I played a show with Mike Mannarino this weekend and he did a really good job engaging with the crowd. I thought it would make a good topic to talk about. Mike is an experienced solo musician in north east Ohio western Pennsylvania. I met him a few years ago on the strip in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio, where we both play in the summer. He also travels and plays in Key West in the winter months. He’s a pro.
I consider myself average on stage banter. I can hold my own and I am comfortable on stage especially when I know people and they are pretty active. However, I was reminded Friday at how good Mike really is at this. Listen to this episode as I explain how he tactfully got thing going..
- Speaking between songs is an art.
- When do you need to speak between songs
- Go to other peoples shows, watch on YouTube - both famous and locals. See what they do.
- Be yourself - do YOUR thing. You don’t have to be Mike Mannarino, but you can learn and do your own thing. Be yourself and dont force it.
- Have some “go-to” subjects or things to talk about.
- “The more wine you drink the better i sound”.
- “Whos celebrating something tonight?”
- Who’s first time here? Is anyone visiting from out of state?”
- Thank the staff - point out their tip jar….and yours.
- Introduce the song - or experience that relates you to the song.
- Announcements from the venue (drink specials, food specials).
- Write stuff down on your set list
- Practice/ Plan
- Look up the venues website - get the history
- Look up the city history for interesting facts
- Be flexible and “present” to the room. Keep observant and be spontaneous. Read the room.
- Ask the crowd easy yes / no questions. How great are the bartenders here? How’s the wine? Are you ready to rock?
- Don’t talk about technical difficulties - PA system problems or broken guitar strings. Don’t make a bunch of excuses - keep entertaining. People are there to forget their problems - they don’t want to hear about yours. Tell them to time you while you change your strings.
- Mix it up - dont say the same things between each song.
- Thank everyone that tips you - even during songs and between songs.
- “Thanks for the love”
- If you like what you hear and can help me with a gallon of gas I would appreciate it.
- Try different things - see what works for you.
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