Are you planning to go out busking? Check out my 5 top tips and let me know if these help. Do leave a comment anklet me know how you got on! www.ryanyardmusic.com
Five years busking on a weekly basis for me. Those are good solid tips. I'd add one more; 'Just turn up'. There are lots of reasons why we sometimes feel we shouldn't busk... weather, mood, pessimism, tiredness, travel complications, lack of self-confidence, being busy with other projects etc. Unless you are really really not in the mood and feel you wouldn't add anything to the vibe of the street I'd say having an iron will to simply turn up is an important point. You never can predict what exactly will happen on any given busking spot. Fortune has smiled on me the most as a busker under that one piece of advice.
Very true. Not only because you cant know how it will go, but also to establish the habit. Because its like with everything: once you didnt do something, you dont do it for another time and another, and with every time it gets easier not to do it and harder to do it. On top of it you get out of shape and have find back in once you get back. So unless its -10°C: always go. Even if it actually sucked, you mainly did it for the habit and this will carry you.
Thankyou x you know exactly what you are talking about. It’s like I feel bad for playing because it’s not a stage where people come to see me but on the street it’s like I’m forcing people to hear music
I'm a Roamanian Busker, and all tips that you give us are very solid, indead. But for me the most important tips are 2 and 5. Because i'm singing ballads and blue-heart music, very important for me its also to create an nice romantic atmosphere on seafront of The Black Sea, especially in the spring and summer evenings. All good whishes from Romania!
adapt your setlist within reason, overall, I think it's more important to play songs that you personally enjoy so that your energy and performance can be a lot more genuine, people really do have a way to feel vibes.
I am 68 years old and new to busking. I have always wanted to do this. I play country music and sing. I want to thank you for your advice. I do not care about the money. I just want to play and sing. Plus have fun doing it.
I’m 70 and have been busking on and off most of my adult life. If you don’t care about the money, here’s a suggestion: play for charity….you’ll raise a lot more money and bring a lot of joy into the world. After the war against Ukraine started, I started busking to raise money to help people affected by the war. I recruited other people to play with me, got a local sign maker to print a sign for free, and use a QR code so people can give directly to the charity i give through, as an alternative to giving cash. I’ve gotten a TV news slot made about the busking, articles written, props from the charity itself, and since the war started, and with all that help, raised over $10,000 for the victims of that senseless war. Oh, and no PA…Can’t stand amplified busking!
On that last thing, sometimes it's better not to give local businesses an opening to say no. There are owners and managers who easily cop a sour attitude and try to stop you, just for the sport of it. Going in to meet them beforehand could temp them to 'feel their power' over you and give you trouble just because they can.
TYVM Every fall I pretend to want to get ready to busk in the spring. I learned to sing nearly 4 years ago and it is quite natural to me now. So, really this time, I do plan to go busking in the spring. I am in a tourism hotspot for western Canada and out of a job. So it seems that reality is pushing me to actually do it this time. BTW, this is the first time that I actively searched for how-tos and yours is the first video I clicked on.
Hey so I’m finding this as I do my research for to take on busking this season and I would like to offer my locals lessons too. I’ve never actually done busking but I feel I’ve been working up to it. I do “flow arts”so I do a few things like hula hoop, juggling and the list keeps on lol I’m finding lots of great tips and I especially like the one about the weather… it makes sense, as if to be the sunshine on a cloudy day if that makes sense. I see you also have video on busking etiquette I will be looking at. Thanks for the tips and wish you well! 💜☮️
I am glad I came across your video it was very helpful. I have busked a few times over the years but plan on doing it a lot more now that I am retired.
i haven’t started busking yet but i play in an open mic bar and have for a while now. I’m 16 and for a while i was very scared that, because of my age, i wouldn’t be taken seriously. i’ve realized quite the opposite is true, in fact. mentioning my age builds huge rapport with my audience, especially when they’re older
I have been doing all of these things! Yay me! :) I love my busking spot where I currently am but I want to get my music out there more. I'm going to be relocating to Alberta which is the other side of Canada and I'm wondering what suggestions you have for me to busk along the way? I don't require a permit where I am but I see where I am heading, I do. Until I found my current spot, I got kicked out of a lot of places as they didn't permit buskers. I would just scope out an area...typically strip plazas, and set up. Never asked for permission because I knew it would be the mall owner ; I was met with opposition.
Yes really useful and beneficial advice , What you said sounds like really good sage advice on busking, in the streets, ! Will definitely take on your advice as I am thinking of doing busking myself soon too.
I have everything I need to busk right now except for confidence , bravery , anyone got an Amazon link to those ? Oh I also need a fresh pack of excuses to not be busking due to fear of unknown.
Hey there! Just started myself two years ago and I’m 50. My biggest tips for nerves is start with a few songs you are super confident with, and that you and passersby will enjoy. After a few of those, I have the confidence to try others I’m less confident with. Hope that helps!!
Nice video man! I've been busking in Bath a lot recently... One thing I might add is to be considerate of volume levels when other buskers are in close proxomity so as not to drown them out. It can be very difficult to guage your own volume especially if you play electric guitar, for example (typical guitarist!).
Thanks very much. Funnily enough I shared this video to the buskers Facebook group and there were so many bitter and jaded people. I should have added that to number 6!
@@viewfromtheyard7164 Hahaha, I'd be interested to see that Facebook page? I suppose it can be easy to have certain expectations with regards to how much money you might make or whether your get an audience or not. I'm still fairly new to busking in the sense that I've decided to put a lot into it for a while to see where it goes. After 8 or so sessions in the last few weeks, I found it to be wildly unpredictable, bit of a slog moving gear around all day and entirely weather dependent which just adds to the unpredictability. However. HOWEVER. I've learned SO many things already and I'm getting the hang navigating the audience etc. and certainly seeing some improvements. This is a long term thing for sure. Overall though, loving it! But also, it's not my only source of music based income so I can really just lay back and enjoy it without overly worrying about money, I think that part is important when new to busking. How long have you been busking for?
@@AaronCarrington I’m thinking of leaving the group as it is so negative. Well done with the busking. I have a very good friend called Justin Towell who busks in bath also. I too use busking as a side hobby for a bit of extra income. I’ve been doing it for just over a year and whilst it’s hard work it is always rewarding. The guy in the Facebook group sound like a bunch of whiners. One even asked me why I even do it if I have so much expensive equipment!
@@viewfromtheyard7164 @View from the Yard Hmmmm maybe covid has something to do with peoples frustration? Either way, you do have to stick at it a bit and yea there's some downsides (hashtag life 😅) and depending on your style, there can be a bit of a financial outlay equipment wise but as you say, it can be very rewarding too! Justin Towell, haven't met him yet but I'll keep an eye out.
If by negative you mean they ignore you - just keep busking. If you mean frequent negative comments that's a problem. Perhaps you should change your location or reevaluate your show. Normally, I just smile and keep singing unless the negative people get personal in which case I pack up and leave.
I feel you, I'm hoping to start busking for the first time in the next few weeks. If you have a family member or friend you trust to be honest, I found it helped to send or show them a song, and ask them outright "Do you think I'm ready to play in public?". And regardless of the answer, as long as you keep trying to improve yourself, it'll be something you can look forward to doing soon! Good luck
Sometimes things are not to be spoken of online but.... reality points. Not to be spoken. Worse for viewers...ugh. Always respect a long timers spot. You disrespect me, I will and others beat you. You are literarally when knowing stealing livlihood bread and butter. Come to me ans see; law is one thing. I'll show you if you need to come here to learn 😉 poster thinks he knows. 100% no; just exploiting
Five years busking on a weekly basis for me. Those are good solid tips. I'd add one more; 'Just turn up'. There are lots of reasons why we sometimes feel we shouldn't busk... weather, mood, pessimism, tiredness, travel complications, lack of self-confidence, being busy with other projects etc. Unless you are really really not in the mood and feel you wouldn't add anything to the vibe of the street I'd say having an iron will to simply turn up is an important point. You never can predict what exactly will happen on any given busking spot. Fortune has smiled on me the most as a busker under that one piece of advice.
Very true. Not only because you cant know how it will go, but also to establish the habit. Because its like with everything: once you didnt do something, you dont do it for another time and another, and with every time it gets easier not to do it and harder to do it. On top of it you get out of shape and have find back in once you get back. So unless its -10°C: always go. Even if it actually sucked, you mainly did it for the habit and this will carry you.
Thankyou x you know exactly what you are talking about. It’s like I feel bad for playing because it’s not a stage where people come to see me but on the street it’s like I’m forcing people to hear music
Don’t make it about the money
Make it about the experience ❤
I'm a Roamanian Busker, and all tips that you give us are very solid, indead. But for me the most important tips are 2 and 5. Because i'm singing ballads and blue-heart music, very important for me its also to create an nice romantic atmosphere on seafront of The Black Sea, especially in the spring and summer evenings. All good whishes from Romania!
adapt your setlist within reason, overall, I think it's more important to play songs that you personally enjoy so that your energy and performance can be a lot more genuine, people really do have a way to feel vibes.
I am 68 years old and new to busking. I have always wanted to do this. I play country music and sing. I want to thank you for your advice. I do not care about the money. I just want to play and sing. Plus have fun doing it.
Good on ya Brother. Respect.
I’m 70 and have been busking on and off most of my adult life. If you don’t care about the money, here’s a suggestion: play for charity….you’ll raise a lot more money and bring a lot of joy into the world. After the war against Ukraine started, I started busking to raise money to help people affected by the war. I recruited other people to play with me, got a local sign maker to print a sign for free, and use a QR code so people can give directly to the charity i give through, as an alternative to giving cash. I’ve gotten a TV news slot made about the busking, articles written, props from the charity itself, and since the war started, and with all that help, raised over $10,000 for the victims of that senseless war.
Oh, and no PA…Can’t stand amplified busking!
On that last thing, sometimes it's better not to give local businesses an opening to say no. There are owners and managers who easily cop a sour attitude and try to stop you, just for the sport of it. Going in to meet them beforehand could temp them to 'feel their power' over you and give you trouble just because they can.
Great advice! 👍🏻
Loved it. Well done. Great advise
Thank you! These tips are really helpful to me!
TYVM
Every fall I pretend to want to get ready to busk in the spring. I learned to sing nearly 4 years ago and it is quite natural to me now. So, really this time, I do plan to go busking in the spring. I am in a tourism hotspot for western Canada and out of a job. So it seems that reality is pushing me to actually do it this time. BTW, this is the first time that I actively searched for how-tos and yours is the first video I clicked on.
Thank you. I will take on board your 5 tips.
Very useful thankyou 😊
Great tips! Subbed.
Hey so I’m finding this as I do my research for to take on busking this season and I would like to offer my locals lessons too. I’ve never actually done busking but I feel I’ve been working up to it. I do “flow arts”so I do a few things like hula hoop, juggling and the list keeps on lol I’m finding lots of great tips and I especially like the one about the weather… it makes sense, as if to be the sunshine on a cloudy day if that makes sense. I see you also have video on busking etiquette I will be looking at. Thanks for the tips and wish you well! 💜☮️
Ty was wondering about pitfalls and tips
I am glad I came across your video it was very helpful. I have busked a few times over the years but plan on doing it a lot more now that I am retired.
I really needed to hear tip #3. thank you
You are welcome
i haven’t started busking yet but i play in an open mic bar and have for a while now. I’m 16 and for a while i was very scared that, because of my age, i wouldn’t be taken seriously. i’ve realized quite the opposite is true, in fact. mentioning my age builds huge rapport with my audience, especially when they’re older
Very cool video man. Do you have any videos of you playing/busking?
Thank u for this sir.....Dave in lreland
I have been doing all of these things! Yay me! :) I love my busking spot where I currently am but I want to get my music out there more. I'm going to be relocating to Alberta which is the other side of Canada and I'm wondering what suggestions you have for me to busk along the way? I don't require a permit where I am but I see where I am heading, I do. Until I found my current spot, I got kicked out of a lot of places as they didn't permit buskers. I would just scope out an area...typically strip plazas, and set up. Never asked for permission because I knew it would be the mall owner ; I was met with opposition.
Yes really useful and beneficial advice ,
What you said sounds like really good sage advice on busking, in the streets, !
Will definitely take on your advice as I am thinking of doing busking myself soon too.
I'm gonna busk for the first time. Just my voice and cajon.
How'd it go??
@@Ty-mu7gl It went pretty well. Made like 60 bucks.
Good and simple tips...
Easy explained. Thank you for sharing this with us!
Well done ✔
✌🤠👍
I have everything I need to busk right now except for confidence , bravery , anyone got an Amazon link to those ? Oh I also need a fresh pack of excuses to not be busking due to fear of unknown.
Hey there! Just started myself two years ago and I’m 50. My biggest tips for nerves is start with a few songs you are super confident with, and that you and passersby will enjoy. After a few of those, I have the confidence to try others I’m less confident with. Hope that helps!!
My see you in Manchester
Sadly some think they are playing an arena gig and totally drown out anyone who wants to be acoustic.
If your music bores you then it wlll bore the audience. Make sure your amp is turned up enough.Don't be shy.
Nice video man! I've been busking in Bath a lot recently... One thing I might add is to be considerate of volume levels when other buskers are in close proxomity so as not to drown them out. It can be very difficult to guage your own volume especially if you play electric guitar, for example (typical guitarist!).
Thanks very much. Funnily enough I shared this video to the buskers Facebook group and there were so many bitter and jaded people. I should have added that to number 6!
@@viewfromtheyard7164 Hahaha, I'd be interested to see that Facebook page? I suppose it can be easy to have certain expectations with regards to how much money you might make or whether your get an audience or not. I'm still fairly new to busking in the sense that I've decided to put a lot into it for a while to see where it goes. After 8 or so sessions in the last few weeks, I found it to be wildly unpredictable, bit of a slog moving gear around all day and entirely weather dependent which just adds to the unpredictability. However. HOWEVER. I've learned SO many things already and I'm getting the hang navigating the audience etc. and certainly seeing some improvements. This is a long term thing for sure. Overall though, loving it! But also, it's not my only source of music based income so I can really just lay back and enjoy it without overly worrying about money, I think that part is important when new to busking. How long have you been busking for?
@@AaronCarrington I’m thinking of leaving the group as it is so negative. Well done with the busking. I have a very good friend called Justin Towell who busks in bath also. I too use busking as a side hobby for a bit of extra income. I’ve been doing it for just over a year and whilst it’s hard work it is always rewarding. The guy in the Facebook group sound like a bunch of whiners. One even asked me why I even do it if I have so much expensive equipment!
@@viewfromtheyard7164 @View from the Yard Hmmmm maybe covid has something to do with peoples frustration? Either way, you do have to stick at it a bit and yea there's some downsides (hashtag life 😅) and depending on your style, there can be a bit of a financial outlay equipment wise but as you say, it can be very rewarding too! Justin Towell, haven't met him yet but I'll keep an eye out.
Can you explain on how to deal with negative people while busking. I am a busker myself and I need help
If by negative you mean they ignore you - just keep busking. If you mean frequent negative comments that's a problem. Perhaps you should change your location or reevaluate your show. Normally, I just smile and keep singing unless the negative people get personal in which case I pack up and leave.
Have you ever had the rare occasion of someone stealing grabbing money from your tips? Do you ignore and Let it Go or chase them?
Also I'm afraid I won't be good enough
I feel you, I'm hoping to start busking for the first time in the next few weeks. If you have a family member or friend you trust to be honest, I found it helped to send or show them a song, and ask them outright "Do you think I'm ready to play in public?". And regardless of the answer, as long as you keep trying to improve yourself, it'll be something you can look forward to doing soon! Good luck
id reccomend just going for it, try your best, simplifiy songs if that makes it easier
"Don't wait until you're 'ready.' Ready is now." --Jamey Aebersold
literally🙄0:17
Sometimes things are not to be spoken of online but.... reality points. Not to be spoken. Worse for viewers...ugh. Always respect a long timers spot. You disrespect me, I will and others beat you. You are literarally when knowing stealing livlihood bread and butter. Come to me ans see; law is one thing. I'll show you if you need to come here to learn 😉 poster thinks he knows. 100% no; just exploiting
⚡️🔱👿⚡️🌊🗺️⚡️🫡
and bring a partner to keep 6 for metre maids!