Performing in front of a live audience can be nerve-wracking – we get you. Even the greats sometimes struggle with nerves and connecting with their audience. The good news is that a solid stage presence is a skill that can be learned, and engaging with the public is something that will come naturally as you get more comfortable performing. Until then, here are some pointers as you look ahead and plan for your next gig.
If you’re looking to perform live more, try contacting a booking agent through Groover who will help you connect with venues in your area. You can also keep an eye on Groover’s Instagram for announcements about upcoming artist showcases, where you can apply to perform alongside other talented up-and-coming artists.
How to Prepare – Script or No Script?
It goes without saying that you want to avoid sounding robotic or rehearsed, but having a rough outline of what you want to do or say during a show can be a great confidence booster when the time comes.
Scripting parts of the show, particularly introductions, song explanations, transitions, or even jokes will help you feel more in control. Some find that a word-for-word script for what to say and where/when to move onstage is exactly what they need to feel ready, and that’s great! For others, spontaneity allows them to feel more themselves and let loose throughout their performance. Go for whichever makes you less nervous! A nice balance would be to bullet point what you’d like to speak about without planning full sentences, so what you end up saying still sounds natural.
It’s important to note that crowdwork is a great way to feel more connected to your audience which means you’ll be speaking with and responding to members of the public, and that can’t be scripted. These moments are unique to each show, so when you’re comfortable, lean into reading the energy in the room and engaging with the people who came to hear you!
When to Speak During Your Set
In almost all live shows, you’ll find that artists opt for a little conversation once in a while during their set to enhance everyone’s experience, give context, or introduce their band members. There are a number of moments to choose from when planning out where to include an intro, song explanation, or anything else you might want to say.
Introducing yourself is always a must, and should be done either before or after the first song. Intros don’t have to be fancy – a simple, “Hey everyone, I’m ____. Thanks for coming out tonight, hope enjoy the show!” can do wonders for setting the atmosphere in the room. Keep it friendly and light!
Saying a few words between songs is very common and is usually done to introduce a song and its meaning, tell a story, or just express gratitude. For example, if you’re playing something unreleased, give a little background on it and share its title. You can also use this time strategically: if you need to change instruments or fix tune something, use the time to avoid long silences and instead crack a joke while you get your equipment ready.
It’s worth mentioning that speaking between every song may interrupt your flow and the momentum of the show. Given that you know your setlist well, identify what points would make the most sense to catch a breather and engage with people.
What People Want to Hear
The best way to win over an audience is to be authentically yourself. The more personality you show in these small moments of connection, the greater the bond between you and the crowd. This is a great way to both make a show memorable and strengthen your fanbase and their support for you. Closeness is super underrated!
If you’re not sure how to display your personality in such a public context, try sharing a personal story or asking the audience questions such as, “How’s everyone doing tonight?”, “What do you guys want to hear next?”, “Is anyone here from out of town?”. The best questions are those that elicit an enthusiastic response. A “thank you” can go a long way as well – show appreciation for them and they will show it back tenfold.
Practice Physical Relaxation
Quite frankly, stage fright is no fun, but the adrenaline can have a nice kick to it if you’re able to control your nerves. Try to physically relax before your show to feel more confident by taking a few deep breaths. This will regulate your heart rate and center your mind.
When it comes to confidence, sometimes you have to fake it till you make it, so try to stand up straight, roll your shoulders back, and keep your arms relaxed. If you need something to do with your hands when you’re onstage, you can tap on your leg to the beat of the song, hold the mic stand, or use hand gestures to reflect the lyrics you’re singing.
Socialize After the Show
In smaller venues and if time permits, joining the crowd after the show is over can be a great way to connect on a more personal level with those who listen to your music. You can take photos, sign merch, and get to know your supporters.
Don’t forget about social media! Once you’re home, take to your socials to thank everyone for coming and repost videos you’ve been tagged in. That way, anyone who couldn’t make it will want to come out to the next one even more, and the audience members you reposted will feel seen by you.
Conclusion
The more comfortable you get onstage, the easier it will be to engage with your audience and interact with those around you. No one expects you to be perfect, so try these techniques at your next show and see what helps. There’s nothing wrong with practicing at home beforehand and running through your set, talks included, to see how you feel. It’s only up from here!
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