What Makes A Great Performer?

Have you ever watched a band and found yourself thinking..."man, they are so boring to watch" The singer is invisible, the players are just doing "their thing", not really engaging with the crowd. Although the audience might really dig the band, the band just becomes background music, people start talking, going to the bar, not really paying attention and BAM!...you lost 'em. So what do you do??? Let's assume your music doesn't suck! ;)

 PUT ON A SHOW!!!! Engage your fans! Introduce yourself, tell them to clap, sing along, say hello after the show, grab your CD. (And you can do that in a very creative/theatrical way) If you have a message, keep it short and too the point. Cover a hot track that everyone loves, that will warm 'em up and grab their attention.

 The truth is, talent is just a small portion of success. It's a combination of talent, personality, chemistry and a unique identity. We are all attracted to things we connect with. Think of Madonna, Lady GaGa, Adele, Katie Perry, Nicki Manaj, The Foo Fighters or Marilyn Manson. They all have something unique to offer, something people can identify with, ppl either love or hate them but they have a brand and a clear message of who they are and what they do. Many of us struggle with an identity crisis when we first start out, we don't know who we are yet, what to do on stage. If you don't know who you are just yet, most important part is to get out there and get your feet wet. Find out who you really are. Playing shows is the only way to get experience. While taking lessons is great, it's important to apply it by  "DOING" it!!! You'll also find out what songs work really well live and what songs aren't. You can learn a lot from your audience. When on stage, get into character, get in touch with your alter ego, embrace it. We all have one.

 You're the boss!!!! There's no wrong doing, it's your stage;  your show. There are no rules or limitations other than the ones you make. Go a little crazy, over the top!...TRY different things. Explore and have fun on stage. Be the person you would want to see up there. Think of some of your idols, what do they have that you wish you had? Whatever that is, you'll find that you have some of the same qualities, exaggerate that onstage. Be a Rockstar !

 IMAGE!!!! Wear something unique that fits your style of music and personality. What may look extreme off stage looks normal on stage. Be confident. Confidence is super attractive!
  ROCK ON!
~JVB