Showmanship!

So, we’re back here again, huh? Check it out. For those that don’t know, there are multiple avenues that should be covered when your intention is to put on a “good show”. First and foremost, while performing, the one thing you should have in mind is “how can I keep my audience interested?”. Well, there are a number of ways you can do this. Lets face it; people will retain more of your visual performance than your audio. Lets cover a few visual and audio concepts that are forgotten alot of times.

Busta and Spliff

Visually, noone wants to see 100,000,000,000 people on stage yelling out your lyrics. Also, if you have a “hype man”, please make sure he knows your lyrics. Not only does his energy help your performance, it also helps you keep your breath, and it helps you remember your material should you lose place during a bar. The chemistry between artist and hypeman comes over time. The two of you should practice your performance songs often. The best example of hype man/artist chemistry is Busta Rhymes/Spliff Star. As Spliff Star often demonstrates, your hype man should perform as though its “his show”. His energy and interaction on your songs will bring your performance energy to an entirely new level. Both hype man and artist should show that you enjoy doing what you’re doing. The crowd seriously does enjoy you enjoying your performance. Next, if you have a dance song, it does help to have dancers to come out for that performance. That’s pretty self explainitory though. Also, don’t be afraid to use props during your show (as long as its relevant).

Auditory performance. Well, where to start? First and foremost, similar to what was covered in the visual part of the blog, “noone wants to HEAR 100,000,000,000″ yelling out your lyrics. Even though you’ll be using your “performance voice” on your songs, it comes out as muffled garbage if too many people are saying the same thing. Vocally interact with your audience. Don’t think you’re too good to say “Let Me Hear You Say Hooooooooooo” or “When I say ______ You say ______”. You are the conductor of your entire performance. Feel free to stop your music, talk to the crowd, talk to your band/DJ, or even talk to your hype man. Doing any number of these things can turn what may have been just another “open mic performer” to a feature at the spot the open mic is held.

Please don’t get it twisted, you still have to have songs that the crowd can remember. You also should have a project, and/or something to give away at your show (e.g. stickers, t-shirts, lighters, pens, wristbands, etc.). We’ll elaborate on the  “songs that the crowd can remember” on a later date.

With all that said, who here didn’t know you should “stay F.R.E.S.H. with what’s next” I. N.ever F.ail

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