Are you playing shows in this phase of your music career? The gig I played last night really drove home an important realization about the different "types" of shows musicians play and the purpose each one serves.
It was a two-hour set where I performed for virtually no one. Seems like a dud on the surface. But because I knew it was a "Woodshedding Show" (more on this below), I understood its value wasn't in building an audience or making money. It served a different role entirely.
It's all too easy to lump every performance together, but the truth is, not all shows are created equal. Based on my latest experience, I've identified 3 distinct categories that all serve their own function. Recognizing which type you're playing is crucial for properly managing your expectations, efforts, and emotions.
Money Shows These are your bar gigs, wedding gigs, corporate events - any situation where you're hired as background music. The pros? They pay well and require minimal promotion since you've got a built-in audience. The cons? Long hours, lots of covers, and you're not exactly the main event.
Woodshedding Shows From certain bar gigs to coffee house shows, these are the lower-pressure gigs designed for trying new material and tweaking your sound/gear. Don't expect huge crowds, but that's the point - use these to experiment and build your performance muscles without the spotlight.
Marquee Shows These are the real career-pushers - hard ticket concerts where your ability to promote and rally YOUR audience determines success. The high-risk, high-reward shows where you get to shine with your original music. High stakes in terms of promotion, but that sold-out room creates lifelong fans. Use the other two types of shows to get in peak form, then book a Marquee show to show the world what you've got.
Every phase of your career requires relying more heavily on one category over the others. When you need income, chase money shows. When you need rehearsal time, book woodshedding gigs. And when you're ready to truly elevate, go all-in on promoting that marquee show.
Pro Tip: If you aren't playing Marquee shows, it's almost impossible to grow your career as a songwriter. You must take the leap and start adding them to your schedule if you want to build your tribe.
Hopefully breaking it down like this provides some helpful clarity! Which type of show do you play most currently? Or which would you like to play more of?
