There are certain crucial aspects to running a cover band that make them stand out. In a city where there is live music everywhere, it’s not easy to compete for a crowd. A band has to employ the right mix of song selection, image, energy, and especially the know-how to entertain an audience. One of the finest examples of a band that hits all of these marks is New Orleans’ Chicken on the Bone. The band was formed in the early 2000s by bassist Robert Heindel and played various bars and clubs in the New Orleans area. Although he’s…
It’s a rare opportunity when a fan gets to meet one of their childhood heroes. It’s even far more unlikely that someone gets a chance to sing on stage with someone they’ve admired from afar. But Friday night, that’s exactly what happened for New Jersey singer Wendy Horn. Despite enjoying mega-success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, like many of the “hair band” artists, Winger succumbed to the onslaught of the grunge bands which took over the popular music scene. Although their heyday has long passed,…
If you want to excel in the cover music scene, it’s not always a question of your level of skill, but often just a matter of focusing on the right things that makes a difference. In just about every city and town in the United States, as well as many around the world, you’ll find a public venue that hosts live music. Whether you’re a full band, a duo or a solo artist – there’s plenty of opportunity to have fun and make some money. The most successful bands and artists practice certain fundamentals that have been proven effective…
Have you ever heard or seen a band and thought to yourself, “I’m better than that!” Most musicians have experienced this feeling at some point. One of the (many) reasons that some players get the gig is that they got started off on the right foot. It’s not always the best musicians that secures the job. Quite often, it’s the player that can cut the gig, but is also easy to work with. Whether you’re the most qualified and proficient or not with your craft is important, but it’s the person that follows these tips – and can play well enough…
In the musician community at large, players that perform covers are kinda considered the “black sheep” of the family. Although there are thousands of musicians that play covers in one capacity or another, the practice is still somewhat frowned upon by many musicians. Well, my friend, I’m here to tell you that playing covers is not only an admirable vocation, but also has many rewards that you may not have considered. Sure, you’re not writing your own material, and perhaps you’re not bringing anything original to the table. But you are providing a service that is always in demand, and is generally…
Rockbox – Cover Band Central “Spotlight Artist of the Month” – October 2018
October 2, 2018 October 2, 2018 Steve Witschel By: Steve Witschel News, Opinion, Spotlight Artist No Comments
When people visit New Orleans, they expect to be exposed to the iconic cultural music for which the city is famous. The Big Easy is well-known as the birthplace of jazz – and has also been heavily influenced by zydeco and delta blues. What’s not commonly known, however, is that there is a thriving community of musicians who cater to crowds by offering popular music. From the baby boomers to the millennials, tourists are often drawn to familiar songs that provide the soundtrack to their Nola experience. A walk up Bourbon Street from Canal to St. Peter will reveal a…
According to StopBullying.gov, one-in-four students say they have been bullied at school, and that amount has risen to one out of every three kids in the United States. And those numbers are based on children who actually admit it. Growing up is difficult enough – especially at the middle school level. Your body is going through massive changes, you’re required to do well with your studies, and you’re learning how to fit into a social structure – all at the same time. As if that isn’t challenging enough, tack on the pressures of our current social media world, which like it…
For any musician, going to the music store is akin to a child visiting FAO Schwartz – the legendary New York City toy store that was featured in the movie “Big” with Tom Hanks. They is so much to play with! It takes an extreme amount of focus and discipline to head into Guitar Center and refrain from wanting to pick up every guitar. Luckily in this case I was a man on a mission – steadfast, determined, and prepared to use the chip reader. Watch below as I navigate the maze of solid state amp islands to fulfill my…
This website has been the longtime vision of Steve Witschel and along with the successful Facebook group, is THE premier place for musicians, promoters, venues etc. to discuss all things music. Go ahead and kick the tires and poke around. If you enjoy what you see sign up for a free account and you’ll be notified of upcoming events, news and podcasts. And check back often. We plan on adding new features to the site regularly so that CoverBandCentral.com will be your one-stop resource. ChonkWith over 30+ years in the Advertising, Marketing and Music industry, Chonk has been featured on…