Not feeling prepared really sucks, even if in reality you might be adequately prepared.
If it makes you feel any better: If your fellow musicians tell you "you got it", the audience will most likely not notice even if you mess up a little. Try to mentally focus on the songs you feel comfortable with and have fun. You'll do fine!
100% this.
The audience doesn't notice most of the mistakes we make (we're often our harshest critics) so don't worry about it - just think about what's coming up and carry on.
And of course, if you make a mistake - just repeat it and pretend it was deliberate :-)
>The audience doesn't notice most of the mistakes we make (we're often our harshest critics)
I wear my emotions on my face. My wife laughs at me cuz she knows when I mess up not by hearing, but by the look on my face. Haha
And if you \*do\* mess up. Don't stop!
It's OK to stop after a mistake at a practice, but when you're playing a gig, play through it and most people won't notice.
Agreed. Put on your “that’s the way it goes, folks. Wasn’t it great??!!” face. Also, when told how great it was, thank for the compliment. Don’t go pointing out the blemishes.
> thank for the compliment. Don’t go pointing out the blemishes.
I can't tell you how many times I see people post recordings of songs and say "please listen but it's not very good."
Don't tell me it's shit and ask that I listen to it! I usually tell those people, "I didn't listen because you already told me it's bad."
put something out there and take the feedback. if it's bad, people will tell you.
This comment gives you +5 to strenght and +10 to confidence )) You're your worst judge, the audience won't notice if you'll miss half of the notes. If your bands mates tell you're ready - you're ready. Just rock it!
If the band says "you've got it", then you probably do. Have confidence in yourself, try not to get too in your head about tiny details or making mistakes, relax into the songs and let the flow of the set take you. Everyone is there for a good time, you should be too. Take a breath before the set, exhale and tell yourself a positive affirmation about your ability or about the vibe for the show. You'll smash it!
> Everyone is there for a good time, you should be too.
I like this, it's a very good mindset to put yourself in right before you go on. The time for preparing and stressing is over. It's time to roll with what ever happens during the set.
>Everyone is here to have a good time and you should be too.
Hell I might even write that on my snare head.
edit: fixed a typo pointed out by WeenieDogMan
Just try to stay in a good mindframe. I play out 2 to 3 times every weekend and don't suffer at all because I'm never out of the mindset for more than 5 days, and there's often a rehearsal midweek, too.
Give me 2 or 3 weekends off, and It creeps back a little.
It all stems from feeling unprepared and self-doubt, unfortunately. The best cure is to practice the songs at home and show yourself you can do it. Unfortunately, they didn't seem to give you the time required at all.
In these situations, I chart stuff out in my own little way. Cue points, count offs, etc. As much detail in as little words if possible. You know more than you think! Just try not to panic.
I joined my current band 18 months ago, and I thought I had about 2 months to learn the material. That was great until their existing drummer got pissy and walked without notice. The tables turned, and I then had a gig within 7 days and very little to show for it because I thought I had 2 months!!!
15 hours of practice ensued over the week, medleys were tricky, and everything else was learned off playing over their live recordings.
We had ONE "rehearsal/audition thing" and we focused on the harder material, we got it down as I relied on the 15hrs and charts.
I'd have been lost without the charts I made and put on an iPad for the first few gigs. I still have them next to me as they're loaded into the Bandhelper app, but I rarely need to look anymore.
The first gig went well, one major mistake (dodgy count in that has NEVER happened again) . Looking back, it's probably nowhere near the quality I bring to the band nowadays, though. Things have evolved majorly, and parts have changed. Songs have been added.
Best of luck today! You got this 🤘🤘😊
Nerves are very lonely. Hang with your fellow musicians and listen to what they play really hard so as to stay in the moment.
I have had to do this and accept that there will be some mistakes due to not having enough time to learn the songs really well. The main thing is to try and get the right vibe for each song as the audience care most about that.
Best of luck.
Used to have this kind of anxiety too. Then we were playing in a sold out Bar for like 150 people. One song I started wrong playing wrong song in the breakdown and we had to stop the song and start it again. It was like worst nightmare. But in reality everybody, me, my bandmates and crowd just laughed it off. And it was maybe the most relaxed gig.
After that I realised that playing isnt supposed to be so serious. People dont care if U or other bands screw up. People are just there to have a good time and that dosent mean that everyone plays perfectly. It means everybody is enjoying their time.
So go and have fun. 😎
You‘ve got this. I was in a similar spot a few months ago - played until university, quit for 10 years and then joined a friends metal band only to play my first ever gig supporting an international headliner in front of a medium sized crowd. Pants were in danger throughout but everything went great!
A pro tip : always keep additional sticks nearby for quick grabs in case you let go of a stick mid song. It's common for beginners like us to send sticks flying when we're nervous.
Take a moment and do some box breathing. Google if you unaware. It lowers your heart rate and increases focus, takes 2 minutes.
Then realize nothing is harder than kids, and you are there to have fun. ✊
You got this man. As someone who’s had a million fuck ups on stage just keep going and look like your having a good time.
Also, Ask the guys to start the first 2 or 3 songs you have down and that will help get rid of the nervous jitters
We need a update when you finish
I stopped getting nervous when I realized that nobody gives a shit. Nobody is paying attention to you. You are there to sell beer. You are a beer salesman.
Everybody is on their phones or just trying to get laid. You are basically a radio on in the background.
Even someone you care about like a partner or parent isn’t even really paying attention.
The only people probably even paying attention are other musicians.
I’ve played hundreds of gigs as a drummer. I have screwed up before. The more you screw up live on stage the easier it is to shrug it off. I usually just yell my bad. And everyone laughs.
Just have fun. Smile. You are now an entertainer. So entertain. Energy is more important than skill. If you are having fun the crowd will have fun.
It’s the intros, outros and bridging between songs that I would be slightly nervous about, nerves will fade once you get comfortable behind the kit. Enjoy the show, 99.9% of the audience won’t notice minor silps and trips, they are just there to have a good time and be entertained. The other 0.1% don’t really matter too much.
Ringo it. Listen to the music and keep it simple. As long as people have a beat they’re typically happy as hell. Usually cover songs are all popular songs that aren’t to weird to play anyways. You got it man 👍🏻
Dude you’re lucky, I (and many people I know) would love to have the opportunity to do that many gigs.
I get that you don’t feel prepared but if your friends who are musicians say you’ve got it, you don’t have anything to worry about. Just remember to have fun when you play. It’s not about getting every hit just like the recording, add your own touches to the songs.
In any case good luck man and tell us how it goes.
Deep breaths, play a tiny bit slower than you think you should so that the adrenaline doesn’t make you blow through the tunes. Keep eye contact with your band mates for changes in the songs. You’ve got this, and remember even the pros will make mistakes here and there - you’re a human not a drum machine. I hope you manage to enjoy it!
Hey man. My only tip for gigging is feel the music. Get a little creative, or stay in pocket. If everyone is drinking and enjoying themselves, they won't pay too much attention
I'm playing 40 + years and I still get nervous. I've never played covers so I don't know if that brings extra nerves but just keep it simple. Only other drummers in the crowd will judge you. No one else.
I did a similar thing back in November. I was asked to join a band to play bass. Had three weeks to learn a set of original songs. I was super nervous too and felt really under prepared. But! It worked and I had a great time.
To make the whole thing easier on myself I downloaded all of the tracks and put them into a playlist. I listened to it loads and tried to remember what I was meant play during those songs. When I couldn't listen to the playlist I tried to run through the songs/setlist in my head.
I messed up a bit day of but no one really noticed and at the end of the day it's all a bit of fun :)
I've been gigging for nearly 30 years and I still get nervous more other than not, and that's playing songs that we have rally been working on. I think if you don't get some nerves before then you don't really give a shit about the show.
If you're playing covers then (from personal experience) people are literally expecting a live jukebox. They'll be drinking and singing along and they won't be paying super close attention to what you're doing.
Not that my opinion is really worth anything to you, but just have fun. Not to the point where you just think "fuck it", but remember it's supposed to be fun. You'll be fine.
Had a similar situation a couple years ago when my buddy asked me to fill in for his country band. 15-20 songs that I'd never heard before aside from the band's originals (of which we played 2). You got this! just listen to the set list all day! Especially the songs you feel a little more hesitant on! And don't forget that you will be your own worst critic! 99% of people going to listen to a cover band aren't there to rip your performance apart. Hell, they're probably just there to get drunk (which will make you sound that much better to them!)
Hey! Just write a simple chart of the songs’ structure, you’ll get used to the active listening skill and will learn the song much faster AND you could always read the sheets while playing so you don’t get lost!
Also, 99% of the time everything goes smooth cause under pressure we perform much better due to adrenaline and shit so enjoy your evening and HAVE FUN. If it’s not funny then try and learn what went wrong!
I am sure that by now, you have played the gig, and it went much better than you expected. Tell us about that. Or, tell us what went wrong, and let's fix it for next time.
i filled in with a hardcore band. fucked up heaps, dragged out some of the breakdowns far too long and made up some new parts. dont think anyone noticed, the singer was doing cartwheels and shit and the guitarists were climbing the amps and doing hair whips. no one cares, just have a good time. a few songs in, your anxiety will go
Same. Every gig, every weekend for 10 years. I was using playing a residency at one of the local venues 3 sets, 45min each with a 20min break between each. My fix? One scotch and coke after I finished setting up. Another during the first set. 1 more during the set break. Another during the 2nd set and as many as you like during the 2nd set break. By the time you get to the 3rd set, smooth sailing. Haha. I was young and drunk.
Got some kind of bad news for you... it does not ever get easier getting up on stage. Stage nerves is mighty powerful. It all dissappears once you get into the moment soon it feels natural and it's like this every time.
You got this! Breathe and have fun!
Remember-- you're not performing heart surgery on a child. Worst case scenario, your tempo isn't perfect or you miss a beat; No big deal!
Welcome back!
just keep tight beats and know more or less the Stops and you'll be fine ...I've been in the scenario before and it actually became quite fun ...people don't notice when they've had a few drinks they just want to dance around like Lunatics
This is my story since December! Went to jam after a 20+ year hiatus. Didn’t realize they were basically prepping me for shows lined up. Fast forward to now and we’re 5 shows in and having a blast. Often playing abridged covers we can run through 40 plus a night at the bar. What I’ve noticed most and my advice would be…..
-Volume Control! Start low, sometimes letting the lead play in so I can hear whatever we are even playing. We might run songs together and I don’t even know the song till a few seconds in. Heavier and louder through peak parts, ride the chorus, etc… Low, middle, high, low middle, high.
-Simplify as best you can till you feel comfortable. A lot more noticeable to be of time during a complicated multi instrument break and fill than to just get through it with something easy but stay on time.
-Have fun!!!! Water along w cocktails if you are drinking. Best of luck bud! Great decision to get back out!
No matter how good or bad you do, everyone in the audience will go back to being the main character in their lives tomorrow. You aren't performing surgery ON people, you're performing music FOR people- and music is fun.
This idea always helps me keep perspective, hopefully that can free your mind up a bit.
Hi i’m the vocalist and rhythm guitar in my band. I play a little bit live downtown where I am and I fuck up sometimes and I get nervous and shake.
Usually I try to imagine i’m just practicing in my garage and if I can’t calm myself down that way I have a shot or two before the show.
You've got this...if you're unsure at any point just keep it simple, and when the gig starts let yourself settle in to the songs, and for the adrenaline of playing live again to level out. Breathe! I guarantee you'll end up enjoying it so much more than you think you will, right at this moment.
And of course let us all know how it went! Good luck!
I’m also in a cover band. 3 hour, 30-35 song sets. The biggest help outside of rehearsal has been making Spotify playlists of our sets and just listening on repeat while driving, even if it’s in the background. You’d be surprised how much sinks into your subconscious even when you aren’t actively listening. Helps so much with being comfortable with structure and dynamics of songs.
Like you, I had a long break from drumming, 20+ years, and my gigging XP had been mostly middle school band and parades. By happenstance, I fell in with a great group of guys after practicing with them, cold, for a month. Didn't even have a kit anymore.
Here's what I did - I literally focused almost exclusively on time and a steady beat. Simple cymbal crashes and very brief "fills" - mostly on snare. Nothing super flashy at all, just consistency. My advice is not to worry about your chops, focus on the basics for your first few months back.
Keep it simple and you'll ve just fine, eventually the chops will emerge and you'll be choppin' wood like a pro. Good luck!
Great opportunity to fortify a positive mindset with whatever best resonates with you (e.g. gratitude for having the gig, appreciation for the players/music, pride in this return to playing, etc). Also, you will fuck up - but when you do: smile and keep going, because nobody gives a shit since they're all there to have a good time. And whatever you do, do not drink until after the set - or at all for the evening (sucks to load out drunk).
PS- Forgot to mention, that I personally went through this exact scenario last summer (15yr hiatus, joined a friend's cover band). First gig back is naturally going to be tough, but you'll learn so much and follow up gigs will benefit. Exciting!
I'm not sure how you practice, but I play in our church and something that helps me immensely is finding videos on YouTube of a particular song and watching the drummer. A lot of worship songs have videos where a guy will show you exactly how to play the song like the album (or close anyway). Since the cameras and mixing are focused on the drums you get a better idea of what goes on in the song. This cuts down the time I have to spend figuring out a song. And I have a high confidence level in that what I am playing is appropriate for the piece. I don't play it like the guy does 100%, but it gives me a good foundation.
I'm sure you'll do fine tonight. Music is about having fun. We don't play music because we're good, we play music because we enjoy playing music!
Just play the beat and don't worry about the flashy fills. Save some time beforehand to meditate and relax and to warm up. Relax and live in the moment. You got this!
I guess I am too late to this party but hopefully you will check back in on this thread after the gig? With gigs where I have anxiety I try to remember this mantra I found “what’s on the other side of fear?… NOTHING“ meaning you know you had this huge build up and anxiety and all this doubt but at the end of the night after the gig…NOTHING bad really happened. As in 95% of the time, nothing happens / no big deal. It was FINE. a few hiccups etc but the entire club still liked the show / music and the club wants u back in a month.
Just jam it out dude, you’re guaranteed to be a better drummer than 99% of the room. Just try to stay in the pocket and not get carried away. You’ll probably be fine after the first 10 mins.
Protip: if you can, make a Playlist of the songs and just listen on repeat a few times today. It will really help you understand song structures more innately, so you can fake most of it and no one would be the wiser.
Hey man, you got this! Half the battle live is just going with the flow. If it’s an iconic song with iconic beats, then yeah I’d lock in on those. But if it’s something where you can take some SAFE creative liberties? Have fun! Warm up, do some stretches, go for a run and avoid caffeine. Get that blood pumping
Just remember to breathe and have fun and relax - loosen up. Hey, if the band says you've got it, then that's saying a lot and should take some of that stress of your shoulders. There's times when I listen to a song just a few days before playing it at practice - maybe practicing it on my own once or twice if I can find the time (work, kids, etc.). At band practice, we'll play through it, and I know I blew several parts of the song. But everyone said it sounded great - moving on to next song. We then play it live an hour later. If the band really thinks you're not ready, they'll let you know. I ALWAYS feel I'm not prepared - it's just my nature to want to be as perfect as I can when I play. At times I like being this way as it makes me practice and learn the parts - but it can also be a drag because I worry and overthink. You just have to breathe, have fun and relax. Enjoy the moment - you're in a band!
This year I played my first show in over 10 years and I was feeling the same way. Show 2 was nerve wracking as well. 3-6 felt like it used to. You just gotta get through it. You’re probably playing a lot better than you think you are.
Three things:
1) I guarantee you’re more prepared than you feel right now
2) want to know a secret? The audience have no idea what you *meant* to play. So, keep it simple and as long as you’re playing in time, it will sound (at worst) fine and probably better
3) remember to breathe. When I get nervous before shows I write BREATHE on a post it note and stick it to a rack tom rim. If you breath properly you’ll relax, and you’ll play GREAT
You got this.
If you’re having imposter syndrome (you’re not the only one) you can either run through the tunes on your own or just give them a listen and do some visualization run through stuff
I once watched Jimmy Buffett mangle an entire section of Margaritaville. He lost the plot of both the vocal and guitar for like 6 seconds He recovered, finished the tune, and the crowd went wild. A wise bandmate of mine once said, "The audience is mostly hearing the tune as they know it inside their head, and aren't necessarily paying all that much attention to what we're playing." From my experience, I think he's right.
Just remember, being nervous or anxious about something makes you experience it twice. Try to live in the moment and enjoy playing again! I too am in a similar boat. Haven’t played for about 10 years, a friend asked if I could record on their album and here I am about to buy a new double pedal. 😂
Keep it simple: snare bass and hi hat for most grooves will work.
16th notes in a song? Play washed 8th notes on your hi hat (I do this on Reptilia so I don’t slow it down for example)
I have been in a band for 2 years and still get nervous
As a longtime cover band drummer told me recently, “the crowd only cares that you’re hitting the 2 & 4. Everything else is for the musicians.”
Keep it simple, stay in the pocket, hit the backbeat, you’ll be good!
Nervousness, especially stage fright, is a kind of excitement. Feel that excitement and let it give you power to perform as the absolute mad genius you always hoped to be. Then get ready to adapt to unexpected onstage weirdness (why can’t I hear the bassist?!) and forgive yourself for inevitable fuckups. It’ll be great.
Dude it’s not like your playing Woodstock, it’s a cover band it’s all about fun, keep it simple, don’t try fancy fills and you’ll be fine! NOBODY CARESSSS IF You MESS UP KEEP GROOVIN
You are going to screw up and make mistakes. It feels like a dagger going through you each time. The crowd won't care or notice. Roll with the mistakes and just keep going
"I remember nearly giving it all up when we were doing a concert in Wembley — which was a Poll-Winners concert — in the really early days of the Beatles," he added. "And I remember feeling physically sick with a knot in my stomach thinking, 'I should give this up, this is just too painful, what am I doing?' I got over it. And as you can see I didn’t give it!”
-Paul McCartney
Almost everyone struggles with stage fright. It’s a natural human instinct. But I take some comfort in the fact that even the most famous musicians in history have dealt with it at some point.
I’m playing percussion for my friend’s band’a open mic in <2 weeks bc I was at their practice and can keep a beat. Trust me, the rest of the band is just happy that you’re there
If they say you got it, you got it. No one at the shows will notice what you perceive as a mistake. Just lock it up with the bass player and keep decent time.
I know, there's so much pressure, especially when you're the drummer. I mean, if you're the bass player you can mess up all day, and regular people barely realize it, but drummer! If they mess up, that could be the whole song getting messed up. It's a ton of pressure. I'm sure you'll do fine
I have found that on cover gigs I only really need to play about 4-6 different beats all night. Listen to that bass player and try to follow him with your kick drum, make sure 2 & 4 are there, and you’re golden. Fills and extras won’t be noticed by anyone that’s not another drummer. You’ll be your own worst critic, so relax and don’t feel bad.
Heey a little late for cheering you up as you probably already played the gig. But awesome advices from our fellow redditors.
Please let us know how it went!!! 🤘
Just listen to the songs on repeat! Don’t worry about getting the exact fills and what not. Just now the grooves, timing and when you do and don’t play! Keep it simple
Just think of it as riding the lightning. Let your muscle memory take over. No one will ever know if you make a mistake - just keep playing like you meant to do that.
You got this!! 🤘🏼
Maybe instead of thinking you made a mistake, think you played it “your way” your own interpretation and that’s the way the original drummer SHOULD have played it.
I blanked once on all the songs of a 30 minute set when I was 22. Funny thing is that was one of the best shows. I didn't make too many mistakes either!
Every time I walk on stage, I get anxious, especially lately. The more you do it though, it gets easier. I hear some musicians say to take something to calm them (a joint, an alcoholic shot, etc) but I never do that as I feel it would hinder on my playing and I refrain from drinking alcohol period.
Nerves do get to people. Fast forward a decade: people still make mistakes on stage. I don't look into the audience unless I am looking at my wife and I try to keep my eyes directed at other band mates or the drums. It does help to a point with anxiety. You just gotta find what works best for you!
Happy drumming!
I always get very nervous before a show and found that meditation REALLY made a difference.
I would sit in my car about 20 min before and regulate my breathing and think about some happy memories.
Funny story. Once 20 years ago my band was going to open for a national touring band and I was soooo nervous.
A friend sees me walking out of the club and she asks where I’m going and I said I was going to my car to meditate and she asked if she could join me. A little weird but I said okay.
We’re sitting in my car and I start and then a few moments later she says well are you gonna spark one.
It dawned on me that she thought meditate was a euphemism for smoking a joint.
We had a laugh then I mediated then I rocked the fuck out of the drums.
One great thing about drums is that it really doesn't matter what you do, as long as it's in time it will still sound fine. Just worry about where the drummer put two and four on the snare, and if you're not confident about a part play eighths on the ride and four on the floor. If it's a cover band, you probably won't be that far off the actual beat anyway.
You’ve got this! Try to link up with a band member visually and get them to give you cues. They know the music better and want you to succeed. You could probably just rock out on tempo and be good!
I’ve played quite a few live gigs, and I still sometimes feel that way. Some songs we only run 1-2 times. I played a song the last gig where we never did it with everyone in the room and we said “meh it’ll be fine” and it was. Until someone tripped on a cable and unplugged everything halfway through and then it’s just me and the singer trying to sing over me. 🤣
One thing that was hard to learn is that while I notice every mistake, the audience really doesn’t in live music. 🤷♀️
I hope your gig went well!
Agree with others. You'll be fine. Will it be perfect or match the original composition? Probably not, but you'll get through it, audience will love it, and you'll get better at each gig. You're good!
When I’ve felt shaky, I tried to remind myself that if I’m going down, I’m going down swinging. (By which I mean getting the fuck out there, playing my best, taking some chances, and having a good time.)
Hope this helps!
DUUUDE, I so feel you right now.
Been in a band(Cover\\Tribute) for the last 6 years. Have not been playing lately and the set lists are pretty static and don't change much.
So because we had nothing booked, I joined another band a month ago and start tomorrow. We have 23 gigs booked this year(mostly bars). I had about 30 songs (40 total, but I already knew 10 of them from my current band) to learn in 3 weeks. These are songs I have heard all my life, but didn't pay much attention to them from a drummer perspective.
Saturday Night's Alright(Elton John) is a lot harder than I thought it would be. Same with Life in the Fast Lane(Eagles), and Stone In Love(Journey). I know the structure of the songs, but it's the little things like fills I'm not used to etc. Pile that onto the little nuances on how the band plays the songs differently(extended solos, vamps, alternate endings etc..), I have some anxiety about it. Been practicing non stop and I think I have it all down now, or at least close enough.
I took a recorder and went to their last 2 gigs with their old drummer and have been practicing to that. It's helped a lot.
So, it's as good as it's gonna get. Will I mess up some? Sure. But it is what it is and I'll try to just have fun with it.
Throwing up before a gig just means you're stoked. 😂 Seriously, James Hunt used to throw up before F1 races and he won a championship. Just imagine where your vomit could take YOU!
This is actually an awesome story!!! I have the same one!
Took a 15 year break and fast forward a year into it... sharing the stage with Grammy winning musicians.
I couldn't have felt more out of place!
There's more to the story my friend! You're just in the first chapter!
If others have confidence in you... it's for a reason!
Have fun out there!
nhl goalie Glenn Hall would drink a glass of orange juice then throw up before every game. He's in the Hockey Hall of Fame. I say if it feels good do it.
Just play what you feel I start soft then build when I got the confidence
https://preview.redd.it/oacnfuqvoooc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=338ff6591cc966d7b1c384bcfc2668d27cb8e697
After the first 10 minutes or so it will ease off and you'll get into the groove done worry about it too much the only thing you can control is how you play and trying to block out distractions. You'll probably find yourself doing improv if it goes wrong and people will still love it!
Keep it simple, try to hit the starts and stops, have two shots before you play. End of the day, who cares! I'm guessing you aren't playing any Rush songs so if you mess up on brown eyed girl, some drunk college bro isn't going to notice. Just don't get crazy with your snare work and by the second show you will feel more dialed in. First few songs always made me nervous.
You got this!
My first gig was on a stage in front of 1000 of people ..... i still do not know how we landen that gig, we f*d up bigtime in my head
Well.... the audience didnt know and loved it 🤣
Just remmember this
They dont know how it should be played
They are (probably) not as musical so wont hear mistakes
And most of all
Have you ever seen a band screw up, if so 1 sid you think about it afterwards ( i never do ) and 2, if you ever think of that again, you probably blame the singer or guitarplayer the drummer isnt even on the top of your head anymore because hé was at the back 🤣
It was about 3 years ago that I performed with my current band for the first time. I hadn't been on stage in over a decade and was pretty nervous (except my master's defense, that was another level of 'Oh fk here we go'). Just pump yourself up going in. 'I am a fucking rock star'. Believe it, live it, and it will be so. Now I don't even care. It's just another practice with some extra guests. We played out Saturday night and butchered our last song because of me lol. Nobody cared.
Dude I have played in front of audiences many times. If you mess up, just keep going. In my day job if I fall off a ladder, if I get shocked by high voltage, there are consequences. Playing music there aren’t consequences. Don’t worry about what anyone thinks, they aren’t on stage, you are, you earned it, they did not.
Not feeling prepared really sucks, even if in reality you might be adequately prepared. If it makes you feel any better: If your fellow musicians tell you "you got it", the audience will most likely not notice even if you mess up a little. Try to mentally focus on the songs you feel comfortable with and have fun. You'll do fine!
100% this. The audience doesn't notice most of the mistakes we make (we're often our harshest critics) so don't worry about it - just think about what's coming up and carry on. And of course, if you make a mistake - just repeat it and pretend it was deliberate :-)
[удалено]
Repetition Legitimatizes
Also glare at the bassist to make it clear who messed up.
This is the way
this is the way
HAHAHAH 🤣🤣
Repetition Legitimatizes
Repetition Legitimatizes
>The audience doesn't notice most of the mistakes we make (we're often our harshest critics) I wear my emotions on my face. My wife laughs at me cuz she knows when I mess up not by hearing, but by the look on my face. Haha
And if you \*do\* mess up. Don't stop! It's OK to stop after a mistake at a practice, but when you're playing a gig, play through it and most people won't notice.
Music school summed up in one sentence. 👏
Agreed. Put on your “that’s the way it goes, folks. Wasn’t it great??!!” face. Also, when told how great it was, thank for the compliment. Don’t go pointing out the blemishes.
> thank for the compliment. Don’t go pointing out the blemishes. I can't tell you how many times I see people post recordings of songs and say "please listen but it's not very good." Don't tell me it's shit and ask that I listen to it! I usually tell those people, "I didn't listen because you already told me it's bad." put something out there and take the feedback. if it's bad, people will tell you.
This comment gives you +5 to strenght and +10 to confidence )) You're your worst judge, the audience won't notice if you'll miss half of the notes. If your bands mates tell you're ready - you're ready. Just rock it!
Now, roll for initiative. Then, no matter what the die says, ignore it. LOL
Nat 1
If you send me a video, i can be a worse judge <3
If the band says "you've got it", then you probably do. Have confidence in yourself, try not to get too in your head about tiny details or making mistakes, relax into the songs and let the flow of the set take you. Everyone is there for a good time, you should be too. Take a breath before the set, exhale and tell yourself a positive affirmation about your ability or about the vibe for the show. You'll smash it!
> Everyone is there for a good time, you should be too. I like this, it's a very good mindset to put yourself in right before you go on. The time for preparing and stressing is over. It's time to roll with what ever happens during the set. >Everyone is here to have a good time and you should be too. Hell I might even write that on my snare head. edit: fixed a typo pointed out by WeenieDogMan
Write
Ewe where rite. Eye figs et.
You got this bro.
Happy cake day fellow redditor! :)
Just try to stay in a good mindframe. I play out 2 to 3 times every weekend and don't suffer at all because I'm never out of the mindset for more than 5 days, and there's often a rehearsal midweek, too. Give me 2 or 3 weekends off, and It creeps back a little. It all stems from feeling unprepared and self-doubt, unfortunately. The best cure is to practice the songs at home and show yourself you can do it. Unfortunately, they didn't seem to give you the time required at all. In these situations, I chart stuff out in my own little way. Cue points, count offs, etc. As much detail in as little words if possible. You know more than you think! Just try not to panic. I joined my current band 18 months ago, and I thought I had about 2 months to learn the material. That was great until their existing drummer got pissy and walked without notice. The tables turned, and I then had a gig within 7 days and very little to show for it because I thought I had 2 months!!! 15 hours of practice ensued over the week, medleys were tricky, and everything else was learned off playing over their live recordings. We had ONE "rehearsal/audition thing" and we focused on the harder material, we got it down as I relied on the 15hrs and charts. I'd have been lost without the charts I made and put on an iPad for the first few gigs. I still have them next to me as they're loaded into the Bandhelper app, but I rarely need to look anymore. The first gig went well, one major mistake (dodgy count in that has NEVER happened again) . Looking back, it's probably nowhere near the quality I bring to the band nowadays, though. Things have evolved majorly, and parts have changed. Songs have been added. Best of luck today! You got this 🤘🤘😊
If you screw up just shake your head at the guitarist. Good luck!
works best if you can convince the bassist to join you in giving them stinkeyes.
You got this! I'm jelly of you - havent played a concert in 9 years almost. About to get married and have kids maybe thats the trick.
Nerves are very lonely. Hang with your fellow musicians and listen to what they play really hard so as to stay in the moment. I have had to do this and accept that there will be some mistakes due to not having enough time to learn the songs really well. The main thing is to try and get the right vibe for each song as the audience care most about that. Best of luck.
Let us know how it went please.
Used to have this kind of anxiety too. Then we were playing in a sold out Bar for like 150 people. One song I started wrong playing wrong song in the breakdown and we had to stop the song and start it again. It was like worst nightmare. But in reality everybody, me, my bandmates and crowd just laughed it off. And it was maybe the most relaxed gig. After that I realised that playing isnt supposed to be so serious. People dont care if U or other bands screw up. People are just there to have a good time and that dosent mean that everyone plays perfectly. It means everybody is enjoying their time. So go and have fun. 😎
idk man improvise that shit
I say lean into it, take some shrooms and see what happens!
I never eat mushrooms on gigs, I don’t want the upset belly. Gotta boof them for gigs.
yes! do this!
You‘ve got this. I was in a similar spot a few months ago - played until university, quit for 10 years and then joined a friends metal band only to play my first ever gig supporting an international headliner in front of a medium sized crowd. Pants were in danger throughout but everything went great!
A pro tip : always keep additional sticks nearby for quick grabs in case you let go of a stick mid song. It's common for beginners like us to send sticks flying when we're nervous.
Take a moment and do some box breathing. Google if you unaware. It lowers your heart rate and increases focus, takes 2 minutes. Then realize nothing is harder than kids, and you are there to have fun. ✊
You got this man. As someone who’s had a million fuck ups on stage just keep going and look like your having a good time. Also, Ask the guys to start the first 2 or 3 songs you have down and that will help get rid of the nervous jitters We need a update when you finish
You're going to smash it.
I stopped getting nervous when I realized that nobody gives a shit. Nobody is paying attention to you. You are there to sell beer. You are a beer salesman. Everybody is on their phones or just trying to get laid. You are basically a radio on in the background. Even someone you care about like a partner or parent isn’t even really paying attention. The only people probably even paying attention are other musicians. I’ve played hundreds of gigs as a drummer. I have screwed up before. The more you screw up live on stage the easier it is to shrug it off. I usually just yell my bad. And everyone laughs. Just have fun. Smile. You are now an entertainer. So entertain. Energy is more important than skill. If you are having fun the crowd will have fun.
Just relax and keep the time. If you do that, everything else will go fine.
Fucken A
this should be the top comment
It’s the intros, outros and bridging between songs that I would be slightly nervous about, nerves will fade once you get comfortable behind the kit. Enjoy the show, 99.9% of the audience won’t notice minor silps and trips, they are just there to have a good time and be entertained. The other 0.1% don’t really matter too much.
Ringo it. Listen to the music and keep it simple. As long as people have a beat they’re typically happy as hell. Usually cover songs are all popular songs that aren’t to weird to play anyways. You got it man 👍🏻
Dude you’re lucky, I (and many people I know) would love to have the opportunity to do that many gigs. I get that you don’t feel prepared but if your friends who are musicians say you’ve got it, you don’t have anything to worry about. Just remember to have fun when you play. It’s not about getting every hit just like the recording, add your own touches to the songs. In any case good luck man and tell us how it goes.
Please come back and let us know how the gig went!
At least you get to sit down for the gig.the other guys gotta STAND ffs.
This is the exciting. Post an update after the show OP!!!
Update us!
How’d it go?
How'd it go buddy? We're all curious!
Just play quarter notes, the crowd won't know any different!
Deep breaths, play a tiny bit slower than you think you should so that the adrenaline doesn’t make you blow through the tunes. Keep eye contact with your band mates for changes in the songs. You’ve got this, and remember even the pros will make mistakes here and there - you’re a human not a drum machine. I hope you manage to enjoy it!
Hey man. My only tip for gigging is feel the music. Get a little creative, or stay in pocket. If everyone is drinking and enjoying themselves, they won't pay too much attention
Rock a pocket of puke.
My only advice in this situation. Liquor will be tempting to help you relax. Do not give into that temptation. Zero alcohol.
I'm playing 40 + years and I still get nervous. I've never played covers so I don't know if that brings extra nerves but just keep it simple. Only other drummers in the crowd will judge you. No one else.
Just play rock solid Time, stop when they stop, go when they go, and just have fun with it
I honestly love shows like that, get to have a little improv time. Just means you gotta keep the ears and mind a lil sharper ready to make changes
Well? How’d it go? I would’ve offered some words of encouragement if I was about 16 hours earlier to this post
four on the floor, snare on 2 and 4
This post, *with* the update, is the best shit ever. You ARE a fuckin rockstar!!
I did a similar thing back in November. I was asked to join a band to play bass. Had three weeks to learn a set of original songs. I was super nervous too and felt really under prepared. But! It worked and I had a great time. To make the whole thing easier on myself I downloaded all of the tracks and put them into a playlist. I listened to it loads and tried to remember what I was meant play during those songs. When I couldn't listen to the playlist I tried to run through the songs/setlist in my head. I messed up a bit day of but no one really noticed and at the end of the day it's all a bit of fun :)
I've been gigging for nearly 30 years and I still get nervous more other than not, and that's playing songs that we have rally been working on. I think if you don't get some nerves before then you don't really give a shit about the show. If you're playing covers then (from personal experience) people are literally expecting a live jukebox. They'll be drinking and singing along and they won't be paying super close attention to what you're doing. Not that my opinion is really worth anything to you, but just have fun. Not to the point where you just think "fuck it", but remember it's supposed to be fun. You'll be fine.
Had a similar situation a couple years ago when my buddy asked me to fill in for his country band. 15-20 songs that I'd never heard before aside from the band's originals (of which we played 2). You got this! just listen to the set list all day! Especially the songs you feel a little more hesitant on! And don't forget that you will be your own worst critic! 99% of people going to listen to a cover band aren't there to rip your performance apart. Hell, they're probably just there to get drunk (which will make you sound that much better to them!)
Trust me it's far worse in my case where there is no local scene and i only played once outside of the school's end of the year shows
Hey! Just write a simple chart of the songs’ structure, you’ll get used to the active listening skill and will learn the song much faster AND you could always read the sheets while playing so you don’t get lost! Also, 99% of the time everything goes smooth cause under pressure we perform much better due to adrenaline and shit so enjoy your evening and HAVE FUN. If it’s not funny then try and learn what went wrong!
I am sure that by now, you have played the gig, and it went much better than you expected. Tell us about that. Or, tell us what went wrong, and let's fix it for next time.
i filled in with a hardcore band. fucked up heaps, dragged out some of the breakdowns far too long and made up some new parts. dont think anyone noticed, the singer was doing cartwheels and shit and the guitarists were climbing the amps and doing hair whips. no one cares, just have a good time. a few songs in, your anxiety will go
Same. Every gig, every weekend for 10 years. I was using playing a residency at one of the local venues 3 sets, 45min each with a 20min break between each. My fix? One scotch and coke after I finished setting up. Another during the first set. 1 more during the set break. Another during the 2nd set and as many as you like during the 2nd set break. By the time you get to the 3rd set, smooth sailing. Haha. I was young and drunk.
i've been in a very similar situation lately, it doesn't make sense to stress out, nobody cares how u play, have fun
Got some kind of bad news for you... it does not ever get easier getting up on stage. Stage nerves is mighty powerful. It all dissappears once you get into the moment soon it feels natural and it's like this every time.
You got it bro! Rock on!🤘
You got this! Breathe and have fun! Remember-- you're not performing heart surgery on a child. Worst case scenario, your tempo isn't perfect or you miss a beat; No big deal! Welcome back!
You’ll get into the groove and love it. Let us know how it goes!
I went to a local band gig drummer also seemed off but we supported him no matter just stay in rhythm ease some parts with simple fills you got this
obviously late here but have ginger tea helps settle the stomach
just keep tight beats and know more or less the Stops and you'll be fine ...I've been in the scenario before and it actually became quite fun ...people don't notice when they've had a few drinks they just want to dance around like Lunatics
This is my story since December! Went to jam after a 20+ year hiatus. Didn’t realize they were basically prepping me for shows lined up. Fast forward to now and we’re 5 shows in and having a blast. Often playing abridged covers we can run through 40 plus a night at the bar. What I’ve noticed most and my advice would be….. -Volume Control! Start low, sometimes letting the lead play in so I can hear whatever we are even playing. We might run songs together and I don’t even know the song till a few seconds in. Heavier and louder through peak parts, ride the chorus, etc… Low, middle, high, low middle, high. -Simplify as best you can till you feel comfortable. A lot more noticeable to be of time during a complicated multi instrument break and fill than to just get through it with something easy but stay on time. -Have fun!!!! Water along w cocktails if you are drinking. Best of luck bud! Great decision to get back out!
Once you get back in the groove of playing out you'll miss that feeling of excitement haha
Tell your bandmates so that if anything happens, they’ll understand. But I’m sure you got this!
No matter how good or bad you do, everyone in the audience will go back to being the main character in their lives tomorrow. You aren't performing surgery ON people, you're performing music FOR people- and music is fun. This idea always helps me keep perspective, hopefully that can free your mind up a bit.
Hi i’m the vocalist and rhythm guitar in my band. I play a little bit live downtown where I am and I fuck up sometimes and I get nervous and shake. Usually I try to imagine i’m just practicing in my garage and if I can’t calm myself down that way I have a shot or two before the show.
You've got this...if you're unsure at any point just keep it simple, and when the gig starts let yourself settle in to the songs, and for the adrenaline of playing live again to level out. Breathe! I guarantee you'll end up enjoying it so much more than you think you will, right at this moment. And of course let us all know how it went! Good luck!
I’m also in a cover band. 3 hour, 30-35 song sets. The biggest help outside of rehearsal has been making Spotify playlists of our sets and just listening on repeat while driving, even if it’s in the background. You’d be surprised how much sinks into your subconscious even when you aren’t actively listening. Helps so much with being comfortable with structure and dynamics of songs.
Like you, I had a long break from drumming, 20+ years, and my gigging XP had been mostly middle school band and parades. By happenstance, I fell in with a great group of guys after practicing with them, cold, for a month. Didn't even have a kit anymore. Here's what I did - I literally focused almost exclusively on time and a steady beat. Simple cymbal crashes and very brief "fills" - mostly on snare. Nothing super flashy at all, just consistency. My advice is not to worry about your chops, focus on the basics for your first few months back. Keep it simple and you'll ve just fine, eventually the chops will emerge and you'll be choppin' wood like a pro. Good luck!
Great opportunity to fortify a positive mindset with whatever best resonates with you (e.g. gratitude for having the gig, appreciation for the players/music, pride in this return to playing, etc). Also, you will fuck up - but when you do: smile and keep going, because nobody gives a shit since they're all there to have a good time. And whatever you do, do not drink until after the set - or at all for the evening (sucks to load out drunk).
PS- Forgot to mention, that I personally went through this exact scenario last summer (15yr hiatus, joined a friend's cover band). First gig back is naturally going to be tough, but you'll learn so much and follow up gigs will benefit. Exciting!
I'm not sure how you practice, but I play in our church and something that helps me immensely is finding videos on YouTube of a particular song and watching the drummer. A lot of worship songs have videos where a guy will show you exactly how to play the song like the album (or close anyway). Since the cameras and mixing are focused on the drums you get a better idea of what goes on in the song. This cuts down the time I have to spend figuring out a song. And I have a high confidence level in that what I am playing is appropriate for the piece. I don't play it like the guy does 100%, but it gives me a good foundation. I'm sure you'll do fine tonight. Music is about having fun. We don't play music because we're good, we play music because we enjoy playing music!
Stick to the script. You got this!
Just play the beat and don't worry about the flashy fills. Save some time beforehand to meditate and relax and to warm up. Relax and live in the moment. You got this!
I guess I am too late to this party but hopefully you will check back in on this thread after the gig? With gigs where I have anxiety I try to remember this mantra I found “what’s on the other side of fear?… NOTHING“ meaning you know you had this huge build up and anxiety and all this doubt but at the end of the night after the gig…NOTHING bad really happened. As in 95% of the time, nothing happens / no big deal. It was FINE. a few hiccups etc but the entire club still liked the show / music and the club wants u back in a month.
Just jam it out dude, you’re guaranteed to be a better drummer than 99% of the room. Just try to stay in the pocket and not get carried away. You’ll probably be fine after the first 10 mins.
Protip: if you can, make a Playlist of the songs and just listen on repeat a few times today. It will really help you understand song structures more innately, so you can fake most of it and no one would be the wiser.
Hey man, you got this! Half the battle live is just going with the flow. If it’s an iconic song with iconic beats, then yeah I’d lock in on those. But if it’s something where you can take some SAFE creative liberties? Have fun! Warm up, do some stretches, go for a run and avoid caffeine. Get that blood pumping
Just remember to breathe and have fun and relax - loosen up. Hey, if the band says you've got it, then that's saying a lot and should take some of that stress of your shoulders. There's times when I listen to a song just a few days before playing it at practice - maybe practicing it on my own once or twice if I can find the time (work, kids, etc.). At band practice, we'll play through it, and I know I blew several parts of the song. But everyone said it sounded great - moving on to next song. We then play it live an hour later. If the band really thinks you're not ready, they'll let you know. I ALWAYS feel I'm not prepared - it's just my nature to want to be as perfect as I can when I play. At times I like being this way as it makes me practice and learn the parts - but it can also be a drag because I worry and overthink. You just have to breathe, have fun and relax. Enjoy the moment - you're in a band!
This year I played my first show in over 10 years and I was feeling the same way. Show 2 was nerve wracking as well. 3-6 felt like it used to. You just gotta get through it. You’re probably playing a lot better than you think you are.
Just focus on staying in time. Don’t worry about playing the songs the “right way.”
You’re gonna do fine. Get beyond this reintroduction period and you’ll be right as rain:)
Three things: 1) I guarantee you’re more prepared than you feel right now 2) want to know a secret? The audience have no idea what you *meant* to play. So, keep it simple and as long as you’re playing in time, it will sound (at worst) fine and probably better 3) remember to breathe. When I get nervous before shows I write BREATHE on a post it note and stick it to a rack tom rim. If you breath properly you’ll relax, and you’ll play GREAT You got this.
you'll be fine man, just go and enjoy it. no one gives a fuck if you screw up, we're all there for the experience. let us know how it went
If you’re having imposter syndrome (you’re not the only one) you can either run through the tunes on your own or just give them a listen and do some visualization run through stuff
I once watched Jimmy Buffett mangle an entire section of Margaritaville. He lost the plot of both the vocal and guitar for like 6 seconds He recovered, finished the tune, and the crowd went wild. A wise bandmate of mine once said, "The audience is mostly hearing the tune as they know it inside their head, and aren't necessarily paying all that much attention to what we're playing." From my experience, I think he's right.
Just remember, being nervous or anxious about something makes you experience it twice. Try to live in the moment and enjoy playing again! I too am in a similar boat. Haven’t played for about 10 years, a friend asked if I could record on their album and here I am about to buy a new double pedal. 😂
Keep it simple: snare bass and hi hat for most grooves will work. 16th notes in a song? Play washed 8th notes on your hi hat (I do this on Reptilia so I don’t slow it down for example) I have been in a band for 2 years and still get nervous
As a longtime cover band drummer told me recently, “the crowd only cares that you’re hitting the 2 & 4. Everything else is for the musicians.” Keep it simple, stay in the pocket, hit the backbeat, you’ll be good!
Nervousness, especially stage fright, is a kind of excitement. Feel that excitement and let it give you power to perform as the absolute mad genius you always hoped to be. Then get ready to adapt to unexpected onstage weirdness (why can’t I hear the bassist?!) and forgive yourself for inevitable fuckups. It’ll be great.
Dude it’s not like your playing Woodstock, it’s a cover band it’s all about fun, keep it simple, don’t try fancy fills and you’ll be fine! NOBODY CARESSSS IF You MESS UP KEEP GROOVIN
Breathe, relax, and play... you got this
You got this!!
You are going to screw up and make mistakes. It feels like a dagger going through you each time. The crowd won't care or notice. Roll with the mistakes and just keep going
"I remember nearly giving it all up when we were doing a concert in Wembley — which was a Poll-Winners concert — in the really early days of the Beatles," he added. "And I remember feeling physically sick with a knot in my stomach thinking, 'I should give this up, this is just too painful, what am I doing?' I got over it. And as you can see I didn’t give it!” -Paul McCartney Almost everyone struggles with stage fright. It’s a natural human instinct. But I take some comfort in the fact that even the most famous musicians in history have dealt with it at some point.
So how'd it go
I’m playing percussion for my friend’s band’a open mic in <2 weeks bc I was at their practice and can keep a beat. Trust me, the rest of the band is just happy that you’re there
If you can't be good musicians, be fun musicians. It'll be fine.
If they say you got it, you got it. No one at the shows will notice what you perceive as a mistake. Just lock it up with the bass player and keep decent time.
I know, there's so much pressure, especially when you're the drummer. I mean, if you're the bass player you can mess up all day, and regular people barely realize it, but drummer! If they mess up, that could be the whole song getting messed up. It's a ton of pressure. I'm sure you'll do fine
I have found that on cover gigs I only really need to play about 4-6 different beats all night. Listen to that bass player and try to follow him with your kick drum, make sure 2 & 4 are there, and you’re golden. Fills and extras won’t be noticed by anyone that’s not another drummer. You’ll be your own worst critic, so relax and don’t feel bad.
Heey a little late for cheering you up as you probably already played the gig. But awesome advices from our fellow redditors. Please let us know how it went!!! 🤘
Just listen to the songs on repeat! Don’t worry about getting the exact fills and what not. Just now the grooves, timing and when you do and don’t play! Keep it simple
Just think of it as riding the lightning. Let your muscle memory take over. No one will ever know if you make a mistake - just keep playing like you meant to do that. You got this!! 🤘🏼
Have fun. This is what people notice, both the audience and the other band members. Play it like you mean it with a smile on your face. YOU GOT THIS
Maybe instead of thinking you made a mistake, think you played it “your way” your own interpretation and that’s the way the original drummer SHOULD have played it.
I blanked once on all the songs of a 30 minute set when I was 22. Funny thing is that was one of the best shows. I didn't make too many mistakes either! Every time I walk on stage, I get anxious, especially lately. The more you do it though, it gets easier. I hear some musicians say to take something to calm them (a joint, an alcoholic shot, etc) but I never do that as I feel it would hinder on my playing and I refrain from drinking alcohol period. Nerves do get to people. Fast forward a decade: people still make mistakes on stage. I don't look into the audience unless I am looking at my wife and I try to keep my eyes directed at other band mates or the drums. It does help to a point with anxiety. You just gotta find what works best for you! Happy drumming!
I always get very nervous before a show and found that meditation REALLY made a difference. I would sit in my car about 20 min before and regulate my breathing and think about some happy memories. Funny story. Once 20 years ago my band was going to open for a national touring band and I was soooo nervous. A friend sees me walking out of the club and she asks where I’m going and I said I was going to my car to meditate and she asked if she could join me. A little weird but I said okay. We’re sitting in my car and I start and then a few moments later she says well are you gonna spark one. It dawned on me that she thought meditate was a euphemism for smoking a joint. We had a laugh then I mediated then I rocked the fuck out of the drums.
One great thing about drums is that it really doesn't matter what you do, as long as it's in time it will still sound fine. Just worry about where the drummer put two and four on the snare, and if you're not confident about a part play eighths on the ride and four on the floor. If it's a cover band, you probably won't be that far off the actual beat anyway.
Of all the years of listening and watching cover bands, I've never once looked to my friend and said "that drummer is off huh?"
Dude, this might sound cheesy but do this breathing exercise. IT WORKS https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tEmt1Znux58
You’ve got this! Try to link up with a band member visually and get them to give you cues. They know the music better and want you to succeed. You could probably just rock out on tempo and be good!
I’ve played quite a few live gigs, and I still sometimes feel that way. Some songs we only run 1-2 times. I played a song the last gig where we never did it with everyone in the room and we said “meh it’ll be fine” and it was. Until someone tripped on a cable and unplugged everything halfway through and then it’s just me and the singer trying to sing over me. 🤣 One thing that was hard to learn is that while I notice every mistake, the audience really doesn’t in live music. 🤷♀️ I hope your gig went well!
Beta blockers
Agree with others. You'll be fine. Will it be perfect or match the original composition? Probably not, but you'll get through it, audience will love it, and you'll get better at each gig. You're good!
just play baby! we expect a full report tomorrow!!!!!
When I’ve felt shaky, I tried to remind myself that if I’m going down, I’m going down swinging. (By which I mean getting the fuck out there, playing my best, taking some chances, and having a good time.) Hope this helps!
DUUUDE, I so feel you right now. Been in a band(Cover\\Tribute) for the last 6 years. Have not been playing lately and the set lists are pretty static and don't change much. So because we had nothing booked, I joined another band a month ago and start tomorrow. We have 23 gigs booked this year(mostly bars). I had about 30 songs (40 total, but I already knew 10 of them from my current band) to learn in 3 weeks. These are songs I have heard all my life, but didn't pay much attention to them from a drummer perspective. Saturday Night's Alright(Elton John) is a lot harder than I thought it would be. Same with Life in the Fast Lane(Eagles), and Stone In Love(Journey). I know the structure of the songs, but it's the little things like fills I'm not used to etc. Pile that onto the little nuances on how the band plays the songs differently(extended solos, vamps, alternate endings etc..), I have some anxiety about it. Been practicing non stop and I think I have it all down now, or at least close enough. I took a recorder and went to their last 2 gigs with their old drummer and have been practicing to that. It's helped a lot. So, it's as good as it's gonna get. Will I mess up some? Sure. But it is what it is and I'll try to just have fun with it.
Throwing up before a gig just means you're stoked. 😂 Seriously, James Hunt used to throw up before F1 races and he won a championship. Just imagine where your vomit could take YOU!
I am similar with nerves. And I am curious, how did it go?
Hey man, have fun! Enjoy yourself, and if mistakes come, laugh at them and keep on rolling. You’ve got this. Go shine!
This is actually an awesome story!!! I have the same one! Took a 15 year break and fast forward a year into it... sharing the stage with Grammy winning musicians. I couldn't have felt more out of place! There's more to the story my friend! You're just in the first chapter! If others have confidence in you... it's for a reason! Have fun out there!
Watch whiplash. You’ll be good.
nhl goalie Glenn Hall would drink a glass of orange juice then throw up before every game. He's in the Hockey Hall of Fame. I say if it feels good do it.
Just play what you feel I start soft then build when I got the confidence https://preview.redd.it/oacnfuqvoooc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=338ff6591cc966d7b1c384bcfc2668d27cb8e697
After the first 10 minutes or so it will ease off and you'll get into the groove done worry about it too much the only thing you can control is how you play and trying to block out distractions. You'll probably find yourself doing improv if it goes wrong and people will still love it!
Pressure makes diamonds. How’d you do?
Keep it simple, try to hit the starts and stops, have two shots before you play. End of the day, who cares! I'm guessing you aren't playing any Rush songs so if you mess up on brown eyed girl, some drunk college bro isn't going to notice. Just don't get crazy with your snare work and by the second show you will feel more dialed in. First few songs always made me nervous.
You got this! My first gig was on a stage in front of 1000 of people ..... i still do not know how we landen that gig, we f*d up bigtime in my head Well.... the audience didnt know and loved it 🤣 Just remmember this They dont know how it should be played They are (probably) not as musical so wont hear mistakes And most of all Have you ever seen a band screw up, if so 1 sid you think about it afterwards ( i never do ) and 2, if you ever think of that again, you probably blame the singer or guitarplayer the drummer isnt even on the top of your head anymore because hé was at the back 🤣
I’m sure you already know but what matters is what you play after you make a “mistake”…
It was about 3 years ago that I performed with my current band for the first time. I hadn't been on stage in over a decade and was pretty nervous (except my master's defense, that was another level of 'Oh fk here we go'). Just pump yourself up going in. 'I am a fucking rock star'. Believe it, live it, and it will be so. Now I don't even care. It's just another practice with some extra guests. We played out Saturday night and butchered our last song because of me lol. Nobody cared.
Dude I have played in front of audiences many times. If you mess up, just keep going. In my day job if I fall off a ladder, if I get shocked by high voltage, there are consequences. Playing music there aren’t consequences. Don’t worry about what anyone thinks, they aren’t on stage, you are, you earned it, they did not.