Gig Gab - The Working Musician's Podcast

OG co-host Paul Kent rejoins Dave Hamilton to talk about how The Houserockers have stayed booked into their 27th year, and what your band can steal from their playbook. You’ll dig into the social media reality of 2026 (Reels are currently king), why your mailing list is the asset you actually own, and how to grow to 10,000 followers without losing your soul. Paul makes the case that if you want gigs, your band has to be a business, which means alignment on mission, passion, and musical style with the partners or employees standing next to you on stage. There’s nothing wrong with playing for fun, but go in eyes wide open about what you’re chasing. From there you’ll dive into the value of scarcity, Kevin Kelly’s thousand true fans, and why mixing up your setlists is one way to keep audiences coming back. Paul breaks down the current Houserockers formula (civic concert series, experiential marketing, and ticketed off-season events) and why aging-up audiences mean you have to market harder and talk to fans like Springsteen does: a lifetime conversation, all with individuals. You’ll also get the real talk on finding bandmates (Craigslist included), the Gig Gab bookable-band checklist, and Paul’s (joking?) pitch for two new show segments. Whatever your lane, Always Be Performing, and start treating every touchpoint like the gig it is. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 534 – Monday, May 18th, 2026 May 18th: National Visit Your Relatives Day 00:01:27 Guest co-host: Paul Kent The Houserockers in their 27th year! 00:04:21 Did someone call you an old man?!? 00:08:46 The Gig Gab social media approach 00:10:29 Your band can get 10,000 followers Reels are it…today. 00:13:37 Gain a mailing list 00:16:41 It’s about the music business. Is your band willing to be in business? 00:19:00 There’s nothing wrong with doing what you want to do. Just go in eyes wide open. 00:20:49 Getting alignment within your band. You now have business partners or employees Be aligned with mission, passion, style of music … the alchemy of it. 00:26:48 The value of scarcity Does success equal quantity of gigs? Some people want to play five times per month 00:30:43 Finding Your Thousand True Fans 00:32:05 Mixing up your setlists is another way to keep people coming back 00:36:00 Marketing 101 – you have to have something to say Hopefully unique! And then deliver. 00:37:13 The Houserockers formula for today Civic Concert Series Experiential Marketing Ticketed Events in the off-season 00:39:13 Use your mailing list! 00:41:28 Ticketed events required more marketing this year Audiences are aging up 00:43:04 How do you talk to your audience? Springsteen: my career is a lifetime conversation with my audience It’s about you, your personality, and each individual audience member 00:50:11 Finding band members is an imperfect science Craigslist lets you find who is available THEN. The Gig Gab Band checklist 00:56:41 Paul’s show ideas for Dave Dave reads mean comments Dave reads band ads from Craigslist, et al 00:59:47 Gig Gab 534 Outtro Follow Paul Kent SVHouserockers.com Facebook Houserockers Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post What’s Your Band’s Definition of Success? — Gig Gab 534 with Paul Kent appeared first on Gig Gab.

Guest co-host Mike Schulte joins Dave with 15 years of Pork Tornadoes social media wisdom, and the message is blunt: relentless consistency wins. You literally can’t post too much in 2026—nobody sees everything anymore, so repost that same flyer as a fresh post (not a share) and keep going. Give it 45 days before you judge results. Why invest? More fans mean more bodies at the gig, plus the social proof that signals to newcomers that other people already love you. And remember—you’re not competing with other bands, you’re competing with people’s couches. From there, Dave and Mike dig into the live-show craft. Build a sound check formula so it stops being a nightmare, then cook up a Suno-generated theme song to walk on to—Always Be Performing means the show starts before the first chord lands. Treat your setlist like art: the opener’s a throwaway, but song three is the most important slot of the night. Then think about your saturation—the Pork Tornadoes cap themselves at two ticketed gigs per year inside a 30-mile radius, and the minute they got scarce, their pay jumped tenfold. Simple, not easy. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 533 – Monday, May 11th, 2026 May 11th: National Eat What You Want Day (also Hostess CupCake Day!) Guest co-host: Mike Schulte 00:01:10 Did you ever watch Night Court Dave reminds Mike of Harry Confused Breakfast Shows that were so far ahead of their time: All In The Family Roseanne 00:05:06 Managing your band’s social media Relentless Consistency is the key (right now). “You can never post too much” – Mike Schulte, May 11, 2026 Mike has been running social media for Pork Tornadoes for 15 years Everyone doesn’t see every post (anymore) It’s money-driven Repost the same thing, the same flyer, the same idea (as a new post, not a “share”) 00:09:49 Getting “started” on social media in 2026 I tried to follow your model and nothing changed. In two weeks. You’ve gotta spend a month or more (Dave says 45 days) 00:14:05 What’s the benefit of investing in social media The more fans you have, there WILL be more people who come to your events Also: social proof. Showing people that other people like you. 00:18:55 Social Proof + Bullheaded Persistence = Success. 00:22:00 People don’t go out like they used to You’re not competing with other bands, you’re competing with people’s couches 00:24:39 A band retreat! If 2020 hadn’t happened, Pork Tornadoes would’ve probably gone full time 00:26:04 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today, which includes access to Claude Cowork, too, when you visit https://Claude.ai/giggab 00:27:42 Recent Gig(s) Gab Boston Cream Band at Seacoast Repertory Theater Pork Tornadoes is a 2-hours straight-thru band 00:34:19 Orchestrate your sound check Sound check used to be a nightmare, until we created a formula 00:38:27 Create a musical lead-in for your show For the wranglers in the Gig Gab audience Use Suno to create a theme song for your band 00:42:57 Writing a setlist is an art Your first song is a throwaway The third song is the FIRST most important song in the set (according to Dave) Develop business-like rituals for your band 00:48:32 What’s Your Band’s Saturation? Self-imposed proximity clauses Pork Tornadoes Proximity Clause: No more than 2 ticketed events in a 30-mile radius per year Plus one free-to-the-public festival gig to pull people in To the venues who don’t have proximity clauses: why do you not? The minute we started getting scarce, was the minute our pay increased 10-fold 01:00:12 The Pork Tornadoes formula: simple, not easy. Gig Gab 532 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Relentless Consistency and the Scarcity Premium with Mike Schulte from The Pork Tornadoes – Gig Gab 533 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ready to make the leap from wedges to in-ear monitors? Or finally get the stage mix you’ve always wanted? Dave Hamilton welcomes back monitor engineer Paul Klimson, the man who mixed 32 stereo IEM feeds for Justin Timberlake, for a working musician’s deep dive on monitor world. You’ll learn how to build a default mix from scratch (start yourself at 0dB, your instrument at -5, everything else at -15), why drummers have an easier transition to in-ears than most assume, and how a split snake lets you take care of yourself when the gig demands it. Paul digs into hi-hat pitfalls, drum overheads as stage wash, and why bands who mix themselves on stage make life better for their FOH engineer, too. Then it gets practical. Paul walks you through IEM fittings (pain is always bad, the seal is everything, and yes, drop an AirTag in your case) plus the universal-versus-custom decision, vetting vendor customer service before you buy, and the repair costs nobody talks about until they need to. You’ll get honest talkback etiquette (keep the drama off-stage, give everyone a voice, remember that your monitor engineer is a short-order cook), the post-mortem habit every band should adopt, and a peek at SoulSeed.tv. Wherever you sit on stage, this is the episode that sharpens how you Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 532 – Monday, May 4th, 2026 May 4th: Dave Brubeck Day Guest co-host: Paul Klimson 00:03:24 Start with headphones in your practice space Start with earplugs 00:05:09 Drums are a dynamic instrument, which may be why drummers have an easy transition to IEMs (usually) 00:08:33 What do you want in your wedge? What’s your reference? 00:09:11 The artist/engineer relationship 00:11:03 Building a default mix Start yourself at 0dB Instrument at -5dB Everything else at -15dB 00:12:58 Using a Split Snake When possible, take care of yourself 00:14:47 Timing of a mix Don’t forget about hi-hats Work with your engineer to dial-in your own mix 00:19:18 Drum overheads for stage wash effect 00:22:21 In-ears help you listen better Bands who mix themselves on stage makes your ears AND the FOH engineers job ears 00:23:54 Learn where you and your instrument fit into the mix of your band And change it if you don’t fit. You’re not the most important thing! 00:26:40 What’s going to make you stand out when someone comes to see you at clubs of any size? Do you hear the lyrics? Do you hear the intent of the story of the song? Watch your instagram videos and evaluate honestly 00:30:28 Knowing when the studio mix is done. 00:33:27 Fittings for IEMs Things to look for: Pain is bad Is the seal functioning correctly? Listen for sound leakage (including when you open your mouth and move around) Are the ports aimed down the canal wrong Do you hear high-end better when you rock the mold around? 00:37:36 Put an AirTag in your IEM case! 00:39:28 Figuring out which model to order Try universal fits first to learn the musical qualities 00:41:16 Test the customer service of vendors before you choose 00:42:55 The origin of IEMs 00:44:44 Find out repair costs Comply Foam Strips 00:48:20 Talkback Use Keep the drama off-stage Give everyone a voice Monitor engineers are like short-order cooks… be kind! 00:58:23 Always post-mortem the problems from the gig And also “what happens if?” conversations 01:03:22 Soulseed.TV 01:06:05 Gig Gab 532 Outtro Follow Paul Klimson SoulSeed.tv @TheRoadieClinic Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Wedges to In-Ears: A Monitor Engineer’s Playbook with Paul Klimson – Gig Gab 532 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You trace Dan Chantrey’s path from drummer dad influence to choosing music over football, and quickly see the real lesson: the game has flipped. You’re no longer playing gigs to sell music, you’re using music to sell gigs. From record deals fading to booking agents becoming the new gatekeepers, you learn why every band feels like it’s on the brink and how surviving means thinking beyond the stage. GIGNITE emerges as the modern answer, a virtual tour manager that helps you route tours, analyze audiences, and break into new markets with data instead of guesswork. If you want to grow, you stop hoping for “yes” and start building a system that makes it inevitable. You rethink what it means to be a working musician: your brand matters as much as your chops, your off-stage work is where the money lives, and yes, it’s okay to get paid for your art. From finding sponsors in your local pizza joint to solving real-world problems like parking the van and booking rooms, you’re shown how to remove friction and scale your gig life intelligently. The stories drive it home: don’t punish the audience that showed up, audition gigs still sting, and your toughest hometown show might teach you the most. The throughline is clear: treat this like a business, leverage the tools, and Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 531 – Monday, April 27th, 2026 April 27th: Morse Code Day Guest co-host: Dan Chantrey from GIGNITE 00:03:36 Dan’s Dad was a drummer and a singer, started him off, then Dan started playing 00:03:58 Playing live vs. Playing in the studio 00:04:15 Choosing between (American) football and music 00:06:09 Getting signed to Frontier Records Things worked for a while “Every band is on the verge of breaking up at all times” 00:09:06 Things have turned: you used to do gigs to sell your music, now you do music to sell your gigs GIGNITE is a one-stop shop for artists to be able to tour Had an events business running pre-COVID BREXIT happened, so how can we make things easier to get artists move about through Europe 00:12:38 Booking agent deals are the new record deal 00:14:49 Tried to book a festival, booking agents said “no” even though bands said “yes” 00:16:00 GIGNITE is your virtual tour manager 00:17:10 Aggregating Audience Analytics is part of the platform, too 00:18:56 Heading to NAMM to learn what potential customers want NAMM is the meeting place of the music industry 00:20:33 Analytics aggregation for tribute acts and cover bands, too Does Dave’s fictitious band sound like Rage Against The Machine? Why not! Using analytics to decide which markets 00:22:55 GIGNITE is free for artists to join and use Freemium model allows artists to add additional features like press releases and such Primary monetization is from suppliers (aka venues) Venue ratings system! 00:24:22 Gig Unite links artists with sponsors Linking headline bands with opening acts (local and otherwise) Find sponsors for your local bands, folks: Pizza place Construction companies Cleaning services Chiropractor It might be easier to get sponsors for your band than gigs for it! 32:31 SPONSOR: Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll when you start at https://gusto.com/giggab 00:33:57 GIGNITE takes the heavy lifting and headaches away Gives your band the power to look at and consider tours “How do you get a gig in a town that’s 200 miles away?” You can do it yourself, you can get a booking agent, or you can use a service like GIGNITE 00:36:00 It’s called the music BUSINESS for a reason The brand of your band is as important as your stagecraft 00:40:49 I don’t get paid to play shows, I get paid to do all the off-stage stuff Dave says: “It’s OK to get paid for our art” 00:43:41 Where are you going to park your van while you play? Where are you going to stay? GIGNITE answers these questions 00:47:44 Now it’s Gig Gab time Road stories, folks! Parthenon Huxley: Don’t punish the people who showed up! Audition Gigs… love ‘em and hate ‘em! (mostly hate ‘em!) 00:54:36 The hardest gig I ever played “We want to see you in your home town.” 00:58:00 Gig Gab 531 Outtro Follow Dan Chantrey GIGNITE.live Facebook & Instagram Dan_chantrey Dan Chan Show on Rock Rage Radio Dan Chan Show on YouTube Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Stop Guessing, Start Growing: Fix Your Band’s Biggest Pain Points – Gig Gab 531 with Dan Chantrey appeared first on Gig Gab.

Step inside five decades of rock history with lighting legend Howard Ungerleider, the man who’s been designing and directing Rush’s light shows since 1974. Hear how a $75-a-week mailroom gig at American Talent International — where he pulled off a rogue booking of Fleetwood Mac before he was even an agent — turned into a lifetime behind the console. Get the story of Howard landing in Toronto to babysit “a club band called Rush,” sleeping on the floor at the manager’s house with a St. Bernard, freezing his hand to a car door at -40 in Cochrane, Ontario, and later jamming with Neil Peart at his house to Genesis and Supertramp records. Howard also talks designing Roll The Bones (the one Rush tour he couldn’t operate), embedding at See Factor to build custom gear nobody else could get, and how Blue Öyster Cult first put him in front of a laser: the same craft he now brings to Foo Fighters, Tool, and Janet Jackson. Then the conversation turns to the upcoming Rush Fifty Something tour — a four-piece now with Anika Nilles on drums and Loren Gold on keys, freeing Geddy to focus on bass and vocals. Learn why Howard still “plays” the lighting console live with two boards and thousands of touch cues, how robotic spots are quietly changing the craft, and why he and Phish’s Chris Kuroda will be swapping rigs at Madison Square Garden. You’ll also hear the Paul McCartney moment in the Taylor Hawkins tribute dressing room that may have sparked the whole tour, and why Howard insists this is a rejuvenation, a celebration, and proof that no matter the rig, the room, or the era, you’ve gotta ALWAYS BE PERFORMING. Because it’s what we do. Press play and enjoy, folks. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 530 – Monday, April 20th, 2026 April 20th: Pizza Delivery Driver Appreciation Day Guest co-host: Howard Ungerleider 00:02:18 Walked into a NYC office to get a recording contract for his band “You need to learn about this industry before you come knocking on people’s doors.” Introduced him to Action Talent (which became American Talent International) 00:06:21 For $75/week delivering coffee and working in the mailroom After a year and a half he got booted from Monmouth University, then became the ATI gopher 00:08:17 Hey, do you want Fleetwood Mac to play here? 00:11:44 Booking agent 00:13:17 Can you fill in for a week as Blue Oyster Cult’s tour 00:14:51 Howard and Rush were surprised to have Howard working there “I need ten grand” – “no, you can sleep on the floor instead” 00:18:11 Howard had to show Geddy that New York pizza was better than Toronto pizza 00:19:01 Howard learns about Canadian cold Howard’s driving, Geddy’s riding shotgun, Neil’s reading, Alex is smoking a joint 00:20:42 Geddy says, “get out and take a breath of fresh air” 00:22:05 John Rutsey had opted out of touring, Howard moves to Toronto while they’re auditioning drummers “Eventually Neil [Peart] walked in…and that was it.” 00:23:32 Howard and Neil used to jam at Neil’s house Genesis and Supertramp 00:24:19 Road life’s not so bad 200 gigs a year on the road 00:26:09 Rush took a break, Howard did Queensryche and Tesla Howard designed Roll The Bones, but it’s the only tour he couldn’t operate 00:27:51 Howard tour-managed and lighting designed and operated every tour up through Presto, after which he dropped tour-managing 00:28:41 Dave realizes he met Howard on the Presto tour 00:31:43 Don’t put up with crap 00:32:03 Howard’s been doing Rush’s lights since 1974 00:33:05 Moving from clubs and theaters to arenas Howard embedded himself into See Factor, the lighting company. Lots of custom gear 00:34:54 SPONSOR: Warby Parker – Right now, buy one prescription pair and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://WarbyParker.com/GIGGAB 00:36:40 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today, which includes access to Claude Cowork, too, when you visit https://Claude.ai/giggab 00:38:10 Howard first saw lasers with Blue Oyster Cult Dr. David Infante, Blue Oyster Cult’s laser operator Howard’s lasers on on the road with Foo Fighters, Tool, Janet Jackson and more 00:40:37 RUSH Fifty Something Something completely different than Howard has ever done Other dimensions 00:42:04 Mixing the Juno awards Howard says Neil would approve of Anika. 00:44:51 Hey Howard, surprise! RUSH is going to tour again 00:47:03 Howard did lights for RUSH at Taylor Hawkins tribute 00:48:46 Howard prefers mixing live He “plays” the lighting console live Remote spot locations 00:52:07 RUSH Fifty Something… it’s band of FOUR. Geddy is happy… playing less keyboards, more bass and vocal focus 00:54:42 Howard: “I create lighting choreography” This tour is (currently) 2.5 hours (things can change, folks!) “I try to enhance the show with lighting that can trigger your emotions. I approach it as an audience member.” Loren Gold’s harmonies sound great 00:58:28 Phish and Rush alternating at Madison Square Garden Chris Kuroda also mixes lights live 01:00:45 Howard’s going to 85 dates We’re here to create positivity, have a good time…and Neil Peart is smiling down 01:05:25 Brian Worthen on FOH 01:08:30 Gig Gab 530 Outtro Follow Howard Ungerleider Facebook Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post 50 Years of Rush: Howard Ungerleider on Lighting the Lighted Stage – Gig Gab 530 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You don’t need a traditional path to build a thriving music career! Just ask Cliff and Susan Prowse, who turned classical piano chops and play-by-ear instincts into a full-blown lifestyle business. Whether you learned to read music first or figured out theory after the fact, what matters is training your ear to hear intervals, stacking up reps, and putting in the practice until harmony feels like second nature. Use your DAW to sharpen your pitch, but don’t psych yourself or your bandmates out: true tone deafness is rare, and confidence is currency on stage. The bottom line: making a real living in music is absolutely possible when you treat your craft like a skill you never stop sharpening. Once you hit the stage, remember that the crowd is the star and you’re the emcee who just happens to sing and play. Take your audience on a journey: open at mid-energy, build it up, let it breathe, then hit them again. Mix genres, swap instruments, toss in some comedy, and never leave dead air between songs; keep every second purposeful. Think of your set like a video game where you’re always leveling up the room. Manage your breaks with music that matches the vibe so the party never stalls. Playing covers isn’t just a gig — it’s a masterclass in entertainment, and entertainment is its own art form. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 529 – Monday, April 13th, 2026 April 13th: National Silly Earring Day Guest co-hosts: Susan Erwin Prowse & Cliff Prowse 00:03:02 The Ultimate Lifestyle Business 00:03:33 Starting with a Pure Mathematics Degree to Piano Bars Classical Piano at the base of it all 00:05:04 Bumble Boogie piqued Susan’s ears Make sure your kids see that inspiration 00:07:16 Cliff started with music from the day he was born Always treated instruments delicately, even as a toddler Learned to play by ear, but never learned to read 00:09:44 Reading vs. hearing and Music Theory School band director thought he was reading music, when Cliff was just playing by ear and remembering what the band director Susan learned to hear intervals Cliff decided to learn theory after-the-fact 00:14:28 Learning to play before you learn WHY the notes work 00:18:18 Breaking down vocal harmonies Both Susan and Cliff picks out harmony by ear Singing harmonies with the mixolydian scale with the flat 7 Really, just practice. Repetition is the key to it all! 00:27:20 Using your DAW to help improve your singing Being actually tone deaf is rare Beware of shaking your bandmates’ confidence…or your own 00:33:21 Making a living in the music business is possible! 00:34:26 The science of the show: Piano Bar strategies Top 40, any genre, any decade Learning the skills of doing the singalong concept Susan and Cliff met on-stage at Willy D’s piano bar in Little Rock From piano bars in Little Rock to Los Angeles to Las Vegas and beyond 00:38:31 Taking the crowd on a journey When you’re there to entertain and throw the party The crowd is the star, you AREN’T You’re the emcee, the DJ, you just happen to know how to sing and play piano Keep it interesting by changing the genre, the groove, the style It’s like playing a video game! Mid energy, at first, then bring it up, then let it ease, then maybe repeat Add variety: different instruments, different singers, different styles Add a little comedy to give them a break from the music 00:45:44 Manage your breaks One school: NEVER stop playing Have good break music, make sure the energy matches 00:49:48 Managing your dead air Don’t allow breaks between songs. Always avoid dead air. “Purposeful Talking” 00:52:44 Entertainers Academy 5-Day Gig Amplifier Challenge Susan and Cliff love to teach! 00:56:44 Being in a cover band is a masterclass of learning entertainment skills Entertaining is an art in and of itself 01:00:17 Gig Gab 528 Outtro Follow Cliff & Susan Facebook & Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Crowd Is the Star: Piano Bar Secrets for Entertaining Any Room – Gig Gab Podcast 529 with Cliff & Susan Prowse appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode of Gig Gab, you get the full story of how Kevin “KG” Glendinning cold-emailed his way from a Chicago suburb into a 25-year career mixing monitors for Alicia Keys, Maroon 5, Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus, Lorde, and more. You hear how a kid sweeping floors at dB Sound ended up on a Metallica tour bus with one piece of advice ringing in his ears: ask questions, stay late, and get a second job because you’re gonna need it. Kevin walks you through migrating artists to in-ear monitors, managing talkback culture for everyone from Eddie Vedder wanting baseball scores to Lorde’s tight production team, and what it takes to help reluctant guitar players finally ditch the wedges. If you’ve ever wondered what separates a good monitor engineer from a great one, this conversation lays it out. You also dive deep into the art and science of making IEMs sound right in every room, every night. Kevin shares his process of minimal reduction: fixing a bad mix by figuring out what to take away, not what to add, and explains why tuning for in-ears is just as critical as tuning a PA. You learn why he flies 4,700 miles for a single gig, why the best mixes sometimes come from a throw-and-go, and how setting up dummy channels lets you experiment without wrecking the artist’s mix. He and Dave talk hearing health, audiograms, the DPA capsule as the only open mic on the Lorde stage, and why knowing your own ears matters more than knowing your gear. Whether you’re mixing monitors at an arena or running sound at a club gig, this episode is packed with wisdom you can use tonight. Always Be Performing, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 528 – Monday, April 6th, 2026 April 6th: National Siamese Cat Day Guest co-host: Kevin Glendinning 00:02:25 Hotmailing his way into a career Watched the credits of a Metallica documentary, realized DB Sound was near the house, emailed Harry… “Hi, I’m Kevin, and I’m interested in audio…” and the rest is history! 00:07:58 Got put on the road as an audio team assistant Trial by fire Advice from the team: Here’s what to do Here’s what not to do Ask questions, stay late, and get a second job because you’re gonna need it 00:11:22 Learning the personal touch parts of being on tour 00:12:52 Being the stage left PA tech, Kevin gravitated towards monitors 00:13:50 Talkback Culture Eddie Vedder wanted baseball scores in his talkback SOMBR for Coachella 2026 (Chris Rabold at FOH) 00:16:18 Managing multiple talkback channels 00:18:08 LORDE on Talkback Phil Harvey on FOH Sarah Parker is LD 00:19:00 Talkback stories Jaret Reddick’s use of talkback mics in Bowling For Soup 00:20:51 Migrating to in-ears IEMs can preserve your hearing, if done right Future Sonics uses dynamic drivers 00:25:09 Helping guitar players to IEMs Mike Dias on Gig Gab Sensaphonics 3MAX IEMs on LORDE tour 00:32:08 SPONSOR: Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll when you start at https://gusto.com/giggab 00:33:44 Back to helping guitar players with IEMs Problem: when a vocal mic is downstage from a guitar amp Ian Beveridge with Foo Fighters Paul Simon prefers wedges Always be learning First: Learn the human being you’re going to be mixing for 00:41:27 The differences between mixing monitors for Miley Cyrus and Ella LORDE 00:42:48 Monitoring the Artists Monitors TX1 Wireless Transmitters REMI with Brad Madix on Gig Gab 00:47:50 Different rooms sound different on IEMs AFAS Live (formerly Heineken Music Hall) in Amsterdam sounds great Dave says Alamodome in San Antonio is one of the worst-sounding To fix IEMs in a bad-sounding room: what can we reduce to make it sound better? Last night it was a bongo mic that was making the drumset sound too washy in the IEM mix “The process of minimal reduction” Ella’s DPA capsule is the only open mic on-stage on the LORDE tour Tune for the IEMs, too: listen to something you know, and EQ it Tuning the podcast for JH Audio Laylas 01:04:06 Learn your own ears (not your IEMs, your human ears) first Take a hearing test with your phone if you can Kevin and Alicia Keys would go and get their hearing tested together, getting audiograms to compare 01:07:09 IEMs are the most personal audio interaction You have to be psychic! 01:09:46 Flying 4,700 miles to save the day Sometimes the throw-and-go results in the best mix because you’re not overthinking it Tip from Kevin: set up dummy channels to experiment without messing with the actual mix for the IEMs 01:15:57 Gig Gab 528 Outtro Follow Kevin Glendinning IG: @kev_chitown LinkedIn: Kevin ‘KG’ Glendinning Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Monitoring the Artists’ Monitors: IEM Wisdom from Kevin Glendinning – Gig Gab 528 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You tighten your gig prep by treating every show like a pro mission: build rock-solid routines, line-check your gear and apps, and know your insurance, splitter snake, setlist, click, and IEM plan before you ever hit the stage. You walk into a wedding or club already covered with proper liability, routing, charts, and monitoring so you can stop worrying about logistics and start playing the room. Always Be Performing. Onstage, you think like a storyteller, not just a musician: you record full shows to review your banter and flow, you decide when the click helps and when to ditch it, and you refine what makes your band distinctive so people remember your name and feel the FOMO. Offstage, you act like a lab: you binge showcases at events like SXSW, steal the best ideas, use AI to critique rehearsals, and keep your gig bag dialed so every performance gets sharper, louder, and more undeniable. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 527 – Monday, March 30th, 2026 March 30th: Take a Walk in the Park Day 00:01:29 What is your gig prep process? 00:06:55 Skylar-How does a band get a certificate of insurance for a wedding gig? Insurance Canopy Special Event Insurance 00:11:15 n-Brian from Durham-Do we need a splitter snake? Mixing Station Proreck Splitter Snake 00:16:57 Bill-What Setlist App do you use? forScore 00:19:39 Dan-What click track do you use live? PolyNome 00:21:51 Dan-What about IEMs with ambient filters? Ultimate Ears Ambient Option 00:24:20 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today, which includes access to Claude Cowork, too, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:27:05 I’m a band guy…how about you? 00:30:15 SXSW 2026 — bands seen and lessons learned: 38 showcases in 2026 Family Battenberg Thelma And James Timmy Skelly 00:39:43 Record yourself live, not just for the music, but for the whole show, including your banter. Lainey Wilson vs. John Popper and band 00:43:24 The stiffness of a click, vs not. Soultone vs. Lainey 00:45:56 PODCAST: Rock Talk Studio Podcast 00:47:29 Tell people who you are, and make it distinctive. Leverage FOMO 00:51:54 Olight OClip Pro in your Gig Bag 00:54:25 Moskowizard-Use AI to evaluate your rehearsals (critical listening) 00:57:00 Andy-CSF-Supertone Clear 00:58:16 Gig Gab 527 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Stop Winging It: Dial In Your Show with Clicks, Setlists, Insurance, and Gig Prep – Gig Gab 527 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You see how life on the road quietly rewires your brain, from grief and burnout to decision fatigue and STC (Sleepy, Tired, and Crabby), and how Courtney and Paul built The Roadie Clinic to give crews a place to tell their story and get real help. Through flights, heat‑canceled shows, and jumps from Fallon to Timberlake, John Legend, Drake, and beyond, you learn to Always Be Performing for your own mental health with boundaries, support systems, and even AI to protect your headspace. You’re handed concrete ways to care for yourself and your people: snow policies and “last chance to say no” moments, non‑negotiable laundry time, color‑coded calendars that lower stress, and simple communication habits that keep relationships from snapping under pressure. By the end, you’re invited to treat your brain like your most critical piece of touring gear—and to build a crew culture where dignity, respect, and mental health are baked into every gig.​ 00:00:00 Gig Gab 526 – Monday, March 23rd, 2026 March 23rd: National Puppy Day Guest co-hosts: Courtney Klimson and Paul Klimson 00:01:43 Choosing Niles, Michigan for The Roadie Clinic 2019: From living in NYC to “the middle of nowhere” Michigan (but it’s right near an airport) With lots of puppies! 00:04:05 The Roadie Clinic and the whole Human Experience After some family tragedies, Courtney joined Paul on a European leg of the Timberlake tour to support him through the grief 00:07:56 Hottest Day in Central Park doing a show for John Legend And Paul winds up with a sprained ankle but the show must go on…until it’s canceled for the heat! Then off to Sicily the next day… and Courtney joins again! 00:13:24 On the flights, Courtney 00:15:40 “The Show Must Go On” Institute a snow policy 00:17:40 And so exists The Roadie Clinic Remote assistance: tell me your story, how can I help? Works closely with MusiCares RoadieDocRx Decision Fatigue can sometimes be solved by AI 00:26:30 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:28:03 Where are you going today, Paul? John Legend to Timberlake to Drake Multi-colored calendars to save the marriage…and the business 00:30:18 From being the monitor/foldback engineer at Fallon to meeting lots of bands …and managers. “Protect the brand” worked to develop relationships 00:32:55 What Gets the Gig Done? What can I do best that serves the team? Scovill’s Back Lounge 00:37:02 The @ Rule of Texting STC = Sleepy Tired and Crabby 00:39:38 Is this the last opportunity I have to say “no”? 00:43:55 Laundry time matters! 00:45:26 Studying Roadie Brains A lot of Parkinsons, PTSD, Strokes From Fallon to Timberlake 00:47:15 Tricks of being efficient with engineers Step one: Communicate the Input List and Stage Plot 00:50:43 Paul Klimson’s Talkback System 00:54:00 We’re going to win because we’re efficient and we care about humans Dignity and Respect Superbowl Halftime Show – Minneapolis Jimmy Fallon Show … and SNL How are you using AI? 00:57:14 Gig Gab 526 Outtro Follow Paul and Courtney Klimson @TheRoadieClinic Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Touring Brains: Boundaries, Burnout, and Being OK, with Courtney and Paul Klimson – Gig Gab 526 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You get a front-row seat to how Michael Grande turned hard-won tech chops and late-night studio hacks into real music-business wins. From escaping NAMM chaos and leveraging smart PR and management, to transforming a throwaway “stupid idea” into Card Chords—an Amazon-topping guitar tool born from a Cricut, Guitar Center testing, and sheer persistence—you see how necessity, experimentation, and saying yes the first time landed him in Jimi Hendrix’s old bedroom at Electric Lady Studios, shredding in the lineage of Vai and Satriani, and inventing Tone Picks on the fly. Along the way, you’re reminded that when you know you’re right, you embrace it, protect your IP, and keep swinging big—whether that’s launching music schools, eyeing Shark Tank with a bold offer, or pivoting your career from Wall Street CTO and Certified Ethical Hacker to full-on guitar innovator. Then you’re pushed to rethink how you teach, lead, and build your own music brand. You learn why great schools and studios run on clear mission statements, strong unique selling propositions, and a coaching mindset that focuses on the student, not the curriculum—getting them hooked on the songs they actually want to play, then turning them toward what they need. You see how asking potential customers for their own answers, treating every audience like they matter, and showing up like a coach instead of a teacher all point to one core operating principle: you’re never off-duty, because you Always Be Performing—ALWAYS. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 525 – Monday, March 16th, 2026 March 16th: Freedom of Information Day Guest co-host: Michael Grande from Card Chords and more 00:02:14 Getting out of NAMM 00:03:10 Have a good PR guy! Christopher Buttner 00:04:15 Hey, NAMM: How high can I go? 00:06:09 Can you afford NOT to hire a manager? Or a PR person? Our Mistakes are Our Tuition – Business Brain 00:08:04 COVID Vaccines lead to Card Chords Mike was a (very successful) ​Certified Ethical Hacker & CTO on Wall Street 00:11:09 Dad – come up with an idea to teach people how to play guitar “That’s a stupid idea” – Ignore, and move on. Bought a Cricut machine, built the prototype and tested it on hundreds of guitars at Guitar Center Came out on December 21st, and became Amazon’s #1 Musical Accessories item within 30 days Also includes an eBook to teach out Beatles, Bon Jovi, Guns and Roses songs WITH Card Chords 00:16:35 Born of Necessity! 00:18:39 The birth of Tone Picks Story time: I didn’t bring a 12-string to Electric Lady Studios at 3am Taped two picks together to simulate a 12-string sound. 00:21:41 How did you get on the list of Electric Lady Studios session players? Mike was a shredder after Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, etc 00:22:27 Recording in Jimi Hendrix’s old bedroom at Electric Lady Studios! Say yes the first time! Sponsors 00:25:39 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:27:22 SPONSOR: Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll when you start at https://gusto.com/giggab 00:28:51 Mike uses Gusto for his Music Schools! 00:30:33 Running music schools Mike’s Book: From Teacher to Coach: (And why you would NEVER want to be a Teacher) Taught private lessons, then students wanted more, so… Mike started The Staten Island School of Rock 00:33:37 Mike’s coaching methods are different Learning hands-on Getting students hooked on the songs you want to play THEN turn them around 00:34:42 You gotta be juiced about playing the songs Gig Gab 500 with Skylar and the drum coaching story 00:37:16 You need to have a mission statement Mike’s: “We build the confidence and self-esteem through music lessons” You need a Unique Selling Proposition! 00:39:30 Mike’s Unique Selling Proposition Never answer the question… ask the potential customer for the answer! 00:41:48 A teacher focuses on the curriculum, a coach focuses on the student 00:42:44 Mary Fanaro’s Rwanda Rocks Rwanda’s Minister of Education: The children of Rwanda don’t need teachers, they need coaches. 00:48:08 When you know you’re right, embrace it. 00:49:45 Always Be Performing…ALWAYS! 00:53:18 An audience wants to be treated 00:55:23 We’re always wearing 00:57:54 The Chinese stole Mike’s IP for Card Chords Mike’s got a new product that is in the running for Shark Tank Mike’s offer to Shark Tank will be: 20% of his company for $1 01:03:23 Gig Gab 525 Outtro Follow Michael Grande CardChords.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Wall Street Hacker to Music Mogul: Michael Grande’s Journey – Gig Gab 525 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re invited into a legacy family audio business that refused to accept “good enough” on feedback control and instead chased the impossible: a truly zero‑latency, AI‑driven way to push your PA louder without squeals. You follow Devin Sheets from growing up on sound gigs to roaming European stages, then back home to build De‑Feedback plugin for working musicians, a live sound feedback plugin and on‑the‑fly impulse‑response generator that listens like a seasoned engineer: separating human voice, room reverb, background noise, and feedback in real time so you can grab at least 6 dB more gain before things start to howl. Along the way you see how NAMM sparked the idea, how inverse impulse responses and probability math beat old EQ and gate tricks, and how “homebrew AI” meant sneaking into every empty church at 3 a.m. just to teach the model what real rooms actually sound like. You also learn how to think like a modern working musician: using social media to find the right AI programmers across the world, leaning on LLMs to translate, collaborate, and even rate contractor work so you can move faster without losing control. You come away knowing you can drop a dedicated De‑Feedback box or plugin into almost any rig, from churches to touring consoles to tiny clubs, take it with you even when someone else is behind the board, and quietly stack the deck in your favor. In the end, it’s a roadmap for how you run your own gigs and career: stay curious, embrace new tools, protect your sound, and Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 524 – Monday, March 9th, 2026 March 9th: National Meatball Day Guest co-host: Devin Sheets from Alpha Labs 00:02:12 Let’s Grow this Legacy Family Business Grew up doing sound Also a musician Lived in Europe Then came back and said, “let’s grow this family business!” 00:03:44 We haven’t “just solved” this feedback problem Went to NAMM for the first time, and was inspired There are automated EQ-based or gate-based systems PSE plugin from Waves 5045 for feedback 00:04:57 Why isn’t there a “balanced audio”-type solution for Feedback Balanced Audio fixes hums and it just works. 00:08:24 NAMM is a great inspiration…and it inspired Devin and his team to seek a feedback plugin solution People get entrenched Inverse Impulse Response methodology 00:12:35 Training the AI to listen for three things: human voice, reverb, and feedback Created a de-reverb algorithm and went beyond that A probability calculation does the math 00:16:05 Truly zero latency for the plugin Workflow latency remains 00:19:32 I don’t have any coding or AI background, but I have a gut feeling AI will fix this feedback problem Others: It’s harder than you think Devin: I knew that it needed to happen 00:20:58 Finding an AI programmer who was interested in doing Experimented with some programmers, failed, learned some things! 00:21:09 Social Media to the rescue! Late 2023: Devin found a group of AI programmers who would be interested Sending large amounts of money to China…it’s a risk! 00:26:30 At 3am, a text message: I think I’ve done it. Devin immediately started testing it himself “It seemed to work.” 00:27:17 Installing De-Feedback in Churches Sponsors 00:30:57 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today, which includes access to Claude Cowork, too, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:32:43 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:34:20 What is an impulse response? Impulse Response: An audio picture of how the room sounds Popping balloons in a room/environment and recording the sound is a common approach for creating impulse responses 00:38:33 De-Feedback is an on-the-fly IR generator …and analyzer that’s trained on the human voice, room reverb, background noise…and feedback 00:41:55 Finding the right programmers was the key …in addition to actually having the idea and the bullheaded persistence to make it happen. 00:44:46 Mind-melding was necessary And LLMs helped with translation! 00:48:39 Using AI to make it possible to collaborate with other humans 00:50:03 Using an LLM to rate the work of your contractors and employees 00:51:54 How do we get De-Feedback into the hands of working musicians US$499 for the De-Feedback plugin VST3 or AU plugin A higher-end Windows laptop can likely run it on its own Apple’s Core Audio tech makes it difficult, but they’re working on it. De-Feedback also sells a perfectly-tuned headless computer to do this Alpha Labs tried tons of interfaces that the Focusrite Scarlett keeps glitches out of the mix Waves SuperRack LiveBox 01:01:37 Where do we expand? Allen & Heath mixers? Midas/Behringer mixers? Paul Falcone, mixing Mariah Carey, wanted to use it! Robert Scovill talking Rock Hall on Gig Gab 01:05:18 Homebrew AI! Training EVERY room he could find “Can you let me into your empty church at 3am?” – To record IR to then train the data set for De-Feeback 01:07:25 Creating your own AI model 01:08:13 What’s the future look like? Acquisition? Demands for security? – Planning for it all 01:09:26 You can get this and bring it with you to gigs where someone else is doing sound De-Feedback Option 1 Allen & Heath Qu-5’s Feedback Eliminator De-Feedback gets at least as 6dB more gain before feedback 01:17:46 Gig Gab 524 Outtro Follow Devin Sheets And Alpha Labs Facebook and Instagram YouTube for Alpha Labs Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post De-Feedback Plugin for Working Musicians: More Gain, Less Feedback – Gig Gab 524 with Devin Sheets appeared first on Gig Gab.

You get dropped into a two-show day where you’re juggling festival chaos, a paramedic emergency during set change, and a mysteriously mudded-out bass that turns out to be a rogue low‑pass filter at 90 Hz, all while keeping the gig on the rails because you Always Be Performing. Then you pivot into first‑timer survival tactics for attending SXSW: locking in reservations weeks out, over‑planning so you can gleefully abandon those plans, and treating the whole thing as a marathon and a sprint while your calendar app becomes your best friend…and your worst enemy. Throughout it all, you’re thinking like a pro: dialing in efficient monitor setups for festival stages, dealing with sketchy solder joints on a microphone (or is that a mic cable issue?), staying sane amid SXSW security, and never underestimating the power of great brisket, BBQ, and a solid spot to reset your brain. You’ll also get the practical stuff no one tells you: what to wear, why you always keep your badge on you, and how finding a seasoned SXSW Sherpa can save your week (and your feet) before you ever hit your first line. ​From Festival Gigs to SXSW: Essential Survival Tips for Musicians and Attendees 00:00:00 Gig Gab 523 – Monday, March 2nd, 2026 March 2nd: International Rescue Cat Day Guest co-host: Lisa Hamilton 00:01:41 Two Show Day for Dave First gig, Bitter Pill – Festival And there was a paramedic Bitter Pill: It’s Rock and Roll… It’s Rockabilly… It’s Blues… I don’t know! 00:10:43 Second gig – somehow the bass got a low-pass filter set at 90hZ! Problem solved, gig a success! 00:18:23 SPONSOR: Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll when you start at https://gusto.com/giggab 00:20:00 Attending SXSW for the first time 00:25:45 Learning how to manage SXSW 00:27:30 SXXpress passes become Reservations And now they’re 3-weeks out instead of 2 days! 00:33:21 Reserving things in advance 00:37:25 It’s all about planning in advance And then throwing away your plans and making a series of Sophie’s Choices 00:39:24 It’s a marathon…and a sprint 00:39:42 Managing the Calendar 00:43:39 With the App 00:48:43 Managing your monitor needs with efficiency at festival gigs 00:52:51 Security at SXSW 00:58:15 Luke Warm Solder Joint on the Microphone Heil PR-40 00:58:57 Eat good food! Brisket and BBQ Eastside Cafe in Austin 01:01:11 What should I wear? 01:06:36 Find a SXSW Sherpa! 01:07:58 Finding your badge? 01:08:59 Always have your badge with you 01:11:38 Gig Gab 523 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post From Festival Gigs to SXSW: Survival Tips for Musicians and Attendees — Gig Gab 523 with Lisa Hamilton appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re riding along with Kaitlyn Raitz as she breaks down the real mechanics of touring at scale: staying human on a bus, finding tiny routines that keep you sane, and surviving the sleep math when you’re one of twelve buses on a massive run. Then it’s straight into the onstage reality of modern country arena production: 24 musicians, a full string quartet, choir, and horns, plus the challenge of making strings translate in a loud arena. You get the practical gear-and-tech layer too: DPA mics and pickups, dynamic EQ, managing cello loudness, and how tools like ToneDexter fit into keeping tone consistent when the room is working against you. You also get the career side, unfiltered: how the Eric Church gig happened through the Nashville relationship web, why being excellent and easy to be around matters, and why “Nashville is a ten-year town” if you want longevity. Kaitlyn’s stories span arranging and learning charts mid-tour from iPads, to the whiplash of getting a Grammy call with barely any runway, to recording in LA and wondering how anyone actually functions there. The episode closes with the mindset and performance skills that keep pros durable: protecting your brain and nervous system, flipping a stage persona on and off, and the practical win of transitioning to IEMs for a cellist when monitors are run well. Bottom line: this is how you keep your craft sharp, your head steady, and your show consistent night after night. Always Be Performing.​ 00:00:00 Gig Gab 522 – Monday, February 23rd, 2026 February 23rd: Curling Is Cool Day Guest co-host: Kaitlyn Raitz 00:01:55 Protein and Joy on the bus 00:02:14 Passing the time productively on the bus…and on the tour Swimming Swimply OR PlacesToSwim.com Thrifting 00:05:53 Sleeping on the bus! Twelve tour busses on this tour 00:07:26 24 Musicians on stage String Quartet 8-Person Choir Horn/Woodwind Quartet 00:09:45 Micing a string quartet in an arena DPA Mics AND pickups Dynamic EQ 00:14:47 Cellos and Loudness ToneDexter 00:18:50 Writing, arranging and learning charts mid-tour! Reading from iPads Eleanor Denning, String Lead and Arranger on the Eric Church Tour Bitter Pill has a cellist, too! 00:21:33 Getting the Eric Church gig Sub list for the Nashville Symphony Everything in Nashville is relationship-based Be good at what you do, and also be a pleasant person that people want to be around Nashville is a ten-year town 00:25:07 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:26:55 You played on the Grammy’s? Used to play with Brandy Clark, and occasionally gets a one-off gig call still. AND, a week-and-a-half before the Grammy’s, the call came in Do you want to play the Grammy’s with me? Kaitlyn has questions for LA-denizens: How do you live in LA? Do you see people that you know? Do you take public transportation? Recorded at Sunset Sounds in LA 00:33:05 Protecting your brain and nervous system Take on a persona “You are Kaitlyn Motherfucking Raitz” “We are bad bitches, we have earned this” Gary Cherone is the master of turning the stage persona on AND OFF Let the lights blind you 00:40:25 Transitioning to IEMs It’s great for a cellist! IEMs are better than having to use bone conduction Kaitlyn’s IEM mix – she hears the band It comes down to who’s running monitors Ultimate Ears UE7 Pros IEMs 00:47:06 Kaitlyn Raitz’s Music 00:48:52 Gig Gab 522 Outtro Follow Kaitlyn Raitz On Instagram On Facebook Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From the Eric Church Tour to the Grammys: On the Bus with Cellist Kaitlyn Raitz – Gig Gab 522 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You kick off this week with Dan Ray by reframing failure as a tool, not a verdict. Instead of obsessing over the “vanity listen” after a gig or rehearsal, you do the check-in listen and extract the lesson. You learn to fail fast the right way by making small bets that generate real data quickly, including testing demand before you invest rehearsal time. That mindset carries into band direction changes and the leadership realities that come with them: different people want different levels of ownership, and the job is to be a benevolent dictator who listens widely but decides cleanly. You also get practical about managing public perception and egos, taking cues from bands that protected the brand by being intentional about roles and visibility. Then you dig into Dan’s origin stories and the nuts-and-bolts that keep working musicians moving: starting a band young, landing monthly gigs, and learning obvious-in-hindsight lessons like not running a vocal mic through a guitar amp. You hear how scrappy tools like a Tascam 4-track can solve real problems, why running a PA from the stage demands discipline, and why the room you rehearse in changes what you think you’re hearing. From there it gets wonderfully nerdy with quick hits that matter in real life, like using low-pass filters aggressively and remembering that time alignment starts with where sound sources physically live. You close in the feels with theater life and the emotional punch of closing night, a reminder that the tech and the business serve the same goal: show up ready, stay present, and Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 521 – Monday, February 16th, 2026 February 16th: National Rationalization Day 00:02:08 Guest co-host: Dan Ray Last visit: July 19, 2020 for GG 265 and CBC 100 00:03:23 Having a productive relationship with failure Failure can a lesson you lean into After gigs or rehearsals: the check-in listen vs. the vanity listen Fail fast the right way: “make a bet” by setting up something that you can quickly get data from 00:08:47 Transitioning a band’s direction Dan’s Big in the 80s band 00:10:10 Test your market before committing too much Book the gig before you rehearse the songs. Make sure there’s demand and interest. If not… move on! (You failed fast!) Cover Band Confidential 00:12:52 AI solves the blank page problem – use it often! 00:14:28 Leading bands (and people) Be ready for people who want to engage with different levels of ownership Learning how to be a benevolent dictator… but also learn to be the leader, and the decision-maker, the ultimate arbiter. Don’t do it in a vacuum, but I’ll be the last word. The Pork Tornadoes are a democracy-ish. But decision-makers are pre-decided by a healthy division of labor. Learning to manage the public perception of your band (and your egos) like R.E.M. and RUSH did. 00:22:37 Do you name your band after yourself? My Thanks to Our Sponsors 00:25:09 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro, which includes access to Claude Cowork, too, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:26:50 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:28:38 First kid in high school to start a band Grew out of the school-run rock band Decided to play some originals and covers at home, and got a gig! The school librarian booked them monthly! Lesson: don’t put a vocal mic through the guitar amp Tascam 4-Track cassette recorder to use as a mixer 00:33:27 Dan Manages the PA from the stage We rehearse in a 15×20 indoor, climate-controlled storage unit 00:36:32 Quick Tip: Use Low Pass Filters on everything 00:37:35 Time Alignment: A reminder that sound source locations matter Check out the 16-minute mark of this episode with Robert Scovill for more 00:40:36 Having theater kids Stagelights in Greensboro, NC 00:43:05 The emotions during closing night in musical theater 00:50:12 Gig Gab 522 Outtro Follow Dan Ray @DanRayMusician @CoverBandConfidential Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Cover Band Confidential’s Dan Ray: Test the Market, Then Rehearse – Gig Gab 521 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You jump into this episode balancing the reality of working gigs with the mindset that keeps musicians moving forward. From Dave’s recent experiences playing atypical rooms with Bitter Pill to cramming new material for Casual Gravity, you’re reminded that momentum matters even when the crowd is small. Always Be Performing is not about scale, it’s about consistency. That theme carries straight into the conversation with Laura Whitmore, whose career has been shaped by connecting people, creating opportunities, and knowing when to pull back just enough to build a sustainable life alongside the work. As Laura walks you through the birth and growth of the She Rocks Awards, you hear what it actually takes to build something lasting. It started small, grew through trust and partnerships, and evolved by treating the event like a show, with pacing, flow, and intention. You dig into what real visibility looks like, how to define success on your own terms, and why borrowed platforms are never enough to build a career. The takeaway is practical and clear: start with a big vision, set measurable goals, build community deliberately, and own your audience. This episode is a reminder that longevity comes from intention, preparation, and showing up with purpose, gig after gig. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 520 – Monday, February 9th, 2026 February 9th: National Pizza Day 00:01:00 Dave’s Gig Updates Playing atypical venues with Bitter Pill Learning new songs with Casual Gravity Always Be Performing…even for the small crowds! 00:17:10 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:18:34 Guest co-host: Laura Whitmore 00:22:20 The love of connecting people and making things happen 00:23:08 Pulling back a little…to have a life Backstory in partnership with Guitar World and Parade 00:26:28 The green room at The She Rocks Awards is the ultimate networking event! 00:29:33 The Birth of the She Rocks Awards Writing a women-in-music blog at Guitar World, realizing the women in music didn’t know each other… yet! Started as a breakfast (with sponsors…the cheapest meal of the day!). Orianthi performed, serendipitously. After two successful years, NAMM invited She Rocks into the event officially, and The Bangles performed. “You don’t really know what you’re capable of until you’re challenged and take that leap of faith.” – Laura Whitmore 2026 was the 14th year of She Rocks Awards. 170 She Rocks Awards have been presented in the last 14 years. 00:34:51 “Is this ever going to come together?” is scary Reframe it with “how is this ever going to come together?” It takes a village, folks! 00:38:12 Having good partners helps 00:38:59 Create the event for yourself as an audience member That way you’ve got a stake in how it “feels” to attend, which means the audience is represented 00:41:16 Assembling the featured women Nominations at TheWimn.com Crafting the arc of the night by slotting the right people at the right spot. It’s a show! 00:43:49 Managing the flow of the night She Rocks Awards YouTube Channel 00:46:58 People whose names became known after they were on She Rocks Queen Herby (as Amy Heidemann) Beaches PRS Guitars brings in the opening act, with a fantastic Artist Relations team 00:49:40 Defining valuable visibility What’s your end goal? What are your metrics? What defines success? For your band, those might be: Did I get contact information? Did I build on success that I had before? Did this exposure opportunity help me grow to a new place/level? Start with big vision, small goals 00:54:16 You don’t own social media platforms, so don’t leave your audience there. Facebook used to let you message all your followers. Used to! If your audience is a subset of Facebook’s audience, that’s not your audience. Give them a reason to give you their email address. Gather those email addresses. Keep those pieces of paper – scan them! Spam laws might require you to prove it! 01:00:18 Gear Gab! Laura Whitmore is Sr. VP of Marketing at Positive Grid Spark practice amps (with an app!) Project BIAS X – Standalone or Plugin 01:07:36 Designing high-quality technology for a market with a budget 01:13:02 Gig Gab 520 Outtro Follow Laura Whitmore Check out TheWIMN.com (sign up for the mailing list for free! On Instagram On LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Creating the Room You Want to Be In: Laura Whitmore and the She Rocks Story – Gig Gab 520 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You walk into NAMM 2026 thinking you will just wander and see what grabs you. You leave reminded that wandering works best when paired with a plan and a willingness to torch a few sacred cows along the way. This episode is a fast-moving field report from the floor, where the real takeaway is not just gear but mindset. You hear why talking with people matters more than chasing booths, why listening beats pitching, and how staying flexible turns a chaotic show into a productive one. NAMM rewards curiosity, but only if you stay intentional and remember that Always Be Performing is not about being loud, it is about being present. From there, you get a tight rundown of what actually stood out. You hear about clever mic and monitoring solutions, portable PA ideas that punch above their weight, smart tools for managing stage volume and feedback, and electronic drums and keyboards that feel less like compromises and more like real instruments. There is a clear throughline here: gear is getting smaller, smarter, and more musician-centric, solving real problems instead of adding features for the spec sheet. By the end, you are not just caught up on what Dave saw at NAMM 2026, you are thinking differently about how to approach shows, stages, and decisions long after the badges come off. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 519 – Monday, February 2nd, 2026 February 2nd: National Tater Tot Day NAMM Coverage Sponsors Ultimate Ears Pro Earthworks Audio Rock-N-Roller Carts 00:02:23 NAMM Guidance Wandering is fun. But have a plan also. Be ready to abandon sacred cows Talk with people… share and listen 00:05:11 DPA Microphones on the Yamaha Stage 00:13:12 JBL BANDBOX Solo ($250) and BANDBOX Trio ($600) 00:18:37 D’Addario IR Mic Mute 00:21:05 Card Chords 00:24:55 UE 350 from Ultimate Ears 00:27:57 Sensaphonics IEM dB Check Pro 00:35:27 Efnote Electronic Drums Efnote 3 (with optical hi-hats) – $2,499 00:36:52 KickPort KickTone Pro microphone 00:40:12 Alpha Labs De-Feedback in action 00:43:57 Nord Electro 7 00:46:27 Allen & Heath Qu-5 00:49:49 iCON P1-M (on Amazon) 00:52:31 QSC CB10 00:55:21 Gig Gab 519 Outtro Thanks to Parthenon Huxley for today’s outro song. And thanks, Hux, for everything you gave us all while you were here on this earth! Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Gear, Gimmicks, and the Good Stuff at NAMM 2026 – Gig Gab 519 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dave’s back from NAMM 2026 and has a little something to share about that. Actually three little somethings, so that’s where we start. But there’s more to say about that, and it’s not yet time, so we’ll extend the NAMM discussions into next week (and beyond?). For today, well, you don’t become the Sauce Boss by chasing a gimmick. You hear how Bill Wharton built a real, working-musician career by leaning hard into what felt natural to him, starting with a Datil pepper, a pot of gumbo, and a simple idea: turn the gig into a gathering. From cooking onstage on New Year’s Eve 1989 to feeding hundreds of people at festivals and never charging a dime for the food, Bill shows how blending music and food transformed shows from transactions into shared experiences. By creating a kitchen onstage, he stopped entertaining people just long enough to take their money and run, and instead built something with a life of its own, something that keeps audiences leaning in and coming back. As the conversation unfolds, you trace Bill’s path from top-40 bar gigs to one-man-band independence, full-band firepower, and stages as far-flung as Saudi Arabia. You hear why learning your strengths and ruthlessly discarding what doesn’t matter is not selfish, it’s survival. From dynamics, gear choices, and in-ear monitors to the lessons behind Blind Boy Billy, Bill makes the case that longevity comes from clarity, connection, and doing your thing without apology. The message for working musicians is direct and empowering: build the show you want to play, build the life that supports it, and keep showing up ready to give. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 518 – Monday, January 26th, 2026 January 26th: National Spouse Day Guest co-host: Bill Wharton NAMM Coverage Sponsors Ultimate Ears Professional Earthworks Audio Rock-n-Roller 00:14:31 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:16:21 Guest co-host: Bill Wharton 00:18:41 How to become a sauce boss magnate…while also being a musician Bill found the Datil pepper. Spicy and flavorful. People would eat all the sauce at his house So he made Liquid Summer hot sauce But he wanted to sell hot sauce at gigs. December 31, 1989 – made a pot of gumbo on stage to demo the hot sauce No one would ever have to pay for for my gumbo… 240,000 bowls later, here we are! 00:23:26 Blending music and food. It’s better than entertaining people, taking the money, and run! 00:25:12 Food and music are good together Every good party has everyone hanging out in the kitchen Bill creates the kitchen on stage 00:26:33 That first Sauce Boss gig 00:28:16 It has a life of its own and takes care of itself It took 3.5 hours to know that this was going to work long-term 00:30:38 Bill: “Always looking for something distinctively mine…something unique” It’s hard to do your own thing. 00:33:15 The typical sauce boss gig means cooking for 100 (or more) people 400 people at a festival (it took TWO pots of gumbo) 00:35:07 From Florida to Saudi Arabia Sauce Boss plays/cooks at an Air Force base in Saudi Arabia 00:37:09 A soul-shouting picnic of Rock and Roll Brotherhood One or two 75-minute sets The show never ends 00:40:16 Learn, and then KNOW your strengths Started playing top-40 gigs as a kid …and then realized that’s a rat trap. Bill made a point of putting only the stuff that matters to him in his day…and his show. Being “greedy” about putting my thing out there. If I can do this, you can do this Discard the things you don’t enjoy, embrace the things you do. Story Time, it turns out! 00:43:23 Jimmy Buffett wrote a song about the Sauce Boss – “I Will Play For Gumbo” Playing a gig at Jimmy Buffett’s club in New Orleans… and Jimmy was there! “This is the best (bar) band I’ve seen in a long time.” 00:47:13 Where did “Sauce Boss” come from? Tobacco Road, in Miami 00:49:47 Bread and Butter is the One Man Band “But I have a music problem, and I like jammin’ with my buds!” There’s something that happens when you have a little more firepower of a full band 00:53:13 Bill is his own funky one-man band with a kick drum, hi-hat, and a guitar 00:55:16 Dynamics are everything in terms of keeping a crowd 00:57:09 Bill’s thoughts on in-ear monitors Future Sonics 01:02:17 Gear Gab: Create a portable screen/keyboard/mouse for your home studio 01:06:24 The Life and Times of Blind Boy Billy A songbook, a recipe book, and Bill’s memoir. 01:09:29 Gig Gab 519 Outtro Follow Bill Wharton, the Sauce Boss Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Gumbo, Gigs, and Grit: Bill Wharton’s Sauce Boss Path — Gig Gab 518 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’ve done gigs where nothing goes according to plan, but this episode reminds you that chaos is often the classroom. From sleeping on road cases at the Puerto Rican Day Parade to riding a flatbed packed with servo-driven subs that overwhelmed even earplugs and shooting cans, you hear how real-world pressure forges real skills. Mike deAlmeida walks you through learning to roll with it, figuring out systems on the fly before tools like Smaart were common, and walking into unknown gigs where the unknown singer/songwriter turns out to be Shawn Colvin. The lesson is clear: when you don’t know the band, communication is everything. Ask how they sound, listen closely, and remember that for that moment, you are part of the band. You’re playing the “mixing keyboard” today, so Always Be Performing. As the night wears on, the room changes and so must you. Heat, humidity, and ear fatigue quietly shift the mix, especially in the highs and high-mids, and Mike explains why gradual adjustments beat drastic moves every time. You’re reminded to watch the show, not just the meters, and to listen first before using tools like Smaart to confirm what your ears already know. From sweating out microphones and treating them like EQ devices to protecting your hearing with custom molds, active earplugs, and smart exposure management, this episode ties craft, tech, and longevity together. Layer in legendary Celebrity Week stories, the Van Halen M&Ms lesson, and Beach Boys theatrics, and you’re left with one guiding principle: mix a good show, every time, because that’s how careers last. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 517 – Monday, January 19th, 2026 January 19th: Tin Can Day Guest co-host: Mike deAlmeida, Program Director, Audio Engineering at University of Hartford NAMM coming up! GG Coverage Sponsor: Ultimate Ears Pro! 00:01:50 Puerto Rican Day Parade Sleeping on road cases overnight An insane number of speakers Earplugs + Shooting cans STILL were too loud Servo drives – highly efficient, but not fast. They have motors in them. Security wouldn’t let us off the truck. 00:06:43 Gig learning vs. classroom learning Learning to roll with it 00:08:52 When you don’t know the band A little jazz band…as wallpaper Sussed out the system manually (before the Smaart Live days!) And a singer/songwriter… who turned out to be Shawn Colvin 00:12:52 Communicating with a band you’ve never seen Very helpful tips: “Here’s how our band sounds.” Guitar players who manage their levels between rhythm and solos As an engineer, you are a member of the band (for that moment) “You play mixing keyboard today” 00:20:37 Teaching the foundation in class, students often seek practical experience on their own Finding practical applications WHILE you’re in class is gold. You learn so much. It all comes back to communication skills For FOH engineers, watch the show! Pay attention to the band members 00:24:30 Sound changes throughout the night Heat and humidity will cause ebbs and flows (especially outdoors, but even inside) Watch the highs and high-mids Sound travels faster through a thick medium Gradual adjustments so it sounds better Increasing the mains throughout the show to keep the perceived level due to ear fatigue Smaart Live for tweaking live sound Listen first, then use the gear to confirm what you’re hearing 00:31:35 When I mix, I want to hear a good show So I tell the sound guy (me) to mix a good show 00:32:57 Using the tech to isolate live to find (and fix) problems Beyerdynamic MM1 – a measurement mic AND a podcast mic 00:33:48 Learning the nuances of problems 00:35:24 Hot lights to add to the sun! Sweating out microphones… heat shrink tubing plus medical tape solves it Microphones are EQ devices – Matt from Roswell Audio 00:39:38 Mixing with earplugs? Westone custom mold earplugs with 15dB Etymotic filters Hearing protection vs. exposure time US Navy study on hearing health with submarine crew Huberman Lab episode on hearing health 00:44:39 AirPods Pro “active earplugs” (aka Hearing Protection) Comply Foam tips for AirPods Pro DefendEar from Westone 00:52:25 Stories from Celebrity Week at North Shore Music Theatre Almost got into a rumble with Al Martino Face the wall when Wynona Judd walks by Gallagher (or his brother!) The Beach Boys Weird Al 00:56:04 The Van Halen M&Ms story 00:57:37 The Beach Boys surfing on the revolving stage 00:59:41 Gig Gab 519 Outtro Follow Mike deAlmeida Check the University of Hartford’s BS in Audio Engineering Technology Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Engineer Is in the Band: Instinct, Ears, and Live Sound with Mike deAlmeida — Gig Gab 517 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You jump straight into the deep end with Richie Castellano as you explore what happens when preparation collides with opportunity. You follow his path from mixing weddings to standing behind massive analog rigs, wrangling six guitar channels, chasing down mysterious hums, and learning fast that the gremlins always show up when you least expect them. When the call comes to go from being Blue Oyster Cult’s sub sound engineer to bass player in four days with 21 songs to learn, the lesson is clear: play something you know, rehearse smart, and build a Just In Case bag that saves the gig. Success is not luck. It is preparation meeting the moment, and you are either ready or you are not. In order to Always Be Performing you need to Always Be Preparing! As the conversation deepens, you learn how adaptability gets and keeps gigs, from joining the culture of a band to solving problems so painlessly you become indispensable. Richie breaks down the craft of learning, teaching, and arranging vocal harmonies, including Yes music at the highest level, where not nailing the vocals means the whole thing falls apart. You hear why simplifying is sometimes the smart move, how spreadsheets can ease rehearsals, and why blending matters more than showing off. The episode closes with practical wisdom on collaboration with front of house, constant communication inside the band, and surrounding yourself with people on the same mission. This is a masterclass in being prepared, predictable, drama-free, and trusted when it counts. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 516 – Monday, January 12th, 2026 January 12th: National Hot Tea Day Guest co-host: Richie Castellano NAMM coming up! GG Coverage Sponsor: Ultimate Ears Pro! 00:01:40 From mixing weddings to arenas overnight Called to sub as Blue Oyster Cult’s sound engineer Steve “Woody” La Cerra “Make them sound like a big bad rock band” 00:06:53 The differences doing sound in a big room? Six channels of guitar for 3 guitar players! Where’s the cowbell?!? 00:10:28 Arriving ten minutes before downbeat with the biggest system of my life And it’s analog! What’s that low hum 00:12:49 The Gremlins That Run Around On Stage When You’re Not Looking Play something you know 00:17:46 SPONSOR: Squarespace. Check out https://www.squarespace.com/GIGGAB to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code GIGGAB. 00:19:10 From sound to…playing bass in four days! Here’s 18 songs… I mean 21 songs. Be ready to play this by Friday Success is when preparation meets opportunity. Here’s the opportunity. Now you have to prepare for it! Buck Dharma on Gig Gab First gig was canceled… But that led to a rehearsal Time to talk about the JustInCase…aka the Idiot Bag! Plugged into the TV to rehearse 00:22:39 “If you can do this five times in a row, this will be your gig.” 00:25:02 Do you just want me to join the band? If you solve a problem for someone painlessly, you’re not likely to be replaced. Be Prepared and Predictable And No Drama 00:28:41 Joining the culture of a band Matt Beck on guitar for the recent Jon Anderson tour fit perfectly Being adaptable gets and keeps gigs 00:33:22 Learning and teaching harmonies Learning how to soften and blend 40th Anniversary of Agents of Fortune A trick: learn how to do impressions. “Sing this like Peter Gabriel”, “Sing this like Michael McDonald” 00:39:51 Arranging Harmonies for Yes music Don’t be afraid to simplify, folks Use a spreadsheet! Get it to “the best WE can do it” Then ask “how can we make this blend better?” 00:45:13 If we don’t nail the vocals, we suck! 00:48:29 The collaboration between band and front of house Ask front of house engineer: What do you need from me to sound good? End sound check with an a capella vocal moment 00:52:24 Talk to your bandmates and continually tweak things “Why does your snare drum sound different today?” 00:54:11 Surround yourself with bandmates who are on the same mission 00:59:58 When bands write vocal harmonies 01:04:18 Gig Gab 514 Outtro Follow Richie Castellano Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Be Prepared and Predictable: How Richie Castellano Stays Gig-Ready — Gig Gab 516 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You step into the pressure cooker of elite live sound, where Robert Scovill shows you why chaos is often the best teacher. From mixing Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions with zero margin for error to handling full-band changeovers on the fly, you learn that perfection is worth chasing but dangerous to demand. You hear why live mixing beats the studio for him. It is about capturing ensemble moments, not polishing parts. Even when the doubt creeps in before showtime, the lights come up, the band hits, and the moment reminds you why you do this. This is the mindset of Always Be Performing. You also get practical, battle-tested tactics for surviving high-stakes gigs. Learn how to study a band fast, who sings, who solos, and when, using recordings and YouTube as prep tools. You hear what it takes to mix legendary harmony vocals, why artists like Def Leppard insist on singing live, and how those expectations shape your approach. Then it gets nerdy in the best way, with the evolution of De-Feedback, real-world use at the Rock Hall, and how tools like reverse impulse responses can clean up wedges, vocals, and even IEMs. The takeaway is clear. Preparation, adaptability, and relentless curiosity are what keep you in the game. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 515 – Monday, January 5th, 2026 January 12th: National Day of Dialogue Guest co-host: Robert Scovill 00:01:25 Mixing Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 10+ Acts… with full changeovers Trial by fire, with no time! 00:07:27 The enjoyment of the pressure of mixing live Perfection is a great thing to strive for, a terrible thing to achieve 00:09:00 Giving up on the studio in favor of live Way more interested in recording ensemble moments 00:10:10 Started in live sound in the 1970s Started with Shooting Star 00:12:04 Full circle moments at Rock Hall Mixing the Joe Cocker induction with Tedeschi Trucks Mixing Peter Frampton…a throwback moment 00:17:34 That thought creeps in: “I don’t know if I can keep doing this” And then the show happens…with all of its moments! 00:22:34 Learning a band quickly Who’s singing? When? Who plays the guitar solos (and when)? Give them a recording in advance Find them on YouTube 00:25:53 Dolly Parton and Rob Halford sing Jolene 00:28:23 Mixing Def Leppard harmony vocals Def Leppard is a great example: they wanted to sing live They worked hard to deliver what they expected (and what people expected) 00:34:50 Mixing Prince at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 00:38:20 Always Be Recording…and here’s why: Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks And a new ProTools feature was born: VENUE Link 00:43:04 Alpha Labs De-Feedback Started as an aside in Scovill’s Back Lounge Neve 5045 Primary Source Expander Waves PSE Plugin De-Feedback does reverse impulse responses 00:48:42 De-Feedback started to “make churches sound better” 00:57:28 De-Feedback at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Elton John (because of his loud monitor wedges) Cyndi Lauper 01:02:02 Comparing De-Feedback to a Neve 5045 Waves NS1 01:10:19 A live De-Feedback demo and some nerdy details! 01:26:24 Fixing IEMs with De-Feedback Think about eliminating drum bleed from vocal mics, for one. 01:28:47 Gig Gab 515 Outtro Follow Robert Scovill On Facebook On Instagram On LinkedIn RobertScovill.com (where you’ll find The Back Lounge) Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Mixing Legends Live: Robert Scovill at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — Gig Gab 515 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You love the music, but being a working musician comes with friction, and this episode tackles it head-on. You dig into the real difference between tribute bands and celebration projects, how to prep when multiple gigs stack up fast, and why anxiety creeps in when preparation gets sloppy. You explore how much rehearsal is enough, when studio versions help versus live recordings, and why fun disappears when expectations are unclear. The big takeaway is simple: intention matters. When you walk into rehearsal with a plan, a personal worklist, and shared expectations, you protect your energy and stay focused on what matters most. That focus is how you keep growing while Always Be Performing. From rehearsals to gig day, you learn how systems save your sanity. You hear why rehearsal recordings only work if someone is actually assigned to listen, how shared calendars prevent chaos, and why group texts quietly sabotage bands. You break down practical tools for managing gigs, promotion, and communication, from punchlist spreadsheets to task masters who own the details. You even get into tech expectations for bandmates and why alignment matters more than gear. The message is clear: externalize the details, reduce decision fatigue, and free your head to show up present, prepared, and confident on stage. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 514 – Monday, December 29th, 2025 December 29th: Tick Tock Day Guest co-host: Richard Page 00:02:03 Richard’s got some tribute shows happening The difference between a tribute band and a celebration project Pure Petty, Hot Atlanta, Remedy at Ardmore Music Hall Rocks This Way 00:06:07 Dave’s got three different shows to learn and play in 2 weeks The anxiety of preparing for too many gigs at once When prepping celebration shows, do you do all studio? Some live? 00:24:33 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/giggab #rulapod 00:26:19 NAMM coming up! GG Coverage Sponsor: Ultimate Ears Pro! 00:26:55 Being a working musician comes with a lot of friction to have fun 00:28:48 Setting rehearsal intention Have a plan! Be careful of repeating songs and consuming time Set expectations. Ensure everyone arrives on the same page. Keep a “personal worklist” note going on your phone during rehearsals 00:33:41 Maximizing rehearsal recordings Rotate between band-members for listening to rehearsal recordings You inspect what you expect! 00:38:49 Scheduling rehearsals Use a Google Calendar 00:42:36 Inter-band communication Group Messages…SUCK (especially now with RCS, that was supposed to fix it) You’ve gotta have a task-master! WheresTheGig.com BandHelper 00:50:46 Creating a Spreadsheet punchlist for gigs Keeps you from forgetting the Facebook event, the mailer, etc Using BandsInTown for Artists 00:55:55 Tech requirements for new band members Green Bubble Prejudice! 01:02:12 Three iPads Stage Ninja Clamp for iPad forScore 01:10:17 Gig Gab 514 Outtro Follow Richard Page on Facebook Remedy Dead Band Rocks This Way Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Hidden Work of Fun: Systems for Working Musicians — Gig Gab 514 with Richard Page appeared first on Gig Gab.

You follow Lindsay Manfredi’s wild, non-linear path from merch table to main stage, and she shows you exactly how saying yes, showing up, and outworking your fear can change your entire trajectory. You hear how she moved to Florida at twenty chasing a rock-star dream, became an instant Cold superfan, and eventually landed the bass gig through a Twitter message that felt too unreal to be real. She talks candidly about law-of-attraction moments, why every Cold song has to matter, and where the line sits between authentic human creativity and formulaic or AI-generated music. Through it all, she reminds you that most fears never materialize and it takes the same effort to believe in yourself as it does to doubt yourself. Always Be Performing. From there, you shift into the discipline behind her artistry: preparing for tours months in advance, running the set nearly every day, and over-preparing so the stage actually feels fun. She shares how making the road feel like home keeps her grounded, and how her book “The Girl Who Cried Love” came from losing her sense of self and rebuilding true self-worth, not just confidence. You explore dropping habits that don’t serve you, reconnecting with what you really value, and even why revisiting Mad Men taught her to only compete with herself. Finally, you wrap with a deep dive into in-ear monitor strategy, why a great mix beats great gear, and the small decisions that make performing sustainable for the long haul. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 513 – Monday, December 22nd, 2025 December 22nd: National Cookie Exchange Day Guest co-host: Linsday Manfredi NAMM coming up! GG Coverage Sponsor: Ultimate Ears Pro! 00:01:30 Twenty years old, moved to Florida to become a rock star Sprung Monkey needed a “merch girl”, Lindsay grabbed the gig Saw Cold, loved the music, loved Scooter’s voice. Instant fan! Unfuckwithable: A Guide to Inspired Badassery 00:04:45 Bringing the Law of attraction into the rock world Lindsay’s Cold tattoo made it into the album insert 00:06:00 Getting the Cold gig… on Twitter in 2014 Picture Yes was playing at The Vogue in Indianapolis on tour with Saving Abel Check your Facebook messages: “Will you be in our band?” 00:07:32 Always say “yes!” — Build the plane while you’re flying it. Bought a 5-String 00:09:09 Play music because you love to play music No fluff songs in Cold Every song matters 00:11:25 F**k AI to create music Is Formulaic Music from humans just as bad as AI-Created Music When do we hit the point where it’s OK to use AI to create music 00:20:13 If you’re an artist, you’re going to create art. 85% of what we’re afraid of won’t happen. It takes just as much effort to have faith in something as it does to fear something 00:23:46 Transitioning from fan to band member Scooter says: “bring your personality to it!” Capture the original intent and emotion Lindsay rewrote the run in “So Long June” and… it was welcomed! 00:27:30 Preparing enough to have fun on stage Months of practice before a tour In order to have fun on stage… I need to be an over-preparer! Fender P-Bass at home to learn and prepare for tour Heavier strings on the practice bass Run the set every day (almost) 00:33:42 Start rehearsal in December for tour in April It’s more fun to be prepared 00:36:10 Making the road feel like home Making your bunk your own Cold is a family Touring is my favorite thing to do 00:39:52 The Girl Who Cried Love, a Pivot to Self Worth Lindsay: I lost myself into what became a failed relationship Trying to prove my worth to someone who didn’t see my worth So many of us aren’t taught what our true worth is Asking herself: “Lindsay, what do you really want in your life? What is your purpose? What are your values?” The difference between confidence and self-worth. 00:45:33 It’s hard to drop the shit that’s not serving you 00:46:37 How can I make the world a little bit better? Being in the audience first makes everything so much clearer 00:47:51 Identifying a bad habit before you can drop it “My goal in life is to wake up laughing every day” 00:49:01 Revisiting Mad Men, of all things Better to compete with yourself 00:51:19 In Ear Monitors Having a great mix Mix is more important than gear Dissecting in-ears Universal Fits Dave recommends: Ultimate Ears Universal Fit Soundbrenner Wave Huberman Lab episode on hearing health 01:01:52 Gig Gab 513 Outtro Follow Lindsay Manfredi On IG @Lindsay Manfredi ColdArmy.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Lindsay Manfredi’s Road to Cold: Music, Micro-Pivots, and Radical Self-Worth — Gig Gab 513 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You follow Demetri Papanicolau’s winding path from Fidelity financial consultant to full-time booking agent and working musician, discovering how taking risks, saying yes to scary gigs, and learning from every stage moment shaped his career. You hear how singing AC/DC and Zeppelin in high school, drilling Beatles harmonies, and navigating the evolution from originals to covers built the chops he still relies on today. As you ride through stories of surprise band formations, COVID-era pivots, and the birth of Rotten Apple, you’re reminded that you must Always Be Performing, even when the gig you expected turns into something entirely different. You also step inside Demetri’s world at Notso Costley Productions, where booking is equal parts diplomacy, coaching, and reading the room. He breaks down what venues actually want, what musicians consistently get wrong, and how reliability wins more than draw. You learn how he balances the needs of solos, duos, trios, and full bands; why non-verbal communication and a good hang matter; how to build an EPK that gets you on a roster; and what happens when rates rise across the scene. Through it all, Demetri shows how being both booker and performer lets him guide bands and venues toward smoother nights, stronger partnerships, and gigs that keep everyone coming back. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 512 – Monday, December 15th, 2025 December 15th: National Cupcake Day Guest co-host: Demetri Papanicolau from Notso Costley Productions NAMM coming up! GG Coverage Sponsor: Ultimate Ears Pro! 00:02:19 From Fidelity Financial Consultant to Acquiring and running a Booking Agency Josh Logan, local to New Hampshire, did Rock Star Supernova and then The Voice And then…Demetri wins the Black Brimmer’s Rock Star ManchVegas Doors opened! 00:05:33 Singing AC/DC and Zeppelin in high school to vocal lessons 00:06:06 Learning harmonies by singing The Beatles 00:07:32 Playing in an original band that became a cover band 00:10:05 Learning while not playing…big ears! Submitted to America’s Got Talent 00:13:39 Taking new gigs even when they scare the heck out of you A Josh Logan cancelation leads to a band formation to sub! 00:16:02 It’s not about the gigs you take, it’s also about the gigs you don’t take Be selective! 00:17:17 Alice and Chains becomes the thread to the story 00:18:51 COVID derails (and delays) some gigs…oh how we remember! October and November, 2020 When an acoustic duo gig turns into a full band on stage Rotten Apple forms! A tribute to Alice and Chains 00:22:28 Always performing with passion …and perfection! Developing that non-verbal communication 00:28:22 Bonding as harmony singers When you find that magic formula with someone, stick with it! 00:33:41 Putting the time in for continuous growth Maintaining beginner’s mind 00:34:07 Finding those right partners where it’s a good hang When your FOH Jim Roese, FOH with Fuel, Melissa Etheridge, and also Rotten Apple 00:37:44 Running a booking agency Working for both the venue and the performer Having a roster of musicians: solos, duos, trios, full bands Being in the performer’s shoes helps Demetri be a coach to bands AND venues to ensure smooth sailing 00:42:48 Reading the room goes a long 00:44:15 Demetri’s advice for making it work (or not work) To get on the roster: Have a good EPK and promo kit Once you’re on: responsiveness, being available, managing your schedule 00:46:24 Demetri’s biggest juggling act: adapting to last-minute changes The time Casual Gravity cancelled last minute! Reliability is huge 00:54:17 Venue feedback Draw isn’t always the most important thing Be a pro on the mic. Represent the venue. Play the right songs. Keeping the venues happy allows Demetri to book his roster of performers 00:57:43 Raising rates for the performer New rates for 2025 $230-$250 for solo (from $170-$200 three years ago) $450-$500 for duo $660-$700 for trio $700-$1,000 for bands (or more for A-List prices) Balancing rates between performers and venues, ensuring everyone is profitable 01:05:03 Carrying on Paul Costley’s legacy and tradition with Nosto Costley Productions Took a voluntary buyout package from Fidelity to make the time to acquire the agency 12/31/2021 was the day Demetri took over…and stopped cutting his hair 01:09:20 Gig Gab 512 Outtro Follow Demetri Papanicolau Notso Costley Productions On IG @DemetriPapanicolau Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Booking Smarter, Singing Harder: Demetri Papanicolau on Gig Life — Gig Gab 512 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Sean Monahan from Gale Bird joins Dave Hamilton to walk you through their path of being successful working musicians in an original band. You follow Gale Bird’s path from college songwriting to a 13-year hiatus and a full-tilt return that finally landed Gale Bird on a label. You hear how the band treats music as both passion and business, blending Sean’s production chops with Joshua’s marketing instincts to create songs that connect. You get reminded that “overnight success” takes decades, and that everyone who hires you is thinking in terms of return. Failure, lineup changes, stalled gigs… they’re not roadblocks, folks, they’re prep for the next shot. That’s where you lean into the mindset: Always Be Performing. You also learn how the label helps identify the songs that will land, how playlist strategy works, and how Gale Bird built a digital identity alongside their live-show firepower. You dig into their content engine, daily-posting experiments, AI reels, and the push to film everything. Collaboration becomes a skill, not an accident, and you see how respecting different strengths keeps the whole machine running. Gear Gab rounds it out with a bit of a wishlist: Kempers, custom Teles, splitter snakes, and the stress test of soundcheck when tech goes sideways. Press play and enjoy! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 511 – Monday, December 8th, 2025 December 8th: Pretend to be a Time Traveler day Guest co-host: Sean Monahan from Gale Bird 00:01:50 Went to two different schools together Met in college, started writing songs, doing some local touring Then a 13-year break after college while they started families And then, two years ago, you got the band back together! 00:03:19 Signed to a label 00:05:11 A Passion that’s also very much a business Producing art that is digested by as many people as possible Sean’s been a full-time musician since college Learned all the right production techniques Met all the right people Hiring the right engineer and session musicians for the album Joshua has been in sales and marketing as his career And also understands aesthetics and marketing… and is Sean’s co-songwriter 00:07:57 The label saw *people* they could invest in, and also liked their sound Holy City Music Overnight success takes twenty years 00:10:07 This is the entertainment business! Whomever hires you is thinking about dollar signs They need to see the return, and as a musician you have to understand that 00:13:21 Failure prepares you for what’s next Sometimes a gig ends 00:15:54 250,000 streams in one year! 00:16:56 The Label helps Staying in touch with Playlisters and other avenues like radio, too 00:19:38 Getting on Playlists Label says, “write 20 songs, we’ll pick one or two” when we analyze what will perform the best on the streamers One side of the business: live shows full of rock and feels and merch and all that The other side: the digital side. People need to have a representation of the band that’s unique to them. The label is the expert for the digital side, knowing how to identify the songs that will land on the streamers Turns out we land in the “country” genre, so we’ll add a banjo to a song (for example). Roses by Gale Bird is a perfect example 00:24:25 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at rula.com/giggab #rulapod 00:26:12 Creating a social media system for your band An experiment: post every day for 2 months and see what happens Lesson learned: go heavy for a shorter period of time Always be thinking about future content. Film, film, film AI Reels A/B testing 00:33:31 Creating side businesses to funnel and fuel Gale Bird 00:35:00 Learning to collaborate on your own songs “The better a songwriter is at collaboration, the more successful they’ll be” 00:36:48 The Gale Bird formula Can play as a duo or a full band or anything in between. 00:38:39 Respecting skillsets Sean shines in the studio: plays all the instruments except drums Joshua shines on stage: sings, plays acoustic guitar, and has excellent stage presence 00:44:05 …and managing pride 00:44:27 Gear Gab 00:44:56 Fender and Guitar Center collaborated on a custom telecaster 00:46:32 Sean went to a Kemper rig Wishlist: Kemper Stage Hipshot B-Bender 00:48:25 Behringer Wing Rack Mackie DL32S PRORECK Splitter Snakes 00:54:12 The stress of tech issues at soundcheck 00:57:10 Gig Gab 511 Outtro Follow Gale Bird On IG @GaleBirdMusic Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Hiatus to 250K Streams: The Gale Bird Story with Sean Monahan — Gig Gab 511 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look with Train’s drummer Matt Musty and host Dave Hamilton as they dive deep into gig wisdom, touring tips, and pro gear secrets. Learn why being on time, managing your role smartly, and balancing music, money, and the hang is essential for a successful music career. From handling days off and staying rested on the road to mastering in-ear monitors with creative mic setups, this episode is packed with actionable advice every touring musician needs. Always Be Performing with fresh insights that keep you inspired and ready for every show. Discover how Matt approaches touring with diplomacy, band dynamics, and staying connected to home life while on the road. Explore favorite microphones for perfect in-ear sound, how to avoid a sterile IEM mix, and the importance of scheduled fun time to keep social media engaging. Whether you’re a musician, live sound enthusiast, or fan of the tour life, this episode offers a masterclass in professionalism and passion to elevate your musical journey and keep your performance sharp night after night. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 510 – Monday, December 1st, 2025 December 1st: National Peppermint Bark Day Guest co-host: Matt Musty 00:02:22 Train continues to level up Train at Royal Albert Hall Train at Grand Ole Opry 00:03:40 Waking up the singer ten minutes before the gig! 00:06:10 Gig Advice from Musty: Be On Time 00:08:46 I’m not ever the guy who hangs around My job’s done 00:10:09 Managing your opinion 00:11:16 The long game of diplomacy is the key to a successful career The gig philosophy, 2 out of 3 aint bad: Music Money Hang 00:15:51 Days off are tough on the band and crew 00:18:26 The risk of hanging out with your road-hosts after the gig Prioritizing sleep on the road 00:23:42 The Zen of the connection between you and your gear The no-soundcheck days 00:28:48 PODCAST: Album Archives. Count down The Top 300 Albums of All Time — one record at a time — with Album Archives | The Vault of Music History. 00:29:46 IEM Talk! Sometimes a broken seal Ideas for avoiding a sterile IEM mix Matt put a “crotch mic in place: a Beyer M160 underneath the snare to grab the sound of the kit and put it through some reverb with compression AFTER the reverb Audience Mics Adding reverb to the drums and vocal mics Play every song like it’s the first time. Be inspired! 00:41:39 Finding the right microphones to capture your instrument for your in-ears Transparent mics like the Earthworks ETHOS on guitar amps or the Earthworks SR20-Gen2 on drum overheads 00:44:37 Favorite snare drum mics Beyerdynamic M201 Telefunken M80 Earthworks DM17 00:49:31 The short version of the Earthworks story 00:51:15 Keeping a connection to home while on the road 00:52:30 Enjoying the spoils of a high-level tour 00:56:42 Being recognized for your job 00:59:10 A quick social media discussion Scheduled Fun Time Gaby from Crush Management 01:02:48 Gig Gab 510 Outtro Find Matt Musty On IG @MattMusty Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Gig Wisdom & Scheduled Fun Time with Matt Musty of Train — Gig Gab 510 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You drop into this episode walking side-by-side with David Leaf as he revisits the moments that shaped his life around Brian Wilson’s genius. You hear how Brian needed unconditional connection to create, how Leaf found himself driving tour vans, sitting in private Sinatra rehearsals, and realizing he had to earn his place in those rooms. From LA trips with legends to the spark that made him pack up, move west, and chase Brian’s story head-on, you feel the lesson hit hard: keep moving forward and Always Be Performing. You also get a front-row view into the musical engine behind Brian Wilson’s world. Leaf breaks down the jazz-rooted harmonies, the devotion of Brian’s touring band, and the emotional work that helped Brian reclaim his confidence. You learn how Pet Sounds floored Lennon and McCartney, why Paul might be the biggest Beatles fan alive, and why Leaf argues Brian deserves solo induction into the Rock Hall. Along the way, you’re guided through The Reel Beatles class, the making of Smile, and the books that document it all, leaving you with the sense that loving music isn’t passive… it’s a craft you show up for every day. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 509 – Monday, November 24th, 2025 November 24th: Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day Guest co-host: David Leaf 00:02:16 Brian Wilson calls… I need “friends” in the room. Brian Wilson needed to be loved unconditionally David drove for the tour The Beach Boys and The California Myth (re-released as God Only Knows) 00:07:20 First Trip to LA…with Nelson Riddle and Frank Sinatra And there’s a Sinatra classic right in front of him David Leaf and the Twigs Getting a private concert from Frank Sinatra and had the thought: “this is where I want to be. What do I need to do to earn my spot in this room?” The BeeGees Jimmy Webb Herb Alpert The Reel Beatles Docs that Rock class by David Leaf 00:11:04 In college he became obsessed with Brian Wilson 00:11:50 The band for Brian’s 1999-2000 tour, Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE The band was devoted to recreating the moments 00:12:24 If you’re obsessed with Brian Wilson, why dont you do something about it Why don’t I move to California, meet Brian Wilson, and write a book about him and help him finish SMiLE My parents told me I was special, and I believed them. 00:13:58 Walked up to Dennis Wilson and told him he was going to write a book about his brother Lesson: Keep moving forward! 00:15:37 Brian and I were friends 00:16:33 Brian loved to do casual singing Singing along to the oldies with Brian Wilson Going to the Church of Brian Wilson 00:19:08 His musicians gave him the unconditional love he needed to play this music …and eventually release Smile Brian Wilson saw Wild Honey… “If I had this group back in the 1960s, I could have taken Smile on the road!” 00:22:47 The technical complexities of Brian Wilson’s harmonies Brian came from jazz 00:25:42 Brian Wilson’s relationship with Sir Paul McCartney When Pet Sounds came out, John and Paul told him how much they loved the album Recording Artists were Song Monkeys in the old days 00:29:08 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/giggab4 or use code giggab at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! 00:31:29 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at https://www.rula.com/giggab #rulapod 00:33:29 Brian Wilson singing Brian Wilson 00:38:45 Brian Wilson had initial confidence, and then it was beaten out of him 00:39:44 Managing The Pressure of First Fame Finally, Brian: “I have emotional security” Tips for Avoiding Internal Pressure 00:46:03 Meet The Reel Beatles, a 10-week class Guests: Peter Asher, Michael Lyndsay-Hogg, Peter Jackson 00:51:39 Paul McCartney is the world’s biggest Beatles Fan 00:53:36 Brian Wilson Brian Wilson And the Story of SMiLE David Leaf posits that Brian Wilson should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist 00:56:32 David’s Books SMiLE: The Rise fall and Ressurection of Brian Wilson The Beach Boys and the California Myth 00:57:58 The candor captured Brian Wilson, Live at The Roxy 01:00:59 Gig Gab 509 Outtro Find David Leaf At LeafProd.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Inside Brian Wilson, The Beach Boys, and The Beatles with David Leaf — Gig Gab 509 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You know that moment when a gig just clicks — when everyone on stage suddenly realizes it’s more than just a show? That’s where this episode starts. You’ll hear how saying “yes” to new gigs can lead to unexpected magic, how the right players bring out the best in each other, and why being open to unfamiliar styles can change everything. Then the conversation gets gloriously geeky as Dave Hamilton and guest co-host Daniel East dive into using Waves plugins live, connecting your Mac to a console via Dante, and why automixing is almost—but not quite—ready for primetime. From heart to hardware, it’s all about finding balance between feel and finesse. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 508 – Monday, November 17th, 2025 November 17th: Odd Socks Day Guest co-host: Daniel East 00:01:24 Playing with Brit Drozda Had lunch with a guitar player friend, and the gig came together! First gig, three songs in, and everyone knew it was more-than-just-a-gig 00:07:08 Lesson: take gigs even if it’s not your style Don’t say no because you don’t think it’s your style Don’t say no because you don’t (yet!) know the material You could be the missing piece of the puzzle that brings it to a completely different level 00:11:15 The magic that can just happen when the right people come together 00:14:24 Nerding out about drumsticks. Of course! Dan is now endorsing Headhunters Sticks Vic Firth 5B Double Glaze 00:23:02 Pitch Slap Percussion Cajons 00:26:03 SPONSOR: GigSalad. Always Be Performing means “Always Be Booking”, too. Head to GigSalad.com to create your free profile today! (and check out Gig Gab 482 with Mark Steiner from May, 2025, too!) 00:28:12 Waves plugins on any size gig…if you NEED it. Using a console with Dante, you can link via Ethernet to your MacBook Pro and use plugins Dan’s new favorite console: Yamaha DM3D ($2,000) console Waves Plugins to use when mixing live audio Waves SuperRack Performer ($99) Waves TRACT System Calibration ($399) Waves Feedback Hunter ($99.99) Waves Silk LIVE ($29.99) Waves F6 Dynamic EQ Waves L4 Maximizer ($49.99) Waves Primary Source Expander ($39.99) Waves Tune Real-Time ($49.99) Waves Clarix LB (what Dave SHOULD have tested in GG 508!) 01:10:06 Automixing is coming, folks! 01:11:16 Years ago, Robert Scovill taught Dan: pay attention. 01:12:35 Gig Gab 508 Outtro Find Daniel East DanielEast.net @eastd and @themixdoctor Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Live Music, Live Mix: The Magic and the Math — Gig Gab 508 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode, you’ll join Dave and returning guest co-host Adam Moskowitz, Chief Groove Officer of VAM Band, as they dive headfirst into the world of nanny tracks, first-gig chaos, and future-proofing your sound. From building tracks in Reaper to rehearsing smarter—not longer—you’ll learn how technology can help you bring your band’s best show to the stage fast. Then, it’s all about mindset: dealing with last-minute cancellations, navigating new players, and keeping your cool when the curveballs fly. Whether you’re warming up your voice with R.E.M. or re-negotiating pay on a sub gig, this episode reminds you that gigging is equal parts art, attitude, and adaptability. Keep your groove steady and—Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 507 – Monday, November 10th, 2025 November 10th: International Accounting Day Guest co-host: Adam Moskowitz, Chief Groove Officer of VAM Band 00:01:46 The Benefits of Nanny Tracks and Invisible Conductors Arrangement and Lyrics are the two big hurdles Nanny tracks can get you out of the rehearsal room FAST We play new songs at every show! 25 new songs in 2025 00:06:03 Playing a new song for the first time in front of a crowd 00:10:41 Building the backing tracks Download from Karaoke-Version and load into Reaper (Adam’s DAW of choice) Snap the audio to the “grid” using the click provided by Karaoke Version. Then set stretch markers at the beginning of each measure, so then I can stretch the tempo and everything stays in tune and in time 00:13:42 Filling in … with a blind drummer! A sub from six months ago called and asked Adam to sub in HIS band Negotiating the right pay to ensure you don’t lose money “The band didn’t provide a setlist…so I built one!” When subbing: check the band’s YouTube to see what keys they play in 00:20:40 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/giggab4 or use code giggab4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! 00:22:49 What’s your vocal warmup routine? Dave sings: R.E.M.’s Finest Worksong (twice) Optional: Spin Doctors “A Pocket Full Of Kryptonite” Adam does scales: “Men’s Vocal Warmup – 5 Minutes” 00:28:01 Create a pre-show ritual Warm up your brain, your body, and set your intentions Leave your baggage behind, focus on bringing joy and having fun 00:29:49 Avoiding Cancellations with a System Cover bands that operate like original bands: rare, and coveted! Not all bands can do that. 00:34:02 What happens with 24-hour notice when your singer cancels…and you have a brand-new drummer? Be like water…go with the flow! Using tracks as a supporting layer. 00:41:30 What are you trying to do with your band? Define your band’s intention. For Adam and VAM Band: create something that’s future-proof In VAM Band, you need to understand the value of playing the spaces 00:43:58 Learn what is best in an off-stage conversation (versus on-stage) The singer who said, “I hate playing this song” on stage doesn’t get re-hired Curating positive energy on stage 00:50:33 Setting the expectation with your bandmates up front gives you scalability If you tell people that not everyone is on every gig, then it’s easy! 00:57:00 Future-proofing like a Broadway show 00:58:56 Are we in the golden age of music Suno now allows you to upload audio and then create a cover version of the audio 01:08:14 Adam’s sound engineer gig tomorrow: six microphones, five hours, $900 Adam gets the sound gig by doing sound for his band 01:08:56 How to communicate your band’s sound to a FOH engineer How can I help you know our band? FOH engineers can drastically alter the way your band sounds Put band/sound crib notes on the stage plot 01:18:05 Gig Gab 507 Outtro Follow Adam Moskowitz @adammoskowitzmusic Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Tangents, Tracks, and Tenacity — Gig Gab 507 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this solo hang, you dig into the real tools that keep your sound clean and your gigs tight. You’ll learn how to tame noisy tracks with the Accusonus ERA bundle, Waves Clarity Vx, and iZotope RX, plus a few quick tricks from SoundDesk to make your mixes shine. Then it’s time to talk ears—Huberman-style—with magnesium and NAC tips for keeping your hearing sharp long-term. Because if you can’t hear it, you can’t play it. Listener questions hit everything from cleaning your old Ultimate Ears to handling last-minute gig cancellations, balancing bar shows with private gigs, and keeping your band’s calendar under control. You’ll even pick up some practical gig wisdom—like the right way to tie up cables and hoses. Finally, gear gets its due with reviews of the Alesis Turbo Max electronic kit and Dark Matter DMA6 custom IEMs, plus hot takes on the Roland DrumLink, D’Addario Backline backpack, Zoom Q2n-4K, and microphone troubleshooting. It’s all about sharpening your setup, your sound, and your mindset—because you know the rule: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 506 – Monday, November 3rd, 2025 November 3rd: National Sandwich Day Guest co-host: You! 00:02:29 Cleaning Up Audio Accusonus ERA Bundle V6.2 – https://matthiasott.com/notes/free-audio-plugins-accusonus-era-6-bundle Waves Clarity Vx – https://waves.alzt.net/OePdWK iZotope RX11 Voice De-noise – https://www.izotope.com/en/products/rx/features/voice-de-noise Waves NS1 – https://waves.alzt.net/4G4nqL SoundDesk 00:09:49 Hearing Health Huberman Hearing Health episode = Magnesium Glycinate + NAC for Dave. Sponsors 00:16:06 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro, which includes access to Claude Code, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab Listener Questions 00:19:08 Paul-How do I get my older pair of Ultimate Ears cleaned up? 00:21:28 Terry-A club canceled on me, where can I find a boilerplate booking contract to use? 00:24:51 Brian-Managing Band Member Availability 00:27:10 John-How do I balance bar gigs and private bookings? 00:32:49 Bill-Can you fold-tie extension cords or garden hoses, too? Gear Gab 00:36:09 Review: Alesis Turbo Max — All-In-One Beginner Electronic Drum Kit Launches Today 00:40:00 Review: Dave’s new Dark Matter DMA6 BA 6 Custom IEMs Gear Gab (and tech help) 00:48:41 Lane-CSF-D’Addario Backline Gig Backpacks – https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0821Q4BT3/giggab-20 00:50:54 Roland DrumLink Wireless System – https://www.roland.com/global/promos/drumlink/ 00:52:13 Pat-CSF-Zoom Q2n-4K video recorder – https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B07K114TFB/giggab-20 00:53:44 Andy-492-Telefunken M80 Troubleshooting for that low-volume singer 00:57:41 Gig Gab 506 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Sound Better, Gig Smarter: Tools, Tips, and Gear That Work — Gig Gab 506 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week, you’re sitting down with funk legend James “Diamond” Williams from The Ohio Players! From his jazz roots and early gigs at age 14 to shaping the groove of “Love Rollercoaster” and “Fire,” Diamond shares how precision, persistence, and passion built one of the most iconic sounds in funk. You’ll hear stories of wild recording schedules, late-night gigs, and the unforgettable moment Stevie Wonder first heard “Fire.” Through it all, Diamond reminds you that love—and music—is truly a rollercoaster. Diamond also talks about what it takes to keep a band together, why preparation is everything, and how to push your career forward when no one else will. His message? Stay seated, stay belted, and enjoy the ride. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 505 – Monday, October 27th, 2025 October 27th: National Black Cat Day Guest co-host: James “Diamond” Williams 00:03:35 Syncopated grooves Jazz labs with his Dad Gigging with jazz standards at 14 years old All-City orchestra Miami University Marching band Drum and Bugle Corps All those influences 00:05:38 How did the drum fill intro for “I Want to Be Free” come together 00:10:16 Love Rollercoaster was an intentional pop hit BTO was the “hit” band with Mercury when Ohio Players signed Ohio Players told Mercury: “We need nothing from you but your money.” Came in with a gold 45 and left with a Platinum album 00:14:08 Crazy recording schedule Playing at the Red Onion in Buffalo, NY at night while recording in Chicago during the day They set a goal: “Let’s write three platinum albums in a row.” 00:16:01 Stevie Wonder hears “Fire” for the first time Sponsors 00:19:37 SPONSOR: GigSalad. Always Be Performing means “Always Be Booking”, too. Head to GigSalad.com to create your free profile today! (and check out Gig Gab 482 with Mark Steiner from May, 2025, too!) 00:21:12 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/giggab4 or use code giggab4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! 00:22:42 “I Want To Be Free” – Midnight Special viral clip on Instagram Bands covering Red Hot Chili Peppers cover Love Rollercoaster D’Angelo Tupac 00:24:47 The Ohio Players and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame induction 00:28:42 Keep pushing for your career… you are your best advocate 00:32:42 Balancing strong personalities within a band Advice: Never stop! Ohio Players were a band 24/7 Rehearsed five days a week Hearing “Me & Mrs. Jones” everywhere when starting on tour …and hearing “Skin Tight” the same way 00:37:43 It comes back to preparation! Diamond’s Father’s Lessons 00:39:00 What transpired between Funky Worm (gold 45) and Skin Tight (Platinum album)? The musicality Billy Beck and Diamond Sugarfoot was always Sugarfoot: “he never came offstage” 00:43:28 Touring with technology decades ago 00:45:24 Diamonds life advice: love is actually a rollercoaster Stay seated and belted, and enjoy the ride. Stay diligent, faithful, and positive. 00:47:16 Gig Gab 505 Outtro Follow Diamond at The Ohio Players Ohio Players Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Laughs, Life, and Lessons with James “Diamond” Williams from The Ohio Players – Gig Gab 505 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Mike Schulte returns to Gig Gab for a deep dive into the conversations that make bands stronger. You’ll explore how band summits—those intentional moments to step away from gigs and just talk—can reset your focus, rebuild trust, and make your group operate like a real team. From redefining what success looks like to refining how you plan your shows, this episode challenges you to look beyond the stage and invest in the relationships that keep your music alive. You’ll also dig into the systems that make the difference between chaos and consistency: smarter scheduling, simplified setups, and knowing when to say “no” so your band can keep saying “yes” to the right gigs. Whether you’re touring every weekend or just playing local spots, this is the blueprint for staying connected, staying efficient, and, above all, staying true to the Gig Gab mantra—Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 504 – Monday, October 20th, 2025 October 20th: World Statistics Day Guest co-host: Mike Schulte A moment of self-congratulations Skylar’s on TikTok! 00:05:19 Pork Tornadoes had a packed summer…again! Averaged 8 gigs per month from May to September 9 Shows in September, 11 in July Started off as a bar band 18 years ago…now it’s a machine with employees Each gig starts with $3,500 in fixed cost expenses and becomes a money machine 00:07:34 Making the internal decisions to set yourself up for future success Learning your limits (three shows in a row for Pork Tornadoes) Taking your contracted set time down (from 4 hours to 2 hours) Rotating your setlist for every show…”you didn’t hear your favorite song tonight, come to the next show” Training your crew so that you can arrive 30 minutes before soundcheck, and leave right after the encore No more sharing hotel rooms. Each band member gets their own room. Keeps people healthier…and happier! Simplifying our rig so that we can show up and play Using Ethernet-based snakes like CAT-SASS 00:18:47 Building out your in-ears rack with intention Gear Gab: Pork Tornadoes using the Midas DL251 Blue Box Rack Mix with some drum overheads…you might find you like it! 00:23:14 Schedule a band summit Discuss your goals Just hang out, let the discussions happen Be together, no gigs, no soundchecks, just a band retreat. This is how you level up with intention. 00:28:06 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro, which includes access to Claude Code, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:29:49 SPONSOR: Square – See what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods, and then visit square.com/go/giggab 00:31:14 Gear Gab: Get the best kick drum sound you can with mics in the right place May Turbo Kick May Monorail 00:36:08 What happens when your band is pivotal to an event that is bigger than you? Canceling the band means no one attends, no one gets to sell food, no merch, the fans who bought hotel rooms, etc 00:38:50 What are the options when a band member needs to cancel? Have a deep roster of musicians (the Adam Moskowitz/VAM Band way) Recording yourselves so you can bring in a missing member’s tracks Canceling the entire gig (bad!) 00:53:32 What’s worse? Lip syncing, or canceling a gig? 00:54:32 What is the benefit of telling people about problems on stage? When is it right to acknowledge it? When is it best to pretend everything is A-OK? 00:58:07 Gig Gab 504 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Beyond The Stage: How Band Summits Change Everything – Gig Gab 504 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re diving into the power of persistence and adaptability in this episode of Gig Gab with guest co-host Steve Witschel. From building and moderating a 132,000-member Cover Band Central group to navigating Facebook’s monetization chaos with the nearly-1,000,000-member Facebook page, Steve shares how he transformed challenges into content gold. You’ll learn how he separates community-driven interaction in the group from content curation on the page—and how both have become invaluable tools. If you’re not treating your Facebook group like an encyclopedia, you’re missing out. It’s not just about posts, it’s about presence. Steve walks you through using AI tools like Sora to streamline video creation and embraces the idea of turning everyday gig life into engaging fan-building content. Whether it’s filming someone lugging gear or crafting posts that stir emotions, your goal is to create superfans between shows. And yes, Rush is back on tour with Anika Nilles on drums—Steve’s take? She’s approaching it like a seasoned cover band pro. Dave’s take? You gotta listen to hear it straight from the source! Through it all, you’re reminded: embrace failure, evolve with tech, and above all… Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 503 – Monday, October 13th, 2025 October 13th: International Day for Failure Guest co-host: Steve Witschel 00:03:59 Growing Cover Band Central Dave’s Business Brain podcast Handling the group differently than the page The group has the audience provide the comment. The page is Steve provide the content 00:05:49 Moderating the Cover Band Central group of 132,000 members Setting the group private and setting post approval 00:10:48 Searching the group is an encyclopedia of information 00:12:09 Publishing the Cover Band Central page Meta invited the page to a bonus program – Steve decided it was time to publish original content Drummer jokes! 00:14:26 Rehearsing Thriller…and Human Nature, especially 00:18:34 Locking in with other musicians Steve, the bass player: “I am the drums” Learning about being locked-in from watching Dio and Dokken in 1988 Monetizing the group or page? 00:23:53 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:25:58 Making money from the Facebook group The Facebook BreakthroughBonus program Getting dinged for Facebook’s community standards (with no information) Facebook’s Content Monetization Program 00:29:33 Time to Make Videos 00:30:25 Getting clients to advertise on Facebook Selling an ad, and then buying Facebook ads to serve that on his page 00:35:08 Using AI as a work Assistant Technology advances, and you have to roll with it! Embrace change, folks. AI is a reliable assistant (with questionable accuracy!) Using AI like Sora to Create Videos 00:40:05 Using AI to Generate Content Spotify’s popular AI generated band: The Velvet Sundown 00:42:31 Steve Witschel’s book, Get ‘Em to the Show: How to Beat the Facebook Algorithm and Successfully Promote Your Gigs Online Debunking some myths Overposting is good! Using Buffer to post on your page Jack Mccarthy says “It’s not a movie, it’s a parade. Not everyone sees every post.” Cater to people’s emotions Could be sad, mad, happy, funny, but it has to be SOMETHING. Celebrate your failures in public, for example. Create your own holiday! Create superfans by sharing content in between your gigs The Internet is easier than Postcards and Flyers! Film someone carrying gear into the gig Film some minutiae back stage 00:53:45 Rush is touring in 2026. What are your thoughts? Rush Fifty Something Tour Neil Peart passed in 2020 Anika Nilles is joining Rush for their 2026 tour Celebrating the music of Rush with the fans Steve’s take: Anika is coming in and playing the parts like she’s in a cover band Dave might go to most of the shows. For Dave’s midlife crisis: “I don’t want a Ferrari, I want a Red Barchetta.” Steve might go to Madison Square Garden 01:12:55 Gig Gab 503 Outtro Follow Steve Witschel Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Power of the Page: Inside Cover Band Central’s Massive Reach — Gig Gab 503 with Steve Witschel appeared first on Gig Gab.

Justin Scheidling takes us inside a day in the life of a touring tech, supporting the bands of Stephen Kramer Glickman and Katelyn Tarver on the Big Time Rush tour, from load-in to bus call. From labeling every cable and packing “JustInCase” bags to handling the curveballs of show days, you get the raw look at how a pro keeps the gig rolling. You’ll hear how gear obsession became the gateway to teching, what it’s like to set up drums straight off the truck, and why even a $3,000 gig has the same headaches as a $300 one. And yes, rain still finds its way to the PA. Through it all, Justin proves that the secret to surviving the road is simple: Always Be Performing. But this isn’t just about tech work! It’s about career lessons you can steal borrow for your own gigs. You’ll learn why making yourself known by being helpful pays off, how meeting everyone opens doors, and how DJ percussion gigs and Blue Man Group tricks turned into a show-stopping side hustle. From backstage at Meadowbrook’s rock-star pool party to 3am bus calls, Justin makes it clear that every step of the grind adds to the craft. No matter the role—tech, player, or bandleader—you’re building skills that take you further on stage and off. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 502 – Monday, October 6th, 2025 October 6th: National Mad Hatter Day Guest co-hosts: Justin Scheidling 00:02:50 First time nationwide drum tech! Gear Acquisition Syndrome is real… and it helps set you up to become a drum tech! Buddy Gibbons says.. “So… I need a tech!” The job expands: Can you also work on guitars…and pianos? 00:05:40 Remembering the view of an outsider Player first…but I run my own bands 00:07:53 What’s in your “JustInCase” Labeling is important! MakeItStay Bag MakeItMove Bag 00:11:21 I want everyone on this tour to know who I am. Do that by being helpful 00:13:00 Are my toolboxes going to make it on the plane? 00:14:33 Gig Anxiety Fueled by experiences Don’t plug the PA in with the refrigerator A little bit extra…with Justin! 00:18:38 SPONSOR: GigSalad. Always Be Performing means “Always Be Booking”, too. Head to GigSalad.com to create your free profile today! (and check out Gig Gab 482 with Mark Steiner from May, 2025, too!) 00:20:00 Show day as a drum tech Walk the stage Drums are still in “the attic” The day could go one of two ways: If room at the venue, we could set up the drums behind the stage and roll them out (and back) Otherwise we’d have to build on stage “We wanna help break down!” 00:27:50 “No matter what your gig is, every gig has b******t.” — Syndee Winters  A $300 gig has its level of BS A $3000 gig has its level of BS The multi-million-dollar production of Hamilton ALSO has it’s multi-million dollar production of B******t. A new Gig Gab adage: When there’s rain…the water always hits the PA. Beware water and power…they don’t mix! 00:33:52 No matter what the gig is, learn everything you can learn What can I apply to my show at home? How can I further my career? What redundancies can I learn to apply to my gigs? 00:34:44 Advice to Justin from Trevor Lawrence, Jr., Drummer with Herbie Hancock “Talk to everyone!” “Find your favorite musicians and talk to them.” Justin immediately reached out to: Kenny Aronoff & Buddy Giggons 00:41:57 You never know who you’re gonna meet And make sure you meet everyone. 00:43:03 Back to the day of touring… Soundcheck happens and it’s tweaking and troubleshooting time Then mealbreak 00:48:13 Meadowbrook in Gilford, NH, the Ultimate Venue Gilford is the backstage party that people think it is. Couches and TVs, heated pool, open bar, and video monitors to watch Pedal bikes and merch! “I would vacation there every day if I could!” Recover kits with Advil and Liquid IV LAUNDRY! RJ & Bridget Harding really have created a wonderful thing 00:51:29 Ten minutes to showtime Last-minute checks 00:54:32 Teardown This needs to happen fast “If I think I have some time, it’s never gonna make it.” Changing drumheads post-show 00:57:50 Then bus call… at 3am On the road by 4am Bunks on the bus 00:59:59 Downtime is Unpredictable Deadtime 01:01:59 Justin’s Gigging Schedule Go Rogue is Justin’s new band The Current is Justin’s backing band that he created to backup other Justin does DJ Percussion (formerly “Party Percussion”) DJs are also musician “Herbie Hancock invented hip hop with scratching” — Justin Scheidling 01:06:23 Learning to be a Party/DJ Percussionist Adapted Blue Man Group stuff, stick twirls, standing drums, percussion…all making the show! 01:08:53 It’s always a show! Every little thing comes from a lesson learned! I have the best job ever! 01:11:30 Gig Gab 502 Outtro Follow Justin Scheidling JustinScheidling.com @JustinScheidling on IG Follow and Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post From Load-In to Bus Call: A Tech’s Life on the Big Time Rush Tour with Stephen Kramer Glickman — Gig Gab 502 with Justin Scheidling appeared first on Gig Gab.

Jack McCarthy joins you on Gig Gab to dig into the real business of music, how to grow attention, capture it, and convert it into lasting fan relationships. You’ll learn why the right material works, how to transform inspiration into your own content, and why audio quality matters less than energy when you’re trying to make fans say, “who is this band?” It’s about creating cultural moments, fueling FOMO, and turning one-time listeners into repeat buyers. This is where “Always Be Performing” extends beyond the stage into every piece of marketing you share. From building email and SMS lists to flattening the revenue rollercoaster with calendars and consistent outreach, you’ll see how indie artists can move from surviving to thriving. Jack and Dave walk through practical strategies like dissecting viral hits, harnessing UGC, and even using AI to smash blank page syndrome. You’ll hear why you’re probably not being “salesy” enough, and how treating your marketing as another form of performance makes it feel authentic, not forced. If you’re ready to stand out in a noisy world, this episode shows you how. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 501 – Monday, September 29th, 2025 September 29th: National Silent Movie Day Guest co-host: Jack McCarthy from Indepreneur & their Creative Juice Podcast 00:02:35 Let’s talk Business of music 00:03:04 Indepreneur – Music Marketing Education Monetizing a fanbase Coaching artists IndieX – an agency working 1-on-1 with artists 00:04:42 Start gathering attention You need to start growing a critical mass 00:05:51 Once you have attention you need to capture that in a number of different ways 00:06:40 Converting attention into a next step Audience into an email or SMS list Or getting someone to buy from you the first time (tickets, merch) Buying from you again (Patreon) 00:08:09 To gain attention: pay attention to the types of videos that capture your attention Clickbait is effective for a reason! Apply the same ideas to the stuff that you make Emulate and morph it into something 00:10:15 Learn other peoples stuff… then learn FROM other people’s stuff Eventually you have something that is yours 00:12:25 Coaching people through creating their first posts So much of it involves working to “get the suck out of it” Learn what makes you… you! “I would love to make a video like that” Story of when Dave almost got crushed by a monitor tower 00:15:44 Should we always be filming? Capture as much as you can while you’re working (performing, songwriting) 00:17:33 Audio quality is better than video quality But there is the definition of “good enough” Energy matters most. Make people ask, “who is this band?” Create FOMO for people to come to your SHOW 00:20:06 Creating cultural moments Make people ask, “what is that?” “who is that?” “how can I be there next time?” 00:22:52 Creating User Generated Content-style channels for your own band 00:25:29 Dissecting Oasis’s creation of cultural moments 00:27:33 SPONSOR: Square – See what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods, and then visit square.com/go/giggab 00:28:51 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro, which includes access to Claude Code, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:30:46 Jack McCarthy, the musician Creatives struggle the idea of marketing themselves. Am I being too salesy or cheesy? What am I sacrificing? Answer: you’re not being salesy enough! Always be performing means you can perform with your marketing, too 00:36:19 Digging into the Billboard Hot 100’s Email Marketing You probably aren’t sending enough email to your list. Creative Juice Podcast about the Email Marketing of the Billboard Hot 100 00:41:04 You are not competing against your competitors, you’re competing with everything else in the lives of your fans (family, job, etc) People get distracted by life 00:42:20 Posting one time is not enough – no one sees and digests everything you post Gig Gab with Jan Hammer goes viral every time 00:44:45 Get the content right first, THEN plug it into the advertising machine Small Town Titans cover of “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” went viral… every time. Then advertise your viral content! Be content first, then you have an asset that you can use on different platforms and different places 00:48:32 Start selling to your fans Give them something for free in exchange for their contact information 00:49:30 Flatten the Revenue Rollercoaster Build a content calendar Build a sales promotion calendar 00:51:46 Using AI to come up with ideas…and more? Building internal workflows with agentic AI with tools like N8N Copywriting Brainstorming partner Using it as a sounding board AI greatly diminishes blank page syndrome 00:55:09 Using Suno to write songs Creative Juice episode on the legal concerns with Suno and Coding with AI is a game-changers 00:59:20 Look to the videos that inspire you, take cues from them, and then use that to pull your potential fans in If you’ve already got an audience and wants to create sticky fans, come up with something to offer them (something you can sell, a record, early access, anything that lets them go a little bit deeper into your world) 01:01:09 Gig Gab 501 Outtro Follow Jack McCarthy Indepreneur.io and IndeX Follow Creative Juice Podcast Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Indie Music Mastery: Marketing, Email, and AI with Jack McCarthy — Gig Gab 501 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Celebrating 500 episodes, you’re right in the middle of a musician’s playground with Dave, Mike Schulte, and Skylar Hamilton. You’ll hear how Skylar picked up the sticks to ace a school audition, why guitar lessons with Dad flopped, and what it takes to manage intensity behind the kit, especially as the decades wear on. From Clem Burke’s calorie-burning groove to the strange question of why drums wear covers, you’re reminded that rhythm is equal parts sweat, curiosity, and craft. Always Be Performing, whether it’s a practice room breakthrough or chasing the perfect sound on stage. The crew also dives into their favorite past episodes—Jan Hammer, Kenny Aronoff, and the time Dave encountered the perfect microphone in the middle of the woods. They break down the stats of 500 shows, debate cable-wrapping controversies, and swap dream guest lists ranging from Geddy Lee to Joe Jonas. It’s a candid look at what keeps Gig Gab thriving: learning from everyone, laughing at quirks, and spotlighting the passion that fuels musicians (and drummers!) alike. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 500 – Monday, September 22nd, 2025 September 22nd: National Family Day Guest co-hosts: Mike Schulte, and Skylar Hamilton 00:05:00 How did Skylar come to play drums? Dad, I need you to teach me how to play the drums so I can pass an audition for the school band “I knew my dad was cool.” Daddy/daughter guitar lessons were a spectacular failure, but we approached drums differently…and succeeded! 00:14:30 Daddy, why is there a cover on your drums? 00:15:41 Re-learning our intensity levels as drummers Keeping Clem Burke burned 800 calories per hour drumming 00:19:02 What are your favorite episodes? Jan Hammer on Gig Gab Kenny Aronoff on Gig Gab Propofol Airlines on Gig Gab 25:00 Four Chords and The Truth Tom Petty Tribute on Gig Gab Pork Tornadoes Viral Video with Tennesee Whiskey 00:31:55 SPONSOR: Square – See what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods, and then visit square.com/go/giggab 00:33:24 PODCAST: Takin’ a Walk with Buzz Knight explores the insights from guests about musicians, bands, and the music they create. 00:34:47 500 Episodes…The STATS! 420 hours, 2 minutes, 27 seconds (through ep499) Longest confirmed: Gig Gab 498 from September 8, 2025– “Always Be Recording…with Brad Madix” at 1:33:05 Shortest confirmed: Gig Gab 312 from July 12, 2021 – “The Ever Elusive “Great Sound”” at 24:42 00:36:37 …and Dave Friesema listened to all of it! Earthworks SV33…and then the Earthworks ETHOS 00:42:36 Gig Gab Controversy: WRAP YOUR CABLES LIKE FOLDING SHEETS Lowell Cross OG Recording Studio Engineers 00:49:32 Interviewing people is about the interviewER, too. 00:53:03 What are Skylar’s favorite episodes Chinner Winstead on Gig Gab Bakithi Kumalo on Gig Gab 00:55:59 Dream Guest Co-Hosts Geddy Lee Alex Lifeson Noel Gallagher Liam Gallagher Joe Jonas 01:04:08 Trying not to fangirl 01:05:55 Gig Gab 500 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Calories, Controversies, and Connections — 500 Episodes Later — Gig Gab 500 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, you’ll dive into the wild, creative energy of Stu Dias, creator of Diaspora Radio, co-founder of Soggy Po Boys, and more, sitting in with Dave Hamilton. You’ll hear how albums, once carefully crafted statements, inspired Stu’s pandemic-born project to breathe new life into full-length records on stage. From Taylor Swift’s track order to Pink Floyd’s legendary flow, the talk turns to interpretation: should songs always evolve, or do they need their “rockin’ version” first, like Layla? Add in some debate over encores, the Sea Turtle attitude toward music scenes, and whether musicians actually want to see more bands on their night off, and you’ve got a ride that feels as lively as a late-night set. The conversation moves into the grit of band dynamics…knowing when you’re the engine and when you’re the fuel, handling GB gigs without losing your soul, and making sure new people feel welcome in the scene. Stu and Dave dig into rhythm, habit, and the beauty of live art that’s gone the second it happens; ephemeral, like sea turtles drifting by. You’ll explore the 80% Rule, the risks of saying no too often, and what it really means to keep people calling. Along the way: George Clinton, Funkadelic, and the reminder that what you play matters far less than how you make people feel. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 499 – Monday, September 15th, 2025 September 8th: National Linguine Day Guest co-host: Stu Dias from Diaspora Radio, Soggy Po Boys, and More 00:03:35 Diaspora Radio came from Pandemic Thoughts Sitting in the car with a buddy listening to albums… why not play them live? People used to put a lot of time and care and passion into construction an album Does that still happen? Does Taylor Swift care about running order? Pink Floyd did. And so did other artists. And such… Diaspora Radio was born 00:09:19 No encores… Except Lovelight with American Beauty 00:10:54 Band negotiations over songs Should you do a different interpretation? Layla’s second life as an acoustic version…but would it have happened without the original, rockin’ version first? 00:15:36 When you gig and have a night off… do you want to go see another band in another club? 00:16:08 Having a Sea Turtle attitude to approaching music Every scene is different 00:21:45 Forming different bands for different projects Each group of people have different strengths 00:23:54 Comparing New Hampshire seacoast to the New Orleans traditional jazz scene The word “band” means a different thing Sponsors 00:25:40 SPONSOR: Gig Performer is a plugin host, an audio mixer, a backing tracks player, and more that gives you real-time control…live. Visit GigPerformer.com/GigGab for 10% off. 00:27:40 SPONSOR: GigSalad. Always Be Performing means “Always Be Booking”, too. Head to GigSalad.com to create your free profile today! 00:29:02 The shame of playing cover music in the wrong scene Playing GB (aka General Business) gigs Don’t break up the band! 00:41:48 Taking a good scenario for granted 00:44:46 Understanding when you’re the engine and when you’re the fuel Dave Bang Drum Learning to be the fuel to serve the engines of your band 00:50:19 Bringing new people into the scene And supporting those new people! 00:53:30 The 80% Rule from Business Brain 00:58:11 What happens when you say “no” too many times in a row? People stop calling. And then you get in your head. Did I upset them? 01:02:23 On Stu leaving the Soggy Po’ Boys Being a creature of habit in rhythm 01:05:01 Don’t Think, Just Concentrate 01:06:34 The ephemeral beauty of live art “What are you gonna do? Go Back In time and change it? You’re in the future, man.” Ephemeral Sea Turtles 01:10:43 What drummer influenced Dave the most? 01:13:57 What musician would Dave want to see if he could go back in time? 01:17:45 Check out George Clinton’s work today Stu: favorite band is Funkadelic 01:18:16 What made Stu wanna play guitar? What you play doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is what you make people feel. 01:23:43 What artist would Stu wanna see? 01:26:06 Gig Gab 499 Outtro Follow Stu Dias DiasporaRadio.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Stu Dias and The Ephemeral Sea Turtles — Gig Gab 499 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re revolutionizing live audio in ways that seemed impossible just a few years ago. Brad Madix joins Dave Hamilton to break down how you can now mix a 186-channel concert in ATMOS from thousands of miles away with only 125ms latency, using nothing more than the public internet and cloud services. Whether you’re handling a seven-minute festival changeover with 256 live channels or capturing audience ambiance with DPA 5100 surround mics, the technology exists to stream professional-quality audio anywhere. The game-changer? REMI (Remote Integration Model) eliminates the need for massive OB trucks by letting you send a simple box that plugs into the internet and streams everything to your remote mixing suite. Your mixing philosophy matters as much as your technical setup, thought, so remember to Always Be Performing by keeping your eyes up and watching the actual show instead of staying glued to your console. When someone complains “it’s too loud,” they usually mean the vocals aren’t cutting through the mix—a psychoacoustic principle that separates amateur from professional engineers. Document everything your band does, mix the first song in your mind before showtime, and understand that live music’s ephemeral nature means some magical moments will never be captured again. As AI tools like Suno emerge for songwriting, they’ll likely serve as assistants rather than replacements, but the human touch remains essential for reading the room and adapting to those unexpected MIDI malfunctions that can threaten to derail even legendary acts like Rush. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 498 – Monday, September 8th, 2025 September 8th: National Ampersand Day Guest co-host: Brad Madix 00:02:10 Mixing FOH this for Florence and The Machine Festival NAPA Valley 00:03:18 Recorded the Ozzy / Sabbath concert in Birmingham First, rehearsals in Redditch – Fly By Nite MADI from Bands Elgato Stream Deck 00:07:23 Doing a Seven Minute Changeover Total of 256 live channels of inputs 3 sets of 64 channels of analog inputs 32 audience mics, plus presenters mics, plus a DJ, etc And then the band on stage 00:10:44 What is MADI? Most live consoles allow a MADI output (some via add-on connector) The Rival Suns at Ozzy / Sabbath in Birmingham sent pre-mixed drums, etc Using DPA 5100 Mobile Surround 5.1 microphones for audience capture Brad and team were submixing the live audience mics 00:22:29 Live Music is Ephemeral Some things don’t get recorded Robert Scovill’s Back Lounge 00:26:38 Document everything your band does 00:28:44 Rush felt like it was important to have something “in the can” 00:30:56 SPONSOR: Claude.ai – Ready to tackle bigger problems? Sign up for Claude today and get 50% off Claude Pro, which includes access to Claude Code, when you visit Claude.ai/giggab 00:32:53 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:34:20 Time for REMI – Remote Integration Model for Live Broadcast Normal/big money broadcast would roll an OB Truck – 53 foot long trailer with a video switching system, producer calling the shots, audio mixing suite, everything. REMI uses the internet to stream signal to a remote suite IMAG for video. 00:41:42 New model: Send a box, plug it into the internet, done. Why can’t you stream a live concert the same way you stream live sports? Swatch Internet Time 00:45:18 Time for some testing A new year’s eve show as a proof of concept 186 channels of 48kHz remotely from Atlanta to Philadelphia and mixed the show in ATMOS Only 125ms of latency. 4K Video 00:48:22 Avoiding sync-based digital distortion/clicking RX 11 Voice De-Noise 00:52:53 Delay by Distance… an explanation 00:54:31 Mixing Remotely Hamilton (in New York) was mixed from Australia Clair Global Audio Done on the public internet using Amazon Web Services 01:01:06 Mixing live remotely? 01:02:52 Could AI mix a show? Suno AI for writing songs 01:09:32 AI as an assistant engineer, not a replacement? 01:11:48 As a live engineer, make sure you watch the show. Get your eyes up. Step away from the desk. It sounds different. 01:15:04 Before the show, mix the first song in your mind 01:18:56 Rush Story: Subdivisions… first song of the show. MIDI malfunctions, keyboard stops. 01:24:20 Dissecting Psychoacoustics “It’s Too Loud” often means “vocals aren’t loud enough” 01:25:29 Story time with (Brad and Dave) You’ll have to listen to hear these! 01:30:35 Gig Gab 498 Outtro Follow Brad Madix Diablo Digital Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Always Be Recording…with Brad Madix — Gig Gab 498 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Keith Murray from We Are Scientists joins you this week for a sharp, hilarious, and revealing ride. From joking about being background extras in cult films to the story of meeting Chris Cain at a Dawson’s Creek viewing party, you’re reminded that sometimes saying yes to everything really can lead to magic. Keith reflects on 20 years of With Love and Squalor, the way nostalgia feels different than expected, and how the band has thrived through bullheaded persistence and genuine friendship. Along the way, you’ll hear about balancing rock with comedy, learning when to bail, and embracing the butterfly-of-chaos moments that turn near-disaster into beauty. You’ll also get insights into the We Are Scientists ethos and how building fan connection went far beyond music, from early multimedia websites to zines and weird videos that built a “true fans” culture before it was cool. Touring is still about competing with people’s couches, but the band’s vibe keeps fans engaged like they’re part of the hang. The big takeaway? Whether you’re on stage, creating content, or just navigating the chaos, the key is to Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 497 – Monday, September 1st, 2025 Guest co-host: Keith Murray from We Are Scientists 00:01:18 It’s It’s Qualifying Miles…not Qualifying Minds 00:02:20 September 1st: National No Rhyme Nor Reason Day 00:03:36 Wanting to be a background player in a Final Destination film, or the Anaconda series Butterfly of Chaos 00:06:51 Seeing Oasis in Toronto…Separately! Deciding Not To Find Things Objectionable 00:13:18 We Are Scientists at Emo’s with Bill Murray in 2010 00:20:18 Qualifying Miles, the new album It’s more about wondering why I’m not more nostalgic? It’s been 20 years since With Love and Squalor came out Revisiting those moments from the past…but noticing that they matter less than we anticipated 00:25:00 Chris Cain and Keith met at a 1997 Dawson’s Creek viewing party Pomona College in California Say yes to everything 00:29:14 On being part rock band, part comedy act 00:35:56 Is the crowd rooting for you, or scrutinizing you? 00:39:46 At the Precipice of Disaster but Delivering Beauty like a Butterfly of Chaos 00:42:45 Knowing when to bail 00:44:04 Why is We Are Scientists successful after 20 years (and counting)? One reason…Bullheaded persistence: we still want to be doing this! We are still best friends. We still would be hanging out regardless of the band. Another… the vibe of WAS is pretty good. Our fans feel like they’re doing things with friends. 00:48:05 How do you engage with your fans between shows? Even in 2002, the website was not all about music. It had fiction writing, weird videos The website was a media concern built to be serving their “true fans” 00:52:34 The Twin Town Gazette: Chris and Keith Dave Eggers – MacSweeney’s We Are Scientists have always been a multimedia concern…even before the band was formed 00:57:52 Getting meta: discussing interview styles 01:02:12 We Are Scientists on Tour in US, Canada, and UK this fall Competing with the couch! 01:05:41 Gig Gab 497 Outtro Follow We Are Scientists IG: @wearescientists Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Keith Murray on The Chaos, Comedy, and Heart Behind We Are Scientists — Gig Gab 497 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week, you’ll hear how Paul Kent is clocking an impressive 160 gigs this year while navigating the realities of new bands, new towns, and the politics of live music scenes. From the sting of finding out your band might replace you, to turning that around with a “sub for a sub” mindset, Paul shares what it’s like to balance loyalty, opportunity, and staying sharp on stage. You’ll get a peek into the 27-year run of The Houserockers, tackling shows without a co-lead singer, and the ever-present “it’s my calendar” problem every working musician knows too well. Dave and Paul dig into why a full band creates better music, the importance of subs in keeping the show alive, and even prepping for difficult productions. This sparks a deep dive into the question every musician should answer: what is your brand? Whether you’re juggling hundreds of gigs or building your scene from scratch, the takeaway is clear: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 496 – Monday, August 25th, 2025 August 25th: International Banana Split Day (also Gene Simmons and Billy Ray Cyrus’s Birthdays!) Guest co-host: Paul Kent 00:02:40 160 Gigs this year for Paul! 00:05:06 Wait…who is Paul Kent? 00:09:00 Starting anew with a new band in a new place is… tough! Scenes are a thing…and there’s regionality to it! What happens when your band wants to replace you…some of the time? It’s never fun to find out that your band is plotting without you. Effectively: “If you’re going to sub me out, I have to sub you out, too.” 00:19:32 Paul’s band, The Houserockers, are in their 27th year! 00:20:19 Doing gigs without your co-leadsinger Stinkfoot Orchestra, Nick’s Zappa tribute 00:25:55 The “it’s my calendar” problem 00:29:00 SPONSOR: GigSalad. Always Be Performing means “Always Be Booking”, too. Head to GigSalad.com to create your free profile today! 00:30:25 SPONSOR: Gig Performer is a plugin host, an audio mixer, a backing tracks player, and more that gives you real-time control…live. Visit GigPerformer.com/GigGab for 10% off. 00:32:16 A Band Makes For Better Music Adam Moskowitz on Gig Gab 00:43:53 Prepping for Taylor Swift 00:46:15 Subs are important to making the show happen 00:47:14 Dave Friesema listened to … every episode of Gig Gab ever… and had some thoughts! 00:49:06 What is your brand? 00:50:40 Gig Gab 494 Outtro Follow Paul Kent Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post When Your Band Replaces You… and How to Replace Them Back — Gig Gab 496 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re in the room with The Coffis Brothers this week as Jamie and Kellen sit down with Dave to unpack the art of keeping a band tight—musically, emotionally, and logistically. From maintaining long-term chemistry with the same players to writing songs that leave space for bandmates to shape the vibe, you’ll hear how collaboration fuels creativity. Drummers, take note: the groove is the feel, and every quirky idea deserves a spin. The secret? Try everything, trust each other, and Always Be Performing. Whether you’re wrangling song credits or managing egos, this episode dives into what makes a band work. You’ll get insights on touring tech tips (hello, splitter snake), surviving soundchecks with new FOH engineers, and the power of being kind to everyone—from the club staff to the crowd. The three guys share thoughts on navigating click tracks, choosing covers as an originals band, and how AI might fit into it all (or…not?). It’s a masterclass in band dynamics—fun, honest, and full of stories that’ll stick with you, just like those hooks The Coffis Brothers write! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 495 – Monday, August 18th, 2025 August 18th: National Ice Cream Pie Day Guest co-hosts: Jamie & Kellen Coffis, The Coffis Brothers! Originally on Gig Gab 46! 00:03:23 Maintaining the same band for as long as you can The comfort level of having the same people in the band 00:05:52 Writing songs and bringing them into the band You write a song and bring the skeleton to the band You’re writing for a band The band very much informs my sensibilities in how I write, even when they’re not in the room 00:10:14 Navigating the drum parts as a songwriter The drums are the thing that can define the feel of the song 00:13:08 As a drummer, do you experiment with simplicity … or complexity? The drummer winds up trying everyone else’s crazy ideas…and sometimes they work 00:18:40 In the songwriting process, you’ve gotta try every idea and do it with conviction! Getting confirmation bias out of it “Everyone needs to be empowered to get to the place where they’re playing with that shared joy” 00:21:12 A band is a team You gotta make a few passes before you take that big shot Wait for the opportunity, don’t force it 00:23:47 Balancing credit so the public doesn’t pull you apart Bands who famously publicly-shared credit to avoid battles: Beatles, REM, Rush, more? It needs to be fun for everyone! Let everyone have their voice. 00:25:48 Someone needs to be in charge, but… a benevolent dictator is best. But you want your record to sound like five guys in a room having fun 00:27:24 When it’s fun… vs. when it’s not fun If you’re not having fun, ask yourself what you can change (hint: you can always change yourself) 00:31:56 Sometimes letting go is best 00:33:16 Managing your expectations When it comes to sound, travel with a splitter snake 00:40:00 Considering the move to In Ear Monitors 00:42:11 Traveling with the same FOH engineer for every gig Playing with John Craigie (and his FOH engineer) Negotiating a new relationship with Every. Single. Engineer. 00:47:28 Even if just for a few hours, we’re all on the same team 00:49:41 Developing camaraderie with everyone, even the waitstaff Curate a fun environment “Say please and thank you, a lot. And take responsibility for mistakes, even if they aren’t yours.” 00:53:44 Playing with nanny tracks, a click, and a guide “Kimmy” became our guide through a Taylor Swift Tribute Those songs are particular! 01:00:34 That first “Stumble Through” rehearsal Are we learning the song note-for-note, or are we taking liberties? And where’s the line to blend those two? 01:04:25 Playing an Abbey Road tribute Joined by Holly Bowling 01:06:16 Picking covers…in an original band No matter what you choose, it’s about the people performing AND the people listening 01:09:15 What do you think about AI? 01:10:22 Gig Gab 495 Outtro Follow The Coffis Brothers Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Band Chemistry and Collaboration: Lessons with The Coffis Brothers — Gig Gab 495 appeared first on Gig Gab.

On this week’s Gig Gab, you’re getting a masterclass in modern musicianship with Keith Harris, the drummer, producer, and musical director for the Black Eyed Peas. From behind the kit to behind the console, Keith walks you through the art of turning groove into leadership, showing how drummers often evolve into musical directors. He shares the hard-earned truth that your reputation is your currency, and sometimes, being a pro means not re-hiring someone—cordially. Keith reveals how he blends acoustic drums with pristine samples using tools like Splice and the Roland SPD-SX, and how Izotope Nectar helped shape Estelle’s vocals on “Stay Alta.” Always Be Performing, even in the studio. But the performance doesn’t stop when the tracking ends. Keith pulls back the curtain on directing the Backstreet Boys’ residency at Sphere, where every note is locked in ahead of time, tracked by a killer band featuring André Bowman, Lance Tolbert, and Curt Chambers, all engineered by John D. Norten. There are no live musicians on stage, but that doesn’t mean it’s not live, because the show lives in the details. Keith emphasizes that your FOH and playback engineers aren’t just techs; they’re part of the band. Teaching them your show is just as critical as rehearsing the music. From ADAT to AI, the tools may change, but the hustle stays the same. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 494 – Monday, August 11th, 2025 August 11th: International Hip Hop Celebration Day Guest co-host: Keith Harris 00:01:50 Drummers become producers 00:04:42 Transitioning from drummer to musical director 00:08:12 There’s no I in Team! Keep it cordial, but you don’t have to re-hire them. 00:10:17 Managing your reputation 00:12:37 The human feel of blending acoustic drums and high quality samples Using Splice all the time Roland SPD-SX Using Izotope Nectar on vocals with Estelle’s “Stay Alta” 00:16:25 The evolution of recording and the yin and yang of music and technology 00:20:00 The growing pains of the industry are always there, they just have different names: ADAT ProTools AI 00:21:23 Choosing the right sounds for the gig 00:24:01 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:25:30 Music Directing Backstreet Boys at Sphere Everything’s Tracked, and there are no live musicians on stage except the singers. Ahead of time, Keith and the band worked out the setlist, then arrangements, then went into the studio and tracked the whole band. André Bowman on Bass Lance Tolbert Keys Curt Chambers on guitar John D. Norten Engineer 00:38:46 Teaching your FOH engineer your show FOH and Playback engineers are also band members James McCullagh, FOH for Backstreet Boys 00:44:05 Gig Gab 494 Outtro Follow Keith Harris @keithharrisexperience on IG Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Backstreet Boys and Black Eyed Peas: How Keith Harris Balances Drumming, Directing, and Performing – Gig Gab 494 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week you’ll hear how making the leap to in-ear monitors isn’t just swapping gear—it’s like learning a whole new instrument. You’ll pick up real-world tactics for keeping the band rolling when a member’s sick or injured, including the art of pulling in a last-minute sub. You’ll face the hard truth about whether the show really must go on and learn what to do when the FOH vanishes mid-gig. From hiring (and managing) your own sound engineer to turning your SuperFans into your band’s secret weapon, you’ll see how those relationships can shape your entire live experience. Always Be Performing means every choice you make—gear, people, or setlist—affects the show you deliver. You’ll also dive into transforming every gig into a true show, thinking beyond the notes to the pacing, energy, and flow of the night. You’ll hear strategies for avoiding audience burnout, why proximity clauses matter, and how to survive the madness of back-to-back gigs with no breather in between. Plus, the essentials of dealing with unpredictable backlines, smart gear tips (like why a humble Lasko fan might be your MVP), and avoiding stereo/TRS mix-ups. It’s all about showing up prepared, performing with intention, and making sure every gig leaves its mark. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 493 – Monday, August 4th, 2025 August 4th: National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day Guest co-host: Scott Smith 00:01:41 Using Alclair IEMs 00:04:27 Transitioning to IEMs is like learning an instrument 00:08:10 Adapting as a band with an injured/sick bandmate 00:11:29 The Show Must Go On…Must it? 00:12:44 Calling in a last-minute sub when in a pinch 00:15:13 When the FOH disappears 00:18:45 Adding a sound engineer to your band’s staff…the blessing and the curse 00:22:59 Recognizing, Thanking, AND Leveraging your SuperFans Hiring a social media intern for your band Having a SuperFan manage the entire VIP experience for paying fans SuperFans are a huge asset for your band, nurture those relationships before you lose them 00:31:23 SPONSOR: Gig Performer is a plugin host, an audio mixer, a backing tracks player, and more that gives you real-time control…live. Visit GigPerformer.com/GigGab for 10% off. 00:33:03 SPONSOR: Rock-N-Roller. Replace 8 different carts with one: dolly, hand truck, short bed, long bed, flat bed, you got it! Code GIGGAB20 saves you 20% on all carts. 00:35:07 Making each gig a “show” Don’t just play the gig, think about the setlist, think about the flow of the evening “If you want attention in this band, you have to take it!” 00:42:02 Managing oversaturation Proximity clauses 00:47:46 Playing two gigs in one day where the second one starts at the time the first one ends 00:54:47 Backlines for gigs 00:56:28 North County Band @ Press Room on August 15th 00:58:55 Gear Gab Lasko 12” utility fan with outlets 01:01:34 Confusing stereo 1/4″ with TRS Headphone jack to 1/4″ mono inputs 01:06:05 Gig Gab 493 Outtro Follow Scott Smith North County Band Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Live Show Mastery: IEMs, Gig Survival, and SuperFan Power – Gig Gab 493 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Want to trigger backing tracks live from your iPad or iPhone? This episode of Gig Gab is your playbook. Dave walks you through listener-recommended apps like Stage Traxx 3, Go Button, and forScore for managing clicks and cues with precision. Whether you’re solo or in a band, these tools can keep your show tight. Plus, Gear Gab digs into smart stage solutions—from Polsen mics that punch above their price, to the Behringer BA 19A (internally mounted, no less!) and the low-profile magic of Kelly SHU and KickPort. In Gear Gab and the Mailbag, you’ll learn why some mics sound hotter out of the gate, how to record and stream with the Zoom AMS 44, and why starting on the wrong beat could cost you a fan (or two!). You’ll also get the real-world workflow for legally releasing a cover and navigating YouTube’s copyright traps. It’s all part of the gig—so dial it in, take care with your craft, and as is customary: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 492 – Monday, July 28th, 2025 July 28th: National Waterpark Day Triggering Tracks from Your iPad (ref. GG 487 with Corey Manske) 00:02:07 Alan-Stage Traxx 3 00:05:13 Andy-Use Go Button for Playing Tracks from an iPhone or iPad 00:07:35 forScore click Gear Gab 00:09:43 Andy-Polsen Mics are also great for the money 00:12:08 More praise for the internally-mounted Behringer BA 19A mic (and Kelly SHU PLUGZ) KickPort 00:17:14 Drew-Check Reverb for CBT Splitter Snakes 00:19:51 Proreck Club 6000 Sponsors 00:26:11 SPONSOR: Bzigo – Don’t wait until the next bite—protect your home with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discount/BUZZ10 to save 10% off. 00:27:53 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! Mailbag 00:29:19 Brian-Do some microphones have more internal gain? Heil PR-37 Earthworks SR117 00:38:02 Christine-Recording and live streaming with the Zoom AMS 44 00:39:55 Listener X-I left when the band started the show on the wrong beat “I want people to know that care has been taken.” 00:44:17 Gregory-What’s the process for releasing a recorded cover song? Harry Fox Agency 00:46:50 Thomas-What do I do about YouTube blocking my videos of songs I cover? 00:50:11 Using AirPods Pro gen 2 as active earplugs 00:53:29 Gig Gab 492 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post That’s Not Gain, It’s Just a Hot Mic – Gig Gab 492 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You think you understand music royalties? Think again. Dae Bogan from The MLC breaks it all down with Dave Hamilton on this week’s Gig Gab. From the ancient days of piano rolls to the tangled web of modern streaming, you’ll learn how mechanical royalties differ from performance rights and why most artists are leaving money on the table. The MLC—born from the Music Modernization Act of 2018—isn’t just another acronym; it’s the missing piece of the puzzle, and Dae’s been there since before the beginning, shaping the system from the inside out. But this episode goes beyond the mechanics. Dae shares his raw, unfiltered story, from homelessness at 18 to building multiple startups and becoming a sought-after voice in music licensing. He didn’t just climb the ladder: he built it, all while staying true to his mission. You’ll hear how empathy, grit, and yes, aggressive ambition became his tools for success. Tune in, learn how not to make the mistake nearly every artist makes, and remember: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 491 – Monday, July 21st, 2025 July 21st: National Junk Food Day Guest co-host: Dae Bogan from The MLC 00:02:13 What are mechanical royalties, and why do they matter? ASCAP, BMI, SESAC are Performing Rights Organizations “Mechanical” comes from the days of piano rolls Mechanical royalties are for the music, the melody, the lyrics. Copyright law for mechanical royalties began in 1906 This was fine in the non-digital age, because everything was controlled 00:10:24 Enter the digital era… where gaps widened because there was no mechanical licensing organization looking at everything wholistically The MLC fills that gap, born out of the passing of the Music Modernization Act in 2018 00:14:23 Building the infrastructure, to launch in 2021 The MLC was named in the MMA (in lowercase!), but it did not define WHO would be this organization In 2019 (about a year after the MMA was passed) The MLC was designated/chosen as the organization that would be the mechanical licensing collective 00:22:16 Dae’s multiple hats (including being a singer) led him to The MLC In his 20s, Dae pivoted to representing artists Side Hustle in college as Renaissance Artist Management (RAM) Moonlit as manager of Loft 24 Records (and Loft 24 Publishing). 00:27:35 December 4, 2003. Dae was 18, Broke, Homeless, a duffel bag full of clothes, and a mission. “Aggressively ambitious” leaves no opportunity to give up. Perseverance and aggressive ambition allowed Dae to build the ladder AND climb 00:30:44 Another startup: Maven Promo, cloud-based, in store music network that played music videos in retail stores, targeted at teenagers The combination of Maven & Loft 24 allowed Dae to see the gap in mechanical licensing 00:34:06 Where is the gap? Time to research by getting a third degree: MBA Music Initiative Administration MBA degree at CSUN Learning about “The Black Box” of unpaid royalties First built RoyaltyClaim… then the US government came to Dae! In the interim built TuneRegistry 00:38:58 Overnight success takes 20-25 years No matter how sketchy things are, never burn a bridge 00:43:29 Building a business with true ability to have empathy for your customers is a great path to success 00:46:48 On being a copyright purist *and* a technologist 00:49:39 What being “Head of Third Party Partnerships” at The MLC 00:55:23 The one mistake that (almost) every artist makes Take control of your publishing now (for many reasons, including getting paid NOW) 01:01:32 Gig Gab 491 Outtro Follow Dae Bogan and The MLC Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Aggressive Ambition: Dae Bogan’s Journey to The MLC — Gig Gab 491 appeared first on Gig Gab.

When the skies open and the gig’s a wash, how do you keep the energy alive? Mike Schulte joins Dave Hamilton to break down how The Pork Tornadoes handled a rainout, what happens when the audience doesn’t get the memo, and why your contract better say who’s in charge. From chaotic “throw and go” setups to must-do line checks, this episode reminds you that you’re not just playing music—you’re leading a production. Always Be Performing means preparing like a pro, even when the show gets messy. You’ll dive deep into the power of in-ears (spoiler: “best decision we ever made”), the delicate art of song arrangements, and why understanding the assignment matters more than raw talent. Plus, practical tips for turning fans into superfans—one drumstick, comment reply, and authentic connection at a time. If you want your audience to show up for you, you’ve got to show up for them first. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 490 – Monday, July 14th, 2025 July 14th: Bastille Day 00:01:32 Guest co-host: Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes 00:05:28 Mike and The Pork Tornadoes had to deal with a rainout! This is a team effort…but someone needs to tell that to the crowd (and the organizers). You can’t negotiate with alcohol 00:16:06 When you know better, exercise the authority in your contract (and make sure you put that authority in your contract!) 00:18:06 Sometimes that means you do a non-soundchecked “throw and go” gig But…NEVER skip line checks! 00:23:22 It’s time to sing the benefits of in-ears vs. monitor wedges “It was the best decision we ever made” 00:29:13 SPONSOR: Gig Performer is a plugin host, an audio mixer, a backing tracks player, and more that gives you real-time control…live. Visit GigPerformer.com/GigGab for 10% off. 00:31:02 PODCAST: The Excellent 80s Rewind. Each episode revisits a specific week from the greatest decade in pop music, revisiting the songs AND throwing in fact and stories to dig deep. wave80hits.com 00:32:11 Navigating song choices and arrangements in your band Being in a band is an intricate relationship “I need you to understand the assignment more than I need you to be really good at your instrument.” 00:51:30 Review: Soundbrenner Wave – $99 universal fit IEMs 00:58:02 Tips/systems for engaging with EVERY fan (and building your base of superfans) First, once you get a superfan, ALWAYS acknowledge them at every gig At the end of every gig, find someone who was engaged all night, and give them a guitar pick or a drumstick Respond to every Facebook comment Reverse the situation: Put yourself in the mindset of being a superfan (of another group) Create the ability for those superfans to feel more special than everyone else He’s the Rhombus King! 01:11:45 Gig Gab 490 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post He’s The Rhombus King! — Gig Gab 490 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wonder what it’s like to roll through the golden age of rock with the crew behind the legends? On this week’s Gig Gab, Chinner Winstead takes you backstage—from autograph sessions with Tom Petty to chaos-control on tour with Nantucket. You’ll trace the path from bar band to global tours with Lenny Kravitz, Phil Collins, Georgia Satellites, and Tracy Chapman. Spoiler: it all starts with showing up, doing the work, and connecting with the right people at the right time. But it’s not just rockstar name-drops—this episode’s packed with hard-earned wisdom. Chinner and Dave talk gear (like wireless systems that actually sound right), cable tricks, and why genetics might be stacked for (or against) your hearing. The big takeaway? Your skills matter, but your vibe matters more. In this business, the best gig often goes to the one who’s ready to laugh, work hard, and Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 489 – Monday, July 7th, 2025 July th: National Day of Rock and Roll Guest co-host: Steve “Chinner” Winstead 00:04:55 Chinner’s having eye problems Dave’s having fever and headache problems 00:06:03 The Show Must Go On Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers playing in St. Louis. Mike Campbell fell on the drum riser mid-show. 00:08:07 Tom Petty Never Said No To An Autograph 00:09:53 But first…Nantucket (the band) Opening for AC/DC on the Back In Black Tour (because AC/DC heard their cover of “Long Way To the Top” and liked it) Kevin Jennings 00:12:59 Then…Kevin Jennings introduced him to the Georgia Satellites! Rick Richards (guitarist) Alan “Bugs” Weidel (Tom Petty’s guitar tech) “How are you with Rickenbacker 12 Strings?” 00:15:10 The Heartbreakers crew was the best of the best 00:16:05 Some love for Rush 00:17:03 Craig Ross got Chinner in with Lenny Kravitz 00:18:01 And then Phil Collins…and then Tracy Chapman 00:19:00 In the end it comes down to the hang Pick the guy you’d wanna be in a foxhole with! 00:21:33 Ron Blair said, of Chinner, “Chinner says what most people just think.” 00:22:23 Circling Back… The actual start with Nantucket “You wanna go with us to Virginia Beach?” Quaaludes and Disco 00:25:47 Everything Happens for a Reason 00:28:12 How to keep guitar cables from getting caught under monitors Gaffer Tape Fishing Line 00:30:52 Picking the right wireless unit Line-6 created a wireless that mimicked a 50-foot cable (The G10 is the evolution of what Chinner mentioned) Beyer-Dynamic wireless that also mimics a 50-foot cable Alex Alvarez is Lenny Kravitz’s guitar tech 00:37:11 Hearing loss might be genetically predisposed 00:38:06 Hot Sauce…on Chinner’s next visit to Gig Gab! 00:39:39 In Tokyo with Lenny Kravitz…and Diana Ross 00:43:19 On the subject of Nicknames…Chinner? Geoff “Bison” Banks 00:46:41 Gig Gab 489 Outtro Follow Chinner ChinnerSW56 on Bluesky Angel of Mercy by Dirty Knobs Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Tuning Up the Rockstars: Chinner’s Roadie Chronicles (Vol. 1) – Gig Gab 489 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wonder how a skater punk becomes a music industry powerhouse? This week, Billy Cuthrell joins Dave Hamilton to share how his drumming journey kicked off with a Ludwig kit and a dose of Zeppelin, then scaled into creating a chain of four music schools and a million lessons taught annually. From being Music Inc. Magazine’s “Retail Doctor” to pioneering a subscription-style lessons model that gives away instruments with lesson contracts, Billy proves that the business of music can be just as creative as the craft itself. It’s all about knowing when to grind and when to zoom out. But Billy doesn’t stop at teaching—he’s still gigging regularly, including a recent gig with Cosmic Superheroes in front of thousands of fans, buying DrumSellers.com, and dropping wisdom learned from legends like Jim Chapin and Freddie Gruber. If you’ve ever asked what it takes to turn passion into impact, this episode lays it out: persistence, play, and paying your dues. Remember, whether you’re behind the kit or building a business, you’ve got one job: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 488 – Monday, June 30th, 2025 June 30th: International Asteroid Day Guest co-host: Billy Cuthrell 00:02:06 How did you become Music Inc. Magazine’s “Retail Doctor”? College Radio Hit machine! Go Figure (Dave’s college band) Fountain of Youth (Billy’s college band) 00:05:58 Starting at 19 ran music lessons Like the musical ice cream man at first, then 4 locations Then added sales on because students need instruments! 00:07:41 School of Rock…in 1996! Same time Skip’s Stairway to Stardom started up Lawyers, yadda yadda, changed the name to “Rock Academy” Early Drumkits Ludwig 1960’s Blue Sparkle (for Billy) Ludwig Rocker II (for Dave) 00:12:41 Introduced to Zeppelin’s “The Song Remains The Same” Converted Billy from Skater Punk to Drummer “I know I can play.” As soon as Billy got a drumset, he would race home from school and play until his parents got home. Now it’s Noble & Cooley CD Maple drums “The Only thing I love more than playing music is talking about music.” – Paraphrasing Mike Campbell Instruments are meant to be used! Ludwig Supraphonic 40th Edition Snare Kirk Hamilton from Strong Songs comparing Gibson SG vs. Japanese 00:26:27 Music Inc. Magazine Puts Billy on the cover! And…a stolen idea from cell phone contracts Lightbulb moment: Give away the instrument to sell a 2-year lesson contract! Changed 4 stores, 120 employees, doing over a million music lessons each year. Now three tiers: Learn, Play, Perform The Perform tier is locked in for 12-to-24 months by contracting them with “free” instruments Balancing your business: Execution vs. Perspective And THAT is how Billy became “Retail Doctor” 00:36:32 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:38:05 SPONSOR: Rock-N-Roller. Replace 8 different carts with one: dolly, hand truck, short bed, long bed, flat bed, you got it! Code GIGGAB20 saves you 20% on all carts. 00:41:42 Who are you playing with today for 5,000 people? Cosmic Superheroes  00:43:18 Billy just bought DrumSellers.com George Lawrence Jim Chapin Harry Chapin’s “Cats in the Cradle” was a poem written by Harry’s wife, Sandra 00:45:04 Drove 17 Hours to meet Jim Chapin to learn from him…unannounced! Started a publication to get a media badge to get into NAMM 00:53:47 We work on the National Stage to make the Local Stage better 00:56:11 Asking Freddie Gruber why HE was the right teacher for Neil Peart… …and then 20 PDP & Drum Workshop drumkits showed up at Billy’s house! 01:05:53 DrumSellers.com is next for Billy! Bullheaded persistence…too dumb to quit! You pay the price up front. You put the work in up front. 01:10:41 Overnight success takes about 20 years Play to serve the song Steve Smith’s deceptively-difficult drum parts 01:19:18 Gig Gab 487 Outtro Follow Billy Cuthrell DrumSellers.com Billy Cuthrell on LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Crash Cymbals and Contracts: Billy Cuthrell’s Lesson in Music Business Success — Gig Gab 488 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re not alone if you’re running a click track on stage—more and more musicians are embracing it, and for good reason. This week on Gig Gab, Corey Manske joins Dave Hamilton to unpack how using a click can reduce stress, keep your band tight, and help you Always Be Performing. From essential stage gear like chapstick and a tape measure (you’ll get it), to the magic of “coopetition” among musicians, you’ll walk away with practical tools and mindset shifts. Corey shares how watching other players—and sometimes borrowing a rubber mallet—can lead to big breakthroughs. But that’s just the beginning. You’ll hear how launching a Third Eye Blind tribute band taught Corey the power of planning, from finding the perfect frontman to handling contracts, stage plots, and backing tracks like a pro. Learn why tribute bands are dominating the venue scene and what it really means to “wear a disguise” on stage. You’ll also get into the nitty-gritty of tech setups—which apps might replace SoundCue, how to prep your tracks for any venue, and why slipping your sound engineer a $20 bill is a move worth making. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 487 – Monday, June 23rd, 2025 June 9th: National Detroit-Style Pizza Day Guest co-host: Corey Manske 00:01:39 Everyone’s using a click (some of the time) 00:08:02 Taking the stress off by using a click live Kill Switch 00:14:51 Always be performing means always putting on a show! 00:17:00 Important gear to have on stage Tape measure (drummer thing) Chapstick 00:19:53 The value of Coopetition 00:22:15 Learning parts from other people Mike Cosgrove at a NAMM party SS Recognize Rubber Mallet 00:26:31 Playing the parts your way…and comfortably 00:29:32 “Just don’t confuse the strippers, man” Music is a shared art form…band, performers, audience 00:31:05 SPONSOR: Bzigo Iris, your smart home mosquito detector. Stop losing sleep over mosquitoes. Take back your nights with Bzigo. Go to bzigo.com/discount/BUZZ10 and save 10% off. 00:32:27 The experience of starting a Third Eye Blind Tribute Band Started a year ago The demographic is 50/50 M/F Find the right singer, and the right band Cover band is playing dress-up, being in a tribute band is wearing a disguise Previously subbed in a Smashing Pumpkins tribute for 4.5 years, which gave some information and contacts Venues figured out that Tribute bands are where the money is Developing the backing tracks Corey became the manager 00:38:02 Becoming comfortable with doing the paperwork Contracts Hospitality Riders Stage Plots Details matter! 00:40:16 Using an iPad to trigger tracks, clicks, and more SoundCue for iPad (non-existent) Replacement option: ShowOne for iPad Other replacement options We just need an audio player in a cart format! 00:52:09 The pre-production work so you can have the tracks live Frst, decide what needs to be there Decide the tempo Center the (mono) mix on where the backing vocal is. That way FOH can set the backing vocals and, boom, the tracks work in every venue Make a track for soundcheck, too! Also, give the sound engineer a $20 bill before sound check 00:59:34 Embrace technology Also, we really need an iPad app that not only triggers the sounds, but also the videos. 01:05:12 Gig Gab 487 Outtro Follow Corey Manske On Facebook On Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Click Tracks, Tribute Acts, and $20 Hacks: Gig Smarts with Corey Manske – Gig Gab 487 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, you’re diving deep with the (almost!) full crew from P-Funk North as they share what keeps their reggae funk machine moving. From twice-a-week rehearsals to the relentless grind of networking and playing out regularly, they prove that consistency and camaraderie build longevity. You’ll hear how rejection turns into rocket fuel and why letting the music speak for itself only works when you Always Be Performing. It’s a masterclass in showing up, shutting up, and playing hard. But it’s not all stage hustle—they break down the behind-the-scenes engine, too. Whether it’s splitting up band duties, learning what not to do, or harnessing studio energy by recording live, these guys get it. They talk gear, from Les Paul swaps to spring-loaded wah pedals to the unexpected inspiration of a George Foreman grill and SCUBA gear. If you’re in a band, or just dream of being in one, this episode’s packed with the kind of stories and strategies that’ll keep your crowd hyped and your gigs tight. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 486 – Monday, June 16th, 2025 June 16th: National Fudge Day Guest co-hosts: Dave, Kevin, Jack, James…and Kingsley? from P-Funk North 00:07:05 The Music Business Consistency Rehearse 2x/week Make camaraderie important Play out as much as you can. Maintain a general presence. Make rejection your best friend Let the music speak for itself 00:15:11 Managing saturation The gigs are “not about us” Mixing originals and covers Years of networking Bullheaded persistence 00:17:24 Making the audience most important 00:20:24 Embracing your fans…and bringing them into the fold Having a Hype-Man 00:23:46 SPONSOR: Rock-N-Roller. Replace 8 different carts with one: dolly, hand truck, short bed, long bed, flat bed, you got it! Code GIGGAB20 saves you 20% on all carts. 00:25:21 SPONSOR: Cash App. Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/0oq3t78w. Add GIGGAB to your profile, send someone $5 within 14 days, and get $10 back!  #CashAppPod *Referral Reward Disclaimer: As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. 00:28:42 Dividing up the jobs in your band Learning what not to do 00:33:19 Bringing the stage energy to the studio Recording live vs. isolated 00:37:24 And Consistency! Strategic Breaks in the Studio Having an Honest Producer 00:40:40 Playing live to a click 00:43:48 In Ear Monitors? Not yet… 00:46:38 Gear Gab George Foreman Grill Restaurant Grade Toaster SCUBA Gear Moved from Strat to Les Paul Morley Bad Horsey Wah Pedal (Spring Loaded) 00:51:28 Drum Gear Gab 00:53:25 Gig Gab 487 Outtro Follow P-Funk North On Facebook On Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Consistency is Key: P-Funk North’s Road to Success – Gig Gab 486 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Step inside Sphere with Robert Scovill as he rejoins Dave on Gig Gab to dissect the art—and science—of immersive live sound. From his early days quad-mixing Rush to commanding 32 channels through Avid’s S6L with Meyer’s Spacemap Go, Scovill walks you through prepping for Sphere with simulators, Holoplot mapping, and object-based mixing. You’ll hear how rethinking coverage in a globe-shaped venue flips everything you knew about arrival times and sound dispersion. Scovill dives into the no-amp, all-IEM setup with drums in a fishbowl and shares how moving instruments around the room becomes part of the performance. He emphasizes the mission: the audience must feel the music, not just hear it. With insights learned from watching Bon Iver and perspectives on Phish, Chesney, and Dead & Co., this episode is a masterclass in next-gen sound. No matter the tech, remember: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 485 – Monday, June 9th, 2025 June 9th: National Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Day Guest co-host: Robert Scovill 00:02:05 Doing quad-sound for Rush prepared for … Sphere! Meyer Galaxy Spacemap Go 32-channel output panner Avid 32-channel S6L 00:10:51 Rehearsing for Sphere Sphere simulator Holoplot 00:15:12 Re-thinking about sound coverage in a globe 00:21:49 Arrival time matters a WHOLE lot more in Sphere 00:31:25 Adapting consoles for object-oriented mixing 00:36:09 SPONSOR: Cash App. Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/0oq3t78w. Add GIGGAB to your profile, send someone $5 within 14 days, and get $10 back!  #CashAppPod *Referral Reward Disclaimer: As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. (I don’t—I’m paid a flat-rate for this sponsorship—but I might, and I’m supposed to say that). 00:37:33 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:38:53 Stage setup All IEMs No Amps on Stage Drums in a Fishbowl 00:42:08 The A.S.S. with Rush “Can you put some delay on that?” 00:47:27 Moving instruments around the room 00:54:35 The audience has to have a musical experience Listen like a fan, mix like a pro. 00:55:51 Mixing two drummers live Mixing immersive audio for Bon Iver Derek mixing Dead & Co. at Sphere 01:00:27 Sphere changing bands Chesney and his video content Phish starts songs with a click track now Sphere is 18K Video 01:05:46 Recording shows…for review…and release! Paul Freeman at Sphere 01:08:56 Keep your eyes on EAW EAW ADAPTive, and the differences We’re all line arrays…some are just more line array than others 01:12:45 Gig Gab 485 Outtro Follow Robert Scovill On Facebook On Instagram On LinkedIn RobertScovill.com (where you’ll find The Back Lounge) Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Sphere Sound Unpacked: Robert Scovill’s Deep Dive into Immersive Mixing – Gig Gab 485 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Buddy Gibbons returns to Gig Gab to share how he’s gearing up for a nostalgia-fueled tour with Stephen Glickman and the Big Time Rush fanbase. From rollerblading around Wembley to off-road RC cars for downtime, Buddy’s prepping body and mind for the grind. He and Dave dig into how playing without a click can feel naked, why RokTempo and Russian Dragon are essential tools, and how the right gear—like the Porter & Davies BC2 throne—can make your kick and toms feel right. It’s all about showing up tight, calm, and pro-ready. If you’re into tech and tone, this episode’s your playground. Buddy walks through his road rig: Roland SPD-SX Pro, Ableton Live, internal drum mounts, and the timeless Slingerland Radio King snare. He also weighs in on using AR glasses like XREAL AIR on the road, and shares what it’s like losing a loop mid-set on In The Air Tonight. It all comes down to trust—between you, your bandmates, and your gear. So pack your comforts, tune your kit, and Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 484 – Monday, June 2nd, 2025 June 2nd: National Rotisserie Chicken Day (and also Charlie Watts’ birthday) Guest co-host: Buddy Gibbons Buddy Gibbons on Gig Gab 173 00:01:59 Han Shot First 00:03:20 Last tour was with Shiloh, Kenny Rogers, Jr.’s band Porter & Davies BC2 Drum Throne with Kick and Toms coming through 00:10:00 The click isn’t a crutch The awkwardness of doing a click-less show RokTempo 2 00:12:56 Broadway play for Mel Brooks Grandson about the life of Charles Bronson 00:14:56 Russian Dragon for drummers 00:16:04 Prepping your body for tour 00:20:33 Doing a Nostalgia Tour Big Time Rush Stephen Glickman Katelyn Tarver 00:27:39 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:29:14 Gear for triggering on the road Roland SPD-SX Pro Ableton Live 00:34:34 The value of being trusted by one’s bandmates 00:41:05 Losing the loop on…In The Air Tonight! 00:42:17 Back to the gear 00:44:04 Soundchecking and Setup 00:46:18 Costuming and make-up 00:52:51 Bringing creature comforts on the road! Buddy will be rollerblading around Wembley Arena…and Athens Greece Olympic Stadium An Offroad RC Car 00:52:50 Apple Vision Pro on the road? XREAL AIR AR glasses 00:58:41 A perspective on sharing drumkits Radio King Snare 2025 from Slingerland 01:06:13 Drum nerd time Kelly SHU Internal Drum Mounts MD 421 Kompakt Mics 01:09:59 Paiste Cymbals Nicko McBrain Signature Ride Shane @ Drum Center of Portsmouth 01:14:02 Gig Gab 484 Outtro Find Buddy @ BuddyGibbons.com @BudDrums Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Tour Prep, Gear Gab, and Stage Smarts with Buddy Gibbons – Gig Gab 484 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, you’re diving deep with Mike Schulte of The Pork Tornadoes as he joins Dave Hamilton to share real-world insights on making your gigs—and your band—better. You’ll get actionable tips on using splitter snakes without frying your gear, plus a no-nonsense breakdown of how standing (or not) while singing can shape your stage presence. Mike and Dave even toss in their take on Chino Moreno and Jon Anderson’s contrasting styles. Spoiler alert: stress-free gigs start with smart planning and solid gear choices. But the real gold? The grind. You’ll learn how Mike’s band leveled up by building superfans one at a time, saying no to the wrong bandmates, and turning every show into an unmissable event. It’s not about overnight success—it’s about showing up relentlessly, setting reachable goals, and knowing when to pull back in saturated markets. Whether you’re running the engine or riding shotgun, remember: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 483 – Monday, March 26th, 2025 May 26th: World Dracula Day (and Memorial Day) Guest co-host: Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes 00:02:00 Hung Up On A Dream: The Zombies Documentary 00:07:24 Singing vs. Standing when playing Chino Moreno of Deftones Aaron Lewis of Staind Jon Anderson Gary Cherone 00:11:13 Using a splitter snake Mackie DL32S PRORECH Splitter Snakes 00:23:13 Tips for using split snakes Mike Hart from Seismic-Using Phantom Power with a Splitter Snake Reverse from FOH for a talkback channel CBI EarSplitter Split Snake 00:27:26 Making gig life (and life, in general!) low-stress! 00:29:05 SPONSOR: Rock-N-Roller. Replace 8 different carts with one: dolly, hand truck, short bed, long bed, flat bed, you got it! Code GIGGAB20 saves you 20% on all carts. 00:30:48 SPONSOR: Cash App. Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/0oq3t78w. Add GIGGAB to your profile, send someone $5 within 14 days, and get $10 back!  #CashAppPod *Referral Reward Disclaimer: As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. 00:32:12 How do I level-up my band? Ok, how did Mike and Pork Tornadoes level up? PLEASE DON’T LOOK at Urban Dictionary’s definition of a pork tornado “Small moves, Ellie. Small moves.” The show we’re playing is the only show that matters. Befriend people before/after the show. Build YOUR 2,000 superfans…one at a time. It’s a grind! Bullheaded Persistence The number one reason: we got the right four people in place. Kick out the people who are wrong. 00:46:58 Knowing your place Have an engine! (that’s a person) Set easily-obtainable goals, always have more in the can, and be consistently relentless. Maintain that Next Level mindset Be careful of saturation in your home market. Give up that comfort level to gamble on yourself. Scarcity wins! Create a special event out of EVERY show. 00:59:15 Feedback about Dave’s squeaky Camco (by Tama) pedal. Gig Gab t-shirts to: Rob Henshaw of The Salty Strings Drew McGarity Steve Graves Using CAMVATE Microphone Clamp on my boom arm for my Earthworks SR20gen2 01:02:30 Gig Gab 483 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Pork Tornadoes Playbook: Mike Schulte on Building a Successful Band — Gig Gab 483 appeared first on Gig Gab.

GigSalad’s Mark Steiner joins this week’s Gig Gab to trace his wild ride from stage actor to CEO, revealing how a children’s theater gig and a teddy bear business ultimately led to launching the go-to platform for booking live talent. You’ll hear how a “happy accident” turned into a company that helps 110,000+ performers get paid. From the Glenn Miller Orchestra to building Steiner Talent to launching GigSalad in a kitchen in 2004, Mark shares the gritty path of growth—connecting the dots in reverse, just like Steve Jobs said. You’ll walk away with real-world tips to boost your band’s visibility: polish your promo kit, prioritize quality over quantity, and treat GigSalad like your own personal booking agent—with built-in SEO and coaching tools. Whether you’re gigging every weekend or dreaming bigger, there’s room for you. Because at the end of the day, the mission is simple: help you do what you love. And remember—Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 482 – Monday, May 19th, 2025 May 19th: National Devil’s Food Cake Day Guest co-host: Mark Steiner, cofounder and CEO of GigSalad 00:01:59 Starting with the children’s rendition of Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson haha 00:03:51 From Actor to Craftee 00:07:10 Connecting the dots going backwards 00:09:08 The immediate and long-term benefits of practice 00:10:47 Happy Accident leads to GigSalad First business: Rainbow Friends Teddy Bear Then spent 7 years as a talent agent, mostly booking the Glenn Miller Orchestra Which led to SteinerTalent.com, and was immediately contacted by local/regional bookings 00:16:29 Let’s start a directory to match up talent with gigs 2007 was GigSalad’s official launch, with beta starting in 2004 00:19:59 Steve and Mark decide in 2007 to make GigSalad into a fulltime concern Moving out of the kitchen! 00:21:36 GigSalad needs mariachi bands 00:23:08 SPONSOR: Cash App. Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/0oq3t78w  #CashAppPod *Referral Reward Disclaimer: As a Cash App partner, I may earn a commission when you sign up for a Cash App account. 00:24:38 What can bands do to better their marketability on GigSalad? Have a promo kit. Photos, videos, bios. It’s not about quantity as much as it is quality. As a DIY marketplace, GigSalad’s rating system is the key GigSalad offers coaching for those who want it. 00:27:36 Freemium Model … Similar to LinkedIn But also VERY much willing to coach! 00:30:49 GigSalad Pricing and Protections 00:33:39 What’s next for GigSalad? 00:34:40 Is GigSalad right for your band? Look around on the platform to see what’s happening in your area It’s non-exclusive We provide this platform to do something that they love. From pros to weekend warriors. GigSalad does your SEO and Word of Mouth for you, in a sense 00:39:50 Who lists their talent on GigSalad? Agents? Yes. ECE on Gig Gab But mostly individual artists and bands representing themselves. This platform was built to eliminate Mark’s job…he was an agent! One of GigSalad’s initial goals: You don’t need an agent to have a career. 00:47:07 Gig Gab 482 Outtro Contact GigSalad Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The DIY Booking Revolution: GigSalad’s Impact on Musicians – Gig Gab 482 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re about to get the roadmap from Luke and Will Mallett of The Mallett Brothers on what it really takes to make music a career. From playing 120 shows a year to building a loyal tribe of 2,000 superfans, the brothers break down how live gigs aren’t just part of the job—they are the job. You’ll hear how they’ve learned to follow the seasons, balance home life with relentless touring, and why collaborating with venues (and yes, printing real posters) still matters. The promo game keeps shifting—from glossy photos to viral reels—and these guys are always adapting to stay in the mix. But don’t let the laid-back Maine vibe fool you—this is a music business. From slinging hats and 8-tracks to tracking ad spend and working their booking agent to tighten tour routes, the Malletts share the systems that keep them thriving. Growing up helping their folk-singer dad send out his mailing list taught them early that endurance matters more than luck. Whether you’re booking your own gigs or building a fan group online, your success hinges on one thing: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 481 – Monday, May 12th, 2025 May 12th: National Limerick Day Guest co-host: Luke and Will Mallett from The Mallett Brothers 00:02:11 Twelve Years to Grocery Money 2,000 Superfans The Live Show is The Key 00:04:17 Playing 120 Shows Per Year Learned to move with the seasons Sleep well, eat well 00:08:04 Balancing Home vs. Gigs 00:08:54 Creating a tour schedule on your own 00:12:09 Working with a booking agent to structure and route your gigs and tours Lara Supan on Gig Gab 00:14:01 Collaborating with the venue on your promotion 00:15:58 The ever-changing promotion formula The changes from photos to videos to reels 00:18:00 Tracking the success of your ads 00:21:37 Don’t Forget About Physical Posters Venues love receiving actual posters 00:23:26 Then sell your posters at the gig! 00:27:27 Diversify…just like any other business! What else can we sell? Posters Hats CDs Keychains 8-Tracks 00:29:33 This is the business of music 00:33:53 Watching Dad’s DIY Approach to Music Succeed David Mallett, folk artist Helping dad with the mailing list for his music business 00:37:00 Meeting Chuck Leavell, famous tree farmer (oh, and a keyboard player) America’s Forrests with Chuck Leavell Orono Brewing Company Dogs and Horses… maybe Chuck? 00:43:49 Just…endure! And then you become a staple in a category of success stories 00:46:52 Engaging with those 2,000 superfans 1,000 True Fans Find out where on social media your fans are, then start a group Build community Failure is not an option 00:55:12 Gig Gab 481 Outtro Follow The Mallett Brothers Higher Up In The Hills from The Mallett Brothers Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Mallett Brothers’ DIY Formula: 2,000 Superfans and 120 Shows a Year – Gig Gab 481 appeared first on Gig Gab.

If your band’s live setup feels more like organized chaos than controlled power, this episode’s for you. We’re diving into real-world band hacks that actually make a difference—from tightening up your IEM mixes with split snakes, to using a click track to start songs like a pro. You’ll also hear why phantom power isn’t the villain it’s made out to be, and how to get serious clarity from your kick drum without blowing the budget. Whether you’re rocking a basement bar or a big stage, this gear and workflow talk will level you up. But it’s not just about sound—it’s about syncing your whole band’s flow. We cover practical tools like Google Calendar and BandHelper that take the headache out of scheduling rehearsals and gigs. Plus, you’ll get lessons learned from the madness of SXSW soundchecks, hydration tips for high-output sets, and a smart discussion about finding sponsors that actually fit your audience. As always, it’s about one thing: helping you Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 480 – Monday, May 5th, 2025 May 5th: National Concert Day 00:01:48 John-Spotify audio levels are out of balance Why we stopped putting Video on Spotify 00:04:05 Brian-Boundary Mics and Kick Drums Behringer BA 19A 00:06:29 May Monorail and May Turbo Kick 00:10:42 [email protected] 00:17:54 Brad-Who is your band’s audience, and which sponsors would want to reach them? The Rolling Stones went from Budweiser in 1989 to AARP in 2024…who’s right for YOUR band? 00:22:45 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:24:36 Scott-Hi Lyte cyclists hydration helps for strenuous gigs, too 00:27:19 Paul-Bring Back Bruce! 00:30:55 Drew-Phantom Power and Split Snakes Isn’t an Issue according to Dave Rat Seismic Audio Split Snake 00:33:49 Using a Split Snake to Facilitate your IEM mix 00:36:38 Using a click to start songs forScore Gear Gab 00:41:55 What do you use as your gig bag? 00:42:38 Gear Gab-Optogate 00:44:34 LILY P4D 00:46:35 Mackie EM-89D – Handheld, Dynamic Vocal Mic for $49.99 with pouch, clip, & XLR Cable SXSW 00:48:33 Lessons from SX. Watching so many bands soundcheck quick was immediately obvious at my next gig. 00:50:31 SXSW Official Comments on Changes to SXSW 2026 Schedule 00:52:18 Waves Free Plugin Pack with 9 awesome plugins 00:53:32 What do you use to coordinate your bandmates’ schedules? Band and BandHelper 00:56:20 Gig Gab 480 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Real-World Band Hacks: IEM Mixes, Click Track Starts, and Calendar Control – Gig Gab 480 appeared first on Gig Gab.

What’s it like going from drum tech to mixing stadium shows for legends? In this week’s Gig Gab, you join Scottie Baldwin and Dave Hamilton as they dive into the artistry behind live sound. From getting the call from Prince’s drummer to Sheila E nudging him toward sound, Scottie shares tricks like frequency gating and translating wild artist requests—think Gaga’s “lavender knife”—into killer mixes. You’ll get insight into how musicality trumps technicality, why mixing is more like managing real estate, and how to blend audience energy with screen-streaming perfection. Always Be Performing isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a mindset Scottie lives onstage and behind the board. You’ll walk away with tactical takeaways: define your audience avatar, teach your engineer with clarity, and keep a Dropbox of reference tracks. Whether you’re prepping a show for JJ Lin in Asia or working FOH like Scottie did for Prince, this episode is packed with practical wisdom. Learn why adding song titles to count-offs matters, why great gear relationships matter even more, and how timecode and iPads are redefining tour precision. There’s even a sharp take on Phish’s mixes and the culture gap in musicianship. Get in, geek out, and level up your live game. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 479 – Monday, April 28th, 2025 April 28th: National Blueberry Pie Day Guest co-host: Scottie Baldwin 00:01:39 Eddie Van Halen’s Jump guitar solo started it all… 00:02:38 Michael Bland, Prince’s drummer brings on a non-drummer as his drum tech 00:03:29 Sheila E says Scottie should do sound! 00:06:54 Scottie’s Trick for Drums: Frequency Gating Always Be Musical 00:08:37 Gaga said make me sound like a lavender knife Being a live sound producer The value of the musicality Understanding the purpose 00:12:07 Dissecting mix collision Mixing is a real-estate game 00:16:18 Engineers mixing for a screen vs being an audience member 00:18:05 Working as a team with an artist 00:19:58 Prince wanted to make sure fans’ kids heard the lyrics 00:21:36 Not reading music was…a feature! 00:24:09 Learning the culture of the music you’re creating Mixing the show for JJ Lin 00:27:05 Find an avatar that represents your audience 00:30:11 “Today, it’s my building” 00:32:49 Speaking Mandarin 00:35:10 Learning how to teach an engineer what you’re doing/wanting Make three, easily-digestible bullet points Name artists that you want to sound “like” Use a Dropbox to share songs 00:41:25 Adding the name of the song to your count-offs The Fray Or just add the song 00:47:19 Have good relationships with your gear, the artist, and the material Yamaha Rivage 00:48:36 Engaging with the crowd Dave Hampton, Scottie’s Mentor 00:54:03 Being a Live Sound Engineer AND a Recording Engineer at the Same Time Dave’s concerns about Phish being mixed for the stream and not for the room One Night Alone…Live! – Scottie’s FOH mix 00:58:58 Cutting a record every night 01:03:43 Mixing Monitors 01:10:01 Prince’s monitors and his producer-brain 01:16:51 Everyone on JJ Lin’s tour is on timecode and iPads Level of musicianship in Asia is higher than here in the US — Scottie Baldwin Jolin Tsai 01:20:36 Gig Gab 479 Outtro Follow Scottie Baldwin Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Prince to Gaga to JJ Lin: Scottie Baldwin’s Audio Adventures — Gig Gab 479 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, you’re in for a deep dive into the gigging grind with guest co-host Derek Patten from ECE, EastCoast Entertainment. You’ll learn exactly what makes a band bookable—from tight chops to killer promo, a sharp social presence, and professional polish. If you’re not posting on Instagram, you’re not even in the conversation. Whether your band’s been around for five years or five weeks, it’s all about how well you play, how tight you are, and how you present yourself. And yes, clients hear with their eyes first—so get those videos dialed in and wardrobes on point. Derek pulls back the curtain on managing 7,000 gigs a year, choosing the right acts for the right events, and what separates the pros from the posers. Spoiler: the best bands stick together, manage their own schedules, and bring something real to the stage. Authenticity and consistency win. Want more gigs? Know your brand, know your strengths, and build from there. Whether it’s Eighties Night or bluegrass bliss, if you’re creating unforgettable moments, you’re doing it right. Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 478 – Monday, April 21st, 2025 00:01:17 April 21st: National Tea Day Slave to the Starbucks Machine – Venti Iced Coffee, Cream and Three Splenda for Derek Throat Coat Tea 00:03:18 Guest co-host: Derek Patten from EastCoast Entertainment 6,500 to 7,000 dates per year 00:05:46 Providing Artist Development A&R for a Cover Band 00:08:00 Working with Working Musicians 00:09:11 Office Jams! 00:10:21 What makes a band bookable for an agency like ECE? Can you play? What promo materials do you have already? Clients hear with their eyes first! Social media presence is HUGE Advice: do something on instagram! Did “my” wedding make your insta? 00:17:01 Does length of band’s existence matter? How tight is your band? How professional are you? 00:21:12 Fly under the radar and do your job 00:24:33 One band, two names! 00:29:26 Always Entertaining? You’re a candidate! 00:31:08 Guess what? Surprise! It’s Eighties Night! 00:32:06 Rock, Bluegrass, and Stairway to Heaven! 00:35:14 Creating Lifelong Memories We are the soundtrack for the biggest party most people will ever throw for themselves 00:38:31 Selecting the right band for a client Booking high-quality bands 00:42:52 Authenticity Matters 00:44:03 Managing Subs Out most successful bands are bands where the same people play together all the time 00:48:43 The Revenue-Share Model We work directly for the artists 00:55:07 Developing artists Social Media Presence Wardrobe Promo Videos Focus: what is the brand of your band, and how do we communicate that? What is it that you do the best? What is it that you want to do more of? 01:03:24 Managing schedules …and more! Band Manager (in the band) works with the Responsible Agent (at ECE) as their band champion! 01:08:39 Gig Gab 478 Outtro Follow Derek Patten from EastCoast Entertainment Submit your band to ECE! Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Is Your Band Bookable? ECE’s Checklist for Success — Gig Gab 478 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Monique Powell of Save Ferris joins you for a no-holds-barred dive into the grind, grit, and glory behind making a band thrive. From opera training to ska dreams, Monique shares how preparation and passion powered her transformation from “Mo Sing Song” to full-on band manager (and back again…and forth again). You’ll hear how she navigated shifting to external management, dealt with label fallout, and used setbacks as fuel—because when the machine breaks, you fix it or build your own. Her fight to save her voice wasn’t just personal—it became a mission driven by fans who refused to let go. This episode’s packed with real talk on defining success, the chaos of tour-routing post-COVID, and the rollercoaster of fan engagement. Monique lays it all out: if you want to be in a successful band, be ready to sweat every detail—gear, gigs, and gut decisions. Whether it’s dodging in-ear disasters or facing your fears head-on, Monique reminds you that showing up matters most. So, lace up, lean in, and remember: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 477 – Monday, April 14th, 2025 April 14th: National Pecan Day Guest co-host: Monique Powell from Save Ferris 00:02:37 Preparation matters! Studying to be a opera singer Why aren’t you in a band? 00:06:50 I really wanted to be in a ska band The Shanties 00:08:30 From “Mo Sing Song” to “Mo Manage Band” Save Ferris was a great band, I knew we were a great band We’re a family, and I’m going to work as hard as I can to push us forward 00:13:49 Transitioning to external management “I don’t know how to take us to the next level at this point.” 00:16:03 You’re outnumbered. Shut up and sing. 00:18:27 Getting the machine working! 00:20:52 Opportunity when your label drops you 00:22:11 Define success for yourself 00:24:21 No bank was going to give us Two Million Dollars 00:25:30 Fighting to Save her Singing Voice 00:27:36 I Let the Fans Dicate How Hard I was Going To Fight 00:29:20 Your greatest fear can be fuel Business Brain, Dave’s other podcast 00:33:33 Now I fight for our fans 00:34:30 Life is like rollerskating 00:37:23 Get Dancing from Save Ferris on April 25th! Learn the Choreography! 00:39:08 FAN ENGAGEMENT…It’s part of Always Being Performing! 00:42:31 Letting the fans be my compass 00:43:21 In-ears became a liability 00:46:26 LITFA 00:48:39 Touring with a monitor engineer 00:50:58 Tour-routing post-COVID Headlining a tour is like throwing a birthday party and wondering how many people are going to show up 00:56:04 Gig Gab 477 Outtro Follow Monique Powell and Save Ferris Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Monique Powell of Save Ferris: Ska, Struggles, and Sweet Comebacks — Gig Gab 477 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week, you’ll dive headfirst into the wild ride of Joe Travers’ drumming journey—from pounding out St. Patrick’s Day gigs to landing his dream job playing Zappa’s music. Joe shares how knowing exactly what you want—and fearlessly putting yourself out there—can open doors you never imagined. You’ll hear what it’s like grooving through complex Zappa parts, blending genres, and finding your own voice behind the kit because, after all, your playing is your voice. Joe keeps you in the pocket with tales of meeting heroes, becoming Zappa’s Vaultmeister, and holding it down with Duran Duran in massive arenas. You’ll get pro-level tips on clicks, IEM mixes, and why singing drummers need to dial it in just right. Plus, a rare glimpse at what it means to play for the music—and why sometimes, staying off social media is the smartest gig move. Stick around, because there’s only one way to approach this business: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 476 – Monday, April 7th, 2025 April 7th: National Beer Day Guest co-host: Drummer and Vaultmeister Joe Travers 00:01:29 St. Patrick’s Day Gigs 00:05:30 Becoming a professional drummer Loves playing different styles Studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston (and built a network!) 00:08:00 Land in LA…and land the ultimate gig of my dreams Gig with the Zappa brothers 00:09:30 Putting yourself out there with a clear idea of your desires Be a good hang! Have talent! Put yourself in the right position and meet the right people 00:12:18 Your playing is your voice Again…be a good hang! 00:13:24 Playing Zappa’s Music – Grooving complex parts Learn the funk stuff Sing a Simple Song (Sly) Learn to love whatever you’re playing It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing! 00:17:31 Getting to know Zappa’s Music Rykodisk in the 80s with Zappa releases 00:18:41 And then starting to play Zappa’s music in 2006 Immersion therapy! 00:22:23 All the styles blended into Frank’s music 00:24:27 Bozzio makes sense to Joe 00:26:42 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:28:19 Becoming the Vaultmeister Turns out it’s good to be a nerd (a trusted nerd!) 00:32:56 Meeting a hero Playing a gig with Z at Club Lingerie – First show, and Frank is in the audience! 00:36:17 “Frank wants to meet you” 00:37:56 Playing with Duran Duran in 1997 “Joe…it’s time.” 00:41:15 Play what the music is calling for 00:41:39 Playing arenas vs. smaller places Duran Duran at Chicago House of Blues 1997 Soft ticket sales vs. hard ticket events 00:43:59 Playing to a click …and playing with Frank on a video screen 00:47:21 What’s your perfect IEM mix have in it? Audience Mics Overhead Wash 00:51:11 IEMs for singing drummers 00:53:59 Joe Travers with RagDolls at NAMM 2025 01:00:08 No Social Media! 01:07:13 Gig Gab 476 Outtro Follow Joe Travers on YouTube Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Vaultmeister’s Voice: Joe Travers on Zappa, Duran Duran, and the Power of Performance — Gig Gab 476 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Thinking about SXSW? Erin Walter and Keri Cinquina from Parker Woodland break it all down for you—from applying to playing like a pro. You’ll learn how to reach out to anyone and everyone to book your showcases, why hitting up radio stations and non-profits matters, and how to stack your SXSW week like a mini tour. Don’t skip the conference sessions—Sonic Guild Grants and mentor sessions can change your game (pro tip: show up for no-shows). And yes, tacos are essential tour fuel. On stage or off, it’s all about connection. Whether you’re delivering like you’re playing to ten thousand or sharing roles within your band, Always Be Performing means engaging the crowd and your bandmates. Erin and Keri talk vocal coaching, singing drummers, and the gear that keeps it tight—including using a click track! They even dig into arranging songs for a power trio and making standout music videos. Because anything can happen at a gig… and you’ll be ready. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 475 – Monday, March 31st, 2025 March 31st: National Crayon Day Guest co-hosts: Erin Walter and Keri Cinquina from Parker Woodland 00:01:50 Applying / Planning / Playing SXSW 00:02:53 The art of self-promotion 00:08:34 Deliver like you’re playing for ten thousand Bringing people in and then keeping the people there Always be Performing…and always be connecting with the crowd and your bandmates 00:12:32 Successfully booking SXSW Contact ANYone who is involved with booking shows Bands Radio Stations Non-profits Making sure musicians get paid 00:15:57 Applying to Showcase at SXSW Booking multiple shows at SXSW It’s like planning a tour 00:17:45 Attending the conference as an artist Don’t skip the sessions! Sonic Guild Grants 00:20:51 Pro-tip: Go stand in line at Mentor Sessions and you can grab a no-show appointment! 00:22:21 SPONSOR: Mechanical Licensing Collective – Are you a songwriter, music publisher, or administrator? Every month, The MLC collects the streaming data and royalties from Spotify and Apple Music, matches the money to the creator who has earned it, and then pays out the royalties due. Visit TheMLC.com today to sign up! 00:23:34 Tacos are the fuel to a successful band 00:26:06 Long-standing musical collaborations 00:27:42 Divvying up roles in the band Vocal coach 00:31:28 Singing drummers! Heil PR-31BW Gooseneck with a boom stand 00:35:19 Arranging Songs for a Power Trio Parker Woodland covering Sir Duke Bands covering Rebel Girl 00:41:56 There’s no Such Thing as Time — Parker Woodland 00:44:21 Create music videos! 00:45:18 Gear Gab & Playing to a Click Tama SLR Bubinga Snare Tama Rhythm Watch 00:50:32 Anything can happen at a gig! 00:52:52 Gig Gab 475 Outtro Follow Erin Walter and Parker Woodland Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Booking SXSW Like a Pro with Parker Woodland — Gig Gab 475 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready to conquer SXSW with insider tips from this special crossover episode of Gig Gab and the Roadcase Podcast. You’ll learn how to plan your badge, map your venue hits—from Antone’s to Mohawk—and navigate scooter passes like a pro. Plus, we’re sharing can’t-miss bands, food finds, and surprise performances that’ll level up your festival game. Listen in and Always Be Performing while making the most of SXSW! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 474 & Roadcase 265 Crossover Episode – Monday, March 24th, 2025 March 24th: National Cheesesteak Day Guest co-host: Josh Rosenberg from Roadcase Podcast 00:06:48 We met because we’re tall! 00:10:31 Planning for SXSW Scooter Passes Picking by Venues Antone’s Stubb’s ACL Live @ Moody Theater Mohawk Radio Day Stage (wherever that is) Hotel Vegas 00:24:28 Schedule changes for SXSW 2026 00:31:00 Which badge do you get? Platinum vs. others Buy the badge! 00:46:05 Sessions Seen Taylor Tomlinson @ SXSW John Fogerty & Tom Morello @ SXSW 00:54:22 PODCAST: That Aged Well. Longtime Xennial best friends Paul and Erika take a look back at the pop culture of their youths with a new perspective, all while inviting listeners to laugh, groan, and sometimes even cry. 00:56:42 Food Suggestions The Original Taste of The Caribbean Cooper’s BBQ 00:58:18 Bands seen Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ Mohawk SXSW with Charlie Gabriel (pics on Insta!) LP Giobbi @ SXSW 2025 (and LP Giobbi on Roadcase Podcast) Honeyglaze @ SXSW 2025 The Dumes @ SXSW 2025 The Rumble Ft. Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. @ SXSW 2025 Ali @ SXSW 2025 Dutch Interior @ SXSW 2025 Brutus VIII @ SXSW 2025 Frankie & The Witch Fingers @ SXSW 2025 The Wellerman @ SXSW 2025 Parker Woodland @ SXSW 2025 01:20:20 Gig Gab 474 Outtro Follow Roadcase Podcast! Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post How to Attend SXSW: Tips from Gig Gab and Roadcase Podcast — Gig Gab 474 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Running a band is more than just playing music—it’s a business, and this week, you’re getting a front-row seat to the real numbers behind a self-promoted, four-walled show. Dave and guest co-host Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes break down the hard costs, from union labor to venue staff, and what it takes to make those ticket prices work. Is the venue actually promoting your gig, or are you on your own? Or is it better when you work together? And when it comes to pricing tiers, always prioritize the fan experience—because that’s what keeps them coming back. Whether it’s VIP tickets or GA floor, every decision affects your bottom line. Always Be Performing means knowing the game as well as you know your instrument. Beyond the business, you’ve got to deliver on stage. Dave and Mike dig into the power of stage banter, the hidden advantage of playing in original bands when learning covers, and why oversaturation is a real risk. Are exclusive endorsements worth it, or are they just another trap? And let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: lip-syncing. Is there ever a place for it in live music? This episode is packed with insights that’ll sharpen your gigging strategy and keep your performance—and your career—on point. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 473 – Monday, March 17th, 2025 March 17th: Act Happy Day Guest co-host: Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes Dark Matter Promo Code GIGGAB15 00:01:01 Having Paul Kent back on Gig Gab! 00:02:04 Did the venue do the promo? Cover Band Central on Facebook 00:06:22 You’re running a business 00:14:41 Cost Breakdown of Four-walling a show for 1,600 people Building rental: $2,000 Union Stage Hands Labor: $6,100 Venue Staff (ticket-takers, ushers): $1,200 Cleaning Fee: $500 Box Office Fees (staff, credit cards): $1,000 Opening Act (45min set):  $1,200 External Production Company (lights and sound): $5,000 Advertising: $1,750 Crew: $925 Catering/Hospitality/Hotels: $1,050 That’s $20,750 (aka $12.95 per person with 1,600 attendees) $50 VIP Pit tickets, $25 GA Floor 00:23:46 On the subject of stage banter 00:28:25 Oversaturation awareness Dave’s rant about exclusive endorsements 00:33:46 Moral: take risks! 00:34:45 Dave’s Rehearsal/Sound-Check 00:43:48 Using Pricing Tiers Prioritize the fan experience 00:46:45 The value of having played in original bands when learning cover songs Mike’s Dope Walker 00:57:58 Lip Syncing? 01:01:42 Gig Gab 473 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post $20K to Rock? The True Cost of Putting on a Show — Gig Gab 473 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You never know where a layoff might lead—sometimes, it’s straight into launching your own in-ear monitor (IEM) company. That’s exactly what Dark Matter Audio’s Tal Kocen and Dave Friesma did, carving out a niche in a legacy industry by embracing natural sound and combining it with all the nerdy elements that go into making these things the right way. Dave and Tal break down why ears naturally boost that frequency by 15dB, how the Harman Curve plays into tuning, and why you should watch those 150-250Hz corner frequencies. From the $699 DM2H Hybrid 2 to the $899 DMA3, they dive into what makes Dark Matter’s approach unique, balancing high-end engineering with real-world musician needs. Transitioning to IEMs isn’t just about better sound—it’s about control. You’ve got to start with the right mindset, knowing where you’re coming from and where you’re going. Pro tip? Don’t fall into the one-IEM trap—just ask Rosanne Cash. Learn why putting drums in a submix can change your life, how to manage shared IEM mixes, and why a little education goes a long way. Whether you’re tweaking your mix or embracing the occlusion effect, one thing’s for sure: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 472 – Monday, March 10th, 2025 March 10th: National Day of Awesomeness Use FACTORPODCAST at FactorMeals.com for a special deal this month! Guest co-host: Tal Kocen and Dave Friesema from Dark Matter Audio Labs Save 15% at Dark Matter with Promo Code GIGGAB15 00:03:13 Layoffs lead to the dream: let’s start our own IEM company! ZMF Headphones Dekoni Audio 00:09:48 IEMs as a Legacy Industry 00:12:35 What’s Dark Matter’s niche? Natural Sound Canal resonance at 2.7kHz 00:17:50 Corner Frequencies Watch 150-250Hz JH Audio Laylas 00:22:47 Ears add 15dB gain at 2.7kHz Diffuse field curve Sean Olive’s Harman Curve 00:31:00 Dark Matter DM2H Hybrid 2 Custom IEM – $699 MSRP 00:37:38 6ms in Dave’s Studio Took 20 years of experience out of the musicians! 00:39:51 DMA3 – 3 balanced armatures – $899 MSRP 00:43:05 Choosing your IEM 00:50:23 Understanding where you’re beginning and where you’re going 00:51:51 Pro-Advice for Transitioning to In-Ear Monitors With a Rosanne Cash story 00:56:22 IEM Tips and Tricks Put the drums in a sub group 00:59:29 Sharing IEM Mixes Seismic Audio Split Snakes 01:06:35 Rosanne Cash … uses ONE Dark Matter! One IEM … is a trap! Occlusion Effect 01:13:26 The value of education 01:16:07 More isn’t necessarily better! 01:19:20 Making the industry more personal 01:23:22 Gig Gab Outtro Contact Tal Kocen and Dave Friesema from Dark Matter Audio Labs Dark Matter Audio Labs Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Breaking Sound Barriers with Dark Matter IEMs — Gig Gab 472 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Paul Kent returns to Gig Gab, diving headfirst into the wild ride of full-time gigging with 120 shows lined up this year—and still packing the house! From near-disaster moments like a bass player taking a tumble (not this time, thankfully) to the art of bonding with your audience before you even hit that first note, it’s all about controlling the chaos. Whether it’s using a Seismic Audio Split Snake to take charge of your sound or knowing when to discuss weather risks before booking, smart musicianship is key. Cancelation policies? Rare, but worth considering—just ask Notso Costley Productions. Marketing your band isn’t about magic bullets, but there are definitely solid shots to take. Success in music is always shared, and shoutouts fly to pros like Tony Smith and Mike Schulte for their insights. Meanwhile, Dave has a revelation: he’s starting to get Bob Dylan. Whether it’s tribute nights, booking strategies, or navigating the business of performing, one thing’s clear—Always Be Performing, and always be learning. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 471 – Monday, March 3rd, 2025 March 3rd: World Hearing Day 00:03:10 Catching up on Paul’s Gigs…and life! BACK to being a full-time musician 00:04:32 Booking 120 Gigs for the year…and still draw a crowd 00:05:14 Shared Crisis on a Sold-Out Night One time…the Bass player fell over on stage (but not this time!) From Perfection to Survival 00:13:27 Bonding with your crowd BEFORE you start 00:15:56 Time to control your (sound) destiny Seismic Audio Split Snake 00:18:39 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/FactorPodcast and use code FACTORPODCAST for 50% off! 00:20:10 Canceling Gigs Discussing the weather during booking 00:30:30 Contracted Cancelation Policies…how rare are they? Notso Costley Productions Paul Costley and now Demetri Papanicolau! 00:34:59 Success is shared Tony Smith from Black Box Prompter on Gig Gab Mike Schulte on Gig Gab 00:37:11 In Marketing, there are no magic bullets But there are pretty good shots you can take 00:42:07 Dave is starting to understand Bob Dylan 00:48:18 Tribute nights 00:49:52 Gig Gab 471 Outtro Contact Paul Kent Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Changing Goals From Perfection…to Survival — Gig Gab 471 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wondered how to capture those magical live performance moments? Gig Gab’s latest episode dives into the world of recording your gigs, offering insights for musicians at every level. Host Dave Hamilton welcomes back guest Daniel East, a seasoned drummer, sound engineer, and recording enthusiast. With decades of experience, Daniel shares his journey from using cassette decks to modern digital setups, emphasizing the importance of always capturing your performances. The episode explores practical tips for recording gigs, from using smartphone cameras to more advanced multi-track setups. Daniel and Dave discuss the evolution of recording technology and how it’s become more accessible to gigging musicians. They stress that perfection isn’t necessary – starting with whatever tools you have is key. The conversation also delves into gear talk, covering topics like internal drum mic mounts, EQ tricks for live sound, and the concept of “Audio Tetris” for mixing. Throughout, the hosts remind listeners to “Always Be Performing,” whether there’s a camera rolling or not. Ready to start preserving your live music memories? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab for a wealth of knowledge on recording your gigs and taking your performances to the next level. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 470 – Monday, February 24, 2025 February 24th: World Bartender Day Guest co-host: Daniel East 00:00:55 Happy 10th Anniversary to Gig Gab! KickBlock 00:04:47 Why do we record every gig? Learning tool Give yourself time 00:09:26 I need to capture these moments! Dave McGuinness FOH Engineer 00:11:56 I CAN capture these moments! 00:14:49 Just Get the Reference Recording Future Sonics at Grateful Dead Shows 00:17:03 Using Four-Track Recorders Ron Dziubla 00:22:00 Dan’s “Basic” Setup Waves Mobile SoundGrid Server 00:25:20 Starting from scratch Use your iPhone Disable Spatial Audio Stage Ninja iPhone Mount RØDE i-XY on a Stage Ninja Microphone Mount Stereo Recording 00:31:06 Skeletal Bleed! No in-nose monitors 00:34:11 Always get as much as you can, then sift through it later 00:35:00 Gear to use Stage Ninja SSA Kit Albert Castiglia Guitarist Teddy Campbell’s IEM Mixes 00:38:43 Having the camera ups your game! 00:42:16 Quick Gear Gab for drummers Put Clorox Wipes in your gig bag! Elgato Stream Deck 00:44:17 Dan loves Stream Deck 00:45:30 Gear Gab from NAMM 2025: Kelly SHU Tommyz Just about 31-degrees! Earthworks DM6 Kompakt MD 421 Microphone Yamaha Subkick 00:56:05 What’s Old is New Again Pultec Trick Waves PuigTec EQ (does the Pultec Trick) EQ Swap Trick 01:00:30 Audio TETRIS (yes, it’s nerd time!) 63Hz is the tap in the chest from the kick drum Waves F6 Floating Band Dynamic EQ 01:03:24 Using Waves Live? Make sure your drums are in a latency group! 01:04:32 Gig Gab Outtro Contact Daniel East DanielEast.net Dan East on LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Recording Your Gigs, Skeletal Bleed, and 31 Degrees – Gig Gab 470 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Are you struggling to make your mark in the music industry while juggling your creative passions? Gig Gab’s latest episode features Keanan Duffty, a multi-talented musician, fashion designer, and educator who has shaped both the sound and look of music culture. Keanan Duffty, frontman of Slinky Vagabond and author of “The Fashion Entrepreneur,” shares his journey of blending rock and style. From working with icons like David Bowie and the Sex Pistols to launching his own fashion line, Duffty offers invaluable insights into building a unique brand in the creative industries. The episode delves into the importance of style over fashion for musicians, with Duffty emphasizing the power of authenticity and consistency in developing a stage persona. He also discusses his latest album, “The Eternal Return,” and the collaborative process behind its creation. Listeners will gain practical advice on networking, collaborating, and building a cult following. Duffty’s experiences working with music legends and navigating the fashion world provide a wealth of knowledge for aspiring creatives. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that reminds us to “Always Be Performing” in every aspect of our creative careers. Tune in to Gig Gab now and unlock the secrets to blending artistry with entrepreneurship! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 469 – Monday, February 17, 2025 February 17th: National Random Acts of Kindness Day Guest co-host: Keanan Duffty 00:02:15 Growing up with Bubblegum Glam Rock, Soul Music, and then Fashion because he loved the way they looked Style more than fashion 00:04:06 Crafting your on-stage style The Talking Heads: Wearing Ordinary Clothes On Stage 00:08:42 Project what YOU want to project, not what you think the audience wants 00:13:37 David Bowie vs. David Jones 00:15:34 Iggy Pop in the Grocery Store 00:17:28 Pitching David Bowie to Target Always Make Your Name As Big As You Can 00:23:39 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:25:23 Rebel Rebel: Anti-Style 00:26:26 Projecting your image when you’re not on stage Connecting constantly and having a dialog is crucial Sound Collage 00:30:00 Most bands are cult artists Commercial Success doesn’t give you the chance to build that cult audience 00:34:24 The Fashion Entrepreneur: A Definitive Guide to Building Your Brand 00:36:39 Learn to Network and Collaborate 00:37:08 Collaborations are Important It’s not who you know, it’s you who get to know 00:39:45 Slinky Vagabond’s New Album, The Eternal Return: Harmony-laden, Avant Garde, Power-Pop King Boy Vandals 00:45:00 Nerding out about Red Vinyl Bitter Pill on Red Vinyl 00:47:24 Draping Your Clothes around the hotel room… to make it look like yours Scarves, too! David Bowie World Fan Convention 00:51:25 Any gigs coming up? The Ritualists 00:53:40 Gig Gab Outtro Find Keanan Duffty Slinky Vagabond KeananDuffty.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Glam, Gigs, and Grit: Keanan Duffty’s Path Through Rock and Fashion — Gig Gab 469 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Are you a musician struggling to stay inspired on the road? Discover how to keep your passion alive, even when far from home. In this episode of Gig Gab, host Dave Hamilton sits down with Pat Guadagno, a celebrated singer and musical storyteller from the Jersey Shore music scene. Pat shares his journey from cover artist to respected interpreter of classic songs, including his unexpected collaboration with Blue Öyster Cult’s Buck Dharma. He discusses the evolution of his career, from playing local bars to performing shows celebrating iconic songwriters like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. The conversation delves into Pat’s approach to gear, his preference for Takamine guitars, and why he still records with a Shure SM58 microphone. Pat also offers insights on the importance of always giving your best performance, no matter the size of the audience. From the challenges of being a non-songwriter in a songwriter’s world to the thrill of unexpected fan encounters, Pat’s stories remind us to “Always Be Performing.” Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for any working musician. Ready to be inspired? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab and learn how to keep your musical flame burning bright, no matter where the road takes you. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 468 – Monday, February 10, 2025 February 10th: National Cream Cheese Brownie Day 00:01:43 Guest co-host: Pat Guadagno 00:02:24 Meeting Buck Dharma…without knowing! Buck Dharma on Gig Gab 00:05:58 The Jersey Shore Music Scene Saw Bruce Springsteen at a YMCA Dance 00:08:10 A gig on Bob Dylan’s Birthday becomes an impromptu tribute show BobFest with Pat Guadagno 00:12:11 And then tributes to: Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen, Hank Williams, Warren Zevon, Van Morrison 00:12:43 Tribute bands vs. celebration shows 00:17:48 Bob Dylan covers and collaborations Wagon Wheel Well, Well, Well 00:20:05 Tribute shows teach us musicians more about the artist and the songs than just being in a cover band 00:22:20 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:23:46 Pat’s Warren Zevon cover appears in … Californication! Terry McGovern with Bruce Springsteen SiriusXM’s Coffehouse Covers 00:28:15 Playing covers vs. originals Painting Houses is working in bars Painting Pictures is working on stage 00:29:50 Music Directing METV’s Big Variety Show Glen Burtnik 00:36:00 Leverage Your Free Time to Book Gigs! The Shannon Door Pub in New Hampshire 00:39:26 Never take a night off 00:41:55 Gear Gab Dunlop Custom Made Picks! Takamine Guitars LR Baggs Pedals 00:45:00 Shure SM58 for recording vocals in the studio 00:48:31 Traveling as light as I can Bose S2 00:50:20 Upcoming Pat Guadagno Shows 00:53:11 Gig Gab Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Cover Celebrations, Hard Work, & the Road: Pat Guadagno’s Musical Journey — Gig Gab 468 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Are you a musician curious about the latest gear and industry trends? Dive into Gig Gab episode 467, where host Dave Hamilton shares his first-hand experience at NAMM, the music industry’s premier trade show. Dave takes you on a journey through the bustling halls of NAMM, offering insights into the latest innovations and must-see products. From the QSC K Column KC12 loudspeakers to the revolutionary Black Box Prompter, he covers a range of gear that could transform your live performances. The episode highlights the unique atmosphere of NAMM, where industry professionals and music enthusiasts come together to celebrate their shared passion. Dave discusses encounters with notable figures like Stevie Wonder and Omar Hakim, giving listeners a taste of the star-studded event. Beyond gear, Dave touches on the importance of hearing protection, the revival of Slingerland drums, and the exciting developments in electronic drum technology. His enthusiasm for the music community shines through as he reflects on the connections made and lessons learned. Ready to stay ahead of the curve and always be performing? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab for an insider’s look at the future of music technology and industry trends. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 467 – Monday, February 3, 2025 February 3rd: The Day The Music Died 00:01:00 The NAMM Vibe Bands seen 00:10:42 Rag Dolls 00:11:54 MAEJOY (clear music stand, folks!) Gear Gab 00:14:28 Triad-Orbit iOrbit Pro Tablet/Smartohone Holder – $210 00:16:11 QSC KC12 3-way Tower Speakers – $2,000ea 00:20:45 Eargasm High Fidelity Ear plugs – $46 00:22:39 Apple AirPods Pro Gen 2 as active earplugs 00:24:58 BLACK BOX Prompter 00:26:54 Dark Matter In-Ear Monitors (team from Westone) 00:29:31 Slingerland Radio Kind Snare Drum 00:31:51 Efnote Electronic Drums solved the hi-hat issue (Efnote MIni is $2,199) 00:36:56 Notable people seen Stevie Wonder Omar Hakim Adam Johnson from Cover Band Confidential Phil X from Bon Jovi Dave Weckl Narada Michael Walden 00:40:00 Gig Gab Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Feels Like The First Time…At NAMM — Gig Gab 467 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Are you tired of staring at your iPad during gigs, struggling to read lyrics and chord charts? Discover how to elevate your stage presence and connect with your audience like never before! In this episode of Gig Gab, host Dave Hamilton welcomes Tory Smith, a guitarist, band leader, and entrepreneur. Tory is the creator of the BLACK BOX Prompter, a revolutionary teleprompter designed specifically for musicians. Tory shares his journey from leading cover bands to developing a game-changing tool for performers. He discusses the BLACK BOX Prompter’s features, including auto-transposition, wireless syncing, and integration with popular lyric apps. The conversation also delves into effective marketing strategies for bands, including leveraging Facebook ads and engaging with audiences. We know what you’re thinking: Facebook can work? Tory says YES! Dave and Tory explore the importance of investing in quality video content, the transition from bar gigs to corporate events, and the impact musicians can have on their listeners’ lives. They share touching stories of memorable performances and unexpected generosity from fans. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that reminds us why we play music and how to “Always Be Performing.” Tune in to learn how to take your stage presence to the next level and create unforgettable experiences for your audience! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 466 – Monday, January 27, 2025 January 27th: National Chocolate Cake Day 00:01:17 Guest co-host: Tory Smith from BLACK BOX Prompter 00:02:07 80s Gadgets — North Texas’s funnest 80s cover band Started, was rocking…and then Covid hit. Came out of Covid rocking! 00:04:10 90 PROOF Country I’m not a country music guy, but I’m a marketing guy! 00:06:15 From Soundcheck to … a new band? 00:07:39 Transitioning from Clubs and Bars to Private Parties & Corporate Gigs Thinking of your band as a side hustle Always be following-up! 00:12:16 Hire a videographer crew with real, 4K cameras plus your individual stems from the soundboard. 80s Gadgets media 90 PROOF Country media Invest in YouTube Learn SEO 101 Social is a must (Facebook and Instragram) 00:16:02 Facebook is a marketer’s dream 00:20:23 What do you put in your Facebook ads? Build your Facebook Event a month out. Flesh out all the details, plus a photo, an emoji-filled description that describes your band (include artists or songs that you cover). Use ChatGPT: “I’m in [x] cover band that covers [genres], please make me a Facebook event description that will captivate people who have never heard of my band before and attract them to the event.” Then, Facebook Boost the event and target your audience (20mile radius of bar, fans of bands you cover, age-ranges, any other interests). One month in advance: spend $30-$50 for the 30 days worth of boosting. 00:24:03 Engage with your audience on set break! Use QR codes with something like HelloBand 00:25:48 Your competitors are likely not yet doing this… 00:26:43 BLACK BOX Prompter It’s intelligent…with a Raspberry Pi inside Custom software Now has internet access for pulling in songs from Ultimate Guitar or YouTube Bringing in audience interaction functionality to show who requested a song or tipped you. QR-code functionality to show the lyrics to audience members on their phones 00:39:08 NAMM this year (booth 1229…with the rest of the innovators!) Partnering with OnSong! BLACK BOX Prompter powered by OnSong Promo code for 10% Off: GIGGAB (applies to most promos) 00:42:22 3 Sins: Swiping, Squinting, and Scrolling 00:46:11 Auto-transpose saves the day! 00:46:51 The night with the $1,000 tip! 00:52:08 Gig Gab Outtro Follow Tory Smith on Facebook (or LinkedIn) BLACK BOX Prompter 80s Gadgets — North Texas’s funnest 80s cover band 90 PROOF Country Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Music, Marketing, and Mischief with Tory Smith – Gig Gab 466 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Are you a musician struggling to find your niche in the ever-evolving music scene? Gig Gab’s latest episode dives deep into the world of musical diversity and the power of embracing multiple genres. Host Dave Hamilton welcomes guest Jon McCormack, a versatile guitarist and songwriter known for his work with bands like Wizzardess, Museum of Science, Fly Spinach Fly, and Bitter Pill. Jon shares his journey from being a cover band snob to embracing the joy of playing diverse music styles. The episode explores the concept of the “hyphen era” in music, where genres blend and musicians find success in unexpected places. Jon and Dave discuss the importance of challenging oneself creatively, from concept albums to theatrical productions, and how these experiences shape a musician’s career. Listeners will gain insights into balancing original music with cover bands, the value of visual elements in live performances, and the evolving definition of success in the music industry. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode reminds us to “Always Be Performing” and embrace the diverse opportunities in music. Ready to expand your musical horizons? Press play on this inspiring episode of Gig Gab and discover how embracing diversity can elevate your musical journey. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 465 – Monday, January 20, 2025 January 20th: National Cheese Lover’s Day 00:02:08 Guest co-host: Jon McCormack from Wizzardess, Museum of Science, Fly Spinach Fly, Paintbox, Wheel of Awesome, Camarojuana, Order of Thieves, and Bitter Pill (among others!) 00:02:53 You don’t just listen to one thing! Growing up with Disco to The Beatles to The Beach Boys and Paul Simon and Cat Stevens and World Music Growing up with original bands being the norm 00:05:32 The 90s were the hyphen era Ska-Funk Funk-Jazz 00:09:09 Creating cover bands when you’re a cover band snob Turns out being in a cover band is fun The fun-to-work ratio is … more fun in a cover band! A one-off gig pretending to be an eighties hair-metal band: Camarojuana Spyder Von Manhadyn 00:14:48 The Power of a Persona MC Food Court 00:15:47 Wearing a costume is permission 00:17:50 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:19:40 What covers were you learning as a kid? Rush, Yes, King Crimson… then Living Colour and other funk stuff And then came Van Halen and other eighties metal stuff 00:20:21 Taking lessons from the right people Randy Armstrong John Cutrone 00:25:07 In Danger of Being Discovered Thanks to Gravity Fly Spinach Fly Say Zuzu 00:27:17 Wheel Of Awesome at a local, small bar… is still great! A hang. A community. It’s all about being engaged 00:31:48 Dave played Whole Lotta Love 00:38:11 Back to hyphens: Paintbox, a concept album about paint colors And then it became a musical! 00:44:17 Gig Gab Outtro Follow Jon McCormack on Instagram Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Colors, Concepts, and Creativity with Jon McCormack – Gig Gab 465 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of tribute bands with Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Richard Page, a seasoned musician with a wealth of experience in cover and tribute bands. Dive into Richard’s musical evolution: from his early days with the cover band Rewind to leading the Black Crows tribute band, Remedy, and finally, his adventures with a Grateful Dead tribute, Dead Band. Discover the challenges and triumphs of replicating iconic sounds and the importance of visual elements in live performances. Explore the art of booking gigs and building strong venue relationships. Richard shares his strategies for navigating proximity clauses and maintaining professional ties while pushing for better promotion. Learn how to leverage tools like Dropbox and archive.org to enhance your band’s reach and efficiency. The episode also delves into the world of in-ear monitors…because of course it does! Richard recounts his journey in adopting this technology, highlighting the improvements in sound quality and performance. With tips on hearing protection and audience interaction, you’ll gain valuable knowledge to elevate your live shows. Join Dave and Richard for a lively discussion filled with humor, expertise, and actionable advice. Whether you’re a musician or a music enthusiast, this episode of Gig Gab is packed with insights to inspire and inform! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 464 – Monday, January 13, 2025 January 13th: Stephen Foster Memorial Day 00:01:44 Guest co-host: Richard Page from Rewind, then Remedy, Dead Band (Tribute) Started a cover band… then joined Remedy, a Black Crowes Tribute band 00:04:57 When your cover band is really a vanity band Set guardrails for your cover band! 00:09:53 Run as a democracy, with a shared vision And also guardrails! 00:11:44 Image matters Live music is a visual art (h/t Paul Kent!) 00:13:45 Everyone we play with Musical Family 00:14:43 Moving from Cover Band to Tribute Band 00:18:53 How long should your sets be? Play your own shows? Or partner with other tribute bands? 00:26:21 If you have a good gig…quickly rebook for the next year! 00:27:46 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50off and use code giggab50off for 50% off! 00:29:35 What does Dave think about jam bands? 00:35:08 And then came a Dead tribute band 130 Song catalog…and adding more every time 00:40:00 Booking a Dead tribute 00:43:00 Selecting songs for Dead tributes Learn the studio version, then… live (probably Europe ‘72) 00:44:32 Making a club an offer they shouldn’t(?) refuse 00:50:07 Proximity Clauses for either Tribute Band? 00:54:17 The motivation to keep booking your band 00:58:00 Applying the Freemium Model to your cover band Make an RFC Sheet (Reasons for contact) 01:03:28 Richard’s Bands’ In-Ears Journey Behringer X32 with a split-snake to run Music Audiologist, Frank Wartinger on Gig Gab 411 AirPods Pro hearing test 01:13:36 Using an ambient mic with in-ears 01:18:22 Gig Gab 461 Outtro Follow Richard Page on Facebook Remedy Dead Band Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Rocking the Stage: Richard Page’s Tribute Tales – Gig Gab 464 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join Dave Hamilton and Mike Schulte as they explore the dynamic world of working musicians. This episode is packed with insights and stories that will resonate with musicians at every level. Dive into the art of band pricing and mindset. Discover how Mike and Dave emphasize the importance of valuing your work and setting the right rates. Learn how the Pork Tornadoes set themselves apart by increasing their pricing and delivering unmatched value. Explore the necessity of evolving as a band. Mike shares tips on incorporating new technologies like backing tracks and automated lights to stay relevant. Discover why listening to new music is crucial for appealing to younger audiences. Ever faced unexpected challenges at gigs? Dave recounts a recent experience at a casino venue, highlighting the importance of adaptability and professionalism. Plus, hear about the benefits of charity work as Mike discusses Pork Tornadoes’ successful charity livestream event. Throughout the episode, Dave and Mike stress the importance of customer service in the music business. Treating venues and patrons as customers can secure future opportunities and build lasting relationships. Join the conversation and learn how to navigate the music industry with confidence and flair! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 463 – Monday, January 6, 2025 January 6th: National Cuddle Day 00:01:000 Guest Co-host: Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes 00:04:57 How did you level up? “You’ve got to see this band play Summer of ‘69!” We are the entertainment…only. 00:11:00 Break the mold you have in your head! “The minute people realized we were something different…” Pork Tornadoes’ Tennessee Whiskey 00:15:46 Make a spreadsheet of your hourly rate 00:19:21 Doing your own sound…by surprise! 00:24:24 Want to talk to the chief about it? 00:28:32 Mike’s Prediction for Casual Gravity 00:31:21 The “Stuck In Your Ways” Musicians and Bands Tip: Listen to the top 25 songs…regularly 00:34:56 Playing a young wedding…time for some modern material! 00:35:39 Video Wall…Coming down! 00:40:42 Being a band with good customer service skills 00:42:32 Here’s the thing about charity gigs Pork Tornadoes Live Stream Concert for SIDS Fling @ Angels Walk for Wishes Pick one free gig per year 00:56:09 You don’t always have to discount in order to help 00:58:58 Gig Gab 463 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Charity to Casinos: Gigs, Growth, and Giving Back — Gig Gab 463 appeared first on Gig Gab.

As 2024 comes to a close, this special episode of Gig Gab takes you on a month-by-month journey through some of the best tips and advice shared by musicians and industry pros this year. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting your musical journey, there’s something for everyone in this episode. From mastering your sound to connecting with fans, these practical insights will help you fine-tune your craft and grow your career in 2025. You’ll hear advice from names like Bakithi Kumalo on consistency and listening to your fellow musicians, Buck Dharma on appreciating the moment, and Parthenon Huxley on being the kind of person others want to work with. Learn how to negotiate fees effectively, delay mains for better sound alignment, and use tools like splitter snakes and Spotify playlists to enhance your performances. Each month brings new gems of wisdom, making this episode a one-stop guide for working musicians. To top it all off, the episode reflects on the contributions of countless guests who have shared their stories and expertise throughout the year. It’s a celebration of collaboration, growth, and the shared passion for live music that defines the Gig Gab community. Tune in and get inspired to make 2025 your best year yet. Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 462 – Monday, December 30, 2024 December 30th: Patti Smith and Davy Jones Birthday! Tips by Month: 00:03:02 January Frank Wartinger (audiologist) on…being in a band: Think of your band as being made up of entrées and side dishes — You’re usually the side dish! Dan East on food: Ask the bar staff where THEY eat. Billy Butler on lighting: light number one goes in front of the performer at a 45-degree angle 00:06:04 February Brad Madix on mixing with style: When turning off effects for between-song chatter, mute the *sends*, not the returns 00:07:59 March Mike Schulte on the value of a Splitter Snake 00:12:51 April Adam Moskowitz on negotiating your fee: “Here’s our asking price. If for some reason that doesn’t work for you, let’s chat.” “I want to make sure I pay everyone well.” “We were paid [x] recently…Does That Work For You?” 00:14:48 May Bob Vose on delivering quality: Rehearse because it’s responsible. Robert Scovill on sound: delay the mains to match the distance from the snare 00:23:32 June Adam Johnson, talking about the BAND system: “Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from STARTING” Crisco, on managing your band: Take contract screenshots of your deals so you can access them when you don’t have service. 00:26:01 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:28:50 PODCAST: One Hit Thunder dives into music’s most unforgettable one-hit wonders, exploring whether these iconic songs brought the thunder or were just a one-hit blunder. 00:30:08 July Digital Mixers 101…a primer! Tris Imboden on keeping a band together: You Keep a Band Together by Having Personnel Changes Lara Supan on selling tickets to your events: Spotify Playlists can help… within reason 00:33:15 August Dan Levitin, channeling Parthenon Huxley talking about under-attended gigs: “Don’t Punish The People Who Showed Up” Brian Ray on creating your career: Always say Yes! 00:35:39 September Bakithi Kumalo on Keeping Your Career Going: “Be consistent, show up. That’s how you get the gig.” “Sing what you play.” “Listen to what everyone else is doing.” Daniel East on teaching: Teach your students how to maintain and tune their instruments in addition to playing them. 00:38:44 October Matt McGlynn on selecting the right mic: Microphones are EQ devices Gary Burr: OMG just go read Reunion! Froggy on mixing live shows: “You’re not producing a record out there, you’re making them louder.” 00:41:46 November Buck Dharma on Blue Öyster Cult’s career: The time to see BoC is now! Pooch on feedback elimination: Use the Waves PSE Plugin 00:45:42 December Parthenon Huxley on tips to keep working: Show Up On Time Be The Most Fun Guy In The Room Don’t Be a Dick Oh…and be Super Talented Bruce Bennett on growing your band’s business: Don’t wait for someone to invite you to level-up Scott Smith on attracting fans: Think like a non-profit and embody and communicate a mission 00:50:51 Tom Jarvis from Casual Gravity 00:52:49 Thanks to everyone who was a part of Gig Gab this year, in no particular order: Billy Butler, Daniel East, Mike Schulte, Brad Madix, Dallas Corbin, Daniel Levitin, Kirk Hamilton, Brian Ray, Tris Imboden, Lara Supan, Frank Wartinger, Adam Johnson, Crisco, Heather Smith, Paul Giovine, Robert Scovill, Chris Breen, Bob Vose, Matt Musty, Best Not Broken, Adam Moskowitz (Moskowizard!), Dave Cook, Lewis Fawcett, Matt Gibson, Dallas Taylor, Scott Smith, Tom Jarvis, Parthenon Huxley, Pooch, Susie Major, Buck Dharma, Matt McGlynn, Bryan “Froggy” Cross, Bob Levitus, Dusty Wright, Bakithi Kumalo, and Paul Kent. 00:54:16 Gig Gab 462 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! Review Gig Gab @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Backstage Secrets: 12 Months of Band Life Tips — Gig Gab 462 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Tom Jarvis, the dynamic singer and founding member of Casual Gravity, the band Dave recently joined. This episode promises a deep dive into Tom’s musical journey, from his early influences like Elvis and Iron Maiden to his role in shaping the band’s unique sound and style. Discover how Casual Gravity has evolved since its inception in 2014, with Tom sharing insights on their innovative promotional strategy, “Casual Chronicles.” These comedic video episodes have become a fan favorite, adding a creative twist to their live performances and giving people something to watch between shows. You’ll also learn about the band’s transition to in-ear monitors, a game-changer for vocalists like Tom, who benefit from reduced strain and enhanced clarity. Explore the technical side of live music as Tom discusses his use of the TC Helicon VoiceTone D1 pedal. This tool helps him achieve the perfect vocal effects, especially when covering songs like Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone.” The episode also delves into band dynamics and leadership, with Tom reflecting on his role as a “taskmaster” and how it contributes to the group’s success. Tune in for a blend of humor, expertise, and practical advice that will leave you informed and inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a curious listener, this episode of Gig Gab is packed with valuable insights and entertaining stories! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 461 – Monday, December 23rd, 2024 December 23rd: National Christmas Movie Marathon Day (and Festivus) Guest co-host: Tom Jarvis from Casual Gravity 00:04:39 From Elvis Presley to Iron Maiden…time to be a singer! Elvis Presley Iron Maiden 12 Wasted Years Bowzer from Sha Na Na And then a Fingerhut Guitar 00:10:12 Time to leave the warehouse 00:11:37 First band: Offset 00:17:52 Casual Chronicles Short episodic comedy videos 00:26:45 On being a taskmaster 00:29:07 Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:30:38 The switch to in-ear monitors 00:41:13 Gear Gab Shure PSM300 Alclair 00:47:45 TC-Helicon VoiceTone D1 (Green!) 00:53:16 Blending Harmonies 00:57:52 Hold yourself to as high a standard as you can stand 01:01:16 Gig Gab 461 Outtro Follow Tom Jarvis and Casual Gravity Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Fueling Fan Excitement and Band Energy with Tom Jarvis – Gig Gab 461 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Bruce Bennett, a seasoned musician and entrepreneur, about the ins and outs of the music industry. Dive into Bruce’s journey from playing in bands to launching successful music-related businesses. Discover how he turned his passion into a thriving career, creating opportunities like SuperDups and New England CD. Bruce shares his wisdom on treating music as a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding and growing your fan base. Explore the world of tribute bands with Bruce’s experience in Shot of Poison, a Poison tribute band that gained fame on Jimmy Fallon’s Clash of the Cover Bands. Learn about their marketing strategies and how they leveraged media exposure to their advantage. But that’s not all! Bruce introduces HelloBand, an innovative app designed to help musicians connect directly with their fans. Say goodbye to social media algorithms and hello to seamless fan communication, tipping, and event management. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear anecdotes and technical discussions that provide a deeper understanding of the music business. Whether you’re a musician looking to expand your reach or a fan eager to learn more, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in and discover how to make your mark in the music world! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 460 – Monday, December 16th, 2024 December 16th: National Stupid Toy Day Special Guest: Bruce Bennett from Helloband, Shot of Poison, More 00:01:58 From loving music to creating it…and being a business owner 00:03:44 Music Business 00:04:41 99% of the money in this industry is made by 1% of the participants 00:05:26 Always saying “yes” and accruing the tools Parthenon Huxley on Gig Gab 00:08:50 Musician Psychology 00:09:40 Bruce “Mr. Tact” Bennett…can’t shut up! 00:12:38 Becoming the producer Red Light Syndrome 00:13:46 Be aware of your opportunities The birth of SuperDups, which is New England Compact Disc, Next Day Disc (and all of its other names) Picks and Shovels of the Music Business 00:17:44 The Power of Networking 00:18:54 How can I help? Bruce did all the music for the original Playstation NASCAR Racing 00:23:02 Shot of Poison, a Poison tribute Seated Theater Shows Fortune’s Show: “Watch how perfect we play these songs” 00:29:11 Ultimate Tribute Bands Get the Led Out Gary Mullen and The Works: One Night of Queen Lotus Land Rush Tribute 00:30:05 Don’t wait for someone to invite you to level-up Get asses in the seats Four-wall the event: buy the theater for the night 00:34:21 The drug of the eighties was alcohol The power of eighties music 00:35:49 Believe the Power of Your Network…Build it! “I’m gonna be that guy.” $10,000 startup capital and an LLC The $2,500 litmus test Dirty Deeds, AC/DC Tribute 00:41:17 Shot of Poison on Clash of the Cover Bands 00:44:17 Being able to market and sell Fans are customers Strategic Inflections Your network will grow you and push you. Let it! Be kind, don’t worry about being nice 00:47:59 Here’s how to make a million dollars Give your fans the product that they want Think about $20 increments 00:49:39 Sell free tapes And build a database of fans! 00:51:10 Postcards in the mail Susie Majors with RagDolls on Gig Gab 00:54:05 Promoting Shows in 2024 (and beyond) HelloBand (GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off!) Messages from the crowd to the stage One QR Code does it all 01:02:49 You’re in a business 01:04:16 Talk Nerdy To Me Nothin’ But a Good Time Come Together 01:09:07 Sugar Packets on Sweet Emotion 01:09:42 Work with an agent? Shot of Poison is not exclusive with any agents Agents are very valuable…when used properly 01:12:04 Gig Gab 460 Outtro Follow Bruce Bennett and HelloBand (GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off!) Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Music, Marketing, and Mischief with Bruce Bennett — Gig Gab 460 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Unlock the secret to transforming your band from cover to original without even realizing it! If you’re a musician looking to make that leap, this episode is your guide. Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Scott Smith, co-founder of the North County Band. Scott shares his journey from strumming around campfires to leading a band that captivates audiences with original music. With no formal musical training, Scott’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. In this episode, discover how the North County Band transitioned from a cover band to an original powerhouse. Scott reveals the unexpected joys of songwriting and the unique challenges of finding and engaging fans. Learn how they balance cover gigs with original performances and the strategies they use to market their music boldly. Additional topics include the importance of community support, the role of nonprofit principles in band management, and the art of fan engagement. Scott also shares insights on crowdfunding and recording, offering valuable tips for musicians at any stage. Ready to be inspired? Tune in and remember, in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing.” Click to listen and elevate your musical journey! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 459 – Monday, December 9th, 2024 December 9th: National Llama Day 00:01:58 Guest Co-host: Scott Smith North County Band From country music to 00:03:36 Dad rock… the bad and the good! 00:06:02 From covers to originals…successfully! Soggy Po Boys 00:07:43 Beginning the songwriting process during middle-age 00:11:36 Am I an artist? One of these days – North County Band Defining success 00:16:16 Attracting Fans Thinking like a non-profit…with a mission Market Boldly without Worrying About What other bands are doing Take Chances. Be free to fail a little bit. Support your musical community Tie in actual non-profits with your shows…sometimes. 00:20:30 Finding Fans Bandzoogle Bands In Town Facebook Events Mailing list – gather email addresses Facebook Superhost Find the platforms that work and then be consistent with them 00:22:44 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:24:39 How do people say they found you initially? Word of Mouth Talk to fans at gigs 00:27:41 She Only Wants Me When She’s Drunk – North County Band 00:29:15 Success with originals vs. covers North County Band at The Press Room 00:36:08 A fan is a person who changes their vacation plans to come to see you 00:38:01 Content vs. Happy 00:46:12 Raising $15,000 as a Kickstarter to record the latest album North County Band on Kickstarter 00:54:43 Gig Gab 459 Outtro Follow Scott and North County Band Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Covers to Originals with North County Band — Gig Gab 459 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling to find your place in the music world? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab, where we explore the multifaceted journey of a seasoned musician. Join host Dave Hamilton as he welcomes Parthenon Huxley, a prolific songwriter and performer with nine studio albums and collaborations with legends like Mick Jones and Robert Lamb. Known for his work with ELO Part 2, now The Orchestra, Huxley shares insights from his diverse career. In this episode, Huxley discusses the evolution of his musical roles, from leading his own bands to being a key part of The Orchestra. He delves into the art of harmony singing, the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities, and the balance between personal projects and collaborative efforts. Listeners will also hear about Huxley’s teaching experiences, his approach to in-ear monitors, and the significance of maintaining multiple income streams in the music industry. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and personal anecdotes. Press play to listen and remember, in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing.” 00:00:00 Gig Gab 458 – Monday, December 2nd, 2024 December 2nd: Bartender Appreciation Day 00:02:11 Guest Co-Host: Parthenon Huxley 00:02:26 Ringo’s Time on My Hands Gary Burr on Gig Gab 00:03:21 What’s in a name? Parthenon Huxley Aldus Huxley’s “Island” 00:06:45 Me in middle with a great band around me. Democracy Bands vs. Benign Dictatorship Hux’s Zigzag Life 00:14:18 Saying “Yes” is one of the key things you’ll ever do in your life Show Up On Time Be The Most Fun Guy In The Room Don’t Be a Dick Oh…and be Super Talented 00:16:47 “I Didn’t Know You Could Do That” 00:17:22 Songwriting …alone and with others Parthenon Huxley’s “Sunny Nights” A Man Called E “Good Press” will never pay your rent The freedom of not being a “hit-maker” 00:24:48 Being a Replacement Part in a Classic Rock Band ELO pt2 “No Rewind” 00:25:36 Learn 38 Songs and I’ll See You in Uruguay Deliver with Authority Brian Ray on Gig Gab Rusty Anderson Glen Burtnick 00:31:43 There’s Nothing Better Than Great Harmony Singing Assigning Harmony Parts 00:41:46 Dissecting Beatles Harmonies 00:44:53 Dissecting Mustang Sally 00:45:52 Got Tinnitus From having IEMs too loud Getting the right in-ear mix Don’t expect a great sound Froggy on Gig Gab 00:54:12 Don’t Quit! Dissecting Whole Lotta Love 01:01:04 Dissecting Day Tripper 01:03:51 Any Paying Gig is a Good Gig…Take ‘Em 01:05:46 ParthenonHuxley.com 01:06:31 Hux’s new memoir Daniel Levitin on Gig Gab 01:08:02 Gig Gab 458 Outtro Follow Parthenon Huxley Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Parthenon Huxley’s Harmonious Adventures — Gig Gab 458 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling to make your mark in the music industry? This episode of Gig Gab is your backstage pass to the world of live sound engineering with the legendary Pooch, a seasoned pro who’s mixed for icons like Iron Maiden and Whitney Houston. Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Pooch, a recording engineer turned live sound maestro. With a career spanning decades, Pooch shares his journey from the studio to the stage, offering insights into the evolution of sound technology and the art of mixing live performances. In this episode, Pooch delves into the challenges and triumphs of live sound, from the adrenaline rush of mixing for thousands to the technical intricacies of ensuring vocal clarity. He also discusses the importance of people skills in the industry and how saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities can change your career trajectory. Whether you’re a budding sound engineer or a musician looking to understand the tech side of performances, this episode is packed with valuable lessons. Tune in to discover why the mantra “Always Be Performing” is key to success in the music world. Don’t miss out—click to listen now! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 457 – Monday, November 25th, 2024 November 25th: National Parfait Day Guest Co-Host: Pooch 00:01:33 Started at Berkeley, then went into recording engineering Nominated for a few Grammys 00:03:29 Warrant asked Pooch to do FOH 00:06:38 Live sound has a short memory 00:09:03 Live sound today: record quality with impact 00:10:40 Feedback Elimination Waves PSE Plugin Neve 5045 00:15:43 Let’s Talk Latency For IEMs Max Latency is 4ms Dave’s Presonus Quantum 2626 vs. HD 8 Pooch’s Six Mac Mini’s from 2012 00:19:48 Pooch’s Live Setup 00:21:18 Show starts and … silence! 00:23:01 Press the wrong button during a show and … silence! 00:25:53 Back to Pooch’s Live Setup More creative with digital than analog now… in the last five years Mackie DL1608 was (essentially?) the first DiGiCo Quantum 7 SuperRack by Waves 00:30:00 Up to 20% harmonic distortion is pleasing to a human ear Sonic Farm’s Creamliner 00:33:08 It’s time to nerd out about digital vs. analog 00:36:28 It pays to have average ears! 00:37:49 Interpreting Rock Star Speak Study Psychology 101 00:40:50 How did you know to do that? 00:48:18 Don’t ever say no! Stage patcher to monitor engineer for Whitney Houston The entrepreneurs’ curse 00:51:47 Everybody Gets One 00:57:02 Be careful when arming tracks! 00:57:52 Gig Gab 457 Outtro Follow Pooch Pooch and Rabold’s YouTube Pooch’s Master Classes Pooch’s Berkeley Online Course: Live Microphone Techniques Pooch on Instagram Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Pooch’s Path: From Recording Rooms to Rocking Arenas — Gig Gab 457 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling with sound issues at gigs? You’re not alone. Dive into this episode where Dave Hamilton and Mike Schulte tackle the challenges of playing live music in less-than-ideal conditions. This episode centers on the art of compromise in live performances. Dave and Mike discuss the importance of adapting to different venues and audiences, sharing personal stories about the trials and triumphs of using electronic drum kits and managing sound levels. They emphasize the need for musicians to be flexible and professional, even when the gig isn’t perfect. The duo explores the dynamics of sharing gear with other bands, the benefits of using a tempo monitor, and the value of having a supportive band. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and the role of technology in enhancing live performances. Ready to learn how to “Always Be Performing” no matter the circumstances? Click play and join the conversation! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 456 – Monday, November 18th, 2024 November 18th: Odd Socks Day 00:01:07 Guest Co-host: Mike Schulte 00:01:42 We’re all hoping to hear from Paul Kent again 00:03:10 Time to talk about compromise 00:04:38 You need to play electronic drums for this gig, man You’re wallpaper Roland VAD 504 00:10:00 How good are electronic drums for a drummer used to a real kit? Midas M32 mixer VH10 hi-hat changed to VH14 hi-hat using TD50 brain 00:14:35 Two in a row…one with actual Exposure Bucks! (and also lots of real buck$) When there’s a party…it’s not about you. 00:19:30 The side benefits of eDrums 00:22:33 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:25:27 The other drummer is fine using your kit 00:33:49 ChatGPT can be your friend 00:36:08 Sharing Stages and Gear Gear Gab 00:39:39 Think abou getting a trailer 00:40:35 Gibraltar Stealth Rack 00:53:17 RokTempo 2 – $139 00:46:28 The benefits of working as a team with your band 00:49:31 Having roadies…and not letting yourself help them too much Bruce Flohr from RCA 00:56:04 What do you do to play the right tempo? Stevie Wonder Superstition Sesame Street 01:02:24 Gig Gab 456 Outtro Follow Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Bandmates Unite: Navigating Gig Challenges Together — Gig Gab 456 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wondered how an all-female Aerosmith tribute band came to be? Meet Susie Major, the voice behind Ragdolls, who defied expectations and carved a unique path in the tribute scene. Susie shares her journey from singing male-dominated rock to leading a band that pays homage to Aerosmith while maintaining its own identity. Discover how she navigated the challenges of forming a tribute band and the unexpected twists along the way. Press play to hear about the creative process, the importance of authenticity, and why Ragdolls stands out in a crowded field. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that redefines what it means to be a tribute band. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 455 – Monday, November 11th, 2024 November 11th: National Metal Day (because this one goes to eleven!) 00:01:43 Susie Major from RagDolls 00:02:42 Singing for Roctober Blood… Sharknado 00:04:17 Susie’s always been singing “male” songs Evergreen (Barbara Streisand) Pay Your Dues: “You didn’t flyer grocery store parking lots!” 00:10:13 Detouring into postcards that you send to your fans 00:11:22 Trying to be herself, while singing song to men Chicago was the bridge from Show Tunes to Aerosmith 00:16:15 Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:17:45 From cover bands to original bands Third World club in Las Vegas 00:21:01 From Original Music to…Tribute Bands? Robbie Rist: “You gotta start a tribute band!” 00:26:05 Tributes vs. Covers 00:28:15 Playing NAMM with an all-female tribute band 00:29:34 Building relationships before endorsements Microphones – Shure USA Blue Yeti microphone 00:32:14 Cousin Oliver said “You Gotta Start a Tribute Band” 00:33:11 Starting a Tribute Band During Covid 00:39:00 Soft Tickets vs. Hard Tickets…when you’re an all-female band Becoming your own agent (or manager?) 00:47:44 In-Ear Monitors Alclair 01:03:07 Gig Gab 455 Outtro Follow RagDolls Follow Susie Major Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post RagDolls Rise: Susie Major’s Tribute Band Story — Gig Gab 455 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into the fascinating world of Buck Dharma, the legendary guitarist from Blue Öyster Cult. Buck shares his incredible musical journey, starting from his high school surf band days to becoming a founding member of Blue Öyster Cult—a gig he’s held for over five decades! Discover how Blue Öyster Cult evolved from playing bars to achieving major success, and learn about the band’s current lineup, which has been rocking together for over 20 years. Buck also reveals his appreciation for technology in live music: in-ear monitors and guitar modeling technology have transformed their performances. Explore the band’s unique approach to songwriting and harmonies. Buck explains how their music, often mislabeled as heavy metal, actually incorporates complex arrangements and pop sensibilities. Plus, hear about their extensive touring history and the importance of maintaining good relationships within the band for long-term success. This episode is packed with insights and stories that will resonate with musicians and fans alike. Whether you’re a casual listener or a tech enthusiast, you’ll find something to enjoy. Tune in to Gig Gab and join the conversation! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 454 – Monday, November 4th, 2024 November 4th: National Candy Day 00:01:11 Guest Co-Host: Buck Dharma from Blue Öyster Cult 00:01:56 Genesis of Buck Dharma 00:03:11 Backed into songwriting Sandy Perlman — rock critic, lyricist, manager 00:05:44 The End of Every Song – New material…and fantastic material. 00:07:12 BöC Started as a Recording Act, not a bar band Then played bars as the Stalk Forest Group 00:10:00 Post-arena time since 1985 00:10:40 Resisting IEMs…until we didn’t! Full stereo mix plus voice-and-guitar +2dB 00:14:34 Modelers vs. Amps Strymon Iridium 2Notes C.A.B. Em Marshall JCM 900 to keep the stage from being silent 00:16:32 BoC as a Harmony Band “Mostly a Pop Guy” 00:19:06 “Burnin’ For You” was intended for the solo record 00:21:33 Discussing the album vs. single 00:23:50 Where is the technological replacement for liner notes? Bitter Pill Little Steven’s Underground Garage Pat Guadagno AllMusic 00:29:44 Crazy Stories Black Sabbath with Ronnie Dio… Riot in Milwaukee 00:32:00 Finding the zone 00:34:00 Rehearsing in today’s world? Blue Öyster Cult does Three Nights at Sony Hall 00:35:40 Deadest audience: record company executives 00:38:09 What’s Next? European Tour 2025 25 Million Records and 4,600 dates 00:40:00 Touring Tips Mostly Fly Dates 00:43:43 The time to see BoC is now! 00:44:42 Gig Gab 453 Outtro Follow Buck Dharma Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Buck Dharma: Guitars, Tech, and Touring Tales — Gig Gab 454 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Join Dave Hamilton as he explores the fascinating world of microphones with Matt McGlynn, the mastermind behind Roswell Pro Audio. Dive into the origins of Roswell Pro Audio, born from Matt’s passion for sound and his ventures with Recording Hacks and Microphone Parts. Discover the art of choosing the right microphone as Matt breaks down the differences between dynamic and condenser mics, offering tips on selecting the perfect match for your voice. Ever wondered how to achieve studio-quality sound at home? This episode covers the importance of acoustic treatment, with practical DIY solutions and professional product recommendations to enhance your home studio setup. Plus, learn the insider’s secret: testing multiple microphones side-by-side to find your ideal sound. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, this episode promises to equip you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your audio game. Tune in and join the conversation—your voice deserves the best! https://youtube.com/live/JhCf2AelA9k 00:00:00 Gig Gab 453 – Monday, October 28th, 2024 October 28th: National Chocolate Day Guest Co-Host: Matt McGlynn from Roswell Pro Audio 00:01:52 The progression from drummer to microphone manufacturer Does it sound like you want it to sound? Beware anti-social proof If you pick the wrong microphone, you get bad results RecordingHacks.com 00:09:00 Why is one microphone better than the other? Getting nerdy about transduction 00:12:00 Microphones can be modified with great results! Enter MicrophoneParts.com “Can you build it for me?” Yes: Roswell Pro Audio 00:21:49 Advice for your home studio USB Mic Interfaces from: Mackie, PreSonus, Focusrite, UAD, SSL Dynamic vs. Condenser microphones Dynamic: generally good for human voice Condensers: generally wide bandwidth and good for your home studio (remember, we said “generally”) Inverse-square Law 00:35:30 Acoustic Treatments for your home and home studio Auralex Foam Acoustic Panels from GIK Acoustics and ATS Acoustic Panels RealTraps Acoustics Matt’s PVB Review 00:42:31 Split your money between microphones and acoustic treatment Neumann TLM-103 00:46:49 The Lenny B service iZotope RX 11 Voice De-noise 00:52:38 Microphones are EQ devices ELA M 251 Telefunken U47 00:59:28 Rosell Pro Audio’s Microphones 01:01:33 Gig Gab 453 Outtro Follow Roswell Pro Audio Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Sound Science: From DIY to Pro Mics with Matt McGlynn — Gig Gab 453 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he dives into the fascinating world of songwriting with the legendary Gary Burr. Discover how Gary’s career took off, writing hits for artists like Juice Newton, and hear about his incredible collaborations with Ringo Starr over the past two decades. Gary shares his unique approach to songwriting: preferring to write quickly rather than getting bogged down in endless revisions. You’ll learn about his creative process and how he navigates the ups and downs of being a working musician. Plus, Gary gives us a peek into his imaginative book, “Reunion,” a rock and roll fairy tale that envisions a world where John Lennon lived and The Beatles reunited 20 years later. This episode is packed with insights and stories that will resonate with musicians and music lovers alike. Whether you’re curious about the songwriting process or the lifestyle of a working musician, this episode has something for you. Press play to hear Gary’s tales and tips, and feel inspired by his journey in the music industry! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 452 – Monday, October 21st, 2024 October 21st: Everyone Writes Day Guest Co-host: Gary Burr, a songwriter with 14 number-one hits, a teacher, a touring musician, and now an author. 00:02:06 It all began at Woodstock. A Woodstock Epiphany: The guys on stage were going to get more girls than an electrician. You’re the guy who is supposed to write the songs. 00:05:23 One song got introduced to Nashville… and boom. That was it! “Love’s Been a Little Bit Hard On Me” – Juice Newton Applying the customer service attitude to songwriting 00:08:56 First writing partner: Vince Gill Writing camps opened doors Miles Copeland’s castle in Paris 00:10:55 Going on tour with Carole King 00:11:27 Always Be a Good Hang Pick up the occasional tab! 00:14:00 Be willing to learn And be willing to teach 00:17:29 Writing with Kenny Loggins was not like Nashville! Blue Sky Riders with Kenny and Georgia Middleman Perfect is the enemy of Publish 00:20:56 Feel the process Harlan Howard: “Son, you and I are gonna write a great song together. Probably won’t be this one.” 00:23:09 SPONSOR: HelloBand, a fan engagement app that connects you with your fans while you’re on stage making it simple and effective to bring your live shows to the next level. GIGGAB20 gets you 20% off! 00:25:35 Writing with Ringo Vertical Man was the start Ringo and The Roundheads 00:27:24 Playing with Ringo for The First Time Simon Kirk. Joe Walsh, Mark Hudson, Jack Blades, and Gary. Oh, and Ringo. “I’ve known him five minutes and I’m ‘Ring’.” 00:30:28 Reunion, A Rock and Roll Fairy Tale What if…The Beatles Got Back Together? 00:36:00 Is Oasis on the hook for their tour’s success 00:38:27 What if the Beatles wrote a song together 00:39:35 Gary writes every day Songs, Books Beatlefests Writers in the round at The Bluebird “Wherever You Are Tonight” – on Kenny Chesney’s album Gary’s life has a Zelig quality to it How Faith Hill Got her Break 00:46:38 Gig Gab 451 Outtro Follow Gary Burr Get Reunion: a Rock and Roll Fairy Tale Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Gary Burr: The Art of Songwriting and Saying Yes — Gig Gab 452 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Dive into a microphone showdown where Dave compares the Roswell Pro Audio Mini K87 with his trusty Earthworks Ethos. Discover how these mics stack up in sound and setup, offering insights for podcasters and musicians alike. Ever struggled with cleaning your in-ear monitors? Dave shares a clever tip: use your smartphone’s magnifier app to tackle earwax with ease. It’s a simple yet effective solution that every musician should know! The episode also delves into the OnSong app update. Learn about the differences between OnSong 2020 and the new OnSong 2024, including enhanced markup features that make managing your music sheets a breeze. And for REM fans, meet “Begin the Begin,” an REM tribute band dedicated to recreating the iconic sound of the legendary group. Hear about their approach and what makes their performances stand out. Finally, Dave discusses his experience with the Kelly SHU kick drum microphone mounting system. Discover how this innovative setup enhances bass drum sound and simplifies the mounting process. Tune in for a mix of tech tips, music insights, and engaging stories that keep you informed and entertained! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 451 – Monday, October 14th, 2024 October 14th: National Dessert Day Please Review Gig Gab 00:02:13 Bitter Pill farm gig to close out our year 00:04:54 Froggy’s importance of the right mic for IEMs 00:07:48 Roswell Mini K87 RX 11 Voice De-Noise 00:11:50 DLH-Use your iPhone’s Magnifier to see when cleaning out your IEMs 00:14:07 Keith-I am a long-time OnSong user. Do I need OnSong 2024? 00:17:06 Jeff-330-REM Tribute Bands DO Exist: Begin the Begin in Kansas City 00:19:34 Next week: Gary Burr, who has written number-one hits for Shania Twain, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Kelly Clarkson, and Ringo Starr. 00:20:10 Lawyer Jeff-Band Match to find local musicians 00:21:15 Sennheiser Spectera WMAS bidirectional wireless 00:24:25 Michael-Check out Higher Ground, the 6-part show on Stevie Wonder 00:25:33 Andy-John Fogerty’s Guitar playing is on full display in the CCR show from the Royal Albert Hall 00:26:31 Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:28:03 Kelly SHU Kick Drum Microphone Mounting System Kick Port 00:34:15 Gig Gab 451 Outtro Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List Review Gig Gab The post Listener Feedback, Tips, and Gear Gab Galore — Gig Gab 451 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode, you dive deep into the world of sound with Bryan “Froggy” Cross, where being a bass player was just the start. Froggy shares how his journey starting with Maynard Ferguson and later, Tower of Power, led him from backline work to becoming a tour manager by 21. The key takeaway? Diversify your skills, learn from others, and keep faking it until you make it! With a foundation in audio production, Froggy emphasizes that you’re not producing records when you’re mixing a band live—you’re making them louder. Remember, Always Be Performing, because when you grow, the gigs will find you. From microphone mastery to In Ear Monitors (IEMs), Froggy breaks down how to craft the best sound on stage. Whether it’s using the Earthworks ETHOS on drum overheads or creating the perfect IEM mix with UE Live, it’s all about finding what works for you. Guitar players, you’re not left out—get the right mic on your cab, start with the guitar, and build your IEM sound from there. Be aware of the physics of sound, dig into frequencies, and never forget the power of a good phase check. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 450 – Monday, October 7th, 2024 October 7th: National LED Light Day 00:01:04 Guest Co-host: Bryan “froggy” Cross Being a bass player leads to getting into sound and production in college 00:02:11 Started with Maynard Ferguson 00:03:36 From mixing an artist to everything that it evolves into. Diversify Yourself Learn from other people 00:05:08 Fake it until you make it! Time to learn about compression! 00:07:27 Then to Tower of Power Back line to audio to production to…tour manager at 21 years old! 00:10:33 Toad’s Place PM1800 Console “You’re not producing a record out there, you’re making them louder.” Pussycat Dolls, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani Grow yourself and the gigs will come to you 00:12:40 The Earthworks ETHOS Overhead Drum Mic Doobie Brother’s Guitar Cabinets Michael McDonald’s Leslie 00:15:50 The SR117 being used for vocals, snare, and more! 00:17:39 Learn how to use microphones in LOTS of ways 00:18:16 Use IEMs at the beginning 00:20:50 Finding the best In Ear Monitors for yourself UE Live – Froggy’s Favorite Current IEM Think about the size of your ear, what sounds good. Future Sonics with the one Dynamic Driver 00:26:39 Creating the best IEM mix 00:31:08 Monitor advice for guitar players Put the right mic on the cabinet… Earthworks ETHOS makes another appearance! Earthworks SR20gen2 – Drum overheads 00:35:57 More monitor advice for guitar players Start with the guitar Adds drums, bass, vocal to taste “Have it your way” 00:38:43 Be aware of physics Learn what frequencies come back with bone conduction Dig out 200-600Hz to compensate Think about 1ms per foot delay Check the phase button Little Labs variable phase Waves InPhase plugin Pooch’s Online School for Audio Engineers 00:45:03 Gig Gab 450 Outtro Follow Bryan “Froggy” Cross on Instagram Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Sound Wisdom with Bryan “Froggy” Cross: IEMs, Mics, and More — Gig Gab Podcast 450 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wondered what it’s like to tour with music legends? This episode of Gig Gab takes you behind the scenes with Bob “Doctor Mac” LeVitus, a tech author and former roadie for the Jackson 5 and Shaun Cassidy. Bob LeVitus, who has authored 92 books on technology, shares his unique journey from aspiring recording engineer to working alongside iconic musicians. With a background in audio and touring production, Bob’s stories are both entertaining and insightful. In this episode, Bob recounts his early days with the Jackson 5, including the thrill of managing stage lights at the Inglewood Forum and the chaos of Michael Jackson’s spontaneous stage antics. He also delves into his time as a guitar tech for Shaun Cassidy, revealing the behind-the-scenes dynamics of a major tour. Listeners will also hear about Bob’s transition into writing, his passion for GarageBand, and the unexpected paths his career has taken. Remember, in the world of music and beyond, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing.” Tune in to discover untold stories of rock and roll history and gain a new perspective on the music industry. Click to listen now! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 449 – Monday, September 30th, 2024 September 30th: International Podcast Day 00:01:26 Guest Co-host: Bob LeVitus 00:02:44 Macworld All-Star Band “Alias Cooper” Tribute Band in High School 00:05:19 Wanted to be a recording engineer Bill Lazarus at Evergreen Studios GarageBand – A free recording studio inside something you already own GarageBand for Dummies 00:08:45 I liked the wires and re-tuning more than practicing, so I became a roadie! 00:10:19 Got into the industry by accident: I went to school with Jermaine Jackson 00:10:49 On the road with The Jackson Five Sold Out Show, 16,000 People at The Englewood Forum… with two trees of 6 Par Cans on them each Calling and Mixing Lights…First Gig! Learned a ton about how to make things work during a live show 00:14:11 What was Michael Jackson like the first time you saw him live? The Jacksons took good care of us 00:16:19 Remembering Tito Jackson 00:17:58 Rehearsing at SIR with The Jackson Five 00:20:09 Chasing a Girl Trying to Get Michael Jackson’s Shoe Back 00:21:55 A good summer job: Being Shaun Cassidy’s guitar tech! Michael Lloyd 00:24:16 Managing Shaun Cassidy’s stage volume…the “creative” way Carlos Vega 00:28:54 Toto was (basically) the backing band for Thriller 00:30:41 Strong Songs on Gig Gab 00:32:02 Recreating Songs…for Fun! 00:33:22 Big Budgets on the Shaun Cassidy Tour Eleven people sleeping on the bus…and still getting a good night’s sleep 00:35:38 The importance of sleep on the road 00:38:50 Managing your health on the road 00:41:38 The Eagles with Vince Gill 00:43:32 John Fogerty’s 2024 Tour…with Credence Songs 00:45:33 Possible Macworld All-Star Band Reunion 00:48:18 Gig Gab 447 Outtro Follow Bob LeVitus Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From The Jackson Five to Shaun Cassidy: Bob LeVitus’ Untold Tales of Touring Legends — Gig Gab 449 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode of Gig Gab, you join Dusty Wright, the former editor of Creem magazine, as he shares stories from his vibrant career in music journalism and live performance. You’ll hear about his encounters with rock legends like Robert Plant and Prince, plus insights on how your influences shape your sound. Dusty also emphasizes the importance of listening and adjusting your setup for each venue, whether it’s a NYC club or a suburban spot. Remember, as you navigate the unpredictability of live art, always be performing. Dusty dives into his latest album, “Dusted Off,” which features covers that shaped his musical journey. He discusses the thrill of giving Pearl Jam their first cover and reflects on the necessity of adapting your volume and energy for the gig. With new projects on the horizon, including a collaboration with Dana Fuchs, Dusty encourages you to enjoy music with your family. Tune in and get inspired to keep the music alive in your world! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 448 – Monday, September 23rd, 2024 September 23rd: National Great American Pot Pie Day 00:01:05 Guest Co-host: Dusty Wright The Ultimate Tweener 00:03:42 Former Editor of Creem…The Bastard Son of the Music Press covering bands like: Kiss Rush Lester Bangs Grand Funk Railroad 00:08:12 Shaping Your Influences…As They Shape You Garage Rock, Jazz Working at William Morris Agency 00:11:12 Journalism as a career for a musician First: Cover Magazine from The East Village, then New York Review of Records Labels would underwrite the coverage of magazines 00:13:40 Storytime from Glastonbury: Robert Plant’s the nicest rock-and-roller I’ve ever met. King Arthur and Tolkien stories. Leaving a message for Jerry Miller with Robert Plant 00:17:41 Working with The Artist Formerly Known As…Prince! A trip to Paisley Park Prince used (affordable!) Max Factor cosmetics! A limo-driven visit to First Avenue, Prince’s (then) club to see Michael Bland 00:25:08 An invitation to publish Prince’s New Power Magazine 00:26:52 PODCAST: 1001 Album Complaints. Do you read every inch of the available liner notes and still shake a fist at the clouds yelling for more? If so, 1001 Album Complaints is the podcast for you. 00:29:03 Gigging in New York City Packing drums into a cab More and more NYC clubs are now providing backlines The Shrine in Harlem – Great vibe, good backline, GREAT sound guy The Rodeo Bar NYC – Americana Roots Artists… you’d bring your own backline because you have the stage for the night 00:33:55 The importance of listening for — and adjusting — your sound in EACH room 00:38:49 Nikki, the 15-year old English Setter says hello 00:38:55 Comparing Gig Experiences at NYC Venues vs. Suburg Venues 00:40:18 The Unpredictability of Live Art Sometimes you have to follow the the (lost!) leader Managing the weather…without getting electrocuted! 00:47:16 Dusty’s 11th album “Dusted Off”, full of covers that informed Dusty as a youth Dusty’s cover of (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone A reference to Faithful, Todd Rundgren’s Cover Album 00:53:46 Playing with Big Ears Playing appropriate volume for the gig! You only need to play one note to get everyone’s attention 00:58:17 Dusty was NOT at the Big Star conference, but he gave Pearl Jam their first cover! Complete with a “Thank You” letter from Mike Mcready’s mother. Temple of the Dog Madison Square Garden Setlist 01:02:51 New project from Dusty Wright and Dana Fuchs … coming soon “Dusty and Dana” 01:06:30 Enjoy Music With Your Kids and Your Family 01:09:28 Gig Gab 448 Outtro Follow Dusty Wright Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Creem to the Stage: Dusty Wright’s Music Stories – Gig Gab 448 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Bakithi Kumalo joins the show, diving into the passion and journey that led him to music. You’ll hear about how he started playing professionally at just seven years old, practicing on a cardboard bass while singing his bass lines, inspired by the grooves of Motown and James Jamerson. His first real bass came ten years after he had already been playing professionally! Kumalo emphasizes the importance of consistency and showing up, both to get the gig and to stay focused on the music. His mantra is clear: “Sing what you play, and listen to what everyone else is doing.” The episode goes deeper into Kumalo’s remarkable experiences, from locking in with legendary drummers like Steve Gadd and Vinnie Colaiuta to his life-changing Graceland tour with Paul Simon. Kumalo shares stories of playing for survival in Zululand and how music quite literally saved his life. Wrapping up with practical advice on getting that perfect mix with IEMs, this episode is a masterclass in how to “Always Be Performing,” no matter where you are in your career.   00:00:00 Gig Gab 447 – Monday, September 16th, 2024 September 16th: National Sit With a Stranger Day 00:02:18 Guest Co-host: Bakithi Kumalo Started in the womb Don’t lose focus on the music! Music starts with love Recording in the studio at 12 years old Learning is a journey, even from an early age 00:06:45 A mix of influences The local radio station didn’t play local music Motown, James Jamerson Practices on a cardboard bass and sing the bassline “I wanted to play this instrument that chose me” 1972-Got his first bass… 5 years after playing professionally “Be consistent, show up. That’s how you get the gig.” “Sing what you play.” “Listen to what everyone else is doing.” 00:15:28 Hiding from Herbie Hancock in the Studio 00:16:50 Building up a relationship with the drummer As a kid, he would sit on the bass drum while playing Locking in with Steve Gadd… learning to leave room for each other Anton Fig, very energetic… and also South African 00:20:12 Just did a session with Vinnie Colaiuta “Play to listen, and sing what you play.” 00:20:59 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:22:39 Graceland Comes During a Struggle Mechanic refused to fix their broken car…but saw the instruments and became his manager Then spent 16 Months in Zululand, away from his family, playing for safety, not money Really learned the traditional music of Africa Dreamt about playing with his fingers instead of his thumb… and then woke up and did it In Zimbabwe met the Ladysmith Black Mambazo producer 00:31:00 Turns out Paul Simon from Jamaica, NY isn’t a Rasta from Jamaica Something good is going to happen: stay consistent, play solid. 00:34:57 Learning to play the whole Paul Simon show 00:35:52 Still playing after all these years Bakithi Kumalo’s Graceland Experience “This music saved my life” Does Music Mentors for Kids, helping them to keep from getting stuck Have a story behind playing your instrument 00:37:38 Let’s Talk IEMs Ultimate Ears Customs Getting that Perfect Mix In order: Kick, Hi-Hat, Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards Dry, not swimming in reverb 00:43:42 Gig Gab 447 Outtro Follow Bakithi Kumalo Follow Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Bakithi Kumalo: Groove, Graceland, and the Power of Consistency — Gig Gab 447 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Mike Schulte joins Dave Hamilton to dive into the world of being more than just your gigs. They highlight how using holidays, creating a video show, and grabbing content ideas from social media can elevate your band’s presence in between gigs. Whether it’s on stage or online, the focus is on building lasting engagement—always keep moving, always keep performing. You’ll learn why Facebook events might not be enough and how to strategically create blocks of songs in your sets to avoid giving your audience a chance to disengage. From dealing with bandmates’ unpredictable behavior to handling gear endorsements, this episode covers the ups and downs of band life. Find out how treating your band like a business opens doors for custom gear and endorsements, even if you’re not a huge name. Mike and Dave drop nuggets on vocal effects pedals, drum mics, and how your behavior can make or break your chances of landing future gigs. Stay sharp and remember, Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 446 – Monday, September 9th, 2024 September 9th: National When Pigs Fly Day Guest Co-host: Mike Schulte 00:01:45 Be more than just your gigs Use Dates and Holidays as Content Create a holiday for your band Create a video show What’s the point of Facebook events? Capture screenshots of other people’s content to use as ideas for content later Pork Tornadoes Facebook Page 00:09:12 Be More Than Just a Band Casual Gravity Facebook Page Casual Gravity – Casual Chronicles on YouTube 00:10:53 Dave’s First Gigs with Casual Gravity Moving Quickly from song-to-song vs. Telling Jokes on Stage Finding the on-stage balance Don’t give people too many chances to disengage Build Blocks of Songs where you don’t stop playing 00:21:44 Getting the right people in place Finding the right balance between perfection and joy 00:25:15 Band MEMBERS behaving badly You can’t expect to get anywhere if someone in the band is going to fly off the handle 00:28:33 Band GUESTS behaving badly 00:32:12 Your behavior gets you a new gig…or kills the next gig! Watching Robert Scovill do his thing Hotshot pedal 00:41:19 Using a vocal effects pedal TC-Helicon VOICELIVE vocal effects units Using a synced tap-tempo to the click running the show 00:48:57 More love for the Earthworks DK6 Drum Mic Pack KickPort Shure Beta 91A Eames Drum May Internal Microphones for Drums 00:54:09 Mike’s new Custom snare drum Hero Drumworks Find small manufacturers who will make you custom instruments at affordable prices 01:01:00 BFSD…or not! 01:02:01 You are big enough to get gear endorsements Collision Drumsticks Soultone Cymbals Cappella Drumsticks (is no longer) Vic Firth DoubleGlaze 5B 01:06:56 Gigs and Babies and Whew! Treating your band like a business 01:11:37 Gig Gab 446 Outtro Contact Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Bandmates Gone Rogue to Maximizing Gigs: Keep Fans Engaged — Gig Gab 446 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, guest co-host Daniel East joins Dave Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of harmonies and the essentials of live sound. You’ll discover how to add harmonies to your band by honing in on the timbre of each singer and experimenting in real-time with just a guitar or piano. Whether you’re aiming for the Eagles’ perfection in a gymnasium or channeling the Bee Gees on a couch, nailing harmonies means knowing when to start and stop, as well as understanding if your lead singer naturally veers sharp or flat. Always Be Performing by ensuring your harmonies elevate the lead, not overshadow it. When it comes to miking and mixing drums in small to medium clubs, balance is key. Start with a well-balanced stage sound and tweak from there—pulling out some midrange from the toms can prevent them from overpowering the mix. The gear talk doesn’t stop there; from the Stage Ninja MIC-12-CB Gooseneck Mic Clamp to the Yamaha TF-Rack, and even the Zoom H1 XLR Portable Digital Recorder, Dave and Dan cover the tools that keep your setup sharp. Whether you’re fine-tuning your instruments or your sound, remember: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 445 – Monday, September 2nd, 2024 September 2nd: National Blueberry Popsicle Day 00:01:51 Guest Co-host: Daniel East 00:03:09 Brian-How do you add harmonies to your band? Approaching harmonies Be aware of the timbre of singers Get into a room with just a guitar or piano and sing into the air. How does it sound? Beegees on a couch…and crushing those vocals! The Eagles Singing in a Gymnasium, so perfectly! Learn whether the lead singer naturally sings sharp or flat Harmony vocals verses Background Vocals Start harmonies after, end them before the lead 00:27:58 Ted-Best way to mic and mix drums in a small or medium club? First: make it sound balanced on stage EQ some midrange out of the toms if they’re too present in the club mix Stage Ninja MIC-12-CB Gooseneck Mic Clamp Yamaha TF-Rack Gear Gab 00:42:48 PreSonus Quantum HD 8 – $999 00:49:13 Zoom H1 XLR Portable Digital Recorder – $149 00:52:56 Stage Ninja FON-10-CB Gooseneck Phone Clamp 00:54:21 Shure SM58 …now in all Black 00:55:00 Universal Audio ANTI 1992 Guitar Amp Simulator … with App Control! 00:57:24 Tonewings for Drums Internally-mounted sound-contouring devices 01:02:29 Teach your students how to maintain and tune their instruments in addition to playing them 01:06:28 Gig Gab 445 Outtro Contact Daniel East DanielEast.net Dan East on LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post How to Perfect Your Harmonies and Elevate Your Band’s Sound — Gig Gab 445 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into the world of music and neuroscience with Daniel Levitin on this week’s Gig Gab! Join him and Dave Hamilton as they unpack Dan’s upcoming book, “I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine”, releasing August 27th. Discover the intricacies of the Default Mode Network, and how music impacts everything from opioid release to temporary cognitive effects. Uncover the neurological roots of our musical preferences, balancing expectation with surprise, and hear Dan’s insights on the fascinating “Levitin Effect” where we inherently remember songs in their correct key. As they chat, you’ll hear stories of Dan playing with legends like Victor Wooten and Bobby McFerrin, and insights on grabbing gigs through connections, like the time David Byrne invited him to play Brian Eno’s guitar parts. From the festival stages of Helsinki to intimate venues in Los Angeles, Dan’s musical journey is a testament to the show’s catchphrase, “Always Be Performing.” Tune in for a masterclass in blending science and music, and get inspired to keep performing no matter where your musical path takes you. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 444 – Monday, August 26th, 2024 August 26th: National Spark The World Day Guest Co-host: Daniel Levitin, cognitive neuroscientist, musician, record producer, and the author of four NYT best-selling books. 00:02:21 Dan’s new book “I Heard There Was a Secret Chord” releases August 27th 00:04:25 The Default Mode Network = your Mind Wandering Mode We “Pay” for attention with oxygenated glucose Mozart doesn’t make you smarter, sitting in a windowless room makes you dumber (temporarily) 00:11:01 Parkinson’s Disease and Music as a treatment 00:12:00 Music to release opioids or cortisol…depending upon whether you like it or not 00:14:24 Everybody Wants Some … Except Manuel Noriega 00:17:25 The Musicological Angle … Is there a neurological basis for aesthetics? We tend to like music that’s slightly surprising Perfectly balancing expectation with surprise (of all kinds) King Crimson… or Shoenberg 00:20:57 Modulations 00:22:38 “Playing as often as I want to” Playing a festival in Helsinki with Victor Wooten For the Book Tour Livingston Taylor in Boston Bob Weir in San Francisco Recently with Bobby McFerrin in Berkely, California The Deductions (band) in Los Angeles Gary Novak on Drums Dean Parks on Guitar 00:27:00 What instruments do you play? On “Turnaround”, Dan played all the instruments except bass on two songs (Victor Wooten, Elliot Randall, and Steve Bailey helped out!) 00:30:25 How do you get gigs? David Byrne invited Dan to play Brian Eno’s parts for a gig 00:34:33 Parthenon Huxley with ELO: “Don’t Punish The People Who Showed Up” 00:39:05 You’re allowed to make adjustments during the show! BFSD 00:41:15 Trying to hit that falsetto after a long day 00:47:06 People tend to remember songs in the correct key, aka The Levitin Effect Turns out we all kinda have decent relative pitch 00:51:25 Check out The Musical Accompaniment to “I Heard There Was a Secret Chord”…and its playlists: Apple Music I Heard There Was a Secret Chord playlist Spotify I Heard There Was a Secret Chord playlist YouTube playlist 00:52:11 Gig Gab 444 Outtro Contact Daniel Levitin DanielLevitin.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post How Music Heals: Daniel Levitin on the Neuroscience of Sound — Gig Gab 444 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready to dive into Dave Hamilton’s action-packed summer as he recounts his nonstop gig schedule, from Bitter Pill’s high-energy performances to subbing with way-too-many bands, and his next adventure with a new band, Casual Gravity. With gigs piling up and Podcast Movement on the horizon, you’ll hear how Dave is living out the show’s motto: Always Be Performing… perhaps to a fault! Next, tune in as Dave tackles listener feedback, offering tips on communicating with your sound engineer and mastering the basics of dB and EQ. Plus, Gear Gab highlights the new Earthworks Audio DK6 Drum Mic Kit, perfect for capturing every beat. Stick around for a sneak peek at upcoming episodes, including an interview with Daniel Levitin on the healing power of music. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 443 – Monday, August 19th, 2024 August 19th: National Potato Day (also World Photo Day) 00:01:55 Dave’s Been Overdoing It This Summer July: Bitter Pill @ Vernon Monkey Fist @ Tideline Bitter Pill @ WSCA (sandwiching between Phish shows) Sammy Hagar – Best of All Worlds Tour August: Bitter Pill @ Auspicious Brew Dallas Corbin’s Heartland Radio @ Scituate Heritage Days (then right off to Train) This week, Rocky rehearsals ahead of: Two Friday Gigs, Two Saturday Gigs, then a week away at Podcast Movement 00:13:03 Joined a new band: Casual Gravity. First gig on 8/31. 00:19:19 Sponsors Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. Listener Feedback 00:21:01 Michael – “How Do You Talk To Your Sound Engineer?” Learning dB and EQ Got questions or comments? Email us at [email protected] Gear Gab 00:30:36 Earthworks Audio New DK6 Drum Mic Kit – $1,499 The DM17 is the short-form-factor SR117 Support the Show 00:42:34 Share the show with your bandmates, your friends, and on Facebook and elsewhere Sign up for the mailing list Where is the Right Place for a Gig Gab community? Upcoming Daniel Levitin, author or This Is Your Brain on Music and a new book: I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine What do you want to hear more of? 00:46:20 Gig Gab 443 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Performer’s Summer: Nonstop Gigs, Fresh Gear, and New Beginnings — Gig Gab 443 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, dive into the fascinating journey of Kirk Hamilton, a saxophonist turned podcaster, who brings a wealth of musical insight to the table. Starting as a student at the University of Miami’s Jazz Program, Kirk’s path led him from songwriting and guitar playing to forming the Square Tape Band in San Francisco. His passion for teaching blossomed at The Urban School, eventually steering him into the world of video game blogging and a full-time role at Kotaku. Kirk shares how this eclectic background culminated in launching his podcast, Strong Songs, where he dissects musical pieces with the same enthusiasm he once brought to the teaching his students…and everything else Kirk has ever done! As the episode unfolds, Kirk and Dave delve into memorable Strong Songs episodes, exploring the emotional depth of Toto’s “Africa” and the complexities of the “Rosanna” drum shuffle. They also touch on the possibility of a Strong Songs live band, and the trio of skills every musician should hone: teaching, learning, and performing. The discussion wraps up with a fun comparison of Led Zeppelin’s “Fool In The Rain” and Genesis’ “Misunderstanding,” underscoring how the history of music connects everything to everything else. Remember, whether you’re teaching, learning, or performing, the key is to Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 442 – Monday, August 12th, 2024 August 12th: National Vinyl Record Day Guest Co-host: Kirk Hamilton from Strong Songs 00:02:00 A Saxophonist first…and then…eventually, a podcaster University of Miami Jazz Program 00:04:28 Singing means building your own instrument 00:09:13 Songwriting led to learning to play guitar 00:11:50 Then it’s time to start a band! Square Tape Band in San Francisco 00:15:11 Taught at The Urban School in SF Kirk is a teacher at heart 00:15:48 And then… video game blogging! Leads to a full-time job at Kotaku 00:18:30 A little tangential history of the web evolving into video 00:21:37 And then launched a podcast! Eventually Triple Click Podcast 00:24:46 Teaching people music leads to …Strong Songs The Overwhelming Emotion of Hearing “Africa” sounding Like It’s Playing In An Empty Mall Mike Masse’s Africa from 2010 00:29:05 Strong Songs Africa Episode Maybe some “Second Helpings” of people A quick dissection of the Rosanna drum shuffle group 00:33:36 Dissecting The Chain… and lots else Rush’s Losing It Lyrics … inspired by Dancing Queen? Is Wendy in Born to Run…from Peter Pan? 00:40:45 Dissecting “Limb by Limb” Capo from Super Mega Ultra Groovy AudioStretch Some discussion about Phish albums, in general 00:52:31 Gigging History…and Present Petula Clark…and others! Will there be a Stong Songs Live Band? Maybe! 00:58:00 The Musician’s Tripod: Teaching, Learning, and Performing 01:01:41 Fool In The Rain vs. Misunderstanding 01:04:26 The “So What” horn… quote! The history of music has everything connected to everything else 01:06:45 Gig Gab 442 Outtro Contact Kirk Hamilton Strong Songs Podcast KirkHamilton.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Strong Songs Unveiled: Kirk Hamilton’s Musical Exploration — Gig Gab 442 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week’s Gig Gab podcast brings you an electrifying episode with Brian Ray, diving deep into his illustrious career and the recent release of his latest album, “My Town.” You’ll kick off with a fun story as Brian shares tales from his Halloween 1973 tour supporting Monster Mash, including the quirky experience of being having his high-school band invited to tour with Bobby “Boris” Pickett. Brian reminisces about how the transistor radio and Wolfman Jack shaped his musical journey, leading up to the release of “My Town” on Stevie Van Zandt’s Wicked Cool Records. Always Be Performing, Ray recounts being on stage with Paul McCartney, highlighting McCartney’s meticulous involvement in every aspect of their performances. The conversation takes a technical turn as Brian discusses the nuances of in-ear monitors versus custom filters, likening rock and roll to chamber music and needing to be connected audibly and visually with his bandmates. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Stevie Van Zandt as a collaborator and the innovative use of AI in the “Bad 4U” video. Brian contrasts recording alone in a studio with the energy of playing live alongside drummers like Abe Laboriel Jr., Erik Eldenius, and Pete Thomas. Wrapping up with colorful stories of zombie makeup and playing Monster Mash at Phil Kaufman’s house, rehearsing with Etta James, and run-ins with Dr. Demento and Oingo Boingo, this episode is a testament to a lifetime of ‘Always Be Performing.’ 00:00:00 Gig Gab 441 – Monday, August 5th, 2024 August 5th: National Oyster Day (also National Underwear Day) Guest Co-host: Brian Ray Played with Boris Pickett and the Crypt Kicker Five, Etta James, Paul McCartney and with a new album released Friday, 8/2, on Stevie Van Zandt’s Wicked Cool Records. 00:01:34 Halloween 1973 Tour supporting Monster Mash 00:03:44 Going on tour with your drummer’s mom’s boyfriends band Cloris Leachman’s son was the drummer 00:05:21 Seven Years of Singles lead to “My Town”, Brian’s new record, released Friday Stevie Van Zandt’s Wicked Cool Records fuels it all The transistor radio made music mobile… and brought Wolfman Jack to Brian 00:13:35 Being on Stage with Paul McCartney 00:16:07 Rehearsing For McCartney Tour The band knows 160 songs…then brushes up Paul is very detail-oriented, involved in decisions for the setlist, the staging, the lights, the video screens…the whole experience. 00:19:02 In Ears vs. Custom-Fit Earplugs Rock and Roll is Chamber Music…everyone needs to be connected 00:24:00 Touring Tip: Use scarves to cover lights chill out the hotel room vibe 00:25:43 On Stevie Van Zandt as a collaborator Bad 4U Video uses AI to lighten up the vibe 00:30:07 Recording alone in a studio vs. Playing Live with other people Abe Laboriel, Jr. Erik Eldenius Pete Thomas 00:33:16 Putting on the Zombie Make-up and playing the Monster Mash at Phil Kaufman’s House Modern Lovers Dr. Demento Oingo Boingo Story about Phil Kaufman being charged with Grand Theftbecause he lost Gram Parsons (made into a film starring Johnny Knoxville) Rehearsal with Etta James at John Densmore’s House in 1974 00:38:31 Gig Gab 441 Outtro Find Brian Ray at BrianRay.com Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post My Town & Beyond: Brian Ray’s Journey from Monster Mash to McCartney’s Stage — Gig Gab 441 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab episode, guest co-host Mike Schulte teams up with Dave Hamilton to tackle the world of music with humor and insight, and maybe a little controversy. They dive into why musicians often shun karaoke, dubbing it “beer league singing”—but that’s not a bad thing! Mike shares his whirlwind experience of playing 11 shows in 22 days, emphasizing the golden rule: “Don’t cancel shows!” Even when Murphy’s Law is in full swing, the show must go on. From discussing the joy of downloading full charts to perfect your performance to debating the merits of tribute bands, the episode is a goldmine for musicians. They even brainstorm hilarious tribute band names like “We’re Halfway There” for a Bon Jovi band and “Jonas Swift” for a Taylor Swift/Jonas Brothers mashup. The conversation shifts to the longevity of Taylor Swift’s music and whether it will stand the test of time. The hosts humorously explore the idea of playing for “pink slips,” and compare the dynamics of sports teams to bands. They reminisce about epic Battle of the Bands war stories, noting how these intense moments can leave valuable “chips on our shoulders.” As always, the show encourages musicians to “Always Be Performing,” even when the going gets tough. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a newcomer, this episode offers a perfect blend of practical advice and laugh-out-loud moments. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 440 – Tuesday, July 30th, 2024 July 30th: Share a Hug Day Guest Co-host: Mike Schulte 00:01:15 Why are so many musicians against karaoke? Total Eclipse of The Heart Karaoke Karaoke is Beer League Singing…and that’s great! 00:08:07 Mike played 11 shows in 22 days 00:09:29 Prime Directive: Don’t Cancel Shows The Shows are too big, with too many people involved, to cancel… they must go on Murphy is On Speed Dial Jesus Gonna Pay My Tab Music Video 00:18:07 Downloading Full Charts to learn songs Ultimate-Guitar‘s full drum sheet music for most songs 00:26:31 Finding Perfection in Your Next Cover Band 00:31:27 Tribute Bands vs. Variety Bands “We’re Halfway There” — Bon Jovi tribute band name “Fresh Fighters” Foo Fighters Tribute ”Being Petty” on Gig Gab Should There Be Territories for Tribute Bands? Spotify Poll The thrill of playing for a crowd that’s singing the same song you are. Would an REM Tribute Band Work? Would a Kings of Leon Tribute Band Work? The Little Mermen 00:49:35 Will Taylor Swift’s music persist across the decades Jonas Swift Playing for Pink Slips 00:54:29 Sports Teams vs. Bands Gong Shows vs. Battle of the Bands Battle of the Bands War Stories Those Moments in Life that Put Chips on Our Shoulders are Very Valuable Moments 01:01:41 Gig Gab 440 Outtro Contact Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Tribute Bands, Pink Slips, and Taylor Swift — Gig Gab 440 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into this episode of Gig Gab as Dave Hamilton walks you through setting up your digital mixer like a pro. From the basics of setting your input gain to the intricacies of dialing in compression, you’ll master the essential skills needed to get your sound just right. Dave breaks down the differences between Parametric and Graphic EQs and introduces you to the Real Time Analyzer (RTA), a powerful tool for refining your mix. Always Be Performing by ensuring every aspect of your setup is optimized for live gigs or recording sessions. Moving beyond the basics, Dave shares expert tips on managing gain and compression for drums and other instruments, crucial for achieving a balanced mix. Learn how to tune your mixer to the room by turning on the speakers and using your iPhone’s Measure app to set the delay on your mains accurately. This episode is packed with actionable insights that will elevate your sound engineering game, helping you to Always Be Performing at your best. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 439 – Monday, July 22nd, 2024 July 22nd: Mango Day 00:02:07 Today we talk about how to setup your digital mixer! Mackie DL32S Mackie Master Fader 00:03:17 Setting your input gain Heil PR-37 00:09:05 Dialing in Compression 00:14:05 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:15:51 How does my EQ work? And what’s the difference between Parametric and Graphic. Also…What’s an RTA (Real Time Analyzer) and how do I use it? 00:26:04 A note about gain and compression on drums and other instruments 00:27:40 Time to turn on the speakers and tune the mixer to the room 00:32:46 Digesting what we’ve learned so far 00:33:23 Setting a delay on your mains (thanks, Robert Scovill!) Use your iPhone’s Measure app to calculate the distance for the delay 00:37:03 Gig Gab 439 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Digital Mixers 101: Essential Tips on Gain, Compression, EQ, and Beyond — Gig Gab 439 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week’s Gig Gab is a must-listen as journeyman drummer Tris Imboden joins Dave Hamilton, bringing a wealth of musical history and wisdom. Dive into Tris’s fascinating career, from growing up in the musically rich Orange County, to the unforgettable moment he saw The Beatles live, despite barely hearing them over the screaming fans. You’ll love the tales of his early days with instrumental surf bands and how his band Honk’s soundtrack success in Hawaii set the stage for future opportunities. Tris’s story of playing a sold-out week at The Troubador, only to have the band implode right on the verge of breaking through, echoes the bittersweet reality of many musicians’ careers. Fast forward to Tris’s transition into a sought-after studio musician, including his audition for the Kenny Loggins Band, and you’ll find invaluable lessons on perseverance and readiness. The discussion on in-ear monitors and the importance of protecting your hearing offers practical advice for every musician. Tris shares his preferences for in-ear mixes and reflects on the perks of working with Chicago for so many years. From playing on Ringo Starr’s drums backing up Ringo himself to insights on keeping a band together, this episode is packed with stories and tips that embody the show’s catchphrase: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 438 – Monday, July 15th, 2024 July 15th: National Give Something Away Day Guest co-host Tris Imboden 00:02:32 Tris Imboden’s time with Kenny Loggins 00:03:33 The key: Location… Growing up in Orange County helped! 00:04:00 Seeing The Beatles! You Couldn’t Hear Them The Byrds were watching … from two rows behind Tris David Crosby Ran by in a Cape…and knocked Tris over! 00:06:53 Back to the proximity to LA being helpful Instrumental Surf Bands Robert Scovill on Gig Gab Coughing up Furballs with Tris Imboden Early in his career, Honk (with Tris Imboden) did the soundtrack for a surf movie with a number one hit in Hawaii 00:12:52 Be ready when you get the opportunity to do the hard work Sold out a week at The Troubador Imploded right on the verge of breaking through Like a real life Guy Patterson from That Thing You Do 00:19:27 From Imploded Band to Studio Musicians… and we’re off! 00:20:01 Auditioned for Kenny Loggins Band 00:23:36 Let’s Talk In-Ear Monitors! UE Pro Live UE 11 Pro 00:28:42 Protect Your Hearing, folks Loud instruments and monitors can take a toll Dedicated/Sacrificed His Ears to Rock and Roll 00:32:36 In-Ear Mixes…and Mixers Got spoiled by Chicago Tris likes: full mix, bass heavy, not quite as much drums as the house, all instruments 00:38:07 Kenny Loggins drum freak… letting you get away with things on Pop Records Kenny Loggins Footloose on Daryl’s House 00:43:29 Tris Imboden Yacht Stars At the last minute…Tris Imboden played on Ringo’s drums…with Ringo singing live! You Keep a Band Together by Having Personnel Changes 00:49:52 Gig Gab 438 Outtro Follow Tris Imboden Tris Imboden on All Music Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Tris Imboden Talks Rock ‘n’ Roll, In-Ear Monitors, Kenny Loggins, and More — Gig Gab 438 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Dave Hamilton is joined by Lara Supan from Midwood Entertainment to dive deep into the role of a booking agent for developing bands. Lara teaches us that a booking agent excels in routings, venue knowledge, negotiation, and strategy, but they won’t grow your fanbase or bring people to your shows; that’s your job! Also, timing is everything: booking agents work on commission and expect a minimum of $100K in tour revenue annually, with solid ticket sales in multiple markets. If you’re a band thinking like a small business, you should hire to your weaknesses and always look to expand your team. Getting ready for a booking agent means keeping your ticket sales data organized and maintaining a strong social media presence, especially on platforms like TikTok, at least these days. Once you have an agent, your job is to sell tickets and think long-term, planning shows 2-3 years out. Festivals like Mile of Music can help, but the real key is sustainability and growth of your headlining shows. And when doing those, remember, it’s not just about your first show; it’s about the next. Always Be Performing, and make sure to deliver—and sell those tickets—every time you take the stage! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 437 – Monday, July 8th, 2024 July 8th: National Blueberry Day Guest co-host Lara Supan from Midwood Entertainment 00:01:30 What does a booking agent do for a developing band? More specifically: What is a booking agent good for? Routings Venue knowledge Negotiation What’s going to be a good night for everyone? Spreadsheets! Crunching data, and trying to predict the future Strategy Conversations Booking agents DON’T Don’t Bring people out to your show Don’t help you grow your fanbase 00:09:59 When do I need a booking agent? This is a PAID team-member Commission-based, so that the incentive is right Needs for Midwood Entertainment Minimum of $100K tour revenue annually 300-500 tickets in home market At least 100 tickets in five other markets “Markets” are 1.5-2hrs (90 miles) apart 00:17:47 Is a booking agent the FIRST team-member a band brings on? View your music as a small business first! Hire to your band’s weaknesses But always expand your team 00:21:10 What can my band do NOW to make things easier once I’m ready to hire a booking agent? Maintain a difference between your hard ticket sales vs. soft ticket sales Keep your social media game up TikTok presence has sold hard tickets Facebook posts do NOT sell hard tickets Build and maintain your mailing list Spotify gives good data about listeners and their locations 00:31:14 Home Market Saturation…How frequently does a band need to sell 300-500 tickets? Pat Byrne in Austin now Saxon Pub in Austin Play every market ONCE every time you have a new album…including your home market 00:36:13 Great! Now, I have a booking agent…what can I do to help them help me? Sell the tickets to your shows. That’s not the booking agent’s job. Expand your timelines for shows… if you’re currently booking 2-3 months out, start thinking 2-3 years out Jim Fleming: “It’s not about the first show, it’s about the second show.” Work on your sustainability! 00:38:56 Does being forced into a booking slot help you make it? Support Slots are NOT the way people (generally) find new music It only works when the headlining artist encourages their fans to support the opening acts Festivals are a LITTLE better than being a support slot, but attendees are primed to discover new music Mile of Music in Appleton, Wisconsin – A “Developing Artist” festival Folk Alliance NERFA 00:49:10 Spotify Playlists can help… within reason Helps for soft tickets, not hard tickets. Then you have to deliver! Be responsible! 00:51:59 Lara – What do you play? Lara Supan with South Rail 00:53:40 Gig Gab 437 Outtro Contact Lara Supan Midwood Entertainment Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Ultimate Booking Agent Guide for Bands with Lara Supan — Gig Gab 437 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Join Dave Hamilton and guest co-host Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes and Confused Breakfast on Gig Gab 436! Dive into the wild world of subbing as a drummer, but beware—your online persona might just scare off potential gigs by making you seem too busy. Mike shares hilarious tales and sage advice on learning and teaching beat placement, ensuring you make that click disappear and even become your new best friend. And hey, learning to love modern country music? Trust us, it’s a thing. Get ready to burn the charts in effigy as you explore techniques to learn new songs quickly (shout out to Karaoke-Version.com). Discover the differences between sub gigs and pickup gigs, and figure out if you want to be just another bar band or strive for cover band greatness. Don’t miss the Gear Gab segment on UE Pro Universals—because let’s face it, Always Be Performing means having the right gear to rock out in style. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 436 – Monday, July 1st, 2024 July 1st: International Creative Ice Cream Flavors Day (also International Reggae Day) Guest Co-host Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes and Confused Breakfast Ice Cream Idea: Pork & Tomatoes 00:04:51 Subbing as a Drummer Beware your online persona convincing people you’re too busy to work with them 00:10:41 Learning and Teaching Beat Placement Make the click disappear 00:17:49 Making the Click Your Friend 00:24:19 Learning to love Modern Country music 00:29:11 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:31:03 Techniques to Learn New Songs Quickly Karaoke-Version.com Burn The Charts in Effigy 00:41:55 Sub Gigs vs. Pickup Gigs 00:45:33 Different Types of Cover Bands A Night Out with The Guys vs. Being the Very Best 100% of The Time Comparison Is The Thief of Joy The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k Finding The Right (Cover) Band For You Do you want to be more than your average bar band? 01:01:32 Gear Gab: UE Pro Universals UE 350 Pro Universal Fit – $399 UE 250 Pro Universal Fit – $299 UE 150 Pro Universal Fit – $199 01:09:10 Gig Gab 436 Outtro Contact Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Song-Learning Tips and Cover Band Greatness — Gig Gab 436 with Mike Schulte appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into Gig Gab 435 where Dave Hamilton teams up with guest co-host Adam Johnson from Cover Band Confidential for an electrifying episode. They kick things off with recent gig adventures, including the thrill of corporate live band karaoke and the indispensable value of rehearsals when subbing. Adam and Dave share insights on transitioning from analog to digital mixers, highlighting gear like Behringer XR and Mackie DL-series, and emphasizing the benefits of built-in compressors and parametric EQs for your weekend warrior band. As always, remember to “Always Be Performing.” The conversation doesn’t stop there. Adam introduces his B.A.N.D. system, a treasure trove of inspiration to keep you moving forward without fear of failure. They explore the allure of new gear like baritone guitars and share tips for staying awake on long drives home from gigs, with sunflower seeds and Diet Mountain Dew as trusty companions. The episode wraps up with shoutouts to must-listen podcasts like Disgraceland, Strong Songs, and Adam’s Cover Band Confidential. Don’t miss this jam-packed session—share the show and keep the performance spirit alive! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 435 – Monday, June 24th, 2024 June 24th: National Pralines Day Guest Co-host Adam Johnson from Cover Band Confidential Played with Morris Day & The Time 00:02:17 Recent Gig Chatter Corporate Live Band Karaoke The Value of Getting At least One Rehearsal (when subbing) 00:04:56 Which Country Music? Jaret Reddick’s Country Project Alex Melton 00:11:15 Migrating from Analog to Digital Mixers for your Weekend Warrior Band Behringer XR or Midas Mixers Mackie DL-series Digital Mixers Master Fader Allen & Heath Digital Portable Mixers The benefits of a digital mixer: compressors built-in, parametric eqs, and more 00:20:45 Always Listening to “My Mix”, Regardless of The Gig 00:23:40 Midas StageCONNECT Ultranet 00:25:04 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. 00:26:47 Adam Johnson’s B.A.N.D. System It’s great Inspiration Fuel “Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from STARTING” 00:38:28 Exciting and Shiny Things Capture Our Attention Baritone Guitar Presidents Of United States Of America Caspar Babypants Stompy The Bear 6 channel mixer! Parry Gripp 00:44:39 Gear Gab: MaestroDMX (save 10% with Adam’s Link) 00:51:36 Podcasting about Music…and other things! Mike Schulte 00:54:26 Go listen to Cover Band Confidential! 00:59:23 Falling asleep on the way home from gigs Sunflower Seeds to stay awake while driving Diet Mountain Dew Strong Songs Disgraceland (true crime and music history) Tales From The Tour Bus 01:05:23 Gig Gab 435 Outtro Share the show! Contact Adam Patrick Johnson Cover Band Confidential Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Staying Awake with Music, Mixers, and Motivation — Gig Gab 435 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast, Dave Hamilton teams up with guest co-host Crisco to dive into the dynamic world of keeping a band on the road. They kick things off with some fun banter about “Take Your Cat To Work Day” before jumping into the nitty-gritty of band management. From the chaos of uncoordinated coordination to the crucial role of spreadsheets, they explore the transition from musician to manager. You’ll get practical tips like taking contract screenshots for those times when you’re off the grid and gain insights into making music in the ever-evolving post-pandemic scene. As the discussion heats up, they talk about tools like Artist Growth Workspace and Master Tour that streamline the touring process. Discover how bands like Bella’s Bartok and Mama’s Marmalade navigate their journeys from band to business, and how adding live drums can transform a band’s sound, as seen with Bitter Pill. Live music is more than just sound—it’s a visual art, and your best role might be yet to be discovered. With anecdotes from playing three bands in one night to must-listen recommendations like the Strong Songs Podcast and Questlove Supreme, you’ll leave inspired to Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 434 – Monday, June 17th, 2024 June 17th: Take Your Cat To Work Day Guest Co-Host: Crisco 00:03:00 Keeping a band on the road Bella’s Bartok 00:06:05 Uncoordinated Coordination leads to Management! Spreadsheets vs. Songs From Musician to Manager 00:11:09 Making Music in the Evolving Post-Pandemic Scene 00:17:42 Artist Growth Workspace Master Tour 00:22:57 Tip: Take contract screenshots of your deals so you can access them when you don’t have service 00:23:55 From Band to Business Mama’s Marmalade 00:29:06 Adding Live Drums (the Evolution of Bitter Pill) 00:31:55 Live Music is a Visual Art 00:33:57 Discovering Your Best Role Playing with Three Bands in One Night 00:38:50 Are You Still Playing? 00:46:04 What are you listening to? Strong Songs Podcast Questlove Supreme Gig Gab 432 Outtro Share the show! Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Band to Business Evolution with Crisco — Gig Gab 434 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode of Gig Gab, Dave Hamilton is joined by Heather Smith and Paul Giovine, diving into the serendipity of musical connections. Heather shares how a chance meeting led to her cautiously getting on stage for the first time when Dave played with Simon Santiago five years ago. Last month, Heather released an record of her original tunes! From her first time on stage with a band to releasing her own album, Heather’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence. She recounts how a Craigslist ad for a bass player unexpectedly turned her into a backup singer and then eventually into a lead singer…as a sub at first! Heather also reveals the struggle of starting her own band, Glitter & Camo, and the internal battle of convincing herself not to give up. Heather, Paul, and Dave discuss the evolution of EPs and the importance of taking small, manageable steps to handle uncomfortable situations. They emphasize the idea that success often finds you when you least expect it, rather than the other way around. The episode highlights practical tips for cueing a band and the dynamics of playing covers in an original band. Throughout, the message is clear: Always Be Performing, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back from your musical ambitions. Cover image from 2019, when Dave, Simon, and Heather played together (Heather’s first time on stage!) 00:00:00 Gig Gab 433 – Monday, June 10th, 2024 June 10th: National Egg Roll Day Guest Co-Host: Heather Smith and Paul Giovine (Heather’s drummer) 00:01:34 Met Because of Gig Gab Dave played with Simon Santiago…and Heather sat in! – Gig Gab 213 (The “Acoustic Confidence” section) 00:04:15 From First time on Stage with a Band to Releasing Her Own Album 00:07:17 Craigslist Ad for a Bass Player leads to becoming a Backup Singer 00:09:28 The Benefits and Pitfalls of hiring good subs! 00:12:19 Starting her own band Glitter & Camo 00:13:27 Spending Energy Convincing Yourself NOT To Do It Giving Your Inner Judge Too Much Time 00:15:16 Why do we call things EPs? They’re not Extended (anymore) 00:21:11 Taking Little, Manageable Steps to Deal With the Awkward Uncomfortable Feelings It’s Never Going To Be Perfect The You You Never Got To Be 00:24:35 Don’t Take It For Granted 00:26:29 Success Finds You, not the other way around 00:27:10 Cueing a Band Beware the Law of Attraction 00:32:00 Playing Covers in an Original Band 00:36:43 Finding Heather Smith on Facebook 00:40:45 Gig Gab 432 Outtro Find Heather Smith on Facebook Or on Apple Music Or on Spotify Or on YouTube Or the Blue22 Studio Website Contact Gig Gab! Share the show! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post From Sit-In to Album Release: Heather Smith’s Musical Journey — Gig Gab 433 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, with guest cohost Daniel East returning to join Dave Hamilton, you dive into the essentials of managing your hearing and gear during and after gigs. Amanda’s question about affordable in-ear monitors (IEMs) leads to recommendations including the Sennheiser IE100 Pro and Juicy Earz, highlighting the importance of investing in quality gear without breaking the bank. Remember, the goal is to “Always Be Performing” at your best, and that includes protecting your most valuable asset – your hearing. The discussion then moves to the finer points of creating the perfect IEM mix. They emphasize starting from zero, building your levels up gradually, and ensuring no two instruments occupy the same stereo space. Trust both your ears and eyes when adjusting your mix, and keep it simple by taking as little as possible from the main mix. Wrapping up, they provide practical tips on ear care, such as using ear bulb syringes and avoiding ear candling. Stay sharp, stay safe, and keep performing at your peak! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 432 – Monday, June 3rd, 2024 June 3rd: Old Time Player Piano Day (but Friday was National Save Your Hearing Day) Guest Co-Host: Daniel East 00:01:58 Recent Gigs Jay Bernedo 00:10:16 Let your ears rest after the gig 00:12:34 Amanda-Which IEMs for $300 or less? 00:16:15 Listen FIRST 00:17:34 Listen Advice Human Voice Decay of Reverb Fingers on guitar strings Thump of the low end 00:19:23 Fitting them in 00:19:38 Recommended Earphones Sennheiser IE100 Pro – $98 Future Sonics G10 – $160 with code on site Linsoul KZ ZS10 5-driver Universal fit – $49.99 Dunu Falcon Ultra – $220 Audix A10X – $229 WAVS Custom – Duals start at $199/ear – Ear molds with your iPhone Juicy Earz – Starts at $298 Alclair Affordable Custom In-Ears on Gig Gab 00:30:03 Headphone Amps Rolls PM55p Albatros Audio PH9C (about $450, custom build) Rupert Neve RNHP Headphone Amplifier – $599 on Amazon RNDI DI Box – $299 on Amazon 00:43:24 When creating an IEM mix, trust both your eyes and ears Allen & Heath ME-1 00:46:58 Creating the best IEM Mix Start from Zero Bring yourself up to 75% Then bring everything else up If stereo: nothing dead-center, no two instruments in the same “space” Take as LITTLE as possible. Don’t just ask for “the main mix” 01:03:04 Cleaning Your Ears Ear Bulb Syringe – $14 on Amazon Stay away from Ear Candling Ear Wax Removal Tool with Camera – $20 on Amazon Ear Irrigation Flushing System – $18 on Amazon 01:13:55 Gig Gab 432 Outtro Find Daniel East on X Or instagram Or Facebook And DanielEast.net And LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! Share the show! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Cleaning Up Your In-Ears Mix…And Your Ears — Gig Gab 432 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Gig Gab! This week, Dave Hamilton dives into the whirlwind of recent and upcoming gigs, tackling six gigs with five different bands in June alone. He also discusses the challenges of playing a gig without in-ear monitors and the invaluable lessons from recent guests. From Robert Scovill’s advice on delaying mains in any size room to Mike Schulte’s insights on using a splitter snake for easier setups, and Chris Breen’s reminder to read the stage as well as the room, there’s plenty to learn. Remember, “Always Be Performing” as you take these tips to your own gigs. In the Gear Gab segment, Dave highlights the Earthworks SR117 microphone and explores the latest tools of the trade, including Adam’s suggestion to use Suno’s AI for creating theme songs for your band. Dave also shares how you can use Spotify URLs to enhance your playlists when prepping for gigs. Listener Mike shares one his recent favorite podcasts, Strong Songs’ “Limb By Limb” episode for nerding out on song dissections. As always, Dave is eager for your feedback about the show and what projects you’re involved in. Keep innovating, and never forget to “Always Be Good to Hang With!” 00:00:00 Gig Gab 431 – Monday, May 27th, 2024 May 27th: Old Time Player Piano Day 00:01:41 What do you want from the show? I’m going to be asking for a lot of feedback, but don’t worry… I’ll tell you what to tell me. 00:02:40 Recent and Upcoming Gigs June: 6 gigs, 5 different bands What are you playing? What projects are you in? 00:10:57 Played a gig with no IEMs. Ugh. 00:17:17 Debrief from recent guests. Robert Scovill on GG429: Delaying our mains, no matter how small the room! Chris Breen on GG420: Reading the stage is just as important as reading the room…take a break! Mike Schulte on GG421: The value of a splitter snake or a custom loom to make setup easier (and yes, he makes us think about eDrums, too!) Roland VAD  Ef-Note Bob Vose on GG430: Keeping a band together Matt Musty on GG426: Think Bigger…and Always Be Good to Hang With Best Not Broken on GG427: Don’t podcast from your bicycle! Adam Moskowizard on GG425: Always Be Innovating! 00:31:57 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle makes it easy to build a stunning website and online store for your music in minutes. Try it free for 30 days, then use promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off your first year. Tools of the Trade 00:35:07 Adam-CSF-Suno to use AI to Create Theme Songs 00:44:20 You can paste in a list of Spotify URLs to flesh out a playlist! Other Podcasts? 00:46:23 Mike-Podcast: Strong Songs’ “Limb By Limb” episode What podcasts are you listening to? Gear Gab 00:50:43 Earthworks SR117 What gear are you using? 00:58:59 Gig Gab 431 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Gems, Gear, & Gigs! — Gig Gab 431 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into this week’s Gig Gab podcast, where Dave Hamilton and guest co-host Bob Vose tackle the highs and lows of a musician’s journey. From the golden days of Fortune’s original reign to navigating the challenging shifts brought by grunge, Bob dishes out stories of the Peanut Butter & Jelly Tour, selling out 700-seat venues, and the reality of playing “risky” songs that most bands avoid. With nods to industry greats like Boston and Queensryche, and tales of relentless rehearsal schedules, Bob reminds us that even as trends change, the secret to longevity is to “Always Be Performing.” They explore Fortune’s evolution from originals to covers, underscoring the necessity of putting “fannies in the seats”, starting with the tried-and-true formula: one cover, two originals, repeat. Vose shares insights on preserving your voice, the chemistry of a tight-knit band, and how to keep shows fresh…all while handling uninvited guests on stage! Whether you’re playing Foreplay/Long Time or Stairway to Heaven, the art of performing is vital, so remember: maintain your voice, rehearse responsibly, and deliver every show like it’s your last! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 430 – Monday, May 20th, 2024 May 20th: International Red Sneakers Day 00:01:06 Bob Vose from Fortune 00:02:07 From Originals to Covers Boston, Journey, Yes, Queensryche Big Vocals, Harmony Guitars Pete Destefano from Fortune (band) Entrain – Brian Allen 00:04:20 From Mark Bistony (drummer) 00:04:46 Pushing an Odometerless Winnebago Over the Hill 00:07:56 Peanut Butter & Jelly Tour Learning the Music Business The Hard Way Huge in Japan! 00:10:23 Grunge Came in and ended Fortune’s Original-only reign New Formula: One cover, two originals, repeat Gotta Put Fannies in The Seats 00:11:11 Now in 2023, Selling out 600-700 seat venues Bill Plor, Guitar 00:12:39 Still Playing Percussion on Frankenstein Louis Spagnola, bass player 00:13:22 Keeping a band together for three decades Added Chris Lester (from Sully Urna, Dark Desert Eagles) 00:16:26 Preserving Your Voice 00:17:58 Playing the “Risky” Songs That No ONe Else Attempts To Do 00:18:45 Dirty Water — with Barry Goudreaux, Sib Hashian…and Bob Vose 00:21:34 Sibby Hashian on Legends of Rock Cruise 00:24:43 Steve Baker 00:26:45 How Many Bands are You In? Brian Maes A small family linking many bands together Bob is Very Proud of the Talent In His Band 00:30:45 The Chemistry of a Rehearsed Band Carry On Wayward Son Foreplay/Long Time Whole Lotta Love, Black Dog, Stairway to Heaven 00:34:46 Is there such a thing as “over-rehearsing”? Separate Ways 00:35:41 On Using Tracked Vocals…Or not! Inspired by Extreme 00:43:20 Rehearsing because it’s responsible 00:46:00 Dealing with Uninvited Guests on Stage 00:48:00 Getting More Popular…Again! Playing 100% Covers…for now 00:53:10 Contact Bob Vose Friends of Fortune on Facebook 00:56:41 The Artform of Covering Up Mistakes 00:58:15 Keeping the show fresh Roll With The Changes Cold As Ice Feels Like The First Time Jane by Starship 01:00:54 Gig Gab 430 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Three Decades of Harmony: Bob Vose on Fortune’s Formula for Staying Together — Gig Gab 430 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s episode of Gig Gab, Robert Scovill brings his wealth of live audio expertise to the show. As a front-of-house engineer for legendary acts like Tom Petty, Prince, Kenny Chesney, and Rush, Scovill shares the art of balancing sound in massive stadiums while ensuring the audience gets a crystal-clear experience, especially in the crucial front-fill zone. He emphasizes the importance of integrity, stating that “facts are not truth” in the quest to blend technical perfection with the creative essence of the artists. He advises managing the trade-offs inherent to audio mixing, as live music remains a visual art form where “Always Be Performing” is key. Scovill discusses managing sound for Kenny Chesney’s stadium tour and recounts working with Matchbox 20 on a silent stage, sharing how cell phone videos can be instrumental in helping to reveal potential audio issues. Scovill dives deep into drum audio techniques, recommending starting with stereo overheads and advising against isolating the drums in an “aquarium.” He also explores his favorite microphones and explains why in-ear monitors (IEMs) have positively impacted performers. Scovill wraps up with stories from touring with Rush and insights into beamforming technology at U2’s innovative Sphere shows. Throughout the episode, he remains open to ideas and resources, underscoring the importance maintaining audio integrity and continually refining one’s craft in pursuit of perfect live sound. Press play and enjoy, folks…and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 429 – Monday, May 13th, 2024 May 13th: National Apple Pie Day Robert Scovill — FOH sound … for the rest of us! (That is, when we’ve gone to see Prince, Tom Petty, Rush, Jackson Browne, and nowadays Kenny Chesney!) 00:02:00 An Educator at his core 00:03:05 Importance of Integrity Facts are Not Truth 00:06:33 This is Adult Audio – Doing Stadiums for the Kenny chesney Tour 00:08:18 Open to All Resources and ideas Diction as a priority Live Music is a Visual Art – Attendees Need TO See The Artist 45ft off the ground (vs. 25ft in arenas) 00:11:19 Making it sound good in front of the stage as it does everywhere else The Front Fill Zone – Separate PA with different mix, panning, positioning EAW Adaptive PA 00:16:16 The Technique of Mixing Right In Front of The Stage Balance the stage first “Audio is About Managing Trade-offs” Making Petty Sound Good 00:24:33 Live stages… ampless vs. just drums Silent Stages with Matchbox 20 00:26:58 Beware Room Reflections Cell Phone Videos Will Highlight This 00:30:37 In-Ear Monitors… Because why not? IEMs Affect Performers…Positively! …so long as you can hear in an ensemble …and don’t sing too quietly 00:35:34 Managing Drummers (and Singing Drummers) Start with Stereo Overheads 00:39:34 Don’t Put the Drums in An Aquarium It’s a Last Resort! Drum Shields in The Sphere 00:41:56 U2 at The Sphere 00:44:20 Beamforming Sound at The Sphere The Sphere Aronofsky Movie 00:46:54 Gear Gab: Microphones for Drums and Singing Drummers Heil PR-31BW Beyer M88 Beyer M160 Shure SM57 Telefunken M80 as snare bottom Lauten Snare Mic Earthworks SR117 Beyerdynamic Ribbon Mic 00:54:26 Geeking out on Gear Gab 00:56:04 Drum Overheads Royer Stereo Ribbon Tul Condenser Overhead Microphones Austrian Audio’s 414 Remake 00:56:58 Reminiscing About Being on Tour With Rush 01:00:49 The Emotions of Declining Rush 01:02:27 Find Robert Scovill On Facebook On Instagram On LinkedIn RobertScovill.com The Back Lounge 01:04:20 Gig Gab 430 Outtro Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Nerding Out About Live Sound with Robert Scovill — Gig Gab 429 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, Mike Schulte returns for a lively discussion on the finesse of live performances band dynamics. He and Dave Hamilton kick off with a chat about “Playing ‘Less’ for More Money,” exploring how reducing the number of gigs you play can lead to greater impact and potentially higher pay. As they delve into the struggles musicians face, “The Waiting Is The Hardest Part” segment sheds light on the patience required in the industry, from waiting around for gigs to begin to mastering the interpersonal dynamics in your band. They also offer invaluable tips on achieving the best sound for your instruments in any room, emphasizing that great sound is key to a memorable performance—because you should always be performing. Mike and Dave also address the delicate balance between a musician’s ego and the band’s overall sound in “Is Your Sound Part of Your Ego? Or Part of What’s Best For Your Band?” Here, they encourage musicians to make sound choices that serve the band’s best interests. The episode is peppered with practical advice, from managing stage equipment like cables and snakes efficiently to choosing the right gear like BFSD for snare drums and Smokin Ace Rectangular Cymbal Shields to enhance stage sound. For any musician looking to refine their craft and learn the ropes of effective stage management, this episode is packed with critical insights and tools to help you shine in your next gig. Press play, enjoy, and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 428 – Monday, May 6th, 2024 May 6th: International No Diet Day 00:03:47 Playing “Less” for More Money 00:05:48 All Good Things Will (Eventually?) Come to An End 00:11:08 The Waiting Is The Hardest Part Britney Spears “Baby One More Time” 00:12:15 Check Your Attitude…Stop and Enjoy 00:16:45 Rehearsing a Musical 00:20:05 Getting Drums to Sound Good In a Room 00:22:10 Gear Gab: BFSD to muffle snare drums Big Fat Five 00:24:28 Is Your Sound Part of Your Ego? Or Part of What’s Best For Your Band? Field Of Dreams VIP Tent Roland VAD Kit Diezel Amps 00:29:29 Playing with Softer Hands 00:34:58 Make Your Sound Work For The Room I Can’t Really Hear The Vocals 00:38:45 Gear Gab: Smokin Ace Rectangular Cymbal Shields Telefunken M80 Heil PR37 00:44:55 Andy-Managing cables and snakes without CAT-SASS Custom Loom from Pro Audio LA (With a Lifetime Warranty) CAT-SASS 00:51:49 The Proper Way to Roll Cables It’s Not Rats-Nestian 00:56:01 Gear Gab: Stage Ninja Mic-12-CB Microphone Clamp 00:58:45 Gig Gab 428 Outtro Contact Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Avoiding Rats Nests — Gig Gab 428 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In the latest episode of Gig Gab, you’ll catch Eric Jackson and Carlo Carluccio from Boston’s own Best Not Broken sharing their journey from cover band roots to rocking high-energy performances with a mix of originals and covers, including an unforgettable opening gig for Barry Goudreau’s Engine Room. They spill on mastering the art of self-promotion—think relentless social media engagement, eye-catching posters, and savvy online PR campaigns. It’s not just about music; it’s about creating a relatable product. So, dive deep into their strategies to build brand recognition, foster radio relationships, and keep the business side as sharp as their harmonies. Remember, always be performing. Switching gears, the duo discusses the technical side of their shows, from managing setlists to incorporating tracks and clicks effectively—for them, just the drummer gets the click, no one else! They weave in crowd-pleasers like “Freebird” and “Don’t Fear The Reaper” alongside their hits like “Tell Me You Want Me,” creating a seamless blend that keeps the audience engaged (all while proving why the rhythm section is so crucial!). Whether you’re navigating the challenges of promotion or the intricacies of performance management, take a leaf out of Best Not Broken’s playbook and keep the focus sharp: always be performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 427 – Monday, April 29th, 2024 April 29th: Poem In Your Pocket Day Guests: Eric Jackson & Carlo Carluccio from Boston’s Best Not Broken From a bicycle in Nashville to a car in New Hampshire High-energy performance, tight harmonies, the clever inclusion of cover songs interspersed with originals, and opening for Barry Goudreau’s Engine Room (not to mention the crazy waves crashing!) caught my attention! 00:03:02 Started as a Cover Band 00:05:32 Some of their best songs are on their most recent release. Best Not Broken’s Human Emotion 00:07:33 The Art of Self-Promotion Spend some time on social media Posters. Build Brand Recognition and Resume Hire Promotion Help with Gig Money. Treat it Like a Business Online PR Campaign Find Radio Stations Build Relationships Keep at it, and pay attention INTERACT Think about your product…it’s not just music. Make videos. Make something relatable. 00:13:18 Management Help? Enoch Entertainment 00:14:19 Playing with Tracks (and a Click) That’s Because We’re So Clever No IEMs for Lead Singer Click only for Drummer “Too Hot To Operate” 00:19:51 Managing Setlists Keeping the tracks effective and simple Using the drum overhead as “stage wash” 00:22:50 Sneaking Covers Into Sets Distracted By A Redheaded Air Drummer “Freebird” The Rhythm Section is the Most Important Part of The Band “Don’t Fear The Reaper” “Tell Me You Want Me” – Best Not Broken 00:27:06 Gig Gab 427 Outtro Contact Best Not Broken Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Self-Promotion and Redheaded Air Drummers with Best Not Broken — Gig Gab 427 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In the latest episode of Gig Gab, Matt Musty, a seasoned pro known for his work with Train, Grace Potter, and others, joins Dave Hamilton to share invaluable insights into the diverse roles a musician can play—be it a team player in a band setting or a versatile session artist. Emphasizing the need to adapt, whether grooving to the iconic beats of “Drops of Jupiter” or navigating the unique demands of various venues like Blossom in Cleveland and Tanglewood in Massachusetts, Musty illustrates the essence of “Always Be Performing”. He stresses the importance of context, from the dynamics of performing live to understanding the subtleties of venue acoustics and audience vibes. Navigating the complexities of tour life, including Matt’s time on the road with Jake Clemons on the S.S. Tina Turner bus, unveils a layer of touring rarely discussed— the social dynamics and unspoken rules like those governing the guest list. Tips from life on the road with musicians like Kacey Musgraves and interactions on the Grace Potter tour delve into the personal journeys artists undertake, blending professional commitments with personal evolution. Whether discussing the technical nuances of in-ear monitors or sharing a laugh about the quirks of tour bus life, the underlying mantra remains clear: wherever you are, and whatever you’re doing, “Always Be Performing”. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 426 – Monday, April 22nd, 2024 April 22nd: National Jellybean Day 00:01:20 Guest Co-host: Matt Musty from Train (and everywhere else!) The epitome of the Working Musician. Train, Grace Potter, Keith Urban, Dhani Harrison, Gwen Stefani, Smash Mouth, and countless others. 00:03:14 Know which hat you’re putting on A Creative Partnership Shutting Up And Doing The Job A Tool in Someone’s Toolkit The Freedom with the click…and with session work 00:08:01 Playing “Drops of Jupiter” live 00:09:43 Honoring Neil Peart 00:12:09 Singers: You are in Missouri (not Kansas!) 00:12:39 Vet your tattoos with reverse image 00:14:27 Distinguishing Features of Venues Blossom in Cleveland Tanglewood in Massachusetts Woodlands in Houston Great Woods Meadowbrook in Gilford, NH 00:20:07 Woodwork Day 00:21:22 The Unspoken Rules of The Guest List 00:27:55 On The Road with Jake Clemons in the S.S. Tina Turner “If Your Bus Has a Name, Something’s Up” Hypnotic Clambake’s “Unba” Refreshments & Rapport 00:35:50 Tips from The Road Kacey Musgraves Guitarist Valley Famous Band with Jeff Babko “No One’s Calling Me ‘Sir’” Two Months with Train The Importance of The Hang 00:42:33 Master Tour Business Brain 00:44:04 Who is “Ali”? Resynator Movie 00:45:51 Grace Potter Tour…leads to Romance! 00:50:29 In-Ear Therapy Wanting “Spatialness” with IEMs AVIOM on Stage Comp Tortion Yamaha EAD10 M160 Microphone 01:00:36 Home Recording 01:04:22 Gig Gab 426 Outtro Contact Matt Musty or on IG Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Refreshments & Rapport with Train’s Matt Musty — Gig Gab 426 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, Dave Hamilton welcomes guest cohost Adam Moskowitz from VAM Band, diving deep into the essence of musicianship and leadership. Adam shares his unique perspective on structuring your band life around personal commitments, showcasing how he manages the VAM Band. The discussion peels back the layers on how the “Bandleader Advantage” can help you book gigs that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, emphasizing the VAM Jam life where every performance counts. They touch upon the enriching experience the ingenious MySet Request App, enhancing gig interaction and fulfilling audience expectations—because, remember, you should always be performing. Further, they explore the transformative insights gained from legendary performances, like Phish’s iconic Baker’s Dozen in 2017, and how these experiences can redefine your band’s approach to live shows, making each one a unique spectacle. Lessons from music giants like Paul McCartney and Flea are dissected to inspire musicians to transcend everyday gig logistics. The conversation shifts to practical tips on navigating the industry and the critical importance of protecting your rate turf. They wrap up with a focus on building a community around your band and reveal the creative origins of the VAM Band’s name, blending personal connections with dynamic musical expression. Press play and enjoy, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 425 – Monday, April 15th, 2024 April 15th: World Art Day Guest Co-host: Adam Moskowitz from VAM Band 00:02:00 Heading back to the Bass(ics)! 00:04:22 The Bandleader Advantage Book around YOUR life VAM Jam life 00:08:45 SXSW Martin Scorcese’s Shine a Light Film from SXSW 2008 00:11:02 MySet Request App 00:16:51 The Experience of Seeing Phish The Baker’s Dozen in 2017 Phish Boston Cream night 00:21:37 Relating Phish’s Lessons to Your Band Making Each Show Unique 00:26:48 Demolishing The Fourth Wall — And Pulling Teeth 00:33:44 Learning from McCartney Paul McCartney Flea Family Man Aston Barrett Transcending The Logistics of The Moment \00:38:19 Doing Gigs as a Front of House engineer 00:40:41 Always Be…Prepared 00:45:02 Pick Up Gig…A Story! Never Do Live Math Private Stock Band Digging into The Reserves “Here’s our asking price. If for some reason that doesn’t work for you, let’s chat.” “I want to make sure I pay everyone well.” “We were paid [x] recently…Does That Work For You?” Protecting Your Rate Turf 01:03:04 Building Your Band’s Community Musical Skydiving 01:10:28 Where did the name “VAM Band” come from? Vibrant Audio Magic Vivid Amplified Melodies Velocity Anthem Makers Very Awesome Music Family First: Vicky Adam Melina 01:14:31 Gig Gab 425 Outtro Contact Adam Moskowitz & The VAM Band Contact Gig Gab! @GigGabPodcast on Instagram [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Demolishing Walls & Pulling Teeth with Adam Moskowizard — Gig Gab 425 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive deep into the essence of live music production with insights from Dave Cook and Lewis Fawcett of Area 52 Studios joining Dave Hamilton on Gig Gab. As they navigate the intricacies of creating the perfect in-ear monitor mix for artists like Natalie Merchant, they emphasize the delicate balance between clarity and ambiance. Incorporating ambient mics and reverb, while not forgetting the foundational elements of a solid mix, Dave Cook reminds us that to truly captivate an audience, one must “Always Be Performing” with an impeccable sound. Their discussion extends beyond the technical, touching on the human elements of touring and recording, from the crucial hospitality towards artists to the mixed emotions of touring without loved ones. Lewis Fawcett, with a background enriched by family connections to Spymob and NER*D, shares some sage advice! From road essentials like a dual-voltage collapsible kettle for that necessary coffee to favorite microphones that capture every nuance of performance, this episode is a treasure trove for those looking to refine their live sound or studio recordings, while always keeping the audience’s experience at the forefront. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 424 – Monday, April 8th, 2024 April 8th: Step Into The Spotlight Day Guest Co-hosts: Dave Cook and Lewis Fawcett from Area 52 Studios Last time was June, 2020 for Gig Gab 258 00:03:03 Dave on Mixing Monitors for Natalie Merchant George Cowan was FOH Dreamland Recording Studios Keep Your Courage (Natalie Merchant, 2023) 00:08:55 Building an IEM Mix Compromise and Get What You Need To Do The Gig Ambient Mics Add Reverb Start with a good-sounding mix Extra Kick-and-Snare 00:21:12 Lewis Fawcett Logic vs. ProTools Sophomore at Cornell College 00:24:01 The importance of hospitality 00:28:25 Lewis is part of the family Eric Fawcett from Spymob and N*E*R*D 00:31:08 From Spymob to Pharrell SXSW – Pat from The Black Keys: “The first  rule when you have a band is don’t break up the band. That’s the only rule.“ 00:36:42 The Grinds and Benefits of Touring The Guilt of Being in Amazing Places Without Your Family 00:43:49 Road Necessities A bicycle Dual-voltage collapsable kettle (for coffee) 00:45:58 Favorite Microphones Roswell Pro Audio Mini K47 Microphone Royer SF-24 and 122-R Laurie Anderson (and Lou Reed) Sennheiser 441-U Pyle Drum Microphones Behringer BA 19A MXL 2006 AKG Perception  Shure SM57 Telefunken M80 (on a snare drum!) Heil PR 31BW Heil PR 40 Earthworks Ethos 01:04:26 Respect Your Audience 01:08:03 Sessions from Area 52 01:11:34 Gig Gab 424 Outtro Contact Dave Cook @ Area 52 Studios Lewis & his Sister – The Shed LC Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Gear Gab and Lessons from The Road with Area 52 Studios — Gig Gab 424 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Guest co-host Matt Gibson and Dave Hamilton dive into the essence of evolving as a musician in the digital age, discussing everything from the impact of social media followers to the intrinsic value of having a producer. Matt Gibson shares his journey, highlighting a significant moment where he lost a million followers, yet, underscoring the lesson of going where the attention is, as inspired by Gary Vee. The conversation moves towards understanding the power of reciprocity and why many artists find themselves financially strapped, citing Grant Cardone’s perspective on the starvation of artists. They challenge the notion that asking for money or help diminishes the value of one’s art, arguing instead that success is directly correlated to the effort invested. Transitioning into the more practical aspects of music entrepreneurship, the discussion outlines actionable steps for building a band with a business mindset. From brainstorming a comprehensive task list to leveraging technology like ChatGPT for business development, the dialogue is rich with strategies for managing risk and optimizing band promotion on a budget. They detail a step-by-step guide on spending $500 effectively to promote a band’s song, emphasizing the importance of a solid online presence, engaging email marketing, and the innovative use of tracking pixels. Moreover, they advocate for adopting a ‘MrBeast Mode’ approach to promotion, suggesting the use of TikTok and Shopify to create a self-sustaining cycle of merchandising and music promotion. Amidst these insights, they remind listeners of the Gig Gab mantra, “Always Be Performing,” reinforcing the idea that the journey from being financially dependent to a provider in the music industry is paved with relentless performance and strategic maneuvering. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 423 – Monday, April 1st, 2024 April 1st: National Trombone Players Day Guest Co-host: Matt Gibson (originally on Gig Gab 41) 00:01:28 Gig Stories are Coming Back! 00:02:33 What it’s like to lose a million followers Go Where the Attention Is! (says Gary Vee) The Value of a Producer 00:07:43 The Power of Reciprocity 00:09:11 Why Artists Are Starving? Grant Cardone – Why Artists Are Starving Does asking for money (or help) dilute your art? Draw a line from Broke to Billion The only guarantee is if you don’t put in the work, you’ll stay at “broke” 00:17:52 Build a Task List Brain Dump All The Things You’re Worried About Into a File Then make ChatGPT a business development coach and feed it the list! 00:20:13 Crimson Symphony’s “Empty” Drums: Gil Sharone Producer: Scott Wilson, Saving Abel, Producer 00:21:54 Building a band with business brain 00:27:23 Know WHY you’re doing what you’re doing 00:32:28 Managing Risk and Money with your band 00:34:25 Workshop: Spending $500 to promote your band’s song. How? Website (could be a DistroKid landing page) Set up an email form Get email list from Spotify Mailchimp Add a Tracking Pixel to your website DistroKid Landing Page Bandzoogle Don’t forget to go for the big fish! 00:47:01 Spending $500 on promotion, Las Vegas style! Use TikTok and a Personality! Link Shopify with Merch and Spotify with Music Wash, Rinse, Repeat! MrBeast Mode 00:58:10 What’s the plan to change your music career from Dependent to Provider? 01:03:47 For cash flow: Be a scavenger and find undervalued things Flip antique books (or clothes, or furniture, or anything like that which is undervalued) Look on TikTok Look on Craigslist Free List Look on eBay Make your own Dragon Pile! 01:07:34 What’s Dave Been Up To? 01:12:21 The Sphere 01:14:49 Gig Gab 423 Outtro Contact Matt Gibson (and on Facebook) Crimson Symphony Neural Tunes Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Taking Your Music Career from Dependent to Provider with Matt Gibson — Gig Gab 423 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You’re in for a treat as Dave Hamilton sits down with Dallas Taylor, the maestro behind Twenty Thousand Hertz and Defacto Sound, exploring the intricate stories behind the world’s most iconic sounds. As they dive deep, Dallas shares his philosophy on respecting the audience, weaving in his journey of building an episode and the artistry involved in blending sound with narrative. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, including insights from a special 20kHz episode where Dallas reveals his chops as a trumpet player and reflects on the essence of overcoming obstacles. The conversation doesn’t stop there; Dallas and Dave take you on a sonic adventure from the halls of SXSW, discussing the Resynator movie and Nick Cave’s upcoming “Wild God” album, to the technical trenches of recording with Ludacris and micing up celebrities. It’s a deep dive into the convergence of art and commerce, unraveling the difference between a JOB and a JOY, and finding fulfillment in your craft. Whether you’re behind the mic, the mixer, or just a lover of sound, this episode is a masterclass in pursuing passion with purpose. Remember, no matter where you are or what you’re doing, “Always Be Performing.” 00:00:00 Gig Gab 422 – Monday, March 25th, 2024 March 19th: International Waffle Day Special Guest: Dallas Taylor from Twenty Thousand Hertz and Defacto Sound 00:01:12 The stories behind the world’s most interesting and recognizable sounds 00:04:04 Respecting the Audience SoundDesk 00:10:26 Building a 20kHz episode ChatGPT Buy Back Your Time Loom for Video Training 00:19:35 Dallas, The Trumpet Player. 20kHz Episode 150: Breathe The Obstacle Is The Way 00:28:42 SXSW: Resynator movie 00:37:00 SXSW: Nick Cave “Wild God” Album Listening Party @ Central Presbyterian Church 00:42:39 Recording a podcast with Ludacris 00:45:35 Micing up Celebrities 00:47:29 Blending Art and Commerce The difference between a JOB and a JOY 00:51:05 Playing Piano for The Joy of It 00:52:31 Gig Gab 422 Outtro Contact Dallas Taylor Twenty Thousand Hertz Defacto Sound Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Always Be…Respecting Your Audience — Gig Gab 422 (with special guest: Dallas Taylor) appeared first on Gig Gab.

Diving deep into the heart of live performances, guest co-host Mike Schulte and Dave Hamilton kick things off with a critical eye on popular trends, emphasizing the unique appeal of embracing mainstream events and acts, illustrated by Diane Warren’s Relentless film at SXSW. The conversation swiftly moves into the nitty-gritty of music gigs, from the logistical challenges and rewards of fly-away gigs to negotiating tactics for musicians. The duo sheds light on the evolving landscape of live music, highlighting how bands at SXSW, like Richard Spaven and Winona Fighter, are increasingly relying on tracks to fill out their sound, underscoring the importance of adaptability in today’s music scene. Diving further, Dave and Mike explore the significance of technology in enhancing live performances, advocating for the game-changing impact of in-ears and splitter snakes. They also share insights into the prowess of drummers at SXSW, singling out performances by Richard Spaven, and give a nod to the cinematic portrayal of The Black Keys in their upcoming documentary. Amid discussions on the cohesion within bands and the unparalleled joy of being part of one, they remind us that, at its core, being in a band is about the shared experience of creating and enjoying music together. Through it all, the ethos of “Always Be Performing” rings true, serving as a mantra for musicians to live by, whether they’re navigating the complexities of modern gigs or celebrating the simple pleasure of playing music with others. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 421 – Tuesday, March 19th, 2024 March 19th: Tea for Two Tuesday Guest Co-Host: Mike Schulte 00:01:06 South by So What… NO!! Liking Things That Are Popular 00:04:06 Diane Warren: Relentless at SXSW 00:07:02 Fly-away gigs 00:11:06 “Do What You Would Normally Do” 00:13:51 Subs on Standby 00:20:44 Bands using tracks at SXSW: Richard Spaven (keys), Winona Fighter (keys), Michigander (keys), Cuffed Up (no bass), KVN (no drums!) 00:25:48 Cover band is just a way to play music 21 Pilots 00:27:50 Get Yourself In-ears and Splitter Snake 00:30:39 Drummers @ SXSW: Karin Ann’s drummer, & Richard Spaven 00:32:50 The Black Keys at SXSW This is a Film About The Black Keys (Movie Review) 00:39:16 Keeping a band together 00:40:09 Teaching your kids 00:54:03 Being in a band is…so good! This is your brain on music 00:58:30 Gig Gab 421 Outtro Contact Mike Schulte Confused Breakfast – The Pulp Fiction episode The Pork Tornadoes Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post No Shame In The Pop Game — Gig Gab 421 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive deep into insights that will resonate with every musician as guest co-host Chris Breen joins Dave Hamilton for this week’s Gig Gab. They kick things off by riffing on the best songs for a prom-posal, suggesting tracks like “Wang Dang Doodle” and “Teen Town” to set the mood (really?). The conversation quickly shifts to the gritty realities of performing live, discussing what happens when a band member leaves the stage unexpectedly, sharing anecdotes from Chris’s experience with System 9, and even touching on more serious topics like dealing with Bell’s Palsy as a musician. They don’t shy away from discussing the need for adaptability on stage, highlighting the importance of taking lessons and finding innovative ways to capture your bandmates’ attention during flowing sets. As the episode progresses, the duo delves into the peculiarities of dealing with temperamental bass players and the criticality of mastering the volume litmus test to keep your gigs harmonious. They offer practical advice on managing sound levels, with a humorous nod to the universal solution of musicians everywhere: duct tape, while also discussing more sophisticated solutions like XLR turnarounds and right-angle XLR connectors. Throughout the episode, the underlying theme is clear: no matter the challenge, “Always Be Performing”. This mantra encapsulates the essence of their conversation, emphasizing the resilience, creativity, and passion required to thrive in the unpredictable world of live music performances. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 420 – Monday, March 11th, 2024 March 11th: National Prom-posal Day (and National Debunking Day) Guest Co-host: Christopher Breen 00:01:27 Best Promposal Songs Wang Dang Doodle Teen Town 00:02:54 When a bandmember leaves the stage System 9 (Chris’s Band) It’s Break Time! Making Eardrums…Rupture?!? 00:13:05 When you can’t play anymore Bell’s Palsy Boston brings on Fran Cosmo Paul McCartney’s Voice 00:20:18 Take some lessons 00:23:13 Ways of getting people’s attention during flowing sets 00:30:59 Temperamental Bass Players 00:38:53 The Volume Litmus Test 00:42:10 Hi! Please, Turn it Down 00:50:33 So, other than duct tape… XLR turnaround XLR to ¼” Right-angle XLR connector 00:58:13 Speaking of duct tape 01:00:03 Gig Gab 420 Outtro Contact Chris Breen ChrisBreen.com Chris Breen on Mastodon Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Temperamental Bass Players — Gig Gab 420 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s punchy episode of Gig Gab, guest co-host Billy Butler teams up with Dave Hamilton to dive deep into the nuances of live performance and the essence of creating memorable gigs. Starting with the undeniable impact of a stellar opening act, they pivot to the electrifying atmosphere of SXSW, emphasizing the importance of finding and harnessing energy to elevate your performance. They unravel the intricacies of band dynamics, from the vital distinction between rehearsal and practice to setting the right agenda, all while keeping the spirit of your band alive. The conversation takes a deeper dive into the musical realms of Phish and The Grateful Dead, exploring the roots and evolution of their unique sounds. Billy’s journey of learning Phish, with Dave suggesting he start with albums like “Farmhouse” and “Rift,” underscores the broader theme of constantly evolving as a musician and the challenge of keeping performances fresh, even when repeating songs. The duo also touches on broader themes of creativity and longevity in the music scene, with a special nod to “The Ghosts of Broadway,” one of Billy’s songs, highlighting the personal journey and insights it offers. Throughout the episode, the core philosophy of “Always Be Performing” resonates, serving as a mantra for musicians to live by, whether they’re tackling new songs in rehearsal, dissecting the legacy of legendary bands, or finding new ways to engage with their music and audience. This Gig Gab episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for musicians at any stage of their career, packed with actionable insights and reflections on the art of performance, reminding us all that to excel, one must always be in the state of performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 419 – Monday, March 4th, 2024 March 4th: National Grammar Day (and National Marching Band Day) Guest Co-host: Billy Butler 00:02:06 Finding Phish 00:06:35 The power of a good opening act 00:09:54 SXSW: Finding the energy Kim Fowley Cherry from The Runaways 00:17:46 Red, White, and Tuna Greater Tuna 00:20:07 Band rehearsal with new songs Rehearsal vs. Practice Agenda vs. Schedule The Spirit of Your Band 00:29:50 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:31:15 Dissecting Phish 00:39:43 The Beginnings of The Grateful Dead 00:44:41 Teaching Billy to Phish Farmhouse Rift 00:50:04 Do you get bored repeating songs? 00:56:04 The Ghosts of Broadway 00:59:03 Gig Gab 419 Outtro Contact Billy Butler Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Spirit of Your Band — Gig Gab 419 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week’s Gig Gab podcast, featuring guest co-host Daniel East, dives deep into the heart of music gear and performance wisdom. From the vibrant stage of NAMM 2024, where Yamaha showcased its latest with performances by Nathan East and company, to the detailed discussions on the latest in drumming gear like the Yamaha HHS9D Hi-Hat Stand and the innovative NanoMat Drum Mat, Daniel and Dave Hamilton dissect the tools that make a difference on stage. They didn’t stop at drum hardware, though; the duo explored cutting-edge tech including the Kemper Profiler and the StageNinja Tablet Stand, ensuring listeners know the ins and outs of gear that can elevate their performances. The conversation took a tuneful turn towards pro audio advice with insights from Dan on using pink noise for venue acoustics and tips on using stereo, compression, and delays to accentuate background vocals, underscoring the podcast’s mantra, “Always Be Performing”. From the exciting return of tribute bands like the 90’s ROCKSHOW and Rag Dolls to the mention of industry stalwarts like Robert Scovill and Buford Jones, the episode was a treasure trove of advice, gear talk, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on stage. Whether discussing the mechanics of a high-hat stand or the art of audio engineering, Daniel and Dave’s expertise provided a roadmap for musicians to navigate the complex landscape of performance gear, all while keeping the spirit of live music alive and kicking. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 418 – Monday, February 26th, 2024 February 26th: For Pete’s Sake Day 00:01:00 Guest Co-host: Daniel East, Drummer and TheMixDoctor 00:01:40 NAMM 2024 Yamaha’s Stage with Nathan East, Noah East, Donald Barrett, Greg Phillinganes Gretsch Drums KickPort (KickPort BLK–EYE) The Mac Observer NAMM Gear Gab 00:13:54 Yamaha HHS9D Hi-Hat Stand – $980.00 USD MSRP (Street price is around $579.00) Yamaha LC9 Hi-Hat Clutch ($80 MSRP) 00:19:27 Peterson StroboClip HDC – $79.99 USD MSRP  00:22:14 Kemper Profiler – $698 USD MSRP Pod Go from Line6 00:27:15 NanoMat Drum Mat – Single-pedal $69.99 USD MSRP; Double-pedal $89.99 USD MSRP; extensions available for $50.00 ea. 00:31:53 StageNinja Tablet Stand FON-12-CB – FON-12-CB for phones and smaller tablets $59.99; TAB-8-CB for devices up to 8.25” (only some iPad Pro models will fit horizontally). 00:37:47 Having Pro Audio on Gig Gab Brad Madix on Gig Gab Using Pink Noise in a Venue AudioTools App 00:42:25 Sound Devices Astral – Preview only and no pricing yet. 00:44:40 Allen & Heath Avantis Solo – $9,499.00 MAP Avantis SOLO COMPACT 00:46:50 TIP: Use Stereo and Delays for Highlighting Background Vocals dLive S7000 Allen & Heath Double Double 00:54:23 Robert Scovill 00:58:31 More Pro Audio Engineers Buford Jones Ken “Pooch” Van Druten 01:00:16 90’s ROCKSHOW tribute band – with strings! 01:01:04 The return of Rag Dolls – the Steven Tyler anointed Aerosmith tribute returns even better Ali Handal – solo 01:01:15 String Revolution with Janet Robin 01:01:33 Big Time Rush star, Stephen Kramer Glickman Buddy Gibbons 01:03:25 Gig Gab 418 Outtro Contact Daniel East DanielEast.net Dan East on LinkedIn Contact Gig Gab! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post NAMM 2024 Gear Gab & Reflections — Gig Gab 418 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week’s Gig Gab podcast marks a momentous occasion with Paul Kent’s return to celebrate its ninth anniversary alongside Dave Hamilton. Diving into the heart of gig life, they share insights on integrating new members into The Houserockers, emphasizing the essence of letting musicians thrive in their element. The evolution of a band is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation, highlighted by the addition of fresh material like “Life In The Fast Lane” and “All You Need Is Love” to The Houserockers’ repertoire. The discussion extends to the power of ending shows on a high note with singalongs, like “Sweet Caroline”, and the crucial difference between rehearsal and practice. By leveraging tools like Slack for band communication, they underscore managing expectations and the unique dynamics of performance preparation. Amidst recounting recent gigs and teasing the potential of songs to make or break the moment, the conversation turns to the art of mastering setlists that resonate with every audience. Dave’s reflection on the nuances of songs that can “kill or KILL” and a look ahead to Dan East’s NAMM 2024 debrief offers a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of live music. As they dissect the intricacies of performance economics, such as the discussed $500 per diem, the core message remains clear: in the dynamic landscape of music gigs, the mantra “Always Be Performing” is not just a catchphrase but a guiding principle for success and fulfillment on stage. Cheers to nine years… here’s to (at least) nine more! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 417 – Monday, February 19th, 2024 February 19th: National Chocolate Mint Day Guest & Co-host: Paul Kent! 00:03:25 New members for The Houserockers 00:08:34 Let musicians be musicians 00:10:22 The Evolution of Your Band 00:12:29 New material for The Houserockers Life In The Fast Lane Carry On Wayward Son Into The Mystic All You Need Is Love Better Than The Brown Note 00:15:26 Ending with a Singalong The Joker Every Rose Has Its Thorn Sweet Caroline 00:16:28 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:17:52 Rehearsal vs. Practice Slack for band communication 00:25:25 Manage Expectation ​​00:29:18 Dave recent gig recap 00:31:06 Songs which can kill … or KILL 00:32:40 Next Week: Dan East Debriefs NAMM 2024 00:33:28 Dissecting the $500 per diem from Gig Gab 416 00:38:29 Gig Gab 417 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Nine Years of Gabbing — Gig Gab 417 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into the dynamic world of band life with Dave Hamilton and guest co-host Mike Schulte, as they explore the essentials of band dynamics and the logistics of playing shows. From the importance of understanding bandmates and fostering a positive environment by scheduling time to vent and finding gratitude, to the practicalities of choosing the right members based on personality, reliability, and musical ability, they cover it all. The conversation also delves into the nitty-gritty of managing fly-away shows, breaking down the costs from airfare to equipment rental, amounting to a hefty $19,000 before anyone is paid any performance fees. Amid the laughter and stories, the mantra “Always Be Performing” rings true, highlighting the commitment to excellence and adaptability in the music world. Tackling the technical side, they share insights on enhancing live performances with pre-recorded tracks and the seamless integration of technology. The strategy of rehearsing with pre-recorded tracks to ensure a polished show is emphasized, alongside the golden rule of the stage: never acknowledge technical difficulties if you don’t have to. This approach not only streamlines performances but also enhances the audience’s experience, underscoring the professionalism and preparation that goes behind the scenes. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of band dynamics or mastering the art of live shows, the key takeaway is clear—embrace the challenges, and always be performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 416 – Monday, February 12th, 2024 February 12th: National Lost Penny Day Guest Co-host: Mike Schulte, Drummer for The Pork Tornadoes 00:01:44 Having Fun Feeding the trolls on Coverband Central 00:04:00 Scheduling Time To Vent as a Band 00:11:59 Learning how your bandmates think 00:13:12 Find Gratitude 00:13:47 How do you find the right bandmates? The Benefit of The Hang Good personality Reliable Transportation The Gear Can you play? 00:22:15 Avoid the Politics! “Dave Bang Drum” is a way of life (and a way of avoiding politics!) 00:31:14 Fly-away/Fly-in Shows Opportunity cost Actual Financial Cost $3,500 Airfare $2,500 Hotel $7,500 Per Diem $500 Incidentals $5,000 Equipment Rental SIR Equipment Rental $19,000 before you pay for the performance fee 00:45:47 Using those pre-recorded bass tracks Every show played to a click on Ableton Rehearsing with the pre-recorded tracks before doing the show! 00:53:00 Do not acknowledge technical difficulties 01:00:01 Gig Gab 416 Outtro Find Mike Schulte Pork Tornadoes Confused Breakfast Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Behind the Beat: Navigating Band Dynamics and Fly-Away Shows — Gig Gab 416 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, Brad Madix drops by for a masterclass in live sound mixing, sharing insights from his expansive career that’s touched the stages of Florence + the Machine, Sara Bareilles, Queensrÿche, Rush, and Linkin Park, to name a few. Diving into the nuances of live performance, Brad helps Dave Hamilton unpack the evolution of touring post-COVID. With a focus on the technical, discussions veer into the realms of using virtual sound checks, the intricacies — and benefits — of playing to a click, and the revolutionary impact of mixing with scenes. Brad emphasizes the importance of learning your mixer inside out and shares practical advice on managing levels and maintaining a reasonably loud stage volume. “Always Be Performing” isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s a philosophy that underscores their conversation, highlighting the constant adaptation and learning required in the dynamic world of live music production. In a lighter moment, Brad regales listeners with tales from the road, including humorous instances of mistaken identity involving Geddy Lee and another with Bruce Willis (well, someone in Japan certainly thought so!), offering a glimpse into the lighter side of touring life. The episode is a treasure trove of tips and tricks for live sound engineers of all levels. Packing for tour life, navigating the challenges of live streams, and the shift in touring dynamics since COVID are also dissected, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the live music scene. Whether you’re behind the mixer or dreaming of your next gig, this episode is a reminder that in the world of live music, the key to success is to “Always Be Performing”, embracing every challenge and opportunity with open arms and, especially, open ears. P.S. It turns out I lied at the end of the episode: I completely neglected to properly hit ‘record’ on the video stream, so that doesn’t exist. Sorry, folks! -Dave Chapters and Timestamps: 00:00:00 Gig Gab 415 – Monday, February 5th, 2024 Masterful Mixes & Mistaken Identities: Brad Madix’s Tips from Florence to Rush to Linkin Park, & Celebrity Mix-Ups Feb 5th: International Clash Day Brad’s First visit to Gig Gab in May, 2020 00:03:40 Diablo Digital (with Greg Price, Metallica’s FOH engineer) Sara Barellis – Live @ Hollywood Bowl Virtual Sound Check Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Phish’s Live Streams 00:13:35 What’s Different About Touring since COVID? “Underplay” to test the tour and generate some buzz It’s Gotta Be Kinda Right! 00:20:37 Playing to a click 00:22:17 Monitors with TimeCode Brent Carpenter, Rush Monitor Engineer 00:24:37 Mixing with Scenes AVID S6L 00:30:13 Learn Your Mixer 00:35:19 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:36:43 More Tips and Tricks Mute the Sends to the Effects – Not the returns! 00:40:02 Be reasonably loud on stage Set it…and forget it! 00:46:02 Managing Your Levels Throughout The Night 00:55:38 Packing for Tour Dave Cook on Gig Gab 01:00:35 Story Time with Brad 01:01:10 Is That Geddy Lee? 01:04:10 Can I get a picture with Bruce Willis? 01:05:30 Gig Gab 415 Outtro Diablo Digital Brad Madix Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Masterful Mixes & Mistaken Identities: Brad Madix’s Tips from Florence to Rush to Linkin Park, & Celebrity Mix-Ups — Gig Gab 415 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Dave Brunyak–known now as Dallas Corbin–joins Dave Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of persona creation and redefining one’s place in the music world. They reminisce about Dave’s first appearance on the show back in 2015 and delve into the genesis of ‘Dallas Corbin,’ a persona that carved his path into country music. Inspired to learn more about country music after hearing Lee Brice’s “I Drive Your Truck,” Dave illustrates the freedom that comes when embodying a character. Emphasizing the show’s mantra, “Always Be Performing,” he discusses the importance of adapting to various environments and audiences. The conversation shifts to technical aspects, focusing on managing stage volume and the transition to using In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) for better sound control. Dave shares insights into his move towards an ampless setup, highlighting the use of the Helix Guitar Processor and the significance of selecting the right gear. He candidly discusses his guitar tone signal path and the practical benefits of going ampless — especially for someone using in-ear monitors — offering an insider’s view into the technicalities that can make or break a gig. The episode wraps with a Gear Gab segment, spotlighting affordable yet effective equipment like the CCA C-12 Universal Fit IEMs, proving that high-quality performance doesn’t always require a hefty price tag. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 414 – Monday, January 29th, 2024 Dave Brunyak on Gig Gab in 2015 (episode 26!) 00:02:43 Creating Dallas Corbin 00:05:14 Finding Country Music I Drive Your Truck by Lee Brice Music Video 00:14:10 Give Yourself a Character To Play A Character With a Costume 00:15:59 Playing the Miranda Lambert After Party 00:18:27 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:19:54  The “Turn It Down” Litmus Test 00:25:20 Serve The Environment 00:27:05 Managing Stage Volume 00:31:51 Moving to In-Ear Monitors UE18+ Pro with the Ambient Ports ASI 3DME Universal IEMs with Ambient Condenser Mics  00:42:02 Guitar Tone Signal Path vs. IEMs The answer: go ampless Helix Guitar Processor The Box That Makes Your Gig Crappier Nectar’s in Burlington CCA C-12 00:55:41 Gig Gab 414 Outtro Heartland Radio (and on Facebook) Dallas Corbin Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post The Box That Makes Your Gig Sound Crappier — Gig Gab 414 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab episode 413, guest co-host Billy Butler joins Dave Hamilton to dive deep into the nuances of live performance and band dynamics. They kick off with a robust discussion on ‘four-walling’ a show, emphasizing the importance of asking “Why would people want to come and see your band?” Drawing from examples like The Dead South, Gay Bride of Frankenstein, and lessons from Samuel Beckett, they stress the significance of understanding audience appeal. The conversation pivots to the challenges of keeping an original band together, highlighting the crucial role of connecting with your audience and the art of being in the moment. The latter half of the podcast begins with a dive into the creative process behind Bitter Pill’s recent writing sessions, with mentions of inspirations like Betty Hutton’s “Murder, He Says” and the iconic Tom Waits. Billy and Dave then shift gears to practical advice, offering valuable lighting tips for live performances, including the strategic use of projectors and the effectiveness of a light at a 45-degree angle in front of the performer. They conclude with a powerful message: “Don’t Stop. Don’t Let Anyone Tell You ‘You Can’t’,” embodying the show’s catchphrase “Always Be(er) Performing”. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for musicians and performers aiming to elevate their stage presence and connect more deeply with their audiences. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 413 – Monday, January 22nd, 2024 00:02:04 Status Updates on Reddit 00:04:58 Four–walling a show The Dead South Gay Bride of Frankenstein Samuel Beckett “Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better Lollapalooza Ask “Why… Would people want to come and see your band?” 32:25 SPONSOR: Green Chef makes eating well easy with plans to fit every lifestyle. Go to GreenChef.com/60giggab and use code 60giggab to get 60% off, plus 20% off your next two months. 00:34:19 Keeping an original band together Connecting With Your Audience Be In The Moment 00:49:30 Bitter Pill Writing Sessions Betty Hutton – Murder, He Says Tom Waits 00:58:48 Lighting Tips Projectors Light number 1: In front of performer at 45-degree angle 01:10:21 Don’t Stop. Don’t Let Anyone Tell You “You Can’t” 01:14:54 Gig Gab 413 Outtro Bitter Pill the band Billy Butler on Facebook Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Four-Walling Connections With Your Audience — Gig Gab 413 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast, guest co-host Dan East joins Dave Hamilton as they dive into a rich discussion tailored for musicians and performance artists. The episode opens with Dan sharing his expert planning strategies for the upcoming NAMM show. He provides valuable insights on how to navigate such large-scale events, emphasizing the importance of goal-setting and strategic networking to make the most out of these gatherings. The conversation takes a playful turn with the (new?) segment “Grub Gab”, a nod to the often-overlooked aspect of gigging – the food musicians end up eating. Here, Dave and Dan exchange anecdotes and tips about maintaining a healthy diet and finding quality food amidst the hectic schedules on performance days. They highlight how food choices can impact energy levels and performance quality, adding a unique and practical dimension to the life of a performing artist. Throughout the episode, the theme of “Always Be Performing” resonates, reminding listeners that a musician’s performance isn’t just about the time spent on stage. It encompasses everything from preparation for industry events like NAMM to managing nutritional needs on the road. This holistic approach to a musician’s life, as shared by Dave and Dan, offers invaluable insights into balancing the demands of creativity, health, and professional growth in the ever-evolving world of music. Press play … and enjoy! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 412 – Monday, January 15th, 2024 Daniel East Returns! 00:02:00 Planning for NAMM John Mlynczak – New NAMM CEO MTD Basses and Guitars 00:08:51 Yamaha’s Main Stage Saturday Night Show at NAMM Lawrence The Band Steven Kramer Glickman (from Big Time Rush) performing with our pal, Buddy Gibbons NAMM Schedule Dr. Flash Gordon’s Monkey Poop Theory 00:16:38 Substances and The Stage Anything that’s an excuse for you screwing up on stage: don’t do it! 00:24:15 Grub Gab Protein Bars VAM Band on Gig Gab Johnny Hayes Bass 00:30:43 Ask bar staff: Where do you eat? 00:32:45 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:34:26 Recent gigs Jay Bernedo Power Station Studio in Florida Brandon Pratt from Red Helen 20k Podcast Dave Bang Drum, Dan Talk. It’s all good! Dave Collins Mastering 00:40:55 Producing with The Bolero Effect 00:43:20 Avoiding the Sterile, “Red Light Syndrome” Effect when in the studio Rob Freeman, studio engineer 00:54:02 Gear Gab! Waves SuperRack Performer Waves SILK Ai Vocal Waves Feedback Hunter 01:05:18 Will Dave go to NAMM? 01:07:46 When it comes to gear… do you like it? That’s the most important thing! 01:09:23 412 Outtro DanielEast.net TheMixDoctor Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Did Dan Say Grub Gab? — Gig Gab 412 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, dive deep into the world of hearing health with Frank Wartinger, a renowned music audiologist and podcaster! Wartinger emphasizes the importance of protecting your ears, especially for musicians and avid music fans. He introduces the “Dangerous Decibels Three Part Solution” – a practical approach involving turning down the volume, walking away from excessively loud sounds, and consistently wearing ear protection. He highlights the significance of being a considerate onstage neighbor and viewing your band in terms of ‘entrées and side dishes,’ where you’re often the side dish, suggesting a balance in sound levels. Frank also recommends various earplugs like Etymotic ER20, Loop, Vibes, and Eargasm, stressing on the need for filtered earplugs to maintain sound quality while protecting hearing. Further into the show, the conversation shifts to the technical aspects of hearing protection, discussing the loss of specific frequencies during live performances and the importance of getting custom-molded earplugs for the best protection. Lists from JH Audio and Sensaphonics are recommended for finding reliable audiologists. The discussion then turns to the use of in-ear monitors (IEMs) and how to maintain safe levels to avoid long-term hearing damage, citing a 2008 study comparing stage monitor levels with IEMs. Wartinger and Hamilton remind listeners that in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing,” but that also means taking care of your health, especially your hearing, to ensure longevity in your career. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 411 – Monday, January 8th, 2024 Healthy Hearing with Music Audiologist, Frank Wartinger 00:01:30 Special Guest: Frank Wartinger, Music Audiologist and host of the Talking Ears podcast 00:03:19 Helping musicians protect their hearing Hypercusis Tinnitus 00:04:54 What Can we as musicians *and* music fans do to preserve and even improve our Hearing Health? Dangerous Decibels Three Part Solution Turn it down – 3dB down is twice as safe Walk away – be more careful of what you do with loud sounds…especially on gig days Protect Your Ears 00:12:00 Be A Good Neighbor (on stage) 00:15:48 Think of your band as being made up of entrées and side dishes — You’re usually the side dish! Heather Maluku Music Audiologist – Small Muscle Athletes 00:17:28 Ear plug recommendations Maynard James Keenan Plays Drums with Shotgun Filtered Earplugs Etymotic ER20 Loop Earplugs Dubs Earplugs (discontinued) Vibes Earaser Eargasm 00:28:26 Do you wear earplugs when doing live sound? Losing 3kHz-6kHz over the course of a two hour show 00:34:07 Getting Molds Done Good Lists to use JH Audio Audiologist list Sensaphonics Audiologist List MusiCares and Tuned 00:46:00 Getting the right fit the first time Trust your IEM manufacturer! Andy Swanson from Alclair on Gig Gab From The Graduate to Fletch in less than 14 seconds! 00:50:14 Should we use a bite blocks? Use “The dumb guy look!” 00:55:55 Keeping IEM levels down 2008 Study comparing stage monitor levels with in-ear monitors Question your IEM habits for 2024 “Don’t Get Addicted to That Snap” – Bill Tasto 01:01:49 GG 411 Outtro Find Frank Wartinger at TunedCare.com Earmark Hearing Conservation in Philadelphia The Talking Ears Podcast Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Healthy Hearing with Music Audiologist, Frank Wartinger – Gig Gab 411 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week’s Gig Gab, guest co-host Mike Schulte joins Dave Hamilton as they dive into the diverse world of gigging. They kick off discussing New Year’s gigs, pondering if it’s a 2023 or 2024 gig – a unique time warp for musicians. The conversation shifts to the technicalities of in-ear monitors (IEMs), highlighting the need for updated molds as ears change shape. Brands like 64 Audio A-18s, JH Audio 16, and Alclair Dual XB get a mention. Next, they recount a tale of two gigs: one at Buddy Holly’s final venue, a memorable experience, and another, less stellar performance. The duo then ventures into the controversial territory of playing a gig while having Covid, discussing the use of Ableton to replace a sick band member, and mentioning the band Sleep Token. Further into the podcast, Dave and Mike delve into audience expectations and the curious phenomenon of disliking a song but enjoying playing it. They switch gears to “Gear Gab”, focusing on the CAT-SASS cable system for large stages, Splitter Snakes, and running your own mixer, emphasizing the importance of reliable gear in a musician’s arsenal. The concept of state-dependent learning is explored, highlighting the mental load musicians carry, especially when worrying for one’s bandmates. Lastly, they discuss the benefits and pitfalls of a silent stage, with a nod to the band Here Come the Mummies. Throughout, the hosts embody the show’s mantra, “Always Be Performing”, reinforcing the notion that regardless of the situation, a true performer adapts and thrives. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 410 – Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 Guest co-host: Mike Schulte from The Pork Tornadoes 00:02:05 New Years’ Gigs (Dave and Mike) 00:05:20 Was this a 2023 NYE gig or 2024? 00:12:04 Your Ears Change Shape… Sometimes You Need To Update your IEM Molds 64 Audio A-18s JH Audio 16 Alclair Dual XB 00:17:58 One Great Gig…and one not-so-great gig Buddy Holly’s final venue 00:20:43 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:22:39 Playing a Gig with Covid Ableton to replace a sick band member Sleep Token 00:31:00 What does the audience want? 00:36:22 Disliking the song but enjoying PLAYING the song 00:41:14 Gear Gab: CAT-SASS cable system for drums Splitter Snake Midas M32 00:51:10 State-Dependent Learning Doing the worrying for the rest of the band 00:59:05 The Benefits and Pitfalls of a Silent Stage Here Come the Mummies 01:03:45 GG 410 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post State Dependent Learning — Gig Gab 410 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this Gear Gab episode of Gig Gab, Dave Hamilton starts with a deep dive into the world of bass drum microphones, with a spotlight on the Behringer BA 19A, priced at an accessible $79. Dave compares this budget-friendly option against its more expensive counterparts, the Shure Beta 91A and the beyerdynamic TG D71C. He meticulously highlights how the Behringer BA 19A stands up to these industry staples in terms of sound quality, build, and overall value. This segment is a goldmine for both budding and seasoned drummers, providing a clear perspective on whether the Behringer BA 19A is just a budget clone or a serious contender in the realm of professional audio equipment. In the latter half of the episode, the focus shifts to two innovative products from Soundbrenner. First is the Soundbrenner Core, a multifunctional musical watch that combines a metronome, tuner, and more into a single wearable device. Dave explores how this gadget can enhance your practice and performance. Next, he reviews the Soundbrenner Minuendo variable earplugs, a must-have for any musician looking to protect their hearing without sacrificing audio clarity. Remember, in the world of Gig Gab and beyond, “Always Be Performing,” no matter the gear in your arsenal. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 409 – Friday, December 29th, 2023 00:01:36 Review: Behringer BA 19A ($79) AKG D112 ($234) Shure Beta 91A ($199 or $249) beyerdynamic TG D71C ($239) 00:07:45 Review: Soundbrenner Core Musical Watch with Metronome, Tuner, and more 00:12:14 Review: Soundbrenner Minuendo variable earplugs 00:14:18 GG 409 Outtro [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post A Gear Gab to End The Year — Gig Gab 409 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, dive into the nuances of being a musician and producer, all rolled into one. You’ll explore the art of practicing effectively, a skill that’s as crucial as it is often overlooked. Get insights from the legendary Rick Rubin and his book, “The Creative Act,” a must-read for any serious musician. The episode also touches on the timeless talent of Bruce Springsteen and delves into the intriguing collaboration between Rick Rubin and Paul McCartney in “McCartney 3,2,1.” The discussion then shifts to the practicalities of auditioning a bandmate. It’s not just about talent; it’s about fit and synergy. Remember, whether you’re in a band or just a group, the dynamics and chemistry matter immensely. The second half of the podcast features Dave recalling his experience filling in for the Houserockers with Paul in August 2016 – a testament to the importance of adaptability and skill in a musician’s life. The episode concludes with a crucial reminder: it’s absolutely fine to be in the music BUSINESS. Embrace it as a legitimate and vital aspect of your musical journey. And while certain chapters, like the Uptown Celebration, might come to an end, remember, in the world of music, as in life, it’s all about the mantra, “Always Be Performing.” Keep this phrase close to your heart as you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of music and performance. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 408 – Monday, December 18th, 2023 00:01:06 Practicing With — and Producing — Yourself 00:05:07 Vocal coaching Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act 00:07:27 Bruce Springsteen 00:10:13 Rick Rubin and Paul McCartney, McCartney 3,2,1 00:11:59 Auditioning a Bandmate 00:26:04 Is it a Band, or just a Group? 00:33:11 Dave filling for the Houserockers in August, 2016 00:35:32 Thanks to You! 00:40:15 Thanks to Paul! 00:42:57 It’s Ok To Be In The Music BUSINESS 00:44:19 Uptown Celebration Ends…for now? 00:49:07 GG 408 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Is It An Audition, or Just a Hang? — Gig Gab 408 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast with Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton you’ll dive into the essential nuances of social media for musicians. The key takeaway? Social media isn’t just a platform for advertising; it’s a vital space for being social and engaging with your audience. It’s about creating a community around your music and sharing your journey, not just promoting gigs. Remember, in the ever-evolving world of music, “Always Be Performing” isn’t just about the stage; it’s about how you present and connect with your fans online too. The episode also touches on the emotional rollercoaster musicians often face, like the ‘No-Gig Depression,’ a real phenomenon where the lack of performances can impact your mental well-being. Then there’s the dilemma faced by Keith: clubs only wanting to book one version of your band, a classic case of supply versus demand in the music industry. It sparks an intriguing debate – is control the antithesis of art, or is it compromise? Finally, a thought-provoking question: Are you just a musician, or are you a true bandmate? This question challenges you to reflect on your role and contribution to your musical collective. Press play and enjoy, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 407 – Wednesday, December 13th, 2023 00:01:25 Thank you for being awesome! 00:05:00 How about some Dave-solo episodes? 00:07:42 Don’t Forget to Be Social on Social Media Social Media is not Advertising 00:14:55 No-Gig Depression 00:18:21 Keith-When Clubs Only Want to Book One Version of Your Band Supply vs. Demand Control is the antithesis of art? No… compromise is! Geddy Lee’s “My Effin’ Life” 00:37:58 Are you a musician or a bandmate? 00:43:19 GG 407 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Be Social on Social Media — Gig Gab 407 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s episode of Gig Gab with Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton, the duo dives into the evolving landscape of the music scene, particularly focusing on how musicians are adapting to today’s world. They touch on the unexpected cancellations of Christmas gigs, stirring a conversation about the resilience and adaptability required in the ever-changing world of music. The conversation then shifts to an intriguing discussion about the future of cover bands and tribute bands. They ponder over what bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynyrd will mean to cover bands in ten years. The segment on tribute bands, featuring groups like Lotus Land, Foreigners Journey, and Dark Desert Eagles, highlights the enduring appeal of these iconic acts. They conclude with insights on personal growth through playing different instruments, discuss some exciting changes ahead for Gig Gab itself, emphasizing the show’s mantra: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 406 – Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 00:00:39 Adapting to the quiet 00:01:56 Christmas (gig) is CANCELED 00:03:51 What will cover bands be in ten years? The Beatles The Rolling Stones Lynyrd Skynyrd 00:16:26 What about Tribute Bands Beatlemania Foreigners Journey Dark Desert Eagles Eaglemania Lotus Land Being Petty 00:27:30 Changes are afoot! 00:37:32 Inspiration from Playing a Different Kit 00:39:00 GG 406 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Changes Are Afoot — Gig Gab 406 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton start with a dive into the nuances of performing solo gigs. They discuss the importance of honing your skills, reading the room, and choosing the right material to resonate with your audience. Emphasizing that a solo gig isn’t just about the performance; it’s about the art that emerges from having the discipline to manage everything on your own. They also revisit the iconic MTV Unplugged series, highlighting its impact on music and performance. Remember, even if you don’t immediately win over your audience, don’t sweat it in the moment – instead, always be performing! Your two favorite weekend warriors compare the dynamics of duos and trios, exploring gigs in private, often smoky clubs like biker bars and VFW halls, where everyone knows each other and the atmosphere is laid back and easy-going. Then it’s time for gear gab, where the gear talk gets real as they review Audigo’s pocket-sized recording studio, debate the quality of wireless vs. wired equipment, and discuss the range of microphone quality, mentioning brands like Shure, Telefunken, Heil, Sennheiser, and Warm Audio. The episode wraps up with a look at Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, an intriguing tool for artists, offering capabilities like live-streaming straight from your glasses…if you can hold still! Press play and enjoy, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 405 – Tuesday, November 28th, 2023 00:01:43 The experience of a solo gig Working on your chops Reading the room Don’t sweat (in the moment) if you don’t go over well The discipline of everything being on your shoulders evolves into an expression of art Learning to play the right material…and learning the material! Revisiting MTV Unplugged 00:10:37 Duos vs. Trios 00:13:06 Gigs in Private (Smoky) Clubs Inexpensive Drinks Everyone knows each other Laid back, blue-collar vibe Example: Biker Bars, Elks Clubs, American Legion, VFW Halls 00:21:22 Where’s the Meritocracy Is it musical? No. It’s drink sales! Gear Gab! 00:29:01 Review: Audigo – Pocket-sized recording studio. Single mic: $219, and you can use up-to-four at once 00:33:59 The Quality Wireless vs. Wired 00:37:06 Microphone Quality Range. Is a $900 mic better than a $250 mic? Shure SM58 Telefunken M80 Heil PR37 Sennheiser e945 (used at Monkey Fist rehearsal) Warm Audio WA-251 00:44:04 Ray-Ban Meta Glasses – $299 (and up) Pictures, Video, and Live-Streaming from your Glasses Ventriloquism is Art 00:48:48 Gig Gab 405 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Ventriloquism is Art — Gig Gab 405 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into the evolving world of bands with the latest Gig Gab podcast, exploring the critical theme of ‘Evolving Bands’ and the importance of defining your band’s unique identity. Hosts Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton engage in a thought-provoking discussion on why curiosity is crucial for musical growth and how understanding who you are as a band can significantly impact your musical journey. They also delve into the practical aspects of the music world, discussing the strategic decision-making involved in turning down gigs and the tools essential for managing band availability, like WheresTheGig?, Google Calendar and Slack. This segment is a must-listen for musicians navigating the complexities of gig schedules and collaborations. Your two favorite weekend warriors then pivot to explore what it means to be a professional musician in today’s world. They discuss the dynamics of subbing in bands and the expectation of equal shares in such scenarios, likening musicians to ‘Musical Plumbers’ who are always ready to adapt and perform. The concept of a ‘Fantasy Houserockers League’ adds a playful twist to the conversation, emphasizing the versatility required in the music industry. Additionally, the episode sheds light on the less glamorous but essential ‘Wallpaper Gigs’ and the invaluable experiences they provide. The highlight of the episode is the discussion on the benefits and energy derived from playing club gigs, with a special mention of ‘Toad’s Place The Documentary’. This insightful episode concludes with a reminder of the show’s catchphrase, “Always Be Performing,” emphasizing the essence of live performance and collaboration in the music industry. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 404 – Monday, November 20th, 2023 00:01:11 Evolving bands Curious is Good 00:03:30 Who Are You? (as a band) 00:12:43 Turning Down Good Gigs 00:17:24 Managing Availability Where’s The Gig? Google Calendar Slack 00:23:24 Dan-Mutual Cancelation Clauses 00:27:53 Avid Listener-I Expect An Equal Share When Subbing Musical Plumbers 00:35:58 What’s a Pro? (Redux) I’ll Sub For You If You Play Songs I Know Fantasy Houserockers League 00:39:22 Wallpaper Gigs 00:43:10 Toad’s Place The Documentary The benefits of — and energy from — playing club gigs 00:48:49 How you learn to be a band 00:52:59 GG 404 Outtro Happy Thanksgiving! Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List   The post Musical Plumbers — Gig Gab 404 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, you’re diving deep with Paul Kent, Dave Hamilton, and their special guest, Chris Breen, a seasoned maestro in the music scene. Having played with his band, System 9, since 1985 — and having played quite a bit before that, too — Chris has a fun, observant perspective to share. Oh, and he also played for naked people, so there’s that. Your three favorite weekend warriors cover the fairness of compensating subs, the arc of live music’s popularity, and the technicalities and nuances of maintaining volume levels. Breen shares insights on handling difficult people at gigs and the thrill of hitting that high C in “Whipping Post.” Throughout these revelations, the underlying mantra remains the same: “Always Be Performing.” Whether it’s managing band relationships or crafting the perfect sound, it’s all about delivering a stellar performance, no matter the circumstances. Press play and enjoy, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 403 – Monday, November 13th, 2023 00:02:05 Special Guest: Christopher Breen Pack it Down and then Explode System Nine (Since 1985!) 00:03:56 Musical Education 00:09:24 In-Ear Monitor Pioneer 00:13:04 Three weird gigs in one! 00:20:28 DJ Killed the (Local) Rock and Roll Star 00:25:08 Bands at High School Dances 00:28:11 Make People’s Jobs Easier 00:29:30 Keep it Equitable 00:33:07 Paying for Subs 00:38:59 A little bit of band love 00:41:12 Creating Moods with Piano 00:44:11 Favorite Gear Nord Stage 2 QSC 12” 00:48:03 Maintaining a Reasonable Volume 00:52:41 Hitting That High C in Whipping Post Whipping Post from the Macworld All-Star Band 01:00:00 Managing People Behaving Badly 01:10:13 GG 402 Outtro ChrisBreen.com Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Keeping It Equitable with Christopher “High C” Breen — Gig Gab 403 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton embrace the holiday spirit with a discussion about the unique challenges and opportunities that Christmas gigs bring to your musical journey. Keep your performance fresh with insights from Good and learn how rebranding your band, like Clubbing Fraggles did, might just be the edge you need. Additionally, your two favorite weekend warriors dig into the idea of commoditization in the world of custom-fit in-ear monitors and how that’s shaking up the industry. Then it’s time for Gear Gab, staring with the new iCloud syncing feature added to forScore, and Behringer BA 19A Boundary Kick Drum Mic that’s changing the game for drummers. More commoditization! Get the lowdown on the new Whirlwind PW-1 Headphone Amp for your IEMs and make sure you check out Logic Pro 10.8’s Mastering Assistant that could elevate your recording sessions. Plus, don’t miss out on Stage Ninja’s new heavy-duty mounts that ensure your tech is always where you need it on the gig. Through it all, remember the mantra that sets every great musician apart: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 402 – Tuesday, November 7th, 2023 00:01:08 Getting ear impressions done Alclair IEMs on Gig Gab 00:05:18 The commoditization of custom-fit In-Ear Monitors 00:11:20 Christmas Gigs and Holiday Parties Dallas Corbin’s Heartland Radio 00:18:36 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:20:18 Gord-400-I rebranded my band! 00:24:58 The exercise in proving yourself right 00:26:25 Find guys who don’t somewhere else to go! 00:28:23 Being in a band is a team sport Gear Gab! 00:36:37 Brian-forScore has iCloud Syncing Now! 00:38:33 CSF-Behringer BA 19A Boundary Kick Drum Mic Behringer B906 Guitar Cab Microphone 00:44:46 n-Dan-Whirlwind PW-1 Headphone Amp 00:48:47 CSF-Logic Pro 10.8 adds Mastering Assistant 00:50:15 New Stage Ninja Phone Pro and Heavy Duty Phone Mount Clamps 00:52:08 GG 402 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Clubbing Seals — Gig Gab 402 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive deep with Andy Swanson of Alclair In Ears as he takes you on a sonic journey, discussing these high-quality, affordable custom IEMs. Feel the passion of playing in the gaps, the lessons from Andy’s leap into the corporate world at big names like Nintendo, and the importance of sharing music with the next generation. Uncover the ins and outs of Alclair’s premium earpieces, from the deep resonating CMVK to the versatile Spire. And for all the tech-savvy, there’s a treat about EQing rooms for that perfect Gospel and R&B sound, the magic of ear impressions versus scans, and a deep dive into the world of audio drivers. In your musical journey, remember to “Always Be Performing”. Whether you’re on stage or just sharing a tune, let your performance be your signature. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 401 – Monday, October 30th, 2023 00:02:19 Andy Swanson from Alclair In Ears Rap with Aerosmith to The Beastie Boys Primus’s Les Claypool Flea (“Give it away now”) Robert Trujllo (from Metallica and Infectious Grooves) 00:07:07 Playing the spaces to create the feel 00:09:32 Diving into the Corporate World…and back Producer at Nintendo Digital Audio Labs 00:11:55 Sharing music with your kids 00:16:12 Alclair In Ears Alclair CMVK (Crankmaster 5000) (down to 10hz!) $749 Dual XB (Dual Driver) – $399 Spire (Six Driver) – $899 00:28:37 Comparing Dual-Driver units Versa Dual vs. Dual XB Give yourself the Disco Smile! 00:31:02 EQing a room for Gospel and R&B with High-Pass and Low-Pass filters 00:32:16 Compare Sounds 00:35:21 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. ST3 (Triple Driver) – $549 00:37:06 Impressions vs. Ear scans Mark and Rick Musselman of Matrics, Alclair’s Parent Company The Bite Block Controversy 00:58:11 Drivers: Types and Numbers Balanced Armature Dynamic Drivers Spire (four low, one mid, one high) 01:07:42 GG 401 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Alclair Custom IEMs: Affordable Quality — Gig Gab 401 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In the latest episode of Gig Gab, Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton dive deep into the dynamic world of bands. They kick off discussing the intricacies of subbing, emphasizing the importance of credibility in the music scene. If you’ve ever pondered creating a particular type of band or converting your current bar band into a private/function ensemble, this episode is your guidebook. From the foundational steps to setting up a function band to understanding the nitty-gritty logistics, Paul and Dave got you covered. The key takeaway? No matter your band’s niche or purpose, “Always Be Performing”. The music world waits for no one – adapt, evolve, and keep the rhythm alive. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 400 – Monday, October 23rd, 2023 00:01:36 Happy Birthday, Paul! 00:05:46 You Give Sub a Bad Name 00:19:36 What would you do if you wanted a certain type of band? 00:21:05 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:22:44 PODCAST: The Spark Parade where host Adam Unze chats with artists and entertainers about their Spark, sharing insights into what drives their work and style. 00:23:27 How would you build a function band? 00:27:10 What are the logistics of this band? VAM Band on Gig Gab (ep397) Dan Meblin on Gig Gab (ep197) 00:35:59 Can you adapt your existing bar band into a private/function band? 00:46:46 GG 400 Outtro Next week: Alclair Custom IEMs! Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Rebranding Your Band – Gig Gab 400 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week, Mike Schulte, drummer for The Pork Tornadoes, joins Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent for an exciting look into running a top-tier cover band. Mike shares the unique approach that The Pork Tornadoes adopt in the cover band scene, with a spotlight on their original sensibilities and a well-thought-out division of labor that underpins their success. You’ll travel through the group’s engaging journey from selecting their “distinctive” name to captivating crowds of 20,000 strong with their performances. You’ll gain insights into the critical moments and deliberate strategies of The Pork Tornadoes, from effective branding and logistical management to business expansion and gig diversification. Mike underscores the importance of knowing your worth and being ready for rejection, coupled with the imperative to advertise shows widely to build a supportive fan base. You’ll learn how strategic use of scarcity and VIP options can not only boost event sales but also transform attendees into valued fans. With a commitment to “Always Be Performing”, you’ll be intrigued by the band’s hustle, strategic planning, and undying passion in the music industry. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 399 – Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 00:01:54 Special Guest: Mike Schulte, Drummer for The Pork Tornadoes Bringing Original Sensibilities to the Cover Band BookYourOwnFuckingLife.com 00:10:05 Division of Labor (in a Cover Band) 00:13:00 Naming the Band Jon Fishman’s Pork Tornado 00:14:41 Numbers 00:14:53 20,000 People 00:15:45 What’s the Formula? Adam Moskowitz on Gig Gab 00:18:06 Critical Moments in The Pork Tornadoes’ history Pork Tornadoes Tennesee Whiskey 00:21:15 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:23:03 Brand Everything 00:24:29 Managing Logistics 00:26:26 Expanding the Business 00:31:32 Variety of Gigs 00:34:11 Get Paid What You’re Worth 00:37:10 Be Prepared to Not Get The Gig You Sell Booze! 00:41:35 Advertise Your Shows Everywhere Facebook Background Ads 00:44:24 Fourwalling Your Own Events Scarcity Sells (when used properly) VIP Options are even better Treat them like fans! 00:51:39 What’s the end like? 00:55:09 What is Confused Breakfast? 00:57:43 GG 399 Outtro Find Mike Mike Schulte The Pork Tornadoes Confused Breakfast Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Mike Schulte from Pork Tornadoes — Gig Gab 399 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In Episode 398 of Gig Gab Podcast with hosts Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton, the duo explores the nuances of live performance and music. When an initial count-off is interrupted, your two favorite weekend warriors underscore the importance of recalibrating the “feeling” within the body to ensure a stellar performance. They further delve into the technical aspect, highlighting the significance of playing to a click for maintaining impeccable timing and celebrating the joy of having perfect monitors which enhance the sonic experience both for artists and audiences alike. Reacting to Adam from the VAM Band, discussions veer into the innovative concept of a band as a franchise and the dynamism of running a modular band, which offers flexibility and diversity in the music creation process. In anticipation of Mike Schulte’s appearance next week, the episode briefly touches on upcoming gigs and the strategies in building ticketed events to ensure they not only sell but also cultivate a robust community of music lovers and aficionados. The hosts emphasize that whether you’re playing in small gigs or ticketed events, one should “Always Be Performing” — the show’s thrilling catchphrase — embodying a spirit of unyielding excellence and engagement in every performance scenario. Through this approach, artists can foster a committed fan base while continuously honing their craft. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 398 – Monday, October 2nd, 2023 00:01:49 When the count-off is interrupted, restart the “feeling” in your body 00:09:28 Playing to a click 00:13:10 Those monitors were perfect! 00:18:11 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggabpod” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:19:47 Reacting to Adam from VAM Band 00:23:59 VAM Band as a Franchise 00:26:04 Running a modular band 00:28:23 Mike Schulte Coming Next Week 00:31:18 Upcoming Gigs 00:32:36 Building up the ticketed events 00:41:34 Building community 00:42:29 GG 398 Outtro Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Take Your Time — Gig Gab 398 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Adam Moskowitz of VAM Band joins Paul and Dave this week on Gig Gab, treating you to an insider’s perspective into all the systems and tricks Adam uses to run his band. The trio dives deep into the realm of musicianship, from the transition of original bands to cover bands, to the innovative concept of evolving a modular cover band. Adam reveals his tricks on hiring the right band members and harnessing the power of the “Invisible Conductor” through technology both on stage and off. Gear Gab is a treat as Adam shares his favorite equipment, including the likes of Stage Traxx 3 and Soundcraft UI24R Mixer. As the conversations range from managing consistency to the art of automation, one thing remains clear: whether it’s about choices or overcoming mishaps, it’s vital to “Always Be Performing”. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 397 – Tuesday, Sept 26th, 2023 00:02:11 Special Guest: Adam Moskowitz from VAM Band Original bands to Cover Bands 00:05:53 Evolving a Modular Cover Band Systems are better than goals 00:11:42 Hiring bandmembers 00:14:18 Building the system with The Invisible Conductor Karaoke Version 00:19:13 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:21:11 Gear Gab with Adam from VAM Band AirTurn Stage Traxx 3 00:28:38 IEMs Soundcraft UI24R Mixer Behringer P2 Donner EM1 Beltpack Clear Tune Monitors KZ Universal Fit In-Ears 00:33:20 Everybody Knows I Have Options 00:39:42 When Things Go Wrong 00:42:33 Managing Consistency 00:46:22 Automating Everything! 00:54:10 GG 397 Outtro Find Adam Moskowitz and VAM Band @adammoskowitzmusic @Vam.Band Contact Us! [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Adam Moskowitz, The Invisible Conductor — Gig Gab 397 appeared first on Gig Gab.

A grab bag of topics brings your two favorite weekend warriors together this week, including discussions about setlists, rehearsal techniques, Gear Gab, and the proposal of a whole new scientific theory that very much relates to what we all do here. Listen as Paul and Dave discuss Nile Rodgers, The Counting Crows, Gretsch Drums, how much space to take up on stage, and a lightning round of fun little stabs to get your creative juices flowing. Press play, enjoy, and obviously don’t forget: Always Be Performing. Oh, and take care of yourself, too, ok? 00:00:00 Gig Gab 396 – Monday, Sept 18th, 2023 00:01:59 That Setlist 00:06:25 Dashboard Confessional & The Counting Crows 00:11:26 Is your summer schedule a tour? 00:15:12 Passing Strange Rehearsals 00:22:17 Spreading Wide on the stage 00:24:38 Lightning Round 00:29:00 Dave’s Theory: Setup will take as long as you have 00:36:26 Maple (and Poplar) Therapy – Gretsch Brooklyn 00:42:26 Drum Racks Gibraltar Stealth Drum Rack 00:44:46 How is rehearsal time spent? 00:56:25 GG 396 Outtro [email protected] Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List The post Grip It & Rip It — Gig Gab 396 appeared first on Gig Gab.

This week on Gig Gab, hosts Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent dive into an energetic discussion about the ever-changing nature of bands. This sparks a thoughtful dialogue about band dynamics, the fragility of music groups, and how to keep things moving forward when lineups shift. Dave and Paul reflect on their decades of experience playing together in various projects, offering wisdom on commitment, communication, and throwing trust into the mix. There’s no shortage of witty banter as the two musician friends cover recent gigs, pay tribute to legends lost, and ponder that essential question: What would you do if things changed? It’s a spirited convo fans won’t want to miss, full of laughs and hard-won perspective. Remember, as your two favorite weekend warriors always say, when it comes to performing, rehearsing or podcasting, always be performing! 00:00:00 – Gig Gab 395 – Tuesday, Sept 5th, 2023 00:02:36 – Making a Choice Between Two Gigs 00:05:58 – Impressive Performances and Audience Reactions 00:09:00 – Jimmy Buffett: A Life Well Lived 00:12:02 – Remembering Jimmy Buffett and Steve Harwell’s Battle with Cancer 00:12:39 – Andy-394-Managing Tempo with LiveBPM, Tama Rhythm Watch and Rolls PM50 IEM Amp 00:17:54 – The Quest for Perfect Tempo 00:19:26 – Taking a Break from Autopiloted Points 00:19:42 – SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:21:24 – The Evolution of a Band 00:33:31 – The Effect of Member Changes on the Band’s Sound 00:35:59 – The Fragility of Bands and the Forces That Pull Them Apart 00:50:08 – The importance of common commitment in keeping a band together 00:52:17 – The Future of the Band: Exploring Possibilities 00:56:00 – Gig Gab 395 Outré The post The Fragile Nature of Bands — Gig Gab 395 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Your two favorite weekend warriors discussed the busy gigging weekends they recently had, with Dave playing five gigs in 48 hours. They talked about strategies for avoiding leg cramps after late night gigs, and share details in the episode. Paul and Dave then gave advice for keeping consistent tempos after a Gig Gab community member wrote in saying their band’s songs speed up over time. They emphasized the importance of band-wide awareness and intention, taking moments of silence to get the right tempo, and having the confidence to hold the tempo steady. Your hosts agreed the drummer can be the timekeeper if the band decides, but fighting over tempo ruins the groove. They stressed that solid tempo comes from the whole band being locked in together. Always be performing, the hosts advised – keep gigging, but stay aware and keep working on your musical craft. 00:00:28 – Busy Week of Gigs For Paul and Dave 00:08:55 – Gig Memories: Car Show and Corporate Private Gig 00:12:27 – The Evolution and Challenges of Performing New Songs 00:20:36 – PODCAST: Waterproof Records. We all remember those albums that changed our lives forever, so if you like to wax nostalgic about those magic moments, check out Waterproof Records with Jacob Givens! 00:22:02 – Dealing with leg cramps after gigs and finding solutions 00:27:28 – Battling Tempo Creep in Band Performances 00:41:37 – Going with the Band’s Tempo, Except in Special Cases 00:43:08 – Jonas’s Question Sparks a New Conversation Angle 00:43:30 – Gig Gab Outtro The post Musical Accountability — Gig Gab 394 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Chris Liscio from SuperMegaUltraGroovy joins Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton, merging the worlds of Apple aficionados and musicians. Chris unveils the origins of his unique company name and shares his musical journey that led to the development of his music learning app, Capo. As they dive deep, they tackle defining the purpose of Capo—a software for musicians learning by ear, born from Chris’s personal journeys. While it’s amazed the team how various instruments adopt Capo, endorsements from acclaimed artists like Dennis Chambers, Will Lee, Jordan Rudess, and more showcase the app’s impact. Conversations span from the power of genuine advertising, Chris’s passion for music and jamming sessions with family, to the transformative role of AI in music. They stress Capo’s responsible usage of AI and dive into the nitty-gritty of chord recognition and AI model training. A lively debate unfolds on the value of learning music by ear, cautioning against over-reliance on tech. They champion the beauty in the struggle of learning, insisting on the magic musicians create when reinterpreting existing tunes. Press play, and remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:25 – Gig Gab 393 – Monday, August 14th, 2023 00:01:25 – Special Guest: Chris Liscio from SuperMegaUltraGroovy, the Makers of Capo! 00:04:32 – Early Music Lessons and Band Class Experiences 00:08:46 – The Cocktail Party Pitch for Capo 00:13:47 – Connecting with famous musicians and their feedback on Capo 00:17:22 – Reaching out to session musicians and their positive response 00:20:19 – Personal Reflections and Skepticism 00:21:20 – SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit 00:23:10 – More with Chris Liscio from SuperMegaUltraGroovy 00:26:01 – Memories of Working at Be 00:29:13 – The Impact of Music Education on Kids and Dad Bands 00:31:28 – The Joy of Solving Musical Challenges 00:34:05 – AI Tools for Track Separation and Copyright Issues Moises.ai 00:36:45 – Challenges of training AI models in music technology 00:39:47 – The Questionable Training Data in Chord Recognition 00:41:25 – Training the Neural Network to Recognize Sound Chunks Guitar Pro 00:51:21 – The Magic of Failure and Learning by Ear 00:53:16 – A Fascinating Study of the Oral Tradition in Rock Music On Becoming a rock musician (book) 00:55:17 – The Versatility of Classical Music Performances 00:55:39 – The Impediments to Art Creation 00:59:39 – GG 393 Outtro Find Chris @ SuperMegaUltraGroovy [email protected] The post Reverse Engineering Rock and Roll with SuperMegaUltraGroovy’s Chris Liscio – Gig Gab 393 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Tales from the stage, the power of adaptation, and the ins and outs of a performer’s life are the backdrop for this week’s stories. Dave and Paul reminisce about their recent gigs, highlighting the value of resilience when faced with onstage hiccups. Paul’s recent gig cancellation due to health is a sobering reminder of the balance between personal well-being and maintaining a band’s reputation. The duo dives deep into setlist dynamics, analyzing song placement, audience engagement, and the importance of visual elements in live music. Shifting gears, your two favorite weekend warriors bring attention to the nitty-gritty of live performances, from ensuring singers are visible and connected with the audience to the intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the use of teleprompters as safety nets. Observations from recent concerts, including a notable sound debacle with the opening band Living Colour, highlight ongoing challenges in the industry. The episode wraps up with a story from the Rochester Opera House where sound issues during a SpongeBob run posed significant challenges. Dave’s hands-on intervention, tuning the room, adjusting speaker volumes, and eventually enhancing the overall sound quality, underscores a performer’s commitment to excellence, regardless of recognition. Press play, and remember…Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 – Welcome to Gig Gab 392 00:01:03 – Paul cancels gig due to exhaustion from back-to-back performances 00:03:11 – The band’s ability to handle unexpected moments during live shows 00:05:26 – Regular drummer returning, transition back to the original lineup 00:08:24 – Preparing for the next phase with reintroducing new material 00:10:30 – Audience Opinion: Should Bands Change Set Lists Regularly? 00:11:48 – The Dilemma of New vs. Tried and True 00:13:25 – Mid-tempo songs struggle to engage the crowd. 00:16:34 – Changing up the tempo requires crowd energy and connection. 00:19:11 – Check out “Cover Band Confidential” for more tips and advice. 00:21:26 – A homeowner-built stage impresses with its sturdiness and design. 00:24:14 – Adding new songs last minute for a high-expectation gig 00:25:58 – Eliminating the crutch of cheat sheets for better focus 00:28:20 – Learning from Gary Cherone’s stage presence and performance techniques. 00:34:50 – Phish using teleprompters on stage for the first time 00:37:01 – The intricacies of in-ear monitoring and cueing systems 00:42:46 – Struggling to fix the unintelligible sound 00:45:54 – Balcony sound fixed, enjoying a successful performance 00:47:24 – Discovering a Sound Issue at the Beginning 00:47:34 – Frustration with Sound Quality in Live Performances The post Always Be…Perfecting Your Craft — Gig Gab 392 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent start by exploring the delicate balance between maintaining a song’s recorded tempo while injecting additional energy into live performances. They argue that speeding up a tune can give it an edge and serve as a potent device to amplify its vitality, as long as the decision is intentional and not a product of lost control. This allows the band to keep the adrenaline from driving the performance to a state of chaos. Your two favorite weekend warriors further highlight the importance of band chemistry in executing such tempo changes effectively, emphasizing the necessity for each member to feel and respond to the energy collectively. In the second half of the conversation, the hosts ponder on professional ethics, stressing the importance of mutual support, mentorship, and networking within the music industry. The discussion underscores the significance of respecting established relationships when dealing with club owners or managers and the damaging implications of bypassing the band leader. As they bring the conversation to a close, the hosts focus on the band’s internal dynamics and the necessity of open policies and discussions, even suggesting that musicians might unexpectedly find themselves in business rather than intentionally starting one. Remember folks, Always Be Ethical and Always Be Performing. Oh, and press play and enjoy! 00:00:00 – Introduction and Sponsor Announcement 00:02:05 – Playing with a New Musician and Couples Getaway 00:06:06 – Phish Allowing Tempo Changes for Added Energy 00:08:34 – The Importance of Tempo and Energy in Live Music 00:11:27 – SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:13:04 – Ethical Dilemma: Band Member Promoting Another Band during Gigs 00:14:34 – Striking up conversations and building relationships at venues 00:16:28 – Discussing the implications of promoting other projects at gigs 00:19:00 – The importance of communication and trust within a band 00:21:27 – Timing and manners when discussing other bands with bookers 00:24:32 – Policing Business Relationships: Uncool or Necessary? 00:26:45 – Respecting the client-provider relationship 00:33:40 – The Importance of Communication and Respect in a Band 00:36:03 – Lack of Clear Understanding Affects the Enjoyment of Playing 00:39:09 – Fear of Confrontation and Lack of Business Acumen in Bands 00:42:41 – Open Communication and Facilitating Club Connections 00:45:51 – GG 391 Outtro [email protected] The post Reading The Red Flags — Gig Gab 391 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab, Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton discuss the highs and lows of recent gigs, emphasizing the importance of delivering top-notch performances. They recount a canceled gig due to rain, revealing the strict cancellation policy that left them unpaid, despite perfect weather. Another Saturday gig faced multiple challenges, including a last-minute replacement bass player due to a COVID-19 test. Undeterred, they took the stage and powered through unforeseen setbacks, demonstrating their commitment to “Always Be Performing.” Your two favorite weekend warriors also delve into the pressure of pleasing discerning audiences, sharing stories of gigs where last-minute changes and rivalries pushed them to excel. They touch on the benefits of chemistry within a band, adapting to new songs and challenges, and the simplicity of cover band gigs that allows for solid, enjoyable performances. Concluding with gratitude to the listeners and a brief break before their return in August, Paul and Dave reassure us all that they’ll always be performing, too, and delivering engaging content! 00:00:00 – Gig Gab 390 – Tuesday, July 18th, 2023 00:03:08 – Discussion on Financial Commitment for Cancelled Gigs 00:04:32 – Tips for finding new gig opportunities 00:05:51 – Setting Up for the Gig and Assessing the Stakes 00:08:02 – Technical Difficulties with Bass Amp during Performance 00:09:10 – Sharing experiences with different types of venues 00:10:03 – Syncopated Challenges in Playing Van Halen’s “Jump” 00:12:01 – Audience Scrutiny and Perspective on Mistakes 00:14:37 – Feeling Moved Around and Pissed Off 00:15:59 – Advice on promoting and marketing your band 00:17:00 – Delayed Start, Frustration, and Impressive Performance 00:19:22 – The Other Band’s Reaction 00:21:08 – Band decides to play songs already performed by another band 00:22:31 – Importance of networking within the music industry 00:24:44 – Inspired by the skill of another band, motivation to excel 00:25:17 – SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. 00:28:58 – Addressing the issue of low-paying gigs 00:29:33 – Challenging Start, Determined to Play the Beloved Song 00:30:52 – Striving for the Perfect Sound 00:32:23 – Unconventional Set Start with Crowd’s Attention 00:34:11 – Exploring the benefits of playing original music versus covers 00:34:45 – Nostalgia for simpler gigs and missing band members 00:38:02 – The challenge of locking in tempos for certain songs 00:40:43 – Closing thoughts and upcoming events in the music scene 00:43:24 – A star-studded band lineup for the Jim Irsay concert 00:48:27 – GG 390 Outtro The post Surprise, You’re The Headliner — Gig Gab 390 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast, hosts Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton delve into the intricacies of leading a band and securing lucrative gigs. The dynamic duo underscore the necessity for unified band goals and shared values, defying the notion that leadership rests solely on the shoulders of the band leader. They stress the importance of effective communication to maintain a harmonious group dynamic and avoid surprises. From a practical standpoint, they discuss the significance of band identity and the influence of everyone’s commitments on the group’s decisions. Throughout the discussion, they keep the listener reminded of their mantra: “Always Be Performing”. Digging deeper, the hosts draw from their rich personal experiences, highlighting instances of unanticipated decisions by band members and the ensuing consequences. They outline the challenges in managing multiple commitments and the delicate balance of treating bandmates as friends versus business partners. Mentioning a handy app, “Where’s the Gig“, they demonstrate the use of modern tools to manage band commitments. They emphasize the importance of understanding band member’s thresholds in order to gain leverage, and the gradual shift from friendship to business-like interactions, essential for running a band professionally. Through a captivating anecdote of a sideman who changed his terms but stayed committed until replaced, they explore varied interpretations of commitment within a band. Press play, enjoy, and always be performing! 00:00:00 – Introducing Gig Gab, Episode 389 for Monday, July 10th, 2023. 00:00:25 – Discussing the challenges of live performances during the pandemic. 00:03:10 – Impressive Preparation and Performance of Sub Drummer 00:03:44 – Sharing tips for marketing and promoting gigs in the digital age. 00:06:11 – Sub Drummer’s Confidence and the Importance of Preparation 00:11:41 – Unexpected Opportunities Arise after a Successful Gig 00:14:06 – Successful Networking Leads to Promising Leads 00:17:05 – SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:18:37 – SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:19:46 – Mark-How do you deal with band members’ decisions that affect the band? 00:27:52 – Balancing personal commitments with band responsibilities 00:30:12 – Setting clear rules to avoid conflicts in the band 00:32:25 – Setting expectations and rules for band members 00:35:15 – Stories of misaligned priorities and commitments in bands 00:39:06 – GigGab 389 Outtro The post Keep The Sound Guy Stocked! — Gig Gab 389 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this Gig Gab episode Dave & Paul discuss their recent gigs and the differences in sound quality from stage-to-stage. They then touch on the importance of communication and awareness among band members while performing. Your two favorite weekend warriors delve into the dynamics of being a musician in different areas and the struggle for fair compensation. Plus, they announce an upcoming interview with our friend Nick Chargin and share alternative ways to engage with fans. Stay tuned and always be performing! 00:00:00 – Introduction to Gig Gab, episode 388 00:00:25 – The Importance of Networking in the Music Industry 00:04:32 – Strategies for Effective Networking 00:09:01 – Leveraging Social Media for Networking Success 00:09:34 – Hackmatack: From Musical Theater to Farm Day Jubilee 00:12:29 – Building Relationships with Other Musicians 00:14:11 – Bitter Pill’s Improvisational Communication 00:15:56 – Finding Networking Opportunities in Your Local Music Scene 00:17:08 – The Power of Being Engaged and Infectious in Performance 00:20:12 – The Benefits of Collaborating with Other Musicians 00:21:02 – Sponsor: Capo from Super Mega Ultra Groovy 00:22:24 – Recording drum tracks for the next Fling EP 00:29:36 – Musicians Taking Free Gigs for Opportunities 00:31:26 – The Economics of Music Venues 00:34:13 – The Experience of Setting Up on the Floor vs. Stage 00:35:52 – Harnessing the Forces of Nature for Business Success 00:38:07 – Bob Lefsetz Letter 00:45:42 – Repetitive Social Media Strategy: The Act of Desperation 00:48:08 – Having a Conversation with Your Audience 00:48:45 – Conclusion and Wrap-Up of Gig Gab, episode 388 The post Attention is Performing – Gig Gab 388 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s show, Dave and Paul welcome Billy Butler, a multi-instrumentalist who plays a variety of instruments including the piano, guitar, and cello. Oh, and Billy is Dave’s bandmate in Bitter Pill, too! Your three favorite weekend warriors dive right in, sharing insights on the process of memorizing music and lyrics, emphasizing the role of repetition, muscle memory, and physical engagement. They touch on the challenges presented by non-linear lyrics in songs like Beatles’ “Come Together” and Bitter Pill’s “Tom Waits for None,” and share anecdotes about performances where muscle memory helped them through forgotten lyrics. The conversation also delves into the world of music creation, stressing the need for confidence in performance and the role of the conductor as the artistic leader. Billy articulates the line between drawing inspiration from other songs and downright plagiarism, citing the example of the stride piano style in “Betty the Stripper.” Billy also shares his admiration for the lyrical storytelling prevalent in songs from the 1920s to 1940s, and expresses his creativity by writing songs based on his own experiences and ideas. He also praises the genre-blending nature of hip-hop, appreciating its seamless fusion of different music styles. This episode wraps up with a detailed discussion on the practicalities of live performances. Billy describes his cello setup, highlighting the complexities of bowing and the use of pickups and a pedal board to achieve specific sounds. The trio emphasizes the importance of soundcheck, adjusting instruments to match the room and the other onstage instruments, and maintaining good stage volume. They further discuss their choice of original songs and covers, including Cab Calloway’s “Minnie the Moocher” and Tom Waits’ “Get Behind the Mule,” and explore the punk folk aesthetic of Bitter Pill’s covers, considering potential additions from Velvet Underground and Misfits. They conclude with a candid discussion about their personal music preferences, including a shared lack of enthusiasm for the Grateful Dead. Hey, Billy and Dave play in Bitter Pill, not Happy Pill! With insightful perspectives and engaging stories, this one’s a must-listen, folks! Press play…and always be performing (and prepared)! Chapters and (clickable!) Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction and Travel Plans 00:03:16 – Billy’s Musical Background and Dyslexia 00:06:43 – Memory Guy’s Trick to Remembering 72 Decks of Cards 00:12:59 – First Impressions of Dave Hampton in Next to Normal Rehearsal 00:14:19 – Meeting and bonding over music 00:17:40 – From Accordion to Drummer: The Band’s Beginning 00:25:28 – Songwriting Process: Influences and Accessibility 00:28:13 – Family’s Musical Background 00:35:06 – No Shortcuts in Learning Bowing and Cello 00:37:40 – Gear Gab: Pickups, Stage Volume, and In-Ears 00:42:40 – Cost Prohibitive IEMs and Prioritizing Studio Recording 00:43:35 – Great stage volume and Theatrics 00:44:27 – Introduction to the Bitter Pill’s music and band members 00:47:10 – Bitter Pill’s Covers Repertoire 00:52:04 – Playing Midnight Special and other covers, personal stories behind them 00:53:25 – Lou Reed and Bob Dylan’s Music 00:57:21 – Enclave of Artists and Musicians in a Multi-Million Dollar Downtown 00:58:43 – Two Relationships in a Band: Parent and Artist 01:01:24 – Where to find Billy and Bitter Pill Billy Butler on Facebook Bitter Pill TikTok Instagram Facebook The post Billy Butler, Rock and Roll Cellist — Gig Gab 387 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Your two favorite weekend warriors did DEEP this week, both into the past and into the philosophical. Listen as Paul and Dave chat through recent gigs — and those from long ago, including some history on Bitter Pill and Dave’s tour with Hypnotic Clambake. Gear gab is more about how you use the gear than it is the gear itself, but both iPads and mixers make appearances throughout. And then it’s a conversation about working with the right — and wrong — kinds of booking agents. As Paul often says, “when someone tells you who they are, believe them!” Oh, also: Dave is Hairless for the summer. Always be performing, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 386 – Monday, June 12th, 2023 00:02:11 Gig Highlights 00:04:12 Being in a band with people who understand being theatrical Bitter Pill at Portsmouth Music Hall Lounge Hypnotic Clambake 00:18:23 No One Did Anything Wrong, But We Pissed Each Other Off Stinkfoot Orchestra 00:23:14 SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. Go to HelloFresh.com/giggab16 and use code giggab16 for 16 free meals plus free shipping! 00:25:14 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:26:23 Dave is Hairless For The Summer 00:29:14 Who Are…You? [email protected] High Stakes Human Game by North County Band of Redding, CT 00:33:55 Paper setlists or on a screen? 00:37:47 New Allen & Heath SQ-6 (with Stage Boxes) at Stone Church covers two venues simultaneously! 00:40:59 Does a Booking Agent Work for Bands or for Venues? Paul Costley on Gig Gab 00:53:41 Taking the High Road…And Getting Burned 01:00:18 GG 386 Outtro [email protected] The post A Hairless Summer — Gig Gab 386 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How much weight do you assign to the enjoyment factor when deciding whether or not to take — and how much to charge for — a gig you’re offered? One of Paul’s bands has been leveraging this, and one of his bandmates has an amazing quote about it that you’re going to want to hear! Listen as Dave and Paul dig into pristine rehearsal sound, in-ear management, the importance of playing cover songs, and even a little bit of gear gab to open your hearts (and wallets, yep!). Oh, and don’t forget: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 385 – Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 00:01:14 Pristine Rehearsal Sound 00:05:21 In-Ear Gab 00:08:53 Bose S1 Pro Bose S1 Pro+ Battery Powered and Wireless 00:10:31 Surprise…Here’s a Sub! 00:15:57 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:17:24 LISTEN: KEWL.FM. Ever felt the hassle of swapping between different shows just to savor your favorite mix of genres? KEWL.FM feels you…and wants to be your new favorite audio hub. 00:18:51 Tempos on stage OnSong App 00:23:58 A good vibe with great players “If I wanted to learn your job it would take me six months, if you wanted to learn my job it would take you 25 years.” –Chris Breen 00:36:06 The importance of cover songs Collectivity and The Houserockers play a shared bill 00:45:34 GG 385 Outtro iZotope RX 10 Voice De-Noise [email protected] The post Which Gigs are Most Enjoyable? – Gig Gab 385 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this week’s episode, Dave and Paul dive deep into the challenges musicians face when putting a substitute musician on stage, delving into the nuances of finding a reliable sub for extended periods.. The hosts also explore the concept of truly “knowing” a song, highlighting the dedication and depth of understanding required to deliver a truly exceptional performance. Respect in the music business becomes a central theme as Dave and Paul discuss the industry’s hierarchical dynamics and how some things are so important that they get to live outside of that. Amidst the insightful conversations, Dave brings levity with an unforgettable Taylor Swift joke, injecting humor into the episode. The hosts later reminisce about the charm and challenges of performing in smoky bars, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the golden era of live music. Recognizing the importance of image and branding, Dave and Paul emphasize the significance of professional band photos. They discuss how high-quality visuals can play a pivotal role in attracting the right audience and securing coveted gigs. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking debate: Is all press good press? Is all social media good social media? The hosts navigate the pros and cons of various forms of publicity, underscoring the power and responsibility that come with leveraging social platforms effectively. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 384 – Monday, May 22nd, 2023 00:00:55 GigGab Mailing List! 00:02:02 Put a Sub on Stage 00:03:12 It Doesn’t Work 00:05:20 I need a sub for eight weeks 00:11:50 When you “know” the song 00:18:55 Respect in the Music Business 00:21:39 Dave’s awful Taylor Swift joke 00:22:27 SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. Go to HelloFresh.com/giggab16 and use code giggab16 for 16 free meals plus free shipping! 00:24:24 Smoky Bars 00:31:26 Get pro photos for your band 00:39:03 Is all press good press? Is all social media good social media?   The post It Doesn’t Work! – Gig Gab 384 appeared first on Gig Gab.

In this episode, Dave and Paul explore a diverse range of topics, from loud crowds to reminiscing about the COVID era. They also delve into the fascinating realm of band dynamics and take an exclusive peek behind the scenes of Natalie Merchant’s current tour. Additionally, discover some exceptional gear recommendations that can enhance your musical journey. So, let’s dive into Gig Gab’s latest episode and gain valuable insights that will elevate your musical pursuits! The Loud Crowd Made it 90dB on Stage…Between Songs! Managing stage volume between songs is a challenge faced by many musicians. In this segment, Dave and Paul address this issue and offer practical advice on achieving optimal volume control. They share valuable insights to ensure a seamless transition between songs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a professional stage presence at all times. As Dave and Paul frequently remind us, “Always Be Performing” – even during those brief interludes. Back When We Talked About COVID for Every Episode In a nostalgic moment, Dave and Paul reflect on the past episodes where the shadow of COVID-19 loomed large. They discuss the changes and challenges brought about by the pandemic and how it influenced their podcast. This retrospective conversation sheds light on the resilience of musicians and the adaptability required to navigate the evolving music industry landscape. Old Friends, New Bandmates Discover the magic of creating new bandmates out of old friends in this captivating segment. Dave and Paul delve into the intricacies of building bands with familiar faces and explore the unique dynamics that arise from such collaborations. They share personal anecdotes and provide valuable tips on nurturing relationships and fostering creativity within the band. It’s a testament to the enduring bonds that music can forge. Listen to the Universe (and the Music) Open your mind to the vast universe of music and the inspiration it holds in this thought-provoking segment. Dave and Paul encourage listeners to embrace unexpected opportunities and explore new musical horizons. They emphasize the importance of listening to the universe’s whispers and discovering fresh sources of creativity. By opening ourselves to the vastness of the musical landscape, we can unlock endless possibilities. Natalie Merchant…Behind the Scenes In this exclusive segment, Dave shares some geeky details about how sound and monitors are mixed and controlled during Natalie Merchant’s current tour. Gear Gab Gear enthusiasts, this one’s for you! Paul shares some new gear he’s been checking out, as well as some praise for a tower speaker he finds to be very well-supported by its manufacturer! Whether it’s managing stage volume, embracing new bandmates, or exploring new musical horizons, the key is to stay dedicated, passionate, and…Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 383 – Monday, May 15th, 2023 00:01:23 80dB on Stage…Between Songs! 00:04:45 Back when we talked about COVID for every episode 00:08:49 Old Friends, New Bandmates Listen To The Universe (and the Music) 00:13:32 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:15:17 PODCAST: What Is Music? A Music Podcast About Music! Currently on its fourth season where they are going through Radiohead’s entire career, album by album, track by track. 00:16:07 Natalie Merchant…Behind The Scenes Dave Cook on Gig Gab Midas DL32 Behringer Wing 00:25:44 Jay Siegan’s Comment About iPads 00:33:40 Gear Gab Bose L1 Pro16 – The Tower with a Warranty Logic Pro on iPad Loopback Mojave MA-D 00:43:42 GG 383 Outtro [email protected] The post Listen To The Universe (and The Music) — Gig Gab 383 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Welcome to the Gig Gab podcast, hosted by Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent. In this episode, they discuss vocal warm-ups, email marketing, and microphone reviews. Let’s dive into the details. Vocal Warm-Ups At the beginning of the podcast, Dave and Paul talk about the importance of vocal warm-ups before a performance. Paul recommends the straw training technique, which uses negative air pressure to help improve your singing voice. They also mention R.E.M.’s “Finest Worksong” as a song that works for Dave to use for warm-ups. I Want More Email! Dave and Paul share their thoughts on social networks and their limitations when it comes to staying in touch with your favorite artists. They advise subscribing to the mailing lists of creators you like in order to guarantee that you receive their updates. They also recommend Mailchimp and Bandzoogle as useful email marketing tools. The Very Occasional Band The hosts discuss the challenges of managing a band when its members have other commitments. They talk about “The Very Occasional Band” and how they have managed to maintain their creative output despite busy schedules. UpTown Celebration Rehearsal, not Practice Dave and Paul discuss the difference between rehearsals and practice sessions. They advise against using rehearsal time for individual practice and suggest that band members come prepared to rehearsals. Paul’s Central Coast Band The hosts talk about Paul’s experiences playing in his Central Coast band. The conversation then evolves into how some bands put their own spin on classic songs, like Everclear’s cover of “Brown Eyed Girl.” Microphone Reviews Dave reviews the Sennheiser Profile USB-C Streaming Condenser Mic and discuss its pros and cons. They also ask for listener feedback on the Mojave Audio MA-D Dynamic Microphone. Conclusion In this episode of Gig Gab, Dave and Paul cover a wide range of topics related to performing and managing a band. From vocal warm-ups to email marketing and microphone reviews, they share their insights and experiences with listeners. Be sure to tune in for the next episode of Gig Gab for more tips and tricks. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 382 – Monday, May 1st, 2023 00:01:29 Vocal Warm-ups Straw Training (Negative Air Pressure) R.E.M.’s Finest Worksong 00:10:12 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:12:11 I Want More Email! Amanda Palmer  Follow GigGab on Instagram Mailchimp Bandzoogle 00:19:50 The Very Occasional Band 00:26:13 UpTown Celebration Rehearsal, not Practice 00:37:01 Paul’s Central Coast Band Ron Marks Everclear’s Brown Eyed Girl 00:49:06 Sennheiser Profile USB-C Streaming Condenser Mic 00:52:55 Mojave Audio MA-D Dynamic Microphone Heil PR-35 00:57:05 GG 382 Outtro [email protected] The post I Want More E-Mail! – Gig Gab 382 appeared first on Gig Gab.

The NAMM conference is the ultimate destination for music enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this week’s episode of GigGab Podcast, hosts Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent are joined by guest Dan East to discuss his recent experience at NAMM 2023. The hosts begin the show by acknowledging that NAMM is simply NAMM, and yet, it always manages to bring a sense of excitement and anticipation. They delve into some of the standout moments from Dan’s time at NAMM, starting with their discussion on Max Nudi, a drummer who impressed them with his skills. They also talk about Kickport and Tune-bot Drum Tuners, two products that caught their attention at the conference in years past. Moving on to the NAMM vibe, they talk about the energy and enthusiasm of the attendees and how it all adds to the overall experience. They also discuss some of the new and exciting bands Dan saw showcased at NAMM 2023, including Jamison Ross, Lawrence, Ali Handal with The RagDolls Band (Aerosmith Tribute), and String Revolution. The discussion then shifts to Gear Gab – the NAMM edition, where they talk about some of the exciting new gear Dan saw at the conference. They cover a wide range of products, including d&b Audiotechnik Soundscape, Hear Technologies HearBack Pro – Digital Interface, Nord Stage 4, Michael Tobias Design (basses and guitars), Yamaha Electric and Acoustic Guitars, Isaac Jang Acoustic Guitars, Fender’s new guitars, Hammond XK-4, Yamaha’s new DTX with individual sends and tone generator, Efnote Electronic Drums adds a new stage box, Rupert Neve’s 8-unit DI rack – RNDi-8, Yamaha DM3 Mixer, and Yamaha Stage Customs. To close out the show, they discuss the golden nugget: Eminent Technology’s Model Twenty Thin Speaker, and how it impressed Dan with its clarity and tonality. In conclusion, NAMM is a one-of-a-kind experience for music enthusiasts and professionals. The hosts and guest of GigGab Podcast 381 offer an insightful discussion on the latest and greatest gear and products from the conference, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the music industry. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 381 – Monday, April 24th, 2023 00:03:19 Gig Gab Therapy: Always Be Performing 00:04:39 NAMM is (just) NAMM 00:14:36 Give The Drummers Some Max Nudi Drummer Kickport Tune-bot Drum Tuners 00:20:18 SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. Go to HelloFresh.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off, plus your first box ships free! 00:22:32 The NAMM Vibe 00:30:11 New Shiny Bands At NAMM Jamison Ross Lawrence (the band) Ali Handal with The RagDolls Band (Aerosmith Tribute) String Revolution 00:33:48 Gear Gab  – The NAMM Edition d&b Audiotechnik Soundscape Hear Technologies HearBack Pro – Digital Interface with Dante Nord Stage 4 Michael Tobias Design (basses and guitars) Yamaha Electric and Acoustic Guitars Isaac Jang Acoustic Guitars Fender’s new guitars Hammond XK-4 Yamaha’s new DTX with individual sends and tone generator Efnote Electronic Drums adds a new stage box Rupert Neve’s 8-unit DI rack – RNDi-8 Yamaha DM3 Mixer Yamaha Stage Customs 00:57:19 Eminent Technology Model Twenty Guitar Speaker 01:04:13 GG 381 Outtro Contact Daniel East [email protected] The post Digging (Into) NAMM 2023 with Guest Dan East — Gig Gab 381 appeared first on Gig Gab.

When was the last time you just hung out as a band? When bands are touring, this happens all the time. Wedding bands often find themselves spending more time hanging out than playing, just because of the way the schedules often work at those kinds of events. But most bands will get together to rehearse and play gigs…what about spending some downtime together? Listen as Dave and Paul talk about the benefits of shared downtime, and that conversation evolves into really learning to check in with your band… “reading the tea leaves together” and identifying any potential problem dynamics before they become cancers inside your band. Finally, Dave has had some good luck and some not so good luck with his studio rig lately…and he shares his findings with all of you. Press play and enjoy. Oh, and hey… always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 380 – Monday, April 17th, 2023 00:01:13 Bitter Pill Spends a Band Day Together 00:09:58 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:12:07 Sharing the Tea Leaves 00:27:53 Be Prepared for All Eventualities 00:32:10 Bands are Worth The Effort 00:34:59 Stay away from macOS Ventura with Aggregate Audio Devices 00:36:42 iZotope Ozone 10 for Mastering 00:40:40 GG 380 Outtro [email protected] The post Sharing The Tea Leaves — Gig Gab 380 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Welcome back, Gig Gab listeners! In this week’s episode, your two favorite weekend warriors, Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent, dive into a musical journey that spans centuries and explores the exciting innovations shaping the future of the music industry. Happy 400th Birthday, Zildjian! We kick off the episode by celebrating a monumental milestone: Zildjian’s 400th birthday. The company, renowned for its high-quality cymbals, has been a cornerstone of the music world since its inception. We discuss the history and impact of Zildjian, reflecting on how their products have evolved and become an essential part of drummers’ setups across generations. Stationhead: The Future of Music Streaming Next, we discuss the exciting new platform, Stationhead, which allows users to stream and listen to music with multiple people simultaneously. This innovative tool is opening up new possibilities for music lovers and creators, making it easier than ever to share and collaborate on music projects. We delve into the features and benefits of this platform and how it can transform the music experience for both artists and listeners. Gigging…Less As the landscape of live music shifts, we explore the concept of gigging less and the impact it has on musicians and the industry as a whole. We share our thoughts on the advantages and challenges that come with fewer gigs, touching on topics such as work-life balance, income stability, and the evolving role of the modern musician. Mark: Ethical Communication in Music We dive into a listener question from Mark, who asks, “How do you communicate to avoid Ethical Gymnastics?” This prompts a thoughtful discussion about the importance of clear and ethical communication within bands and music collaborations. We share tips and insights on navigating difficult conversations and maintaining a positive and productive environment for all members. Over-Indulgent Band Members Lastly, we tackle the issue of over-indulgent band members and how to manage situations where one person’s behavior affects the group dynamic. We provide advice on setting boundaries, addressing issues proactively, and fostering a supportive and cooperative atmosphere within your band. Always Be Performing That’s it for this week’s episode of Gig Gab! We hope you enjoyed our discussions on Zildjian’s 400th birthday, the future of music collaboration, and the challenges and rewards of being a modern musician. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us by sending your feedback to [email protected]. Stay tuned for more insightful and engaging conversations on Gig Gab, and of course, Always Be Performing! Chapters 00:00:00 Gig Gab 379 – Tuesday, April 4th, 2023 00:00:55 Happy 400th Birthday, Zildjian! 00:03:31 Stationhead to stream (and listen!) with multiple people simultaneously 00:05:30 Gigging…Less 00:14:02 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:16:45 Mark-378-How do you communicate to avoid Ethical Gymnastics? An Object Which is Bumping Along Tends to Continue Bumping Along 00:32:59 Over-Indulgent Band-Members 00:38:09 GG 379 Outtro [email protected] The post The Sound of Progress – Gig Gab 379 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Have you ever wondered why the stage holds such a special place in the hearts of musicians? Join two of the most passionate weekend warriors around as they delve into this topic and explore ways to protect this hallowed ground. But that’s not all! Dave found himself in a sticky ethical situation recently, and he and Paul share their thoughts on the best way to handle these kinds of challenges. And don’t worry, no drums were harmed in the making of this episode. And hey, are you using AI in your own creative pursuits? We want to hear about it! Reach out to us at [email protected] and share your experiences. Tune in now for a lively discussion you won’t want to miss! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 378 – Monday, March 27th, 2023 00:01:03 The Stage is a Sacred Place 00:05:30 There’s no “a little” weird Dan Rather with Mike Mills and Michael Stipe Kenny Aronoff on Gig Gab Brad Madix on Gig Gab 00:20:43 Ethical Gymnastics in Your Band 00:28:53 Using AI Adobe Firefly ShutterStock’s AI Image Generator Magenta Studio 00:32:05 GG 378 Outtro [email protected] The post Ethical Gymnastics – Gig Gab 378 appeared first on Gig Gab.

What do you do to ensure you’re always able to entertain an audience? Performing is great, but entertaining is the goal. Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors talk through this from a few different angles, both as performers and as audience members. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the songs you select! Then Dave shares a few aspects of his recent SXSW experience with Paul and all of you, too. Some interesting bands — and band names! — come up, as well as some stories about masterful logistics. Press play and enjoy…and always be performing! And entertaining! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 377 – Monday, March 20th, 2023 00:01:00 Shows to a Click: Keith Urban vs. New Order 00:11:17 The Zombies 00:15:04 Staying Power of Music Steve Kritzer 00:17:48 The Paul O’Kent Experience…Entertains! Always Be Performing! 00:24:49 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:26:53 PODCAST: Unstarving Musician — Listen as Robonzohelps independent musicians better understand the marketing, business and creative processes that empower us to make music and make a living doing it. 00:27:36 Other Notable SXSW Bands Tayls (Confetti blast mid-show) The Banditos (that singer’s mic technique!) Saloon Dion 00:35:38 SXSW Twenty Minute Changeovers “Can I have more guitar in the monitor” “Get your tone and leave it alone” 00:43:41 SXSW Add Motion to Your Show. If it’s not you, it’s the lights “my education” used motion laser light show to make them interesting to watch Maybe the Chauvet DJ Scorpion Dual RGB? 00:46:17 GG 377 Outtro [email protected] The post Always Be Entertaining — Gig Gab 377 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Sometimes Paul says, “Always Be Performing.” Ok, he always says that. This time, though, Paul says, “Raise Your Damned Prices!” As working musicians, we need to figure out how to raise our baseline pay. Sure, some of us have figured it out for our specific gigs, and obviously the touring industry has figured it out. But the club gigs are still paying what they used to pay and, well, it’s gotta give! That’s not all, though. Dave arrived in Austin for SXSW mere hours before recording the show, but he still got a music documentary in under the wire to discuss. That, plus some good gigs had by your two favorite weekend warriors rounds out the show. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 376 – Monday, March 13th, 2023 00:01:00 What is SXSW? 00:11:59 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:13:52 PODCAST: Unstarving Musician — Listen as Robonzohelps independent musicians better understand the marketing, business and creative processes that empower us to make music and make a living doing it. 00:14:43 Raise Your Damned Prices UMAW says SXSW should pay bands more 00:38:13 Joan Baez, I am a Noise 00:42:56 Good Gigs a Plenty! 00:50:06 GG 376 Outtro [email protected] The post Raise Your Damned Prices! — Gig Gab 376 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Last episode, your two favorite weekend warriors talked about the bliss that is a good monitor mix. This time, they might have stumbled upon a secret to repeating that! Listen as Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton talk through not just monitor mixes, but song choices, musical evolution, Ticketmaster, and much more. Press play and, hey, remember? Leave that gain alone, yes, but also…Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 375 – Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 00:01:28 Bands coming up BAM Magazine John Mayer 00:09:13 Springsteen (Still) Delivers 00:15:18 Ticketmaster Behind-the-scenes 00:20:48 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:22:48 PODCAST: The Music Production Podcast. Hosted by musician, educator, and author, Brian Funk and his guests explore the technical, creative, and philosophical sides of making music. 00:23:43 Houserockers Rehearsal Uptight by Stevie Wonder Train in Vain by The Clash Keeping The Faith by Billy Joel Walk The Dinosaur by Was Not Was Stay With Me by The Faces Save A Horse, Ride A Cowboy by Big and Rich Cheap Sunglasses by ZZ Top 00:36:58 Tantrum…Leave Those Gains Alone! Episode 364 with Davis Thurston 00:46:08 SXSW Coming up! 00:49:54 GG 375 Outtro [email protected] The post Hey, Leave Those Gains Alone — Gig Gab 375 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How much leverage does your band have? Do you check your Messenger? Does your band reserve dates months in advance? More importantly, how are these questions related? Well, your two favorite weekend warriors cover all three of them this week on Gig Gab! Listen as Paul and Dave share their thoughts about gigs, rehearsals, cancelations, fill-ins, and quitting band members that have all happened in the past WEEK! Yep, lots to cover, and you get to join along for the right. Press play, enjoy, and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 374 – Sunday, February 19th, 2023 00:01:01 Eight Years of Bending Your Ears Gig Gab’s First Release! 00:03:23 The Value of Collaboration Bitter Pill 00:12:12 Check your Messenger! Fling 00:17:14 How Important Is it to hear? 00:19:24 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:21:47 Everyone quit! Uptown Celebration 00:24:46 The Value of Blocking Saturdays 00:39:09 Managing Your Relationship With a Club The Stone Church 01:06:47 GG 374 Outtro [email protected] The post Eight Years of Bending Your Ears – Gig Gab 374 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Of course you’ve had to cancel gigs, and of course you’ve had gigs canceled. But did you feel the same about each of those scenarios? Listen as Paul and Dave talk through their feelings on cancellations, and how they affect reputations, in general. Dave had a last-minute gig come up, which led to a rehearsal, which led to a 3-hour drive where he listened to all three of Fling’s EPs…and he shares his reactions to the evolution of that body of work. Paul had four gigs in as many days, and threw a rehearsal in the middle for good measure. He muses on what it takes to keep a band together, and how that might evolve over time, too. That’s not all, folks. Your two favorite weekend warriors have a couple of quick hits to share and get your reactions from, as well. Send ’em in to [email protected]. Oh, and always be performing, eh? 00:00:00 Gig Gab 373 – Monday, February 13th, 2023 00:01:01 Side Door offers $500 to any touring artist showcasing at SXSW or FAI 00:02:45 Fling EP Release Surprise at The Stone Church 00:04:23 Plans…or NO plans…coming together! 00:14:05 Drew comes up! 00:15:35 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today. 00:17:48 The Evolution of Sweet Caroline (In Italy!) 00:21:02 Red Cross Plays 80s Music at Blood Drives…Why? 00:24:14 Fling’s EPs over time (Demo to Produced!) iZotope Ozone vs. Lurssen Mastering Console 00:32:06 Canceling on a Club vs. The Club Canceling On You Situational Ethics What’s Your Band’s Fungibility? 00:49:40 Happy Birthday, Nick! 00:50:16 GG 373 Outtro [email protected] The post What’s Your Band’s Fungibility? — Gig Gab 373 appeared first on Gig Gab.

There’s no greater compliment for a musician than having someone catch the subtle things that happen on stage, and the bartender at The Midway Cafe caught all that and more this weekend. Listen as Dave shares his tales about the gig, and yes, that includes the follow-up to Gig Gab 371’s shared backline saga. That’s not all, though… Paul and Dave talk about vanity cover bands (there IS such a thing!), cash-only clubs, warmup routines, and being prepared for rehearsal. Your two favorite weekend warriors packed a LOT into these 29 minutes, and all you need to do is press play and enjoy. Always be performing, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 372 – Monday, February 6th, 2023 00:00:53 A follow up: The Gmail Story 00:04:04 Shout out to The Midway Cafe bartender: And It Hurts! Fling UNCORKED! Kicked In The Nuts (by Fling!) 00:07:59 WeAll Will, the vanity cover band! 00:14:30 Martin, Morrell, and Fredette 00:16:34 Larry Newman opened for Chuck Berry 00:19:29 Two cash-only clubs in a row 00:21:10 Warmup Routine 00:22:56 Learning new material 00:25:29 Being Prepared for Rehearsal 00:28:13 GG 372 Outtro [email protected] The post The Gmail Story — Gig Gab 372 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How competitive are you when it comes to booking gigs? When another band gets a gig you want (or used to have), how does that land for you? Listen as Paul and Dave talk through their thoughts on this. Traveling around the country (and the world) as your two favorite weekend warriors recently have, it’s interesting to notice how music is different — and the same — everywhere else. Ain’t music grand? What about when the music business ain’t grand, though? How do you approach gigs to ensure that you’re able to focus, play well, and perform? It’s not easy, but we need to find our ways of rising above! Press play and enjoy…and hey, always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 371 – Monday, January 30th, 2023 00:01:27 A German-Italian Christmas (Music) in January? 00:03:47 N’awlins Music Scene 00:07:02 Monkey Fist 00:09:25 The Stakes of an Original vs Cover Gig 00:11:37 Adding a Member to the Trio 00:16:14 The competitive nature of booking gigs 00:18:03 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:19:42 Fling Gig on 15-minute changeover 00:30:55 No Drama The Day of The Gig Picking Up The Pieces 00:41:50 GG 371 Outtro [email protected] The post No Drama The Day of The Gig — Gig Gab 371 appeared first on Gig Gab.

If you could go back in time and give advice to your band, what would it be? Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors talk through a lot of your thoughts and answers to this question, and they share some of their own, too. But first, Dave saw a band (Def Leppard!) and a movie (If These Walls Could Sing) and he and Paul talk through some of the lessons—and trivia tidbits—learned from both of these. Just remember… press play! Also remember: always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 370 – Monday, January 16th, 2023 PreSonus Quantum 2626 macOS Aggregate Audio Devices 00:06:43 CES-Def Leppard Photograph with Constantine Maroulis 00:14:42 Movie: If These Walls Could Sing 00:19:55 SPONSOR: Rocket Money. Get rid of useless subscriptions with Rocket Money now. Seriously, it could save you HUNDREDS per year. Go to RocketMoney.com/GigGab to get started. 00:21:34 Tips For Building a Successful Cover Band Cover Band Confidential Crossover Episode Steve Witschel Repertoire: Manage Expectations SambaDá Deliver! Choose Your Bandmates! Business Setlist is Everything! Have Fun! Play Dive Bars! 00:51:54 Dave Misses Gigging 00:54:33 GG 370 Outtro [email protected] The post Play Dive Bars! — Gig Gab 370 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It’s winter…how is your band’s momentum doing? Are you making yourself seem active even if you aren’t? Listen as Paul and Dave talk through this concept and share some ideas they have about keeping your band active even if you aren’t playing quite as many gigs as usual. Then your two favorite weekend warriors dissect the different rehearsal styles of different bands. No band is the same, and there are plenty of “right” ways to be productive. What works for your band? Let us know at [email protected]. Finally, Dave just got back from CES and found a bunch of cool stuff…so he and Paul talk it all through! Press play and enjoy, folks. Oh, and hey… don’t be that guy. Also, always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 369 – Tuesday, January 10th, 2023 00:02:23 Momentum Matters Recent Gigs…and cancelations Don’t Think, Just Concentrate 00:08:45 Different Rehearsal Styles Suit and Tie (Timberlake) 00:22:37 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:24:25 Vinyl at CES: JBL Spinner BT Bluetooth (and wired) Turntable Victrola Stream Onyx (wired and Sonos) 00:30:11 SceneKey from Meloscene at CES – Metaverse/VR music collaboration 00:32:53 PreSonus Notion Mobile 3 – Music composition and Scoring (with handwriting recognition!) 00:34:12 NAMM 2023 in April Music Radar PASIC 00:39:17 …and PreSonus’s Studio One 6 00:43:28 GG 369 Outtro [email protected] The post Don’t Be That Guy — Gig Gab 369 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How do you figure out what each harmony line (or guitar line, or drum part) is in songs you’re learning? Listen as Paul and Dave share their processes — and a new app! — for doing exactly this. First, though, your two favorite weekend warriors go through their recent gigs — and cancelations — and discuss how they deal with all of life’s unexpected twists and turns. And then it’s time for some resolutions! Share yours, too, at [email protected] and let the rest of your Gig Gabbers know. Oh, and also: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 368 – Monday, January 2nd, 2023 00:01:42 Two canceled gigs! Humes & Berg Cases 00:12:47 The Acoustic Fake-Book 00:14:32 SPONSOR: Rocket Money. Get rid of useless subscriptions with Rocket Money now. Seriously, it could save you HUNDREDS per year. Go to RocketMoney.com/GigGab to get started. 00:15:58 Moises, The Musician’s App Capo 00:27:24 New Year’s Resolutions 00:35:00 GG 368 Outtro [email protected] The post Dissecting Songs — Gig Gab 368 appeared first on Gig Gab.

“If you’re going to do something that affects other people, be a good dude and talk to them about it.” These wise words from Paul Kent shape today’s discussion. Listen as he and Dave talk through various forms of musician etiquette, both on-stage and off. Plus, some tips about both promoting your band AND protecting yourself against clubs with crappy Wi-Fi scenarios. Press play, happy holidays, and Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 367 – Tuesday, December 20th, 2022 00:03:00 Managing Your Band’s Momentum Stinkfoot Orchestra 00:09:19 Etiquette of being in multiple projects 00:21:35 Sponsor: Masterclass — This holiday, give one annual membership and get one free! Go to MasterClass.com/GigGab today. 00:23:22 SPONSOR: Rocket Money. Get rid of useless subscriptions with Rocket Money now. Seriously, it could save you HUNDREDS per year. Go to RocketMoney.com/GigGab to get started. 00:24:42 Rob-Using BandsInTown to discover new shows and new music 00:30:20 CSF-Get a Lightning-to-Ethernet Connector as a Wi-Fi backup for your Digital Mixer 00:32:57 The Etiquette of Announcing Gigs Festering sucks 00:47:12 GG 367 Outtro [email protected] The post The Etiquette of Music — Gig Gab 367 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It turns out it might be worth taking a minute to stop and think about how you discover new music (and new shows) to gain some insight into how your fans might do the same. Paul and Dave go through this exercise together and share some of the revelations they’ve recently had. That’s not all, though! Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors talk through the idea of being a career sub. Yep, it’s true! And it’s possible. Press play and enjoy! Oh, and Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 366 – Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 00:01:43 Managing Outdoor Gigs 00:04:18 Where Do You Find Out About Music? 00:19:37 SPONSOR: Rocket Money. Get rid of useless subscriptions with Rocket Money now. Seriously, it could save you HUNDREDS per year. Go to RocketMoney.com/GigGab to get started. 00:21:28 Bill Frisell @ The Blue Note 00:22:46 Professional Subbing! (On Broadway) Musicians Local 802 00:36:09 Church Gigs 00:41:31 Sound Levels 00:46:11 Fling Acoustic The Freedom Cafe 00:51:00 GG 366 Outtro [email protected] The post Discovering Music In Today’s World — Gig Gab 366 appeared first on Gig Gab.

You know how there’s that difference between knowing a song on paper and knowing it in your lizard brain? That can make a big difference in terms of how things go in the mayhem that we call gigs! Listen as Dave and Paul talk through this from a few different angles, and they even weave a Tom Petty reference in there. That’s not all, though. Your two favorite weekend warriors share some recent gig experiences, and highlight a spiffy piece of gear that one of you sent in. Press play, always be performing, and have some fun out there, eh? 00:00:00 Gig Gab 365 – Tuesday, November 29th, 2022 00:02:10 Tom Petty’s new Box Set 00:11:43 Last week: Davis Thurston! 00:18:54 Running Rumors 00:28:17 Barn Burners and Sunday Gigs Fling, Monkey Fist Gigs 00:35:00 Christmas Songs and Christmas Shows 00:43:17 Door Splits 00:46:34 Adam from VAM band-CSF-Radial Engineering HotShot DM-1 Mic Signal Switchbox 00:55:22 Committing songs and changes to your lizard brain 01:01:09 GG 365 Outtro [email protected] The post Barn Burners, Door Splits, and Sunday Gigs — Gig Gab 365 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Triple threat sound, video, and lighting engineer Davis Thurston joins your two favorite weekend warriors this week to discuss tips, techniques, and overall vision for how he does what he does. Listen as Davis, Paul, and Dave chat through that which it takes in Front Of House to make your band look, feel, and sound good…and how it’s certainly possible to consolidate those jobs into one person thanks to today’s technology (and a lot of wizard skills!) Press play and remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 364 – Tuesday, November 22nd, 2022 00:01:25 Today: Davis Thurston on being a mixing, lighting, videoing triple threat! Telefunken M80 Audix OM7 Pink Talking Fish Marble Eyes 00:08:00 Setting Up With a new Engineer Get Your Advance Together 00:11:15 Sponsor: Masterclass — This holiday, give one annual membership and get one free! Go to MasterClass.com/GigGab today. 00:12:51 Video Streaming Setup BlackMagic ATEM Minis BlackMagic ATEM Mini Extreme Go Pro Hero3 (good for daylight, not so much with contrast) Lumix G7 HDSDI 00:19:28 Creating The Broadcast Mix 00:22:19 Deconstructing The Davis Model 00:23:30 The Lighting Game Concerts Are a Visual Medium 00:30:32 Stage Stories! The Ride 00:36:36 IEM Tips You Do Not Go After Gain If You Have Ears On Stage Whirlwind Split Snakes Allen & Heath Q-Pac (SQ7, Q32) ProCo Split Snakes Sennheiser ME-66 Earthworks SR-77 AKG C535-EB (replacement 636) 00:47:17 GG 364 Outtro Would You Like Fries With That? DavisThurstonProductions.com [email protected] The post Every Band Needs a Davis — Gig Gab 364 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ain’t it great when you’re on stage and you just know everything’s going right? Your two favorite weekend warriors do after this weekend. They both had some stellar shows…and believe it or not Paul refrained from saying, “butter.” (sorry Gig Gab Bingo players!). Listen as he and Dave share their stories from the weekend and beyond. That’s not all, though! Your questions and comments from last week’s episode are here, too. It’s amazing the things you all do to avoid rehearsals! Listen as we share…and remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 363 – Monday, November 14th, 2022 00:00:58 SXSW Rolling Stone Showcase at ACL Live 00:03:35 Paul’s Gigs Santa Cruz Guitars 00:08:54 Dave-Weekend Bitter Pill Gigs with Bella’s Bartok 00:15:42 Would You Tour? 00:16:53 Paul saw Ryan Adams Meniere’s Disease 41 Songs 00:25:09 Michael-We only rehearse with subs 00:27:49 Adam from VAM Band-Using Tracks Instead of Rehearsals 00:34:38 Telefunken M80 on the Snare Drum 00:35:52 CSF-iZotope RX10 adds text and voice detection (and more!) 00:37:50 Dave-The Business of Goose 00:55:34 Dave-Upcoming Diaspora Radio Performance of Rumors 00:56:26 GG 363 Outtro [email protected] The post Playing In Tune (With The Universe) — Gig Gab Podcast 363 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How did you find your current band(s)? What advice would you give to someone looking to find a new band? Listen as Paul and Dave answer that question for listener Russ…and then send in your own thoughts to [email protected]. That’s not all, though…listen as your two favorite weekend warriors discuss their strategies for learning new tunes, and they also share their “must have” gear lists, too. All good stuff…and remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 362 – Monday, November 7th, 2022 00:01:31 Rehearsing the Covers, Auditioning The Bass Players 00:08:54 Winter gigs 00:13:04 Learning new tunes 00:17:08 Next Year’s Calendar 00:19:32 What’s Your Irreplaceable Gear? Paiste Signature Full Ride Cymbal Ludwig Black Beauty Snare Eames Custom Master Model Snare Heil PR-31BW Microphone Bose Tower Camel Toe Overdrive Pedal G7 Capo BFSD 00:27:06 Solo artists using Tracks 00:31:35 Russ-How do I join an original band? 00:38:51 Sorting Out Your Musical Life 00:43:29 GG 361 Outtro [email protected] The post Sorting Your Musical Life — Gig Gab 362 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever found yourself being asked to agree to a pay-to-play scenario? Ever wondered what to do next with your band? Your two favorite weekend warriors sure have! Listen as Paul and Dave share their experiences of learning these lessons as well as their advice for how to deal with them. And, of course, don’t forget: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 361 – Tuesday, November 1st, 2022 Bitter Pill, Wizardess, Paul Jarvis @ The Shaskeen Pit Band feels like Band Rehearsal Your own ticketed events 00:15:07 PSA: Pay to Play Warning 00:29:36 Been Around a While… What next? 00:48:02 GG 361 Outtro [email protected] The post Lessons Learned — Gig Gab 361 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Another Gig Gab, another rant about Facebook. But you’ll have to listen for a bit to hear which one of your two favorite weekend warriors rants the most! Mostly this episode is about communication. How do you communicate with booking agents? How do you communicate with your bandmates? And while you’re communicating…is it compromise? Is it collaborative? Is it instructive? Listen as Paul and Dave share their thoughts — and ask for your input — on all of these. Send in your thoughts to [email protected], and hey…Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 360 – Monday, October 10th, 2022 00:00:59 Patently Unemployable Daring Fireball 00:06:03 Bandmember or Bandleader 00:11:42 Compromise vs. Collaboration 00:21:30 Mark-359-Are Mid-Tempo Songs The Best for Our Band? Contact methods 00:37:32 What methods of contact do y’all use with booking agents? [email protected] Have a conversation! 00:46:46 How do you communicate with your band? Slack (and its integrations!) Facebook Discord WheresTheGig 01:01:14 GG 360 Outtro [email protected] The post Compromise, Collaboration, and Communication — Gig Gab 360 appeared first on Gig Gab.

If you play covers, what songs have you found don’t work at all for your band? Is there anything they share in common? This week, Paul and Dave talk through some of their “favorites” in this regard and dissect why this might be the case. First, though, it’s Gig Gab in its purest form: your two favorite weekend warriors talking about their gigs…and all the trials and tribulations they endured: playing ill-advised requests, putting misbehaved audience members in their place, and dealing with malfunctioning gear. Press play and enjoy folks. And please, remember…no matter what, Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 359 – Monday, October 3rd, 2022 00:01:10 First You Applaud, Then We Play The Next Song 00:07:11 Paul Played a Triple 00:27:15 Barry-Addressing Technical Glitches Like a Pro! 00:37:32 Songs that don’t work well live Broken Record with Rick Rubin and Malcolm Gladwell Won’t Back Down Pressure Freeze Frame In your Eyes Escape 00:51:36 GG 359 Outtro [email protected] The post First You Applaud, *Then* We Play The Next Song — Gig Gab 359 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Some gigs are totally relaxing…and others you can feel the high stakes before you even arrive. Interesting thing: the definition of a high-stakes gig can mean different things to different people, and your two favorite weekend warriors have completely different approaches here. Listen as Paul and Dave share their thoughts and then answer your questions! You know what’s worse than backline roulette? Stage roulette! It happens to all of us, and how you and your band deal with it dictates the success of the gig. All this and more, folks. Press play and, hey, do us a favor? Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 358 – Monday, September 26th, 2022 00:01:51 Loving those easy duo gigs! 00:05:02 Low-stakes gigs vs. high-stakes gigs (and a last-minute all-covers night!) 00:08:40 Having the risk taken away! 00:19:00 On-stage Tantrum! 00:22:10 Forget Backline Roulette, what about Stage Roulette? 00:33:30 Wade-What are some tips for setlist creation? 00:42:30 GG 358 Outtro [email protected] The post High-Stakes Stage Roulette — Gig Gab 358 appeared first on Gig Gab.

When forming your band, how picky are you? What criteria do you use to select bandmates? Do you prioritize talent or convenience? Listen as Dave and Paul dig in and share their thoughts about all this…with some select stories to highlight the realities of it all. Then…a Gig Gab challenge: what songs would YOU pick for a wedding band playlist today? Press play, listen, and enjoy. Oh! And Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 357 – Monday, September 12th, 2022 00:01:17 Celebrating the date 00:03:00 The Houserockers‘ Festival gigs 00:05:59 Bitter Pill’s Extended Third Set 00:10:45 Fling’s great gig (and technical nightmares!) 00:14:57 Jason-Leveraging a Discount CAN Pay Off! 00:20:58 Sting’s Touring 2022 Show (with Zach Jones) 00:33:40 Picky vs. Thankful 00:42:13 Turning over the songlist 00:52:28 Covering newer stuff in your GB band 00:58:44 GG 356 Outtro [email protected] The post Wait ‘Til You Hear OUR Version of The Chicken Dance! — Gig Gab 357 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Quiet crowds can be intimidating AF! How do you navigate that? How do you perform? Paul and Dave talk through some of their strategies when faced with this. Then listen as your two favorite weekend warriors talk about bands navigating members who are in multiple projects. There’s no one right answer here, and there are also plenty of wrong ones. Press play and join the Gig Gab family … and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 356 – Monday, September 5th, 2022 Watching Victor Wooten & Soule Monde at Jimmy’s 00:04:09 Taylor Hawkins Tribute Show 00:15:18 Locking in with multi-gig runs 00:17:25 What’s the definition of a professional? Are you comfortable engaging a crowd that’s quiet? The Pork Tornadoes [email protected] 00:32:52 How do you navigate multiple projects? 00:55:05 GG 356 Outtro [email protected] The post Overcoming the First-Set Blues — Gig Gab 356 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Every musician is a small business owner, and this week we have Shannon Jean from Business Brain join us for a crossover episode to dive into how we can better use our business brains in our musical endeavors! Press play to learn…and always be performing! 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #394 & Gig Gab 355 for the week of Monday, August 22nd, 2022 00:02:30 The Business of Being a Musician Define Success Is it a business, a hobby, or both? Keep continuity by keeping people working Very few musicians are full-time employees of one band Connecting with fans (aka Customers) 1,000 True Fans Joan As Policewoman Amanda Palmer 00:34:47 When does the love get lost Having roles Roger McNamee from Elevation Partners, The Patron Saint of Weekend Warriors Moonalice (Roger’s band) 00:46:04 BB 393 & GG 354 Outtro [email protected] [email protected] The post The Business of Music — Gig Gab 355 appeared first on Gig Gab.

We’ve talked about collaboration on the show before, but the question remains: how collaborative is your band? If someone has an idea for a part for you to play, how does that land? How does it work in reverse? Listen as Paul and Dave talk through the various ways that this can happen — and not happen — and what pitfalls to watch out for. Paul’s been working on strengthening his voice, and has a new addition to Gear Gab that might be of interest to a few of us, too! Lastly, your two favorite weekend warriors talk about some of the bands heading out on the road soon…and the Springsteen ticket-price fiasco. Press play and, hey…Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 354 – Monday, August 15th, 2022 00:02:43 Bitter Pill’s “Jesus Gonna Pay My Tab” video 00:04:29 Ironing out the Fling Kinks 00:09:01 Making it through Five gigs Breather Voice 00:15:24 How Collaborative Is your Band Rocky Horror Show detachment 00:34:23 Jeff Beck going on the road 00:36:08 Springsteen on the road 00:47:39 GG 354 Outtro [email protected] The post Beware Backline Roulette — Gig Gab 354 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Have you ever stopped to think about what it would take to put together a Tribute band? Bruce Hilton of “Being Petty” did, and with the right people, the right ideas, and a lot of intention it can work out amazingly well. Listen as Bruce shares his ideas and gives us all some lessons we can apply regardless of whether we’re in a tribute band, cover band, original band, or something else entirely! Press play and enjoy, and remember: always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 353 – Monday, August 8th, 2022 Nerd Culture 00:02:24 Featured Guest: Bruce Hilton from Being Petty, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers Tribute Experience The Digbees, with TV and Film placements All Together Now, Beatles Cover Band Hilton Park Band 00:05:30 The Origins of Being Petty 00:09:45 The Marketing of a Tribute Band Leveraging The Proximity Clause Not Into Excuses Deadlines Are Great Motivators 00:14:10 Preparing a Band with Intention 00:20:02 Beyond The Music: Gear 00:23:48 The Music Studio or Live? 00:26:14 The Visuals 00:29:18 The Mannerisms and Banter 00:32:30 Singers vs. Vocalists 00:35:28 Bullheaded Persistence 00:41:17 GG 353 Outtro Bruce Hilton from Being Petty [email protected] The post Beyond The Music with Tribute Band “Tom Petty” Bruce Hilton – Gig Gab 353 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It’s not always easy to Always Be Performing, and yet that’s exactly our job as performers, isn’t it? Listen as Paul and Dave each share some recent lessons—from both sides of the stage—about how to best ensure you keep that performance going. Also this week is finding your bands own “Bill”…and we’ll tell you what we mean by that when you press play. Enjoy! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 352 – Monday, August 1, 2022 00:01:47 Lessons from Luke Bryan 00:08:24 Always Be Performing…Even If You’re Distracted 00:15:51 Defining Your Own Personal “Bill” 00:23:48 Eric-348-How’s It Going as a Band Member? 00:29:09 Grace-Tips for Engaging a Crowd 00:40:55 When Musician’s Talk (about venues) 00:53:18 GG 352 Outtro [email protected] The post The Jeanine Syndrome — Gig Gab 352 appeared first on Gig Gab.

For many bands, vocals are the most noticeable element of your music. Has your band spent time learning how to sing together? How do you structure your vocal rehearsals…if you have them at all? Listen as Paul and Dave answer listener Rob’s question, talking through how they’ve approached this in various bands and projects they’ve had together (and separately) over the years, then send in your thoughts to [email protected], too! Press play and enjoy, folks…and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 351 – Tuesday, July 26, 2022 00:01:00 Building your own studio 00:06:15 Houserockers Concert in the Park…and a Vineyard 00:13:13 Bitter Pill at Portsmouth Music Hall Lounge 00:20:00 Playing the Spaces 00:22:36 Rob-Seeking Advice for Vocal Rehearsals 00:45:01 Vocal Warm-ups Ken Tamplin – vocal warmups 00:48:52 GG 351 Outtro [email protected] The post Learning How To Sing As a Band – Gig Gab 351 appeared first on Gig Gab.

With some of the best wisdom ever shared in seven years of Gig Gabbing, this week Paul and Dave help you take your band to the next level. Sure, Dave has some great technical advice, but it’s Paul’s brand of big-picture thinking that takes this episode to the upper echelon. If you think the titular (now, now, Beavis!) quote is good, just wait until you hear what Paul said next. Press play…and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 350 – Monday, July 18, 2022 00:04:20 Band Vision 00:08:22 CSF-PreSonus AudioBox GO 00:12:13 Teach the Band the Input List (Bliss!) 00:14:05 Andy-347-How do you mix an IEM feed from the house? If You Can Drink A Beer on Stage, You Can Mix Your Ears 00:26:08 Why Do You Think Your Band Doesn’t Have More Success? “I Need To Get Out Of My Own Way” 00:37:11 GG 350 Outtro [email protected] The post If You Can Drink a Beer On Stage, You Can Mix Your Ears — Gig Gab 350 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Listen as Paul and Dave discover why “the hang” might be the most important aspect of being in a band, especially on tour. Also… have you ever played a morning gig? Do you do a pre-show band huddle? These are the questions your two favorite weekend warriors ask of themselves, and also of you! Listen to the episode and then send your answers in to [email protected] and they’ll read ’em on the show! Also…always be performing. Amirite? 00:00:00 Gig Gab 349 – Tuesday, July 5, 2022 00:01:40 Morning Gigs 00:03:22 Dissecting Musical Chemistry 00:12:21 The Importance of “The Hang” (ref: JT musicians’ bios) 00:18:02 Steve Gadd 00:24:17 Bitter Pill: livin aint cheap dyin aint free Bitter Pill @ Stone Church Set 1 Bitter Pill @ Stone Church Set 2 00:26:35 Pre-Show Band Huddle 00:37:59 CSF-Venty Portable Folding Fan  South Beach Portable and Rechargeable Neck Fan Ontel Arctic Air Freedom Personal Neck Fan 00:40:35 GG 349 Outtro [email protected] The post Finding Your Number One Fan — Gig Gab 349 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It’s not rare for us musicians to find ourselves needing to juggle our musical lives with our personal lives, and then even within the musical realm we’re juggling priorities of gigging vs. rehearsing vs. doing-the-business-stuff, too. Listen as Paul and Dave approach this concept from a few different angles, and then chime in with your own stuff at [email protected] to share! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 348 – Monday, June 27, 2022 00:01:10 Managing Your Musical Priorities 00:05:21 Four gigs, Three Rehearsals, Eighteen Musicians, Five Days In-Ears solved an issue for the engineer on one gig… and were a no-go on another! 00:11:50 Using split-tails for in-ear monitors 00:16:23 Dissecting The Spazmatics Great Example Stage Plot 00:28:47 Bitter Pill — Encouraged to Stretch; Improving Individually and Together 00:32:48 Play Songs You’re Having Fun With 00:39:40 It Was Fifty Years Ago Today 00:48:23 Andrew-CSF-Rock n’ recycle your used guitar strings 00:49:13 GG 348 Outtro [email protected] The post Managing Your Musical Priorities — Gig Gab 348 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How confident are you in your band’s ability to get setup on stage? What are the common pitfalls you encounter? Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors talk through the approaches they use with their bands, with a special focus on sound and, yes, in-ear monitors. Paul and Dave are here to share and learn, too, so make sure you send in your thoughts to [email protected] and, hey! Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 347 – Tuesday, June 14, 2022 00:00:44 Using the Laylas Westone UM2 Ultimate Ears UE5c UE 11Pro Ambients 00:04:06 Cruise Ship Band Reactions 00:11:19 Stolen Houserockers Keyboard! Insure your gear! MusicPro Equipment Insurance 00:13:05 Prepping “Speaking In Tongues” 00:17:26 Eric-How do you EQ your PA? 00:25:18 Having your whole band on in-ears CSF-Rolls PM55P 00:35:09 GG 347 Outtro The post Perfecting Your Setup Routine — Gig Gab 347 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Your submissions to the mailbag help drive the bus today, with conversations about choosing good venues for your audience and selecting the right headset mics happening. Dave got to see The Coffis Brothers…and his audiologist. Both come with stories, some more pleasant than others, but a good PSA emerges, nonetheless! Paul brings an axe to grind with much wisdom and insights to be shared. Press play to hear it all…and then always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 346 – Monday, May 23, 2022 00:01:42 Dave got to see The Coffis Brothers Gig Gab Episode 46 The Coffis Brothers “Ramona” 00:06:51 Never ask “are there any harmonica players out there?” 00:07:39 Setlist creation: how many songs in a row in the same key? By the same artist? Aural Variety 00:10:28 Cerumen! 00:13:28 Gord-345-The bar staff litmus test Changes in times when booking agent takes over 00:21:30 Is this a good experience for your audience? 00:23:16 Post-covid ticket-sale gigs 00:31:02 Henry-Headset Mics for Live Performance Shure TA4-F Connector Harmonicas, Music Stands, Cargo Shorts, or Headset Mics? 00:36:24 BMI Songview 00:42:31 Bitter Pill! Children of the Grim 00:48:48 GG 346 Outtro The post Of Harmonicas and Headset Mics — Gig Gab 346 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How do you approach mixing your band from the stage when there is no FOH sound engineer? It’s Q&A time with Paul and Dave. Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors share their thoughts on putting together the right stage setup to get a good mix for your audiences…every time. That’s not all though! A recent experience leads to a conversation about venue staff and how they can significantly influence the flow of the night…and whether or not your audience wants to return! Press play and enjoy all of this, and remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 345 – Monday, May 9, 2022 Children of the Grim 00:02:55 Mark-Mixing from the stage Video: Don’t Make The Drummers Mad! 00:18:15 Henry-What Do You Think of Drum Shields? 00:29:50 Voice-management technique 00:32:45 Managing Requests as a Tippable Action 00:41:55 The Security Attitude Roadrunner Boston 00:58:33 Gig Gab 345 Outtro The post Mixing From The Stage — Gig Gab 345 appeared first on Gig Gab.

How often does your band rehearse? Would you consider yourselves a “rehearsing” band, or a “rehearsal-less” band? Either way, what are the costs of that on your band’s show? Listen as Paul and Dave talk through their experiences with both sides of this…and then listen as Gear Gab accidentally creeps into an answer to a question. Your two favorite weekend warriors talk through all KINDS of gear related to a speaker-free stage. Press play and enjoy, and remember…Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 344 – Monday, May 2, 2022 00:03:18 The Rehearsal-Less Band 00:18:20 Playing to a Wicker Wall 00:23:57 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:25:45 Dan East-343-Gear Gab for Ampless/IEM Setups Yamaha TF Pod Go Fender Acoustasonic Radial Firefly Reddi DI Box RNDI ART S8-S3Way Albatros Audio PH-9 Elite Core Audio PMA (Battery or AC Powered) Rolls PM-50 00:40:45 Buying and Thinking About Gear Fills the Time Between Gigs 00:42:39 Dave’s Just-In Case 00:45:13 GG344 Outtro The post The Rehearsal-Less Band — Gig Gab 344 appeared first on Gig Gab.

As the world of live music sees more and more of a resurgence, what are the important things to consider? Listen as Paul and Dave chat through things like managing your health, negotiating your way with sound engineers, navigating the contract process, and preserving your worth as an Entertainer. Press play and enjoy…and then send in your thoughts: [email protected] 00:00:00 Gig Gab 343 – Monday, April 25, 2022 00:00:50 Ireland’s Pervasive Music 00:06:10 When your body fights the gig! 00:12:34 The Horror of playing without IEMs 00:14:25 Navigating a gig with All IEMs, All modelers Mackie DL32S 00:27:49 Adam Johnson: ”I Am The Entertainment, Not The Help” Cover Band Confidential 00:45:03 The Resurgence is Upon Us 00:49:55 Gig Gab 343 Outtro The post Navigating The Resurgence – Gig Gab 343 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Keeping everyone on the same page in your band can be a trick, and Paul shares the method he used for his band this year, managing and then meeting those expectations so everyone could plan their lives. That’s not the only thing he and Dave discussed this week, though! Setlists are again a topic, this time from the angle of whether or not you should use the same one gig-after-gig. Listen as your two favorite weekend warriors share their thoughts and then send in a comment with your own. How do you manage your bandmates’ schedules? How do you manage your setlist? Let us know at [email protected], and remember, Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 342 – Tuesday, April 5, 2022 00:00:53 Dave’s Brand New Arm! 00:08:08 Max-CSM-Mixlo for discovering and tipping local artists Bitter Pill’s “Spread Our Carbon Footprint” Tour 00:13:00 Regional Music festivals 00:16:39 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:19:03 Managing Your Bandmates’ schedules 00:26:07 Paul Gigs with Duo & Trios 00:34:16 The same setlist or a variety? 00:43:07 Gig Gab 342 Outtro The post Managing Your Musical Calendar — Gig Gab 342 appeared first on Gig Gab.

With a week off and SXSW happening in between, Paul and Dave have lots to talk about today, including the sad news of the passing of Taylor Hawkins. Dave saw some more great bands and music-related movies at SXSW, and he shares a few of his highlights, including how your band might be able to leverage the Blockchain for yourselves and your fans. On top of that, your two favorite weekend warriors discuss the competitive nature of being in the business of being in a band, and how they each approach it a little differently. Press play, and always be performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 341 – Monday, March 28, 2022 00:00:51 All the stars align for Paul’s musical life 00:05:51 Dave’s Going Under the Knife 00:10:51 Taylor Hawkins’ Passing 00:22:43 A full show with in-ears! 00:28:01 SXSW: Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story SXSW: Dio Dreamers Never Die 00:30:46 Bands Dave Saw @ SXSW 2022: Tuesday Night Moves Seratones Weds Jazz Fest Movie Post-Show Performance KT Tunstall SASAMI Wet Leg Thurs Kristin Hersh Dream Syndicate Bass Drum of Death Lemonheads Friday Callie Twisselman Kovic Dolly Parton Eluv.io Blockchain Creative Labs Creamer Saturday Phillip Creamer (solo acoustic) Kristin Hersh Beck The Texas Gentlemen 00:46:02 Playing In a Band is a Competitive sport (to some!) Balancing the A vs. the A-Hole 01:05:00 GG 341 Outtro The post Watch Him As He Goes… — Gig Gab 341 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Paul’s got an idea about audience fatigue, Dave’s attending SXSW (remotely today, then in-person tomorrow), and there are some new music documentaries coming out. This is the hodge-podge upon which this week’s Gig Gab is built. Of course, your two favorite weekend warriors played some gigs from which they must debrief, and that’s what Gig Gab is all about. Press play, and always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 340 – Monday, March 14, 2022 00:01:41 SXSW 2022, the Hybrid Model 00:04:11 SXSW: Sheryl Giraffe (Bay area band) 00:15:51 SXSW: 32 Sounds “I Get Knocked Down” and “This Much I Know to Be True” and Lizzo 00:25:30 Audience Fatigue Free Bird,Brick House, Sweet Caroline, Brown-Eyed Girl 00:40:37 What’s Going On with Diaspora Radio 00:48:55 GG 340 The post SXSW 2022, Movies, & Knowing Your Audience — Gig Gab 340 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Sure, we rehearse, we practice (there’s a difference!), we craft setlists, and we gig…but what do you do to take care of your band as a unit? Paul asks Dave this pointed question and launches your two favorite weekend warriors into a discussion which digs deep into what it takes to make a band. Dave had some interesting “friction points” at his gig on Saturday night, and shares a few of them here with everyone, and Paul talks about the success of his 100%-of-the-door gig, too, asking yet another pointed question, this time of all of you. Listen, press play, email [email protected] with your answers, and yes, always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 339 – Monday, March 7, 2022 00:00:58 SXSW Next 00:02:47 Is Dave a Mexican Doctor? 00:05:14 Band Retreats Cocktail Monkeys 00:14:01 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:16:16 Friction Creates Energy! High-Impedence Air Gap 00:26:40 “100% Of The Door” Gigs 00:41:59 Why would you want to be a musician if you don’t have fans? [email protected] 00:42:19 Dan-Only use K&M Mic Stands! 00:47:15 Gig Gab 339 Outtro The post The Care and Feeding of Your Band — Gig Gab 339 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Y’all filled up the mailbag, so Paul and Dave dig in and share your thoughts, questions, reactions, and more! Topics include mics to record gigs, covering rap songs, and managing your reputation. Join in the conversation with your two favorite weekend warriors and let’s have some fun together. And remember: Always Be Performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 338 – Monday, February 21, 2022 00:05:06 McCartney on Tour 00:10:22 Shayne-337-The Difficulty in Covering Rap Tunes 00:15:13 James-337-Making Rap Covers Work In Your Rock Band Groove Nation covering California Love, Baby Got Back, Wild Ones 00:21:38 Managing Your Reputation 00:34:50 Daniel-Which Mics to Record Gigs? Zoom H6N Zoom H4n Zoom Q2n RØDE i-XY Shure MV88 Zoom iQ6 00:44:05 Gig Gab 338 The post Mailbag Time! — Gig Gab 338 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Join Paul and Dave as they share Valentine’s Day together, Gig Gab-style! They talk about some gear they’re loving (and some they aren’t), some music they’re loving (there’s nothing they aren’t), and the bands they love, too… and your two favorite weekend warriors also dive into the value of opening your heart and not being too jaded about your musical endeavors, even if history might suggest otherwise! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 337 – Monday, February 14, 2022 00:01:29 Superbowl Halftime Show 00:17:04 New BP Music 00:19:54 Be Aware of Being Jaded and Protective 00:30:22 Gear Gab: G7th Performance 3 Capos 00:33:47 Gear Gab: Love for Gator Cases, specifically the Pro-Go Series ultimate Gig Bag 00:39:52 GG 337 Outré The post Open Your Heart to Music — Gig Gab 337 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It seems almost everyone is involved in multiple musical projects these days, and there’s a lot of good which can result from that. It can also create some headaches, both logistical and emotional. Listen as Paul and Dave talk through their experiences with all of this, including sharing a service created by one of your fellow listeners that helps to solve this…at least the logistical part! That’s not all, though. Your two favorite weekend warriors share some stories about gigs this weekend, including one about having difficulty holding drumsticks. You’ll have to listen to figure out which of the guys was plagued by that! And, discussing new gear… Dave finally got to test out that new Mackie DL32S he’s been sitting on during a Covid winter. Press play and enjoy, folks! And always be performing! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 336 – Monday, February 7, 2022 00:00:53 Splitting The Baby…In a Complimentary Way 00:12:12 Evolution of The Houserockers 00:16:36 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle — Listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, and use the promo code “giggab” to get 15% off the first year of any subscription. 00:19:54 That litmus test proves interesting! 00:26:28 Getting Used to Indoor Gigs again 00:29:35 Setup Habits 00:31:28 First Gig with the Mackie DL32S 34:30 Adding Wi-Fi to your mixer the right way! 38:39 Ethan & Andy-CSF-WheresTheGig for Managing Your Band and Members 43:39 GG 336 Outtro The post Managing Multiple Projects — Gig Gab 336 appeared first on Gig Gab.

It’s another jam session, folks, this one with themes of collaboration, limberness, and insurance. Some Gear Gab enters the fold, too, along with a cool new service for collaborating with other folks recording in their homes! Listen as Paul and Dave, your two favorite weekend warriors, talk you through all this and more. Press play and… always be performing, too! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 335 – Tuesday, February 1, 2022 01:00 Revisiting The Four-Inch Snow Rule 00:18:00 The benefits of collaboration 00:21:36 Fling’s new EP: The World Is In Our Hands 00:25:00 More Collaboration 00:30:40  CSF-PreSonus Sphere Quantum 2626 00:37:34 Michael-Keeping Your Drumming Hands Limber Tommy Igoe – Great Hands For a Lifetime 00:43:46 Warming Up Your Hands Ken Tamplin Vocal Warmup for Dudes 00:50:30 Russell-How are you insuring your gigging gear? MusicPro Equipment Insurance 00:57:12 Gig Gab 335 Outtro The post Always Be Insuring…and Collaborating — Gig Gab 335 appeared first on Gig Gab.