Playing in a band is quite a bit different than any other job. There are things that you can get away with that you aren't able to if you're punching a time clock or working in an office. However, that doesn't mean you're immune from getting the boot if you're compromising the goals of the... Read more
Unless you’ve been living completely off the grid for the last six months, you know that internet behemoth Facebook launched its Live function for all to use anytime they choose. The social media leader is aggressively promoting this feature through numerous television ads that encourage the everyday person to invite the world into their unfiltered,... Read more
Although I've never counted, I can guess with confidence that I've learned and played well over a thousand different cover songs in my career.I have a specific system that has developed over time that has proven effective for me in maintaining a career as a professional musician.Master the fundamentals below and you'll be able to... Read more
You Tube is the third most popular website in the world, and the fourth most popular in the United States, behind only Amazon (3), Facebook (2), and Google at the top slot – according to Alexa.com. More than 1 billion unique users visit You Tube every month. One billion. Every month. So yeah, it’s very popular…and it’s here... Read more
When I started Cover Band Central, I had played in almost every variation of a cover band. I've worked extensively in classic rock bands, had long stints in a couple of blues bands, gigged with an all female dance outfit, played with party bands at casinos and festivals, covered Country and R&B, performed for vocal... Read more
I was recently offered a gig with a well-known, hard-working cover band on the Gulf Coast of the U.S. and had to learn their song list quickly. While the task of picking up 60+ new tunes in about two weeks was somewhat overwhelming,I realized during the process that I've developed a pretty good routine over... Read more
When you are in charge of a group of people, there are several responsibilities that fall on your shoulders. If you've never been in a management position or haven't had any business training, this can be a challenging endeavor. The truth is that it's really not all that difficult, as long as you know what... Read more
“I want to make more money!”This is the predominant concern that I hear from most working musicians – and with good reason.The rate of pay for bands that play in bars, clubs and pubs hasn’t changed much over the last 10, 20, even 30 years in some cases. In the meantime, the cost of living... Read more
10 Songs You Should Never Sing in Public if You’re a Straight Man Picture this:You're out with your buddies on a Friday night. You spot an attractive female across the bar. You point her out to your pals and they prod you to make a move.You take a few swigs of liquid courage and strut... Read more
If you're fortunate enough to be a musician that gets to work in public, there is some business to take care of during your show. In general, it's the lead vocalist that communicates with the crowd, but anyone in the band with access to a microphone can participate.A lot of these things may seem obvious.... Read more
