People don't care if you rely on sheet music to play the songs, as long as you can execute them well, it doesn't matter. I personally don't have the patience to memorize hundreds of songs for multiple set lists.
You're right. The only negative comment regarding using an iPad was from another musician. For the crowd, they're more concerned about the entertainment you're providing.
Like you said, we all have our strengths and weaknesses. I've never been berated about using music, but it's always been in the back of my mind, and I'm self-conscious about it when I know I shouldn't be. Like you also said, we musicians are too hard on ourselves. I would rather my performance be accurate and seamless rather than relying upon my very flawed human brain and forget lyrics etc. I admit, I'm in awe of performers who can just memorize everything. I've tried and can't do it, but I still get paid regardless. I try to pepper a few in that I do know by heart to give my attention back to the audience. They're generally not really paying much attention unless the song is a real banger. I have to say thanks for your input in your videos, I'm just starting up again after a hiatus, and you've brought much insight into my quest to better my performances.
I see this is a little over a year old, but this is an excellent piece. I have been growing my repertoire a lot this last year, so much that now I struggle to decide what to play because I know we'll over 500 songs, although, some not well enough to play out. You've simplified this for me and I will soon have my music separated out into 10 or 12 set lists that I can rotate. Thanks dude.
Awesome to hear this man!! I do need to update you guys on the new iPad holder I got (the screw stripped on this one recently, though it lasted about 3 years). Just got a Hercules brand iPad holder and that thing is sturdy!
Great VIDEO!! I do the "pop/rock/country" and gig 3-4 times per week. I love learning a new song every week or so. I have set lists but usually don't stick to them and change around the songs based on the vibe. I agree with the point about requests - NEVER put down a song that someone requests. Tell them it's a great song (even if you hate it) and apologize that you don't know it. Hey, sometimes requests trigger me to learn a specific new song. A few days ago I had a request for: "any Chinese song" by a very generous group of Chinese tourists. That's, unfortunately beyond my capability but I did ask them if there were any popular English language songs in China. They started singing "Country Roads!" :) I apologized that it wasn't in my repertoire...but it is now. Re doing your own songs - unless you are a famous artist with known songs, nobody wants to hear them so, as noted, be very sparing with them. I typically won't play more than two in a 45 minute set. If you play the same gigs/locations then, after several appearances people may request some of your songs.
Thanks for sharing this. It’s great that you’re out there doing it, and 3-4 shows a week is solid! A Chinese song would be cool…I speak some Thai and want to learn a few songs in that language to hopefully play when we go back.
I don't have any set list. I just select songs at random that I think suits the crowd and atmosphere. Don't worry about the staff, you're not there for them but for the patrons and guests. I have a lot of songs and keep changing songs per gig
PRO TIP: I played a lot of all night rural Texas/Louisiana acoustic outdoor gigs where beer and drinks were spilled and wind would blow your song list away. Write your lists with a very sharp pencil and dew or a spilled drink won`t make it smudge like ink does. It will still be readable and it will last until your handling it wears it out. I also recommend a carbon fiber guitar for these conditions or purchase a few Ashthorpe acoustic/electric guitars for 100 each so you won`t ruin or damage your main instrument. Those Ashthorpe instruments are KILLER if you replace the cheap strings that come with them. Intonation is fine and they tune up well.
I guess I'm fortunate with the types of places I play at and haven't had any issues, even with the few outdoor gigs I have. And I just use my laptop for the set list.
I see so many people reading every word off a iPad or paper - Every word - even, believe it or not, "sha la la la la la ".... they sing into the paper or pad, not at the audience. terribly amateur I know my entire set by heart words and chords, if not i won't do that song until i know it. what would you think if you went to see a play where actors were reading off a script? and that is more difficult than singing, ii know ive done both
@@colinburgess7728 I’m with you and you certainly don’t want to play the song live if you have to look at the lyrics. For me, it’s a safeguard as sometimes I just need to see that first word. Or there may be a song that I don’t play often that I need to take a quick peak at the words. Now, at my own shows where I’m playing my music, yeah, no iPad!
Just awesome video. My partner was of the "play what the audience likes." And, I get it...but, I'm not into a lot of those songs and I believe the performance suffers. So, we are not playing together anymore and I'm doing what I like. Doesn't mean they are obscure, nobody-ever-heard-of stuff...just more of what I like. CSNY, Eagles, America, Petty, Cougar, with some new "americana" stuff rolled in and stuff that has a "groove." Love groove so much I got one of those Beat Buddy things. Anyway, that's what I like. So, that's what I'm playing now and enjoying it a hell of a lot more and I think that comes across as well. I'm totally solo now, but that's ok too. I've owned business's for 40 years, kinda used to the lone ranger thing and I trust my own judgement until someone starts throwing shit at me. lol. That's what I got most from this video of yours. That, and adding a couple songs to each set cuz you know you're always skipping one or 2. I actually came here to help figure out how to put together setlists better, but I think I probably got most that. I'm already doing the key, slow/fast, genre mixing it up thingys. That was kinda obvious to me. My problem has always been figuring out that 1st damn song. Fast, slow? Best of the best song? Energy, dancing, listening? I agonize over that more than anything else. What if they start dancing early...can I keep it up through the whole set? If I go ballad, will some walk out immediately? I know, judge the crowd...but, it's the first song and sometimes you just don't know. Argh...lol Great job. Like your style. Clear, concise, on topic, little ego and less bullshit. I would hire you. You do landscape Architecture? Haha. Take care.
Yeah, I only recommend going that route (playing whatever the audience likes) if you truly enjoy that sort of thing. Because if you don't enjoy it, it will quickly become another job and you'll end up burning out.
Great video Jason! Excellent tips and very informative!! Thanks so much for this! I'm a Celtic Multi-Instrumentalist and mostly keep to the studio. However, St Patrick's Day is a busy time for us Celtic musicians and we find ourselves having to turn down gigs due to schedule conflicts! Your tips are golden! Thanks again! Liked and Subbed!
I'd say that if you pick a genre you can dress/have an image that ties in with the music. From flyers/promo photos it's much easier for people to know what you might be performing. If your voice type/range marries up with the style of music that's going to help - no strain, audience will be more comfortable too. If you have to transpose from the original key - good. It makes the song your own and you might get a unique arrangement.
Thanks man, you are good communicator. Lots of good nuggets. Don’t get eye locked on the iPad. Sometimes I do that because eye contact is a bit awkward where i’m playing. I get lost trying to find songs I think the people will like. I really should just focus on what songs I enjoy playing, people can tell when you are happy and enjoying the gig and are happy to get on board with you
That's a great piece of advice (not getting eye locked). It's good to look at the iPad as a safeguard and not something that you need the entire time you're up there.
@@JoeGrahamMusic imo, that is a great observation….when I see a musician having fun, *enjoying* the song they’re playing, it makes it more enjoyable as a audience member.
Just wanted to say you found a new sub today, I really appreciate seeing someone who is so relatable doing exactly what I want to do and being so successful. Thanks for the info as always and thanks for giving me some inspiration and drive. I have been playing since a kid but I have my first solo acoustic gig here in Settle next week!
It's awesome to hear that you're playing your first gig and I wish you the best! It's a really cool and fun journey! I also have a complete guide on getting started here if you haven't seen this yet: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.html
Dude, 4 hours can be a little tough! If you're playing all originals and folks are coming to see your band, that's different. An hour and a half to two hours makes sense. But for gigs playing mostly covers songs, the venues are usually looking for 3-4 hours of entertainment. On that note, I had a 4 hour gig last night and headed to another one soon (not to mention another 3 hour show later tonight)! Tomorrow is Sunday we'll be relaxing...this is an extreme blue collar working class weekend! lol
One important thing I've just discovered is that I don't have to sing into the microphone like playing a harmonica. So now I sing with my mouth like 6 to 8 inches from the microphone and the difference is amazing. The microphone I'm using is super sensitive and the sound is crisp clear and it only cost me $55 in my country's currency which is equivalent to like $20 US. SHURE microphones costs around $495 in my country which is like $200 US. I've used SHURE microphones and I tell it doesn't come close to my $55 microphone
I had a super sensitive mic but just didn't care for it. I still use my Shure Beat 58a for open mics that I host, and the EV ND86 mics for my live shows. That's worked well for me but everyone is different...there's no one-size-fits-all
Hi I play a bit myself around NortherIreland, not so often now, however as has been said changing up your set list for the staff in the area helps, I also wouldn't recommend playing the same gig every week, in my opinion after some time it becomes stale for, the punters, the staff and indeed yourself, I currently only play the, same venue, around every 5 weeks, I always, suggest this to the venue owner as it keeps it fresh for his customers, the band, and if someone let's him/her/they down he has other bands to fall back on.
@@nd2river that’s a great strategy. I like to build multiple set lists so that I can rotate them. And sometimes just playing you list in a different order can help if you’re still learning more songs
@@jasonstallworth 💯Jason, as you say even rotating your list a bit helps, but I /we( I'm in a two piece) have 3 differing set lists of songs, just in case you end up doing 3 gigs in a row, somewhere and We often mix between them, with that said there are maybe 10 songs, within each set which are the same, with the others built round them. Some songs , I never drop are, Moon dance, Stuck in the Middle, These Boots are made for Walking, Proud Mary, Ride On, each of these lead me into sets of several others
I played in a band in Denver I had to give it up because they only did death metal which is fine but I love all types. Dude got pissed when I start playing acoustic.
Thanks, enjoying your acoustic solo content, and I agree you should make more content for this topic in the future! My set list is kind of odd--I play jazz tunes from the Great American Songbook (e.g. like from the '30s± a decade), and then acoustic-y tunes from the (mostly) '70s. I haven't used a looper, which means the songs are super short, unless I compose a chord-melody break for them. It's a lot of songs to get hour sets when the tunes are only 3 minutes long!
Thank you for watching this and there’s definitely more coming on this topic (I now have a playlist for live solo gigs on my channel). That’s a great mix of styles you have!
@@jasonstallworth Dio is my favourite vocalist of all time. I saw him live twice. Once in Nottingham UK Rock city, and once in Heaven and Hell in Birmingham NEC UK. I love Rainbow in the Dark. I would like to hear that on acoustic.
Hey, Jason! DJ here (in Bradenton). Another great video! Cool that you use “Pages” for your set list! I’ve been spoiled using the OnSong app for years. I paid like something unbelievably cheap many years ago and haven’t had the need to switch to one of their subscription apps. It’s truly awesome. Easy to use, easy to import songs, will scroll the lyrics based on BPM, can hand write notes to myself in the songs, etc. One thing I haven’t done, and heaven forbid, if my iPad were to go down, I don’t bring a hard copy of my set lists, much less the old 3-ring notebook of lyrics I used pre-iPad days. I might want to rethink that! Hey! We’re friends with Dean Johanesen! He’s one of the nicest guys you’d ever meet! Love his music! My wife, Roxi, and I would like to come hear/meet you next month (April Fools Day) at the winery! Cheers, man! DJ
Man, I've thought about 'what if my iPad craps out?' and actually the battery died on my last set at the Florida State Fair but I did fine without it. I normally bring a charger...as you know, the FL outdoor heat can drain the battery fast! I'm really trying to use it less but it's a challenge to remember all of those lyrics! Yeah, Dean is such a cool dude and a phenomenal musician! I met him at another winery (Keel and Curley Winery) about a year ago...I was packing up and he was coming on next so we stayed and heard his first set. Would love to see you at Fiorlli Winery! I'm there the 1st Saturday of each month (and I have additional gigs there on 3/25 and 4/30).
I’m not familiar with Android but I sure Microsoft has an app for Word or just use the notes app your phone has. The next level (paid) app would be something like Ultimate Guitar
Before the time of tablets and Ipads I would make cheat sheets that would only list the chords or basic key and the first line of each verse. I saw a band once who was really good but the lead singer/guitar player sat on a stool and had a music stand in front of him with a book of songs he put together and he would be reading the lyrics as he played. But I think the funniest thing for me to see was Ozzy had a couple of lyric monitors set up next to his stage monitors for songs he has been singing for 50 years.
All good advice. I have been following this advice without knowing it. And thanks for giving me the idea to try that Gerry Rafferty song! My set is pretty much mostly 70s & 80s too.
Hi Jason. Any advice for how to deal with friends and family who want to flood you with attention after the show when you have to break down your gear and put it all away. Do you hang with your friends first and then go break down gear or the other way around? Thanks!
That's a great question. I start breaking immediately after the show. I don't even get off stage. And I'm fortunate as there are a couple of friends that will help me (gotta be careful with that, though). But I get the stage cleared and gear loaded and then I'll come sit and chat for a while.
I did'nt know you were local! Wow. I'm in Bradenton. Your tips are gold! My boys and I do the covers but my heart is blues, classic rock that really rocks and metal... sounds familiar?
Great stuff man...just had a double-header yesterday at Finn's Dockside in Apollo Beach and Jerry's Dockside in Gibsonton. I also play the first Saturday of each month at Fiorelli Winery out your way in Bradenton...cool place!
I memorize the lyrics of the song and then it goes into my show. I make different playlists for different occasions! I use the IPad to play tracks in a playlist that I have memorized.
New Subscriber here. So I'm putting together setlists and my idea is 70s, 80s, 90s & 2Ks. If I land a gig that wants 4 hours, could I just do those sets in order, with an hour for each decade, as I listed? Or is that dumb? Also, if I'm playing on weekday nights, could more ballads be ok, since crowds are smaller and moods are different? Thanks Danos
Brilliant video as always Jason. 👍 I started watching your channel back in May, got myself to an Open Mic, practiced, made a promo, sent it to a booking agent and now I have my first solo acoustic gig this coming Saturday in Dublin. 🤘 Looking forward to watching your long tutorial. Do you you know when your are planning to upload it? Keep up the great work and the inspiration!!
Congrats on your first solo gig! This will snowball like crazy, in a good way! I'm hoping to have that video completed this month! Some other projects came up that took precedence.
GREAT video Jason!!! I agree with you about sticking to what works for you 100%!!! If everyone is doing the same songs, it'll get VERY boring real quick! You gotta have your niche, mine is jazz-rock/fusion with a touch of flamenco, all instrumental & it WORKS!!! Now I do some popular covers that I like, I do them all instrumental ( playing the vocal melodies ), but no matter what it is you like, there is a crowd for it, just don't be afraid to go out there, because life is way too short, worst case scenario, you look back & regret you didn't go for it!!! Keep up the great work inspiring us, you ROCK BROTHER!!! Be safe, Rock On & God Bless!!!
Thanks for the awesome video & great tips. You had me double checking today's date when you said it's Oct. 2022. 😉 Looking forward to some more great videos.
Ah, crap, I can't believe I got that wrong! I guess I'm a month behind (like those lyrics from the The Outfield song All the Love, "I only live for today but I'm one day behind!"
Lots of good advice here, found myself nodding my head throughout the video. Instead of Pages i use Notes which makes it easy to organize music and set lists. Also good for incorporating tunes into your rep and memorizing song lyrics while taking walks.
I put my songs in a pdf and upload to Google Drive so I have it on my tablet (Android) or my iPhone. This includes chords and lyrics for my safeguard / little reminders. Helpful tips on this channel - so much appreciated!
Thank you for the comment! I'm glad this video helped. Yeah, those little safeguards can come in handy on stage! Man, sometimes my mind goes blank, even on songs I know really well!
Thank you. I plan to include my set list in a blog post and hoping to get that out soon. It sounds like you're out there doing it, but I just posted a complete guide to playing solo gigs and getting started: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.html
Your insight and performance knowledge and experience has truly helped me focus on what I feel I should be doing with my music overall which will streamline my set making. Instead of learning a whole bunch of songs that I'm not really familiar with, I'm going to focus on where I came from and that is country and southern rock. I'm so glad I stumbled on to this particular video. Realizing how scattered I was with picking up songs that I'm not all that familiar with, which takes plenty of time to learn 50 or more songs, I'm going to focus on what I know best and create my setlists from there. This is a big time saver as well. I'm retired and I want to focus on the music that I like. "With a side of what others like" as well. haha! Great job! Keep them coming! Rock on!🤘
Man, I think that's the best thing you can do! You're familiar with that music because you like it and have listened to a lot of it, so that's going to come across as more natural when you're up there playing! It's easy to get caught up in thinking you have to play a wide variety of crowd favorites (and some prefer that). But I told myself early on that I would only play the songs that I like. Otherwise, it'll just turn into a job that at some point will be dissatisfying.
I like to have 12-14 songs for each set. Because I may not play every song on that specific set list so I like to have some extras in case I scroll past one. And I like to front load the first set by playing a full hour. After that, it’s only 45 minute sets with my breaks
Hell yeah!!! In my acoustic duo we don’t do setlists but I think we should. We always just kind of fly random. Kind of nerve wracking. Love these tip videos!!!
Glad this helps! One thing is I don't like to have dead-time between songs, if that makes sense. I'll stop and talk to the audience 'thank you for being here,' 'any birthdays out there?' and that sort of thing but I typically keep the music moving and having a setlist really helps.
And about 20 other songs! lol I usually start playing 'I'm in a Hurry' by Alabama and lead into Journey (similar progression) and then add in more songs as a montage. It's the 4 magical chords!
Hi Jason, enjoying your videos and wondered if you can do a video on how to use the Pages app to write up a set list. Many thanks. keep the videos coming.
I could never play live. I cannot remember lyrics at all. I sit there and try and play a song I have been playing all week, and I still can't remember the first line of the lyrics grrr. Can very often remember the chords, just not lyrics at all.
I was afraid of that at first. I've sang in bands and in many church teams, but these live solo gigs are 3-4 hours long so there are a lot more songs you're singing. But this has taught that we often set our own limitations and you just have to get out there and break through!
Same here bro and i just keep making more song’s lol but a least in rehearsals I’ll have the set list but add the first words of the main verses or chorus/the important lyrics to trigger my memory and also I play guitar and it ain’t as easy as it looks but keep it up brother
Love it mate, I’m going to get a riggle on with my set list, and start gaining the equipment to get rolling. I love singing & my partner says im mad not to do somthing with it so thanks for your video 🎉
Great video Jason, good advice for everyone either considering or actually out there working. Like you I do a lot of 80’s. Live I primarily use the OnSong app for my chords, music and set lists. It just works for me. Here in the UK it’s a little different how venues work and how long you’re expected to play for. Typically it’s x3 30 minute or x2 45 minute sets. Thank you for another great video. 1 year on I don’t know how I missed this video as I typically watch all of yours. Stay safe, happy & healthy. And I hope Thailand was a blast💥! 😊
Oh man, those are great sets! These 3-4 hour gigs can get exhausting! And thank you...we're flying back to the US today but will be back in Thailand again soon! I just released a new video from Thailand: ua-cam.com/video/N4p7MhNQgYE/v-deo.html
Yeah, that's a great tool. I really try to not rely in my iPad but it's there as a 'security blanket' as there are times when I need to see that first lyric
@@jasonstallworth I printed out my 90s set list my Christmas set and Grateful Dead sets so those are all hard copies. Like an hour plus material there per set plus i have my original set and then I have a huge 200+set on Ultimate Guitar of things I can play if requested (large range of artists so I can swap songs but still play something similar) or use to play with others so can do a 4+hour set if the power goes out and play all nite if my phone is on. An ipad would be bigger and better I payed for the lifetime subscription so I get autoscroll and also transpose which are great tools... Great UA-cam channel. You are inspiring me to make one. Mind if I ask how long it took you to get monetized?
@@jasonstallworth I totally get you brother take no offense. Im a musician solo acoustic act myself. It's always good to have sets made. Fyi I'm like you I got maybe 5 country songs that I play lol. I'm a 96 graduate alot of 90s grunge and southern classic rock plus originals. It's a good video. playin to your crowd is very important
@@Rickylee12gauge That’s cool genres to play! I sort of play to the crowd but kinda don’t…I stick to the 80s (including some hair bands). So I make it know that’s what I do and I realize that doesn’t work everywhere, which I’m okay with. I have many friends that play out and they do all the crowd favorites. But man, I don’t wanna get stuck playing stuff I don’t like 😂 so I stick to what I like
@@jasonstallworth same here brother sweet home Alabama gets old really quick lol. I play everything from seether to Phil collins from Stine temple pilots to Bob seger lol. I also throw in my own stuff too.
@@jackbandel that’s what happens with a lot of these songs…there are 1 or 2 peaks in the song. Another thing you don’t wanna push your voice too much when you’re playing 3-4 hour gigs several times a week. You’ve gotta leave some in the tank.
Yes, it is. But you can transpose any song to any key you want. And I recommend doing that for songs that may be out of your vocal range. Singing that particular song is a bit high for me. And you don't want to blow out your voice when you're playing 3-4 shows.
@@jasonstallworth been solo gigs for 20 years, if you’re having to take a mid range song 5 steps down it’s not going recognisable. High songs a key at the most ! Do vocal exercises and bring that range up
@@craigmcgill4612 Appreciate the advice. I'm diligent with vocal exercises. And this song's always a crowd-pleaser every time I play it, so I haven't had the issue of it not being recognized. As far as range, sure that can increase but believe it or not, there are limitations and everyone is a bit different. The best you can do is simply do your best. Feel free to post a link to your cover here...I'd like to hear it.
Everyone voice type and vocale range different to others so when U start singning u need to know Ur vocale range and range of a song u gonna sing. And chose right key for Ur voice to sing better so everytime u should transpose the song to suit Ur voice most singer all singer do that and changing the key never make a song less quality it's still the same ❤
This doesn't appeal to me. Why make things complicated? I just use pens and paper. I write out a bunch of lists, make lots of copies, then hand them out to anyone in the audience who wants to make a request.
@@jasonstallworth Writing out a song list on a piece of paper is very simple, and that has worked well for me for many years; but you're right that whatever works best for you is what you should do.
@@jasonstallworththe iPad seems to be the best option. Plus, if you use other players who use same device, easier to share among other musicians. Did my first gig coupke weeks ago after 8yrs. Loaded up all the material on iPad and it was a piece of cake..i use the same iPad clamp.
We have over 20 gigs booked in our acoustic duo for 2023. We will have around 40 by the end of the year. We practice very specific song lists. No "winging it". Practice then rehearsal. The Plan is always NOT to suck. Set lists vary from Johnny Cash to Greatful Dead. 85%are top 40 songs with a few obscure classic stuff. Don't suck. Have fun!
Man, that's great and I'm glad to hear you guys have plenty of gigs already booked! And you're right...be practiced and prepared so you don't suck, and be sure to have a good time up there!
Jason, this is one of the best videos I have watched on the "Art" of creating a Set List/Show for a Solo performer. For me, you lit a light bulb in my head, especially when you speak about "playing to what we love to play".. Great advice and Thank You for putting it out there!
@@jasonstallworth it doesnt i only do things in the actual key transposing makes your voice lazy as well once you learn to sing it exact your voice improves ten fold transposing is lazy
I noticed that you chose your words very carefully because you didn't want to inadvertently offend anyone. You've got my utmost respect. You've been honest and very informative in sharing your thoughts. Thank you, sir.
Yeah, I'm not in this to try to offend anyone. I'm a big 'to each their own' type of person. I just do my best to put stuff out there that I believe will help folks
People don't care if you rely on sheet music to play the songs, as long as you can execute them well, it doesn't matter. I personally don't have the patience to memorize hundreds of songs for multiple set lists.
You're right. The only negative comment regarding using an iPad was from another musician. For the crowd, they're more concerned about the entertainment you're providing.
Like you said, we all have our strengths and weaknesses. I've never been berated about using music, but it's always been in the back of my mind, and I'm self-conscious about it when I know I shouldn't be. Like you also said, we musicians are too hard on ourselves. I would rather my performance be accurate and seamless rather than relying upon my very flawed human brain and forget lyrics etc. I admit, I'm in awe of performers who can just memorize everything. I've tried and can't do it, but I still get paid regardless. I try to pepper a few in that I do know by heart to give my attention back to the audience. They're generally not really paying much attention unless the song is a real banger. I have to say thanks for your input in your videos, I'm just starting up again after a hiatus, and you've brought much insight into my quest to better my performances.
I see this is a little over a year old, but this is an excellent piece. I have been growing my repertoire a lot this last year, so much that now I struggle to decide what to play because I know we'll over 500 songs, although, some not well enough to play out. You've simplified this for me and I will soon have my music separated out into 10 or 12 set lists that I can rotate. Thanks dude.
Awesome to hear this man!! I do need to update you guys on the new iPad holder I got (the screw stripped on this one recently, though it lasted about 3 years). Just got a Hercules brand iPad holder and that thing is sturdy!
I have one from JamStands that I've had for 6 or 7 years. It's adjustable and has been quite durable for me.
Great wisdom, thanks!
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Hi Jason any tips for singing and playing at the same time?
That's another video that will be coming soon!
Great VIDEO!! I do the "pop/rock/country" and gig 3-4 times per week. I love learning a new song every week or so. I have set lists but usually don't stick to them and change around the songs based on the vibe.
I agree with the point about requests - NEVER put down a song that someone requests. Tell them it's a great song (even if you hate it) and apologize that you don't know it. Hey, sometimes requests trigger me to learn a specific new song. A few days ago I had a request for: "any Chinese song" by a very generous group of Chinese tourists. That's, unfortunately beyond my capability but I did ask them if there were any popular English language songs in China. They started singing "Country Roads!" :) I apologized that it wasn't in my repertoire...but it is now.
Re doing your own songs - unless you are a famous artist with known songs, nobody wants to hear them so, as noted, be very sparing with them. I typically won't play more than two in a 45 minute set. If you play the same gigs/locations then, after several appearances people may request some of your songs.
Thanks for sharing this. It’s great that you’re out there doing it, and 3-4 shows a week is solid!
A Chinese song would be cool…I speak some Thai and want to learn a few songs in that language to hopefully play when we go back.
I played around Northern Ireland for a few years with a covers band. After about two months, I found I didn't need a set list anymore!
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I don't have any set list. I just select songs at random that I think suits the crowd and atmosphere. Don't worry about the staff, you're not there for them but for the patrons and guests. I have a lot of songs and keep changing songs per gig
I always encourage folks to do what works best for you!
I do mostly upbeat, live potion number 9, last kiss, proud Mary, Jeremiah was bullfrog etc
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Very helpful info and nicely put together! Thanks so much for sharing!
Awesome to hear this and glad this helped!
PRO TIP: I played a lot of all night rural Texas/Louisiana acoustic outdoor gigs where beer and drinks were spilled and wind would blow your song list away. Write your lists with a very sharp pencil and dew or a spilled drink won`t make it smudge like ink does. It will still be readable and it will last until your handling it wears it out. I also recommend a carbon fiber guitar for these conditions or purchase a few Ashthorpe acoustic/electric guitars for 100 each so you won`t ruin or damage your main instrument. Those Ashthorpe instruments are KILLER if you replace the cheap strings that come with them. Intonation is fine and they tune up well.
I guess I'm fortunate with the types of places I play at and haven't had any issues, even with the few outdoor gigs I have. And I just use my laptop for the set list.
I use a sharpie. It won't run either.
The first couple lines of your comment could be a song
Hello great video and advice! I have been playing for over 20 years but now getting ready (preparing) to go live in 2025. Any advice?
Awesome that you’re getting back out there. I have a complete guide that may help here: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.htmlsi=tVZYehxQL2xRSg-K
I see so many people reading every word off a iPad or paper - Every word - even, believe it or not, "sha la la la la la ".... they sing into the paper or pad, not at the audience. terribly amateur
I know my entire set by heart words and chords, if not i won't do that song until i know it.
what would you think if you went to see a play where actors were reading off a script? and that is more difficult than singing, ii know ive done both
@@colinburgess7728 I’m with you and you certainly don’t want to play the song live if you have to look at the lyrics.
For me, it’s a safeguard as sometimes I just need to see that first word.
Or there may be a song that I don’t play often that I need to take a quick peak at the words.
Now, at my own shows where I’m playing my music, yeah, no iPad!
Just awesome video. My partner was of the "play what the audience likes." And, I get it...but, I'm not into a lot of those songs and I believe the performance suffers. So, we are not playing together anymore and I'm doing what I like. Doesn't mean they are obscure, nobody-ever-heard-of stuff...just more of what I like. CSNY, Eagles, America, Petty, Cougar, with some new "americana" stuff rolled in and stuff that has a "groove." Love groove so much I got one of those Beat Buddy things. Anyway, that's what I like. So, that's what I'm playing now and enjoying it a hell of a lot more and I think that comes across as well. I'm totally solo now, but that's ok too. I've owned business's for 40 years, kinda used to the lone ranger thing and I trust my own judgement until someone starts throwing shit at me. lol.
That's what I got most from this video of yours. That, and adding a couple songs to each set cuz you know you're always skipping one or 2. I actually came here to help figure out how to put together setlists better, but I think I probably got most that. I'm already doing the key, slow/fast, genre mixing it up thingys. That was kinda obvious to me. My problem has always been figuring out that 1st damn song. Fast, slow? Best of the best song? Energy, dancing, listening? I agonize over that more than anything else. What if they start dancing early...can I keep it up through the whole set? If I go ballad, will some walk out immediately? I know, judge the crowd...but, it's the first song and sometimes you just don't know. Argh...lol
Great job. Like your style. Clear, concise, on topic, little ego and less bullshit. I would hire you. You do landscape Architecture? Haha. Take care.
Yeah, I only recommend going that route (playing whatever the audience likes) if you truly enjoy that sort of thing. Because if you don't enjoy it, it will quickly become another job and you'll end up burning out.
Sorry, I don’t get how you transfer lyrics to pages on the I
Ad
Copy/paste
What's the green bucket for? Tips? Requests?
Yep for tips. I have a smaller bucket I use these days
Great video Jason! Excellent tips and very informative!! Thanks so much for this! I'm a Celtic Multi-Instrumentalist and mostly keep to the studio. However, St Patrick's Day is a busy time for us Celtic musicians and we find ourselves having to turn down gigs due to schedule conflicts! Your tips are golden! Thanks again! Liked and Subbed!
Thank you, and it's awesome you guys are out there playing live!
You talk non stop without pause bruh. 😅
Says the guy that leaves 3 comments in a row 😅 (thank you, btw)
I'd say that if you pick a genre you can dress/have an image that ties in with the music. From flyers/promo photos it's much easier for people to know what you might be performing. If your voice type/range marries up with the style of music that's going to help - no strain, audience will be more comfortable too. If you have to transpose from the original key - good. It makes the song your own and you might get a unique arrangement.
Definitely good to make the song your own! 🙏🏻
Thanks man, you are good communicator. Lots of good nuggets. Don’t get eye locked on the iPad. Sometimes I do that because eye contact is a bit awkward where i’m playing. I get lost trying to find songs I think the people will like. I really should just focus on what songs I enjoy playing, people can tell when you are happy and enjoying the gig and are happy to get on board with you
That's a great piece of advice (not getting eye locked). It's good to look at the iPad as a safeguard and not something that you need the entire time you're up there.
@@JoeGrahamMusic imo, that is a great observation….when I see a musician having fun, *enjoying* the song they’re playing, it makes it more enjoyable as a audience member.
Thanks man we are trying to set up an old school blue grass band with my kid and wife super helpful! 🤘
That’s awesome and so cool to hear you guys are getting out there! Lot of respect for bluegrass, too!
Just wanted to say you found a new sub today, I really appreciate seeing someone who is so relatable doing exactly what I want to do and being so successful. Thanks for the info as always and thanks for giving me some inspiration and drive. I have been playing since a kid but I have my first solo acoustic gig here in Settle next week!
It's awesome to hear that you're playing your first gig and I wish you the best! It's a really cool and fun journey!
I also have a complete guide on getting started here if you haven't seen this yet: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.html
Wow.....thats a long time to play. We were pushing just over 2 hours, and lots of discussion to cut it down. Interesting....
Dude, 4 hours can be a little tough! If you're playing all originals and folks are coming to see your band, that's different. An hour and a half to two hours makes sense.
But for gigs playing mostly covers songs, the venues are usually looking for 3-4 hours of entertainment.
On that note, I had a 4 hour gig last night and headed to another one soon (not to mention another 3 hour show later tonight)! Tomorrow is Sunday we'll be relaxing...this is an extreme blue collar working class weekend! lol
What about gigs without wifi?
Make sure you have the document on the device, not just iCloud
Nice mention about changing it up for the staff. Often overlooked
Yeah I want them to look forward to me being there, too!
One important thing I've just discovered is that I don't have to sing into the microphone like playing a harmonica. So now I sing with my mouth like 6 to 8 inches from the microphone and the difference is amazing. The microphone I'm using is super sensitive and the sound is crisp clear and it only cost me $55 in my country's currency which is equivalent to like $20 US. SHURE microphones costs around $495 in my country which is like $200 US. I've used SHURE microphones and I tell it doesn't come close to my $55 microphone
I had a super sensitive mic but just didn't care for it. I still use my Shure Beat 58a for open mics that I host, and the EV ND86 mics for my live shows. That's worked well for me but everyone is different...there's no one-size-fits-all
Hi I play a bit myself around NortherIreland, not so often now, however as has been said changing up your set list for the staff in the area helps, I also wouldn't recommend playing the same gig every week, in my opinion after some time it becomes stale for, the punters, the staff and indeed yourself, I currently only play the, same venue, around every 5 weeks, I always, suggest this to the venue owner as it keeps it fresh for his customers, the band, and if someone let's him/her/they down he has other bands to fall back on.
@@nd2river that’s a great strategy. I like to build multiple set lists so that I can rotate them. And sometimes just playing you list in a different order can help if you’re still learning more songs
@@jasonstallworth 💯Jason, as you say even rotating your list a bit helps, but I /we( I'm in a two piece) have 3 differing set lists of songs, just in case you end up doing 3 gigs in a row, somewhere and We often mix between them, with that said there are maybe 10 songs, within each set which are the same, with the others built round them. Some songs , I never drop are, Moon dance, Stuck in the Middle, These Boots are made for Walking, Proud Mary, Ride On, each of these lead me into sets of several others
I played in a band in Denver I had to give it up because they only did death metal which is fine but I love all types. Dude got pissed when I start playing acoustic.
Oh wow, that's not cool and really disrespectful. Maybe it's time to get out and start playing solo gigs!
For sure!!!
Thanks, enjoying your acoustic solo content, and I agree you should make more content for this topic in the future! My set list is kind of odd--I play jazz tunes from the Great American Songbook (e.g. like from the '30s± a decade), and then acoustic-y tunes from the (mostly) '70s. I haven't used a looper, which means the songs are super short, unless I compose a chord-melody break for them. It's a lot of songs to get hour sets when the tunes are only 3 minutes long!
Thank you for watching this and there’s definitely more coming on this topic (I now have a playlist for live solo gigs on my channel). That’s a great mix of styles you have!
Ah you requested Wham - Silent Whisper. Hang on I've got something you might like, how about Slayer - Reign in blood LOL.
I did do a cover of DIO's Rainbow in the Dark last night!
@@jasonstallworth Dio is my favourite vocalist of all time. I saw him live twice. Once in Nottingham UK Rock city, and once in Heaven and Hell in Birmingham NEC UK. I love Rainbow in the Dark. I would like to hear that on acoustic.
Thanks Jason! I'll consider sneaking in some acoustic metal into my gigs as well, great idea! Greetings from Costa Rica.
🤘
Hey, Jason! DJ here (in Bradenton). Another great video!
Cool that you use “Pages” for your set list! I’ve been spoiled using the OnSong app for years. I paid like something unbelievably cheap many years ago and haven’t had the need to switch to one of their subscription apps. It’s truly awesome. Easy to use, easy to import songs, will scroll the lyrics based on BPM, can hand write notes to myself in the songs, etc.
One thing I haven’t done, and heaven forbid, if my iPad were to go down, I don’t bring a hard copy of my set lists, much less the old 3-ring notebook of lyrics I used pre-iPad days. I might want to rethink that!
Hey! We’re friends with Dean Johanesen! He’s one of the nicest guys you’d ever meet! Love his music!
My wife, Roxi, and I would like to come hear/meet you next month (April Fools Day) at the winery!
Cheers, man!
DJ
Man, I've thought about 'what if my iPad craps out?' and actually the battery died on my last set at the Florida State Fair but I did fine without it. I normally bring a charger...as you know, the FL outdoor heat can drain the battery fast! I'm really trying to use it less but it's a challenge to remember all of those lyrics!
Yeah, Dean is such a cool dude and a phenomenal musician! I met him at another winery (Keel and Curley Winery) about a year ago...I was packing up and he was coming on next so we stayed and heard his first set.
Would love to see you at Fiorlli Winery! I'm there the 1st Saturday of each month (and I have additional gigs there on 3/25 and 4/30).
Thanks
Glad this helped
Thanks.just found your channel and really like your content.cheers from Iceland
🙏🏻
Thanks man! What Android App would you recommend thats comparable to sheets?
I’m not familiar with Android but I sure Microsoft has an app for Word or just use the notes app your phone has.
The next level (paid) app would be something like Ultimate Guitar
Before the time of tablets and Ipads I would make cheat sheets that would only list the chords or basic key and the first line of each verse.
I saw a band once who was really good but the lead singer/guitar player sat on a stool and had a music stand in front of him with a book of songs he put together and he would be reading the lyrics as he played. But I think the funniest thing for me to see was Ozzy had a couple of lyric monitors set up next to his stage monitors for songs he has been singing for 50 years.
Yeah, we never knew how many folks had their lyrics close by!
Thanks for the video's Jason! Really great to have these resources buddy!
Glad to hear this helped!
Ratt, Poison, Crue, Badlands, Ozzy , Maiden , UFO, Scorpions, Pat Travers
Love it all! 🤘
All good advice. I have been following this advice without knowing it. And thanks for giving me the idea to try that Gerry Rafferty song! My set is pretty much mostly 70s & 80s too.
That's such a cool song and cool era to play!
Hi Jason. Any advice for how to deal with friends and family who want to flood you with attention after the show when you have to break down your gear and put it all away. Do you hang with your friends first and then go break down gear or the other way around? Thanks!
That's a great question. I start breaking immediately after the show. I don't even get off stage. And I'm fortunate as there are a couple of friends that will help me (gotta be careful with that, though). But I get the stage cleared and gear loaded and then I'll come sit and chat for a while.
@@jasonstallworth Good plan. I'll have to get better at that. Thanks!
I did'nt know you were local! Wow. I'm in Bradenton. Your tips are gold! My boys and I do the covers but my heart is blues, classic rock that really rocks and metal... sounds familiar?
Great stuff man...just had a double-header yesterday at Finn's Dockside in Apollo Beach and Jerry's Dockside in Gibsonton. I also play the first Saturday of each month at Fiorelli Winery out your way in Bradenton...cool place!
These are all great tips for a set list Jason I could try something like this
Thank you and glad this helps! These methods have worked really well for me
I memorize the lyrics of the song and then it goes into my show. I make different playlists for different occasions! I use the IPad to play tracks in a playlist that I have memorized.
It's all about doing what works best for you 🤘
New Subscriber here. So I'm putting together setlists and my idea is 70s, 80s, 90s & 2Ks. If I land a gig that wants 4 hours, could I just do those sets in order, with an hour for each decade, as I listed? Or is that dumb? Also, if I'm playing on weekday nights, could more ballads be ok, since crowds are smaller and moods are different?
Thanks
Danos
Thank you. That’s actually a great idea man! It’s something different and I think the audience will enjoy that!
@@jasonstallworth Oh wow, ok thanks!
Very helpful. I’m starting a busking group with a friend and I am horrible with lyrics. Thanks.
Having that iPad as a safeguard definitely helps! And hopefully the other tips are helpful to you!
Brilliant video as always Jason. 👍 I started watching your channel back in May, got myself to an Open Mic, practiced, made a promo, sent it to a booking agent and now I have my first solo acoustic gig this coming Saturday in Dublin. 🤘 Looking forward to watching your long tutorial. Do you you know when your are planning to upload it? Keep up the great work and the inspiration!!
Congrats on your first solo gig! This will snowball like crazy, in a good way! I'm hoping to have that video completed this month! Some other projects came up that took precedence.
GREAT video Jason!!! I agree with you about sticking to what works for you 100%!!! If everyone is doing the same songs, it'll get VERY boring real quick! You gotta have your niche, mine is jazz-rock/fusion with a touch of flamenco, all instrumental & it WORKS!!! Now I do some popular covers that I like, I do them all instrumental ( playing the vocal melodies ), but no matter what it is you like, there is a crowd for it, just don't be afraid to go out there, because life is way too short, worst case scenario, you look back & regret you didn't go for it!!! Keep up the great work inspiring us, you ROCK BROTHER!!! Be safe, Rock On & God Bless!!!
That's a cool niche you have! Yeah, you have to love and find out what works best for you. Like you said, there's a crowd for everything!
Thanks for the awesome video & great tips. You had me double checking today's date when you said it's Oct. 2022. 😉 Looking forward to some more great videos.
Ah, crap, I can't believe I got that wrong! I guess I'm a month behind (like those lyrics from the The Outfield song All the Love, "I only live for today but I'm one day behind!"
Lots of good advice here, found myself nodding my head throughout the video. Instead of Pages i use Notes which makes it easy to organize music and set lists. Also good for incorporating tunes into your rep and memorizing song lyrics while taking walks.
Notes is a great app too and I didn’t think of using that. And yeah taking walks is a great way to memorize lyrics!
From the UK. I totally enjoyed your videos. I’ll definitely subscribe
🙏
I put my songs in a pdf and upload to Google Drive so I have it on my tablet (Android) or my iPhone. This includes chords and lyrics for my safeguard / little reminders. Helpful tips on this channel - so much appreciated!
Thank you for the comment! I'm glad this video helped. Yeah, those little safeguards can come in handy on stage! Man, sometimes my mind goes blank, even on songs I know really well!
This was so helpful! I'm brand new to guitar and playing on my own. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this. 🙌🎸
Thank you for watching and glad this helped!
That Ipad holder is meant to go corner to corner so it cant slip out sideways.
That's one way you can use it. The way I have it set just seems to work and haven't had any issues
This is very useful
Would you be interested in sharing the pages doc for a few beer?
Thank you. I plan to include my set list in a blog post and hoping to get that out soon.
It sounds like you're out there doing it, but I just posted a complete guide to playing solo gigs and getting started: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.html
Your insight and performance knowledge and experience has truly helped me focus on what I feel I should be doing with my music overall which will streamline my set making. Instead of learning a whole bunch of songs that I'm not really familiar with, I'm going to focus on where I came from and that is country and southern rock. I'm so glad I stumbled on to this particular video. Realizing how scattered I was with picking up songs that I'm not all that familiar with, which takes plenty of time to learn 50 or more songs, I'm going to focus on what I know best and create my setlists from there. This is a big time saver as well. I'm retired and I want to focus on the music that I like. "With a side of what others like" as well. haha! Great job! Keep them coming! Rock on!🤘
Man, I think that's the best thing you can do! You're familiar with that music because you like it and have listened to a lot of it, so that's going to come across as more natural when you're up there playing!
It's easy to get caught up in thinking you have to play a wide variety of crowd favorites (and some prefer that). But I told myself early on that I would only play the songs that I like. Otherwise, it'll just turn into a job that at some point will be dissatisfying.
High Jason how do you manage to keep on singing for such a long time.
I've learned to hold back when I'm singing and use natural vocal compression so that I don't strain my voice.
Thank you, that is so helpful you have yourself a new subscriber;)
Thank you, I appreciate that
Question: how many songs for example a one hour vs four hour gig?
I like to have 12-14 songs for each set. Because I may not play every song on that specific set list so I like to have some extras in case I scroll past one.
And I like to front load the first set by playing a full hour. After that, it’s only 45 minute sets with my breaks
Hell yeah!!! In my acoustic duo we don’t do setlists but I think we should. We always just kind of fly random. Kind of nerve wracking. Love these tip videos!!!
Glad this helps! One thing is I don't like to have dead-time between songs, if that makes sense. I'll stop and talk to the audience 'thank you for being here,' 'any birthdays out there?' and that sort of thing but I typically keep the music moving and having a setlist really helps.
Hey I recognise "Don't stop believing" chords in your intro LOL
And about 20 other songs! lol I usually start playing 'I'm in a Hurry' by Alabama and lead into Journey (similar progression) and then add in more songs as a montage. It's the 4 magical chords!
Starting this journey now, so am soaking up all this good advice like a sponge. Great video, thanks 🎤
It's such a cool journey and you'll enjoy it!
Hi Jason, enjoying your videos and wondered if you can do a video on how to use the Pages app to write up a set list. Many thanks. keep the videos coming.
Thank you. Yes, I want to do a more detail video on that soon
@@jasonstallworth I will look forward to it coming.....
I could never play live. I cannot remember lyrics at all. I sit there and try and play a song I have been playing all week, and I still can't remember the first line of the lyrics grrr. Can very often remember the chords, just not lyrics at all.
I was afraid of that at first. I've sang in bands and in many church teams, but these live solo gigs are 3-4 hours long so there are a lot more songs you're singing. But this has taught that we often set our own limitations and you just have to get out there and break through!
Same here bro and i just keep making more song’s lol but a least in rehearsals I’ll have the set list but add the first words of the main verses or chorus/the important lyrics to trigger my memory and also I play guitar and it ain’t as easy as it looks but keep it up brother
If you change that ‘I can’t’ to ‘I CAN’ you’ll end up being able to, but for as long as you keep saying I can’t then you won’t 🤷♂️🤪👍🏴
@@barryhunt8527 No I really cannot remember lyrics. Even to songs I really like.
@@TheTimeProphet as I said, you won’t if you speak it. It’s called giving up!?! 🤷♂️🤪🕺🎶🏴
do you know of a android app ? like the apple pages?
I'm not familiar with Android but you could do the same with Word or Google Pages
This was really helpful, thanks for all of the awesome content 😊
You're welcome and glad this helped!
Thanks Jason! Very helpful.
🙏🏻
Love it mate, I’m going to get a riggle on with my set list, and start gaining the equipment to get rolling. I love singing & my partner says im mad not to do somthing with it so thanks for your video 🎉
Yeah, you've gotta get out there! I have another video on how to get started here: ua-cam.com/video/dy0Ru6RHH9c/v-deo.html
Whats a riggle?
Great video Jason, good advice for everyone either considering or actually out there working. Like you I do a lot of 80’s. Live I primarily use the OnSong app for my chords, music and set lists. It just works for me. Here in the UK it’s a little different how venues work and how long you’re expected to play for. Typically it’s x3 30 minute or x2 45 minute sets. Thank you for another great video. 1 year on I don’t know how I missed this video as I typically watch all of yours. Stay safe, happy & healthy. And I hope Thailand was a blast💥! 😊
Oh man, those are great sets! These 3-4 hour gigs can get exhausting! And thank you...we're flying back to the US today but will be back in Thailand again soon! I just released a new video from Thailand: ua-cam.com/video/N4p7MhNQgYE/v-deo.html
Free bird! Free bird! Free bird!
I'm so fortunate that I rarely get that request! People are always wondering what 80s tune I'm gonna play next
I use ultimate guitar for my setlists
I really love it!
Yeah, that's a great tool. I really try to not rely in my iPad but it's there as a 'security blanket' as there are times when I need to see that first lyric
@@jasonstallworth I printed out my 90s set list my Christmas set and Grateful Dead sets so those are all hard copies. Like an hour plus material there per set plus i have my original set and then I have a huge 200+set on Ultimate Guitar of things I can play if requested (large range of artists so I can swap songs but still play something similar) or use to play with others so can do a 4+hour set if the power goes out and play all nite if my phone is on.
An ipad would be bigger and better
I payed for the lifetime subscription so I get autoscroll and also transpose which are great tools...
Great UA-cam channel. You are inspiring me to make one. Mind if I ask how long it took you to get monetized?
This is so cool. This is the music I'd like to play live or go listen to.
We love the 80s!
@@jasonstallworth 😁🥳 yes we do!
All good tips. Helpful.
Glad this helped! Here's a recent gig with a rundown of my gear if you haven't seen it: ua-cam.com/video/SQeax1LuFCg/v-deo.html
ha, this is perfect Jason! thanks
Great to hear that and hope this helps folks!
It's very simple just play to your crowd pay attention to them.
This video is more about your actual set list in regards to what music you want to play and so me tips on managing that
@@jasonstallworth I totally get you brother take no offense. Im a musician solo acoustic act myself. It's always good to have sets made. Fyi I'm like you I got maybe 5 country songs that I play lol. I'm a 96 graduate alot of 90s grunge and southern classic rock plus originals. It's a good video. playin to your crowd is very important
@@Rickylee12gauge That’s cool genres to play! I sort of play to the crowd but kinda don’t…I stick to the 80s (including some hair bands). So I make it know that’s what I do and I realize that doesn’t work everywhere, which I’m okay with. I have many friends that play out and they do all the crowd favorites. But man, I don’t wanna get stuck playing stuff I don’t like 😂 so I stick to what I like
@@jasonstallworth same here brother sweet home Alabama gets old really quick lol. I play everything from seether to Phil collins from Stine temple pilots to Bob seger lol. I also throw in my own stuff too.
Wow you do Peace of Mind in “A”? That’s dropping it waaaay down.
It gets up there in the chorus, especially at the 'take a look ahead' part
@@jasonstallworth yes it does!
@@jackbandel that’s what happens with a lot of these songs…there are 1 or 2 peaks in the song. Another thing you don’t wanna push your voice too much when you’re playing 3-4 hour gigs several times a week. You’ve gotta leave some in the tank.
@@jasonstallworth that’s an excellent point. I always push too much and pay for it the next day.
Great tips, thanks Jason
Really glad to hear this helps!
Thanks you!
You're welcome and hope these tips help!
Thanks Jason. I’m doing a gig this Saturday, and I was trying to figure out my set list. I have a lot of originals…Your tips are helpful!
Awesome and good luck man!!
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Summer of 69 in the key of A ? It’s in D!
Yes, it is. But you can transpose any song to any key you want. And I recommend doing that for songs that may be out of your vocal range. Singing that particular song is a bit high for me. And you don't want to blow out your voice when you're playing 3-4 shows.
@@jasonstallworth been solo gigs for 20 years, if you’re having to take a mid range song 5 steps down it’s not going recognisable. High songs a key at the most ! Do vocal exercises and bring that range up
@@craigmcgill4612 Appreciate the advice. I'm diligent with vocal exercises. And this song's always a crowd-pleaser every time I play it, so I haven't had the issue of it not being recognized. As far as range, sure that can increase but believe it or not, there are limitations and everyone is a bit different. The best you can do is simply do your best.
Feel free to post a link to your cover here...I'd like to hear it.
Everyone voice type and vocale range different to others so when U start singning u need to know Ur vocale range and range of a song u gonna sing. And chose right key for Ur voice to sing better so everytime u should transpose the song to suit Ur voice most singer all singer do that and changing the key never make a song less quality it's still the same ❤
This doesn't appeal to me. Why make things complicated? I just use pens and paper. I write out a bunch of lists, make lots of copies, then hand them out to anyone in the audience who wants to make a request.
That sounds way more complicated. But to each their own. We all have to do what works best for us and it doesn’t have to be the same
@@jasonstallworth Writing out a song list on a piece of paper is very simple, and that has worked well for me for many years; but you're right that whatever works best for you is what you should do.
@@jasonstallworththe iPad seems to be the best option. Plus, if you use other players who use same device, easier to share among other musicians. Did my first gig coupke weeks ago after 8yrs. Loaded up all the material on iPad and it was a piece of cake..i use the same iPad clamp.
We have over 20 gigs booked in our acoustic duo for 2023. We will have around 40 by the end of the year. We practice very specific song lists. No "winging it". Practice then rehearsal. The Plan is always NOT to suck. Set lists vary from Johnny Cash to Greatful Dead. 85%are top 40 songs with a few obscure classic stuff. Don't suck. Have fun!
Man, that's great and I'm glad to hear you guys have plenty of gigs already booked!
And you're right...be practiced and prepared so you don't suck, and be sure to have a good time up there!
Jason, this is one of the best videos I have watched on the "Art" of creating a Set List/Show for a Solo performer. For me, you lit a light bulb in my head, especially when you speak about "playing to what we love to play".. Great advice and Thank You for putting it out there!
Dude I'm really glad this helped!
If you can’t sing it the same key don’t do it songs sound terrible transposed
That's not true at all. I know many successful musicians around here that transpose cover songs. So don't let that mindset hold you back.
@@jasonstallworth it doesnt i only do things in the actual key transposing makes your voice lazy as well once you learn to sing it exact your voice improves ten fold transposing is lazy
Thank you Jason 👍
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I noticed that you chose your words very carefully because you didn't want to inadvertently offend anyone. You've got my utmost respect. You've been honest and very informative in sharing your thoughts. Thank you, sir.
Yeah, I'm not in this to try to offend anyone. I'm a big 'to each their own' type of person. I just do my best to put stuff out there that I believe will help folks
@@jasonstallworth Thank you for sharing your knowledge, sir.