I belong to a church group that required a one-year period as a Novice in order to discern and prepare for a full commitment. Six months ago I achieved permanent status and even received my official name badge to wear to the monthly Mass and associated lectures. It dawned on me yesterday while I was in church, wearing that name badge proudly, that others likely see it and have a corresponding opinion of how its wearer should carry themselves.
As a musician you are subject to the same analysis. Whether you are seen carrying a guitar or are actually on stage performing, those who see you – many without even talking to you – have certain expectations.
I have always liked the idea that integrity is what you do when people aren’t watching. In this case, it’s the fact that a large number of these folks don’t interact with you that makes it all the more important that you carry yourself in a manner that leaves them feeling the way you’d want them to. And, of course, yes, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that you never know who’s watching.
From something as simple as, “Oh, he/she is carrying a guitar” to “Ah, a microphone. He/she is going to sing,” all the way up to, “Geez, that performer sure is drinking (alcohol) a lot on stage,” all can contribute to whether you fall short of, meet, or exceed someone’s expectations.
In various installments of this blog, on a number of episodes of “Now Hear This Entertainment,” and, heck, even in the tips I give out in the Bruce’s Bonus Book (eBook) series, I provide a lot of real examples of do’s and don’ts so that you stand the best chance of making that all important good first impression.
As more and more guys and gals get into music – especially the prodigies that are starting at much younger ages nowadays – competition (sorry, I must use that word this time) heats up even more and you’ve got to always bring your A game. Just that walk from the car to the stage and your attitude during it could go a long way toward making new fans or turning off patrons. Let them see who you want them to see.
Here’s a visual. If someone shot video of you from the moment you parked your car until the moment you got back in it to leave the gig you just played, would you watch it back and see any moments that would make you cringe and say, “Ugh, look at the way I (insert bad behavior here)”? Perhaps the next time you pull in to a venue you’re about to play, turn off the ignition, take a deep breath, and then imagine a clapboard with a director yelling, “Annnnd, action!” Step out of your car and into the role of performer.
Give the audience members something to see that they won’t soon forget – for all the right reasons.
Even when I walked to my car yesterday after a four-and-a-half hour day on the church campus, I still had that name badge on. My hope was that anyone who encountered me, one-on-one or from a distance, was left with a favorable impression. I encourage you to employ that same attitude every time you put on your musical name badge.
Share your opinions about this blog in our Facebook group!