Great advice, Ben, especially the part about coming prepared with extra songs in case somebody ahead of you plays one of your choices. People often remember to bring backup cables, backup picks, backup strings, etc, but they don't often think to bring backup songs.
You have such a great attitude and are so encouraging! I’ve performed at a couple open mics. Wish I would’ve seen this video first. Everything you say is spot on!
This was great advice. Me being a rapper, I only have original songs, so that part is covered. I usually get nervous on the beginning, then once I realize people are liking it, I start getting into it, I get pumped, then I don't wanna stop rapping. So when feeling stage fright, just make it up in your head that everyone is loving it, and get pumped, cuz you're on the stage now, it's now or never. This was a helpful video BC I'm going to my first open mic tomorrow with my crew. I didn't even know you had to sign up. I thought we were about to roll up in that joint, just grab the mic, and start rapping, take over the whole show. hahaha
I mostly agree, but sharing that message in front of real people is a lot harder to do than it is through a video or comment. I'm trying to give people advice on how to share through actual application. Thanks for the comment. Have a good one. -Ben
You're welcome! It's a big step not using any notes, but I'm confident that if you play the same song 10 or 20 times IN A ROW (very important), you will remember the whole piece much better.
You're very welcome! The chords to this intro are: D, D/c#, D/b, D/a, E, A7, D, B7, E, A7, D, A7, D. (The first 4 measures are the D major chord with a walking bassline down to A) I hope this helps. If not, I could make a video showing you how to play this progression.
Thanks for the vid. I just got a chance to perform at an open mic some of the hip hop songs that I've written. Didn't go as planned but that definitely wasn't for the worse. I ended performing my songs while 5 guys that had never played together jammed along with me (pianist, guitarist, bassist, drummer, and another drummer that played the bongo while I performed). My songs were well received (played in a hip hop/pop club) by the patrons and the musicians that accompanied me. So pretty much.. the experience was fucking intense. Wouldn't trade it for the world.
OPEN MICS are the best way to expose yourself too. Even better than full "gigs" too IMHO because there's no gatekeeper. There's no bs about "how many people you can draw" and concerns about filling the bar or club. It's pure fun and usually MORE people go to check out open mics because it's FREE. And as far as nerves. Sure there's nerves. But there's a bunch of musicians there all in the same boat. But once you start to play those nerves transform into focus and adrenaline. There's nothing like it. It's a BLAST!
Thanks for your advise. I did my first open mic last night with two singers (I played guitar) and it could definitely have gone better! It was fun though and was a very supportive crowd.
The chords to this intro are: D, D/c#, D/b, D/a, E, A7, D, B7, E, A7, D, A7, D. (The first 4 measures are the D major chord with a walking bassline down to A) I hope this helps. If not, I could make a video showing you how to play this.
Anxiety is totally normal for every human being who performs in front of others. In fact, I think the best musicians are just the ones who hide it the best. I still start sweating after the first song of any performance whether it be an open mic, coffee shop, or in front of one friend. (I've played 700 shows not including open mics, by the way!) Immediately before a performance I either become nervously talkative or awkwardly quiet. I can't control my anxiety but I'm trying very hard to hide it!
Great advice slightly omitted ( altho covered in network with new people ) play & stay ! ...don't play & leave or this will piss off other performers ...unless you have a bullet proof reason for leaving early . Great vid n advice :)
Jack Solo Play your original songs if you get the chance! I think other musicians appreciate originals more than the same old cover songs. I know I do.
Shame he didn't mention how sadly in almost EVERY open mic venue the audience NEVER STOPS TALKING! I used to play in loads of different open mic nights in London UK but it always amazed me how almost always, the person who had already played would start talking loudly over the other acts. To be fair here i think this guy is american/canadian? and when i played in the states n canada i must say that generally the audiences were MUCH quieter than they are in the UK. There is only ONE venue in London where there is total silence during the open mic acts on stage. Where? Sorry, i'm not telling as that could lead to "the talkers" arriving en masse and the venue would be ruined.
Talking happens a lot. I can assure you here (in the USA) when a performer gets off the stage, they are full of adrenaline and they want to talk to everyone about how well or poorly they performed. I'm just as guilty as the next because playing open mics is still very exciting. On the contrary, there have been venues which are as quiet as a Catholic church mouse between performers. Almost as if the music was some sort of scripture. Those places are eerie, but always have the best responses to original music. Good luck at your secret quiet venue! Hopefully no "talkers" show up!
Great tips, I did my first open mic last night, really glad i did!
Been playing guitar for about 12 years now and I’m thinking about doing an open mic night. Great content 👍🏻
Great advice, Ben, especially the part about coming prepared with extra songs in case somebody ahead of you plays one of your choices. People often remember to bring backup cables, backup picks, backup strings, etc, but they don't often think to bring backup songs.
You have such a great attitude and are so encouraging! I’ve performed at a couple open mics. Wish I would’ve seen this video first. Everything you say is spot on!
This was great advice. Me being a rapper, I only have original songs, so that part is covered. I usually get nervous on the beginning, then once I realize people are liking it, I start getting into it, I get pumped, then I don't wanna stop rapping. So when feeling stage fright, just make it up in your head that everyone is loving it, and get pumped, cuz you're on the stage now, it's now or never. This was a helpful video BC I'm going to my first open mic tomorrow with my crew. I didn't even know you had to sign up. I thought we were about to roll up in that joint, just grab the mic, and start rapping, take over the whole show. hahaha
I mostly agree, but sharing that message in front of real people is a lot harder to do than it is through a video or comment. I'm trying to give people advice on how to share through actual application. Thanks for the comment. Have a good one. -Ben
You're welcome, Jamie! Take care and have a happy new year of music!
You're welcome! It's a big step not using any notes, but I'm confident that if you play the same song 10 or 20 times IN A ROW (very important), you will remember the whole piece much better.
You're very welcome! The chords to this intro are:
D, D/c#, D/b, D/a, E, A7, D, B7, E, A7, D, A7, D.
(The first 4 measures are the D major chord with a walking bassline down to A)
I hope this helps. If not, I could make a video showing you how to play this progression.
I like what you're doing here, Ben.
Thanks for sharing your kind advice. I am playing open mic next week . I am so stoked !
Thanks for the vid. I just got a chance to perform at an open mic some of the hip hop songs that I've written. Didn't go as planned but that definitely wasn't for the worse. I ended performing my songs while 5 guys that had never played together jammed along with me (pianist, guitarist, bassist, drummer, and another drummer that played the bongo while I performed). My songs were well received (played in a hip hop/pop club) by the patrons and the musicians that accompanied me.
So pretty much.. the experience was fucking intense. Wouldn't trade it for the world.
thinks32much Great to hear! It still scares me a bit to get on stage every time. Glad you had the courage to get up there. Nothing ever goes perfect.
OPEN MICS are the best way to expose yourself too. Even better than full "gigs" too IMHO because there's no gatekeeper. There's no bs about "how many people you can draw" and concerns about filling the bar or club. It's pure fun and usually MORE people go to check out open mics because it's FREE. And as far as nerves. Sure there's nerves. But there's a bunch of musicians there all in the same boat. But once you start to play those nerves transform into focus and adrenaline. There's nothing like it. It's a BLAST!
I'm very glad I could help you! Good luck to you at the open mics next year! I'm sure you'll do great.
Love it Ben! Great practical tips, very calming.
Great tips . Mine first O.M. is in two weeks. It helped .
Thanks for your advise. I did my first open mic last night with two singers (I played guitar) and it could definitely have gone better! It was fun though and was a very supportive crowd.
gymbo3968 That's so great to hear! The open mics that I've been to have always been supportive, especially the other performing musicians.
The chords to this intro are:
D, D/c#, D/b, D/a, E, A7, D, B7, E, A7, D, A7, D.
(The first 4 measures are the D major chord with a walking bassline down to A)
I hope this helps. If not, I could make a video showing you how to play this.
Thank you, Ron! I appreciate the comment.
Good advice brother. Thanks for listening to my newest song.
I got the same strap man
I have one too :-P
Anxiety is totally normal for every human being who performs in front of others. In fact, I think the best musicians are just the ones who hide it the best. I still start sweating after the first song of any performance whether it be an open mic, coffee shop, or in front of one friend. (I've played 700 shows not including open mics, by the way!) Immediately before a performance I either become nervously talkative or awkwardly quiet. I can't control my anxiety but I'm trying very hard to hide it!
Great tips!
Hey Ben thank you for your cool tips. That’s really help me a lot...
Great advice
Great advice slightly omitted ( altho covered in network with new people ) play & stay ! ...don't play & leave or this will piss off other performers ...unless you have a bullet proof reason for leaving early . Great vid n advice :)
That is great advice! Stick around and support the other musicians!
Thanks!
Good tips! Thanks. Rick
People who are Gifted. could give a SHIT about 15 min of fame. They just want to share the message that is given t them.. GOT IT.
Thank you
This helped me SOOOOO Much! Thank you! What are the chords in the intro?! I want to play it SOOO badly!
Also . Even with medication for anxiety my fingers are still shaky & my F****n voice cracks !
what are the chords to this intro?
Thank you ! I am trying to wean myself off of using my notes . It is a big distraction
helpful tips! So thanks. !Zoom
Helpful :) Thanks :)
Max Hilleard You are very welcome, I'm glad I could give you some pieces of advice. Good luck and have fun.
love to play and panic at the thought of open mike... on the good side my dogs like hearing me play
You have to be from the Midwest bc that Midwest accent tho
Gen Kop You got me. Minnesota.
What if you have your own songs I have my own songs
Jack Solo Play your original songs if you get the chance! I think other musicians appreciate originals more than the same old cover songs. I know I do.
Shame he didn't mention how sadly in almost EVERY open mic venue the audience NEVER STOPS TALKING! I used to play in loads of different open mic nights in London UK but it always amazed me how almost always, the person who had already played would start talking loudly over the other acts. To be fair here i think this guy is american/canadian? and when i played in the states n canada i must say that generally the audiences were MUCH quieter than they are in the UK.
There is only ONE venue in London where there is total silence during the open mic acts on stage.
Where? Sorry, i'm not telling as that could lead to "the talkers" arriving en masse
and the venue would be ruined.
Talking happens a lot. I can assure you here (in the USA) when a performer gets off the stage, they are full of adrenaline and they want to talk to everyone about how well or poorly they performed. I'm just as guilty as the next because playing open mics is still very exciting. On the contrary, there have been venues which are as quiet as a Catholic church mouse between performers. Almost as if the music was some sort of scripture. Those places are eerie, but always have the best responses to original music. Good luck at your secret quiet venue! Hopefully no "talkers" show up!
Ben Aaron Thanks man!
Peace and good music to you.
gd commeants
you might even drink a Samuel Jackson! you may even fight a nukka or 2....
+3642130 - IT'LL GET YOU DRUNK!!!!
I've recorded. every one of my open mic night so I. can lesson. back
That is great to hear! I learned a lot from recording myself. Take care and good luck playing music!
Lol your gonna be nervous in the morning *cough night before cough cough*
Leon Chatterton even when you talk about it, it brings the butterflies as if you are about to go back on stage!