Sunday, March 23, 2014

10 Things Never To Say On Stage

Band On Stage image
How you conduct your business on stage can be the difference whether you're perceived as an amateur or as a pro. Performers without a lot of experience tend to use a number of phrases when things go bad on stage that just make things worse. The also rely of some very worn-out cliches are that are better left unsaid.

Here's a list of 10 things to never say on stage by Ari Herstand that recently appeared on Digital Music News. I'm just going to repeat the phrases; you can follow the link for the more complete explanations.

1. "We're having technical difficulties."

2. "I forgot the lyrics."

3. "I want to thank my girlfriend."

4. "I'm sorry."

5. "Your city sucks."

6. "This song is about my Granda who died of cancer. Love you Nana."

7. "I'm broke."

8. "You guys suck."

9. "Any requests?"

10. "How does it sound?"

Here's the best advice:
  • Don't acknowledge mistakes
  • Don't insult your audience
  • Don't insult your band, crew or soundman
  • Don't lay a guilt trip on your audience
  • Don't look lost on stage
Performing is a muscle and it takes exercising just like anything else. The more you do it, the better you get. If you follow the advice and stay away from the above cliches, you'll be way ahead of the game.
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1 comment:

Sebastian said...

Good post, but I disagree when it comes to acknowledging mistakes. Even Coldplay's Chris Martin does that from time to time when he plays some bad note on the piano or so. I think it makes you more likable and pleasent when the audience recognizes that you're just a human being like anyone.

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