the set into segments • Vary the tempo • Combine songs with alternate tunings ...
Jan 23, 2024 · A great band setlist should not just entertain a crowd, but also manage time, crowd energy, and more. This guide goes over how to write a setlist for any gig.
When preparing your set list you should find a balance between focusing on the crowd, promoting your music, and feeling comfortable on stage. Once this is achieved, you will find it easy to adapt and change your set list with new songs.
