10 BUSKING TIPS: What you need to know before you start.

Hey All!
Thought i'd share some tips on busking! These are things I wish I knew when I first started.
Didn't intend for it to be such a long video, feel free to skip ahead to any section with these links!
1:07 1. GET A LICENSE / PERMIT
3:04. 2. YOU'RE ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR EQUIPMENT
4:53 3. STAND, DON'T SIT
5:39 4. KNOW YOUR BEST SPOT
6:31 5. BE UNIQUE
7:46. 6. DON'T GET DISHEARTENED
8:43 7. ADVERTISE
10:34 8. SELL CD'S
13:05 9. DON'T OVERBUSK
15:04 10. HAVE FUN
Put any other questions below! and i'll get back to you! :)
tomsoutheymusic
Facebook.com/tomsoutheymusic

[@howardroark8553]

I believe every musician should have the experience of busking. It is one thing to play for people who hired you, and an entirely different energy to play when and where no one asked you to. I did it for years before becoming successful enough to not have the time. After getting used to all of the noise, distractions and perils of playing on the street, performing in a controlled atmosphere of a recital or gig is a breeze. So even if you are a genius, get out there and busk! You'll be better for it...

[@WHANAUPEACE]

Very good tips. Here is a tip. Busking isn't about making money. If you think that then you will be disappointed. You have to busk for your own enjoyment and hopefully the enjoyment of commuters. The money you receive will be reward for giving enjoyment to those commuters who appreciate your efforts.

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Well said! 🤘

[@howardroark8553]

Lol. Busking is almost exclusively for making money. Sure, if you're good at it you can have some nice experiences and interactions with people. But I would have never gone out there if I knew I wasn't going to make money. I'm now at the point of getting enough gigs not to have to busk, and I don't miss going out there at all. Different strokes...

[@themaelstromnotebook5418]

Hmmm... there's an equilibrium to be found. I thought the 'Have Fun' rule applies here. If you're feeling dead broke or you have a bill you have to pay, and you think to yourself 'I HAVE to get off this spot with [whatever amount of money]' any charm you have as a musician may get blown off by people because there's some angst about you. I busk for a living, but I think I know when to quit and have a day off. You have to spiritually pitch yourself a little outside of the day-to-day financial or emotional problems you might have. If you're doing what you love then the fun element is usually there, despite the more difficult days. But - in the obverse - are you totally aloof to whatever might happen on a busk? No. Which is to say I go busking to make money. If I didn't make enough to feed and shelter myself I'd go and do something else. Is busking better than gigging? Depends on the gig. I've had the occasional small gig where it was no hassle, you get paid fine and whoever employed you is a happy camper. Then I've had people pay me in drinks when I asked for a certain amount of cash, or played to drunk people who essentially told me what to play. I've had gigs where I could've easily made more money on a busk. Sometimes it doesn't matter because the people are cool (busking or gigging) or whatever. Maybe it depends on what you want out of life. I generally prefer busking... but do I like being panhandled five minutes into a spot? Or breaking strings after an hour of off-and-on drizzle? Or playing like a demon for two and half hours, and raising 8 quid or something. Obviously not. Ultimately, though, busking is a spiritual discipline. It exists to allow people to test their skill and devotion to whatever music they might be playing, with or without the interaction of an audience. I like it because it is a very honest, direct thing... often when a lot of things about our world seem not to be of this nature. You try your damnedest to do a certain thing to the best of your ability, and sometimes you are rewarded for this, and sometimes you are not. Well, how you deal with this state of affairs is your own problem, but - in the mean time - you are very viscerally growing spiritually. Perhaps if you had not busked, and done something else to support yourself... that same amount of growth would've taken a hell of a lot longer? That's how I see it anyhoo. And, yes, putting a few coins down for yerself at the start of a busk probably doesn't matter very much. I do it for the old ladies who sometimes don't know where to throw their change, and would otherwise attempt to interrupt a song to do so hehe

[@edgewolf66]

So true. I'm manager for a pro violinist busker. All about bringing the love

[@yousefasiut6833]

I've seen people get permission to play at grocery stores in the suburbs where the cars pull in and out, and they make TONS of cash.. Let's say close to 100 cars go in and out per hour, and he gets 1 dollar per 5 cars (which probably is much more in reality) that's 20 dollars an hour, more than double minimum wage for simply playing music. In the case I brought up, it was a man playing his violin, and almost every car stopped to tip him (even I stopped to tip 5 dollars..) He probably made like 90 dollars per hour that day, if not more..

[@stellagrace620]

This video was so helpful! I'm only 11 years old and i'm going busking for the first time in one week!! Hope it goes well!

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Good on you!! Thanks! Hope it goes well! 😊

[@cornflake6449]

How’d it go

[@inkognitopracholochos]

I hope it went Well but Also i think you should wait a bit. Dont know how skilled you are at playing/singing but i think you should be Little bit older.

[@stellagrace620]

@@inkognitopracholochos it went amazing I have gone a couple times and I made 140 dollars in only 2 hours! I play guitar, ukulele, and I sing I have an amp, a mic, and a music stand for my lyrics

[@stellagrace620]

@@inkognitopracholochos I really appreciate the advise I only have ever performed at a small farmers market up the street I also have a small you tube channel its called Stella's music life if you ever wanted to check it out

[@billshepherdmusicchannel5446]

I do a lot of busking. I enjoy it. I do make good money some days and not so much in other days. I have gotten several paying gigs as a result of busking. My tips: 1) play songs that are familiar to the public. 2) Don’t play too loudly. It chases people away from you 3) Make sure your equipment is portable as you often cannot make more than one trip from your car. 4) Find a spot where people are walking by but not too far away from them. They won’t tip if they must walk 20 yards to give you money 5) Keep sings upbeat and lively. Nobody wants to hear sad slow songs.

[@MinaWalker]

I’ve only ever busked once, but I’d like to do it again, the first time there weren’t many people where I was, but I honestly didn’t mind, because it was fun to just go out and play ukulele ❤

[@exalibur5847]

Lol I busked for the first time last year, and got chased to a corner by security guards😂

[@tomsoutheymusic]

😂

[@yourtub8705]

gee which city

[@smokingjazz5067]

I thought there are more serious crimes to chase!!!!! Actually busking is not a crime ...... Keep going

[@x2mars]

I started busking recently. Well actually I just wanted to sit outside and play. But I found that people wanted to give me a tip, so I had to put a hat out. Now, sometimes a couple people might stop and listen while looking at me. It feels really awkward! But I guess that’s part of playing outside

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Haha keep at it and put a hat out! People appreciate live music!

[@x2mars]

It showed me that music performance is a two way interaction. The listeners want to fulfill their part, with a tip or applause or some “reply”. I also learned that it good to end a piece. The end gives them a chance to clap and conclude the experience. They like that. Sometimes I’ll be playing some one chord boogie woogie thing and forget to let them off the hook.

[@ershkinecoutts]

Hi Tom! These are really helpful tips! Some are new to me, and some are confirmations on what I already was doing. Thank you so much! I was getting a little despondent, but you have given me inspiration to carry on. For the love (and fun) of music!

[@deelnoorahmed2670]

Thank you! I'm going to start busking been sitting on this idea for few months. Appreciate your tips much love ❤

[@nickor.3450]

Hey Tom! I really love and appreciate this video. It's informative and helpful for a aspiring busker like me. You thought me a lot from the tips and gave me ideas how to sounds amazing and feel better. I had my first busking and I should have watch this before. But after watching this video and your other videos, now I'm confident and enthusiastic for my next busking. God bless TOM and more videos to come! :)

[@1000eyed]

Great tips! Thanks Tom. I hope to work up the courage to go busking in my town.

[@marshlanderdumarais264]

Just watched your video and you make some useful points. Thanks for that. I’ve never wanted to busk, but Covid shut down all my gigs and I had no paid work for over a year. At the age of 66 I made myself go out and give it a go in a local town. Very unexpectedly I really enjoyed it and I’m usually out 2-4 times a week now. At the moment I’m just waiting for the present bitingly cold spell to go so I can get out again and my fingers will work! If I’m going away somewhere I leave a day earlier to get some busking in. Otherwise I stick to local towns within a 10-50 mile radius. I’m going to be playing at home anyway to keep my chops up, so why not do it and also practise playing with the distractions of a mostly indifferent audience and earn some money in the process. I’m in England and have a few comments about the points you raise. Every town is different. Hardly any require licences (and I’d never work in one that wanted me to pay for permission to work), but they all have different rules. A quick check on the local authority website will tell you what you usually need to know. Some town centres have privately owned precincts where busking is not allowed. Some specify the need for prior permission and one near me only grants permission on market days - that’s only on a Friday or a Saturday. Other than that, every combination of rules is possible. Many towns forbid the selling of merchandise (including CDs) without first buying a trading licence. I don’t entirely agree with your point on amplification although I think you are right about making the sound as good as possible. I have heard many buskers who have no idea how noisy they are and that can drive as many people away as it attracts. I prefer to set up in a space and draw people in rather than drive them away. It works for me anyway. I like the idea of being completely acoustic and “ organic”. One more point I’d like to add. Check out the cost of parking. I don’t go to towns where the parking charges wipe out any tips made from playing my music. Most days I come back in credit, but my worst experience was earning nothing and having to pay £4 for parking.

[@georgiareneemusic]

Ahhh I LOVE THIS! So glad I Found you! I am stepping back into performing and going with Busking (FINALLY). You have been extremelyhelpful! Very friendly and relaxed presentation style.

[@AugustRadioProject]

All such good point man. I think number 3 - not only stand but play like you're meant to be there. I think people respond well to that - obviously without being over the top, that has the opposite effect great video, great tips!

[@rickkaylor8554]

Really good video. You are pretty accurate with this video as far as advice. I've been busking a fair amount in the San Diego area. I especially due well at farmer's markets.

[@melvinbejo]

Hey thanks for the tips! I appreciate it. I’m going to be busking for the very first time and these tips were very helpful.

[@antoine8174]

Thanks a lot Tom! Will be useful for the future!!!!

[@lovelexburgundy]

muchlove from Houston Tx. thank you for the tips!

[@sunmanjones6832]

Thanks for sharing man! Great video!

[@OjonugwaMansu]

This is really helpful also going busking today/strolling the city to find good spots😆

[@Snowbearkay]

HI Tom. I am a beginner Ukulele player from Chesterville, Ontario, I have started to going to play music in a lil park in my lil town, I never play for money, I just do it because its something I enjoy doing and its kinda fun catching people off guard when the realize you are singing hymns on a street corner lol .

[@tsymandainga9432]

Thanks!! Great advice!! Really helps!

[@Phill6000]

nice video i plan on start busking this summer and this video was pretty helpful. Right now i am still try to get a little better on guitar but i think i am pretty much there. Just covid + cold weather isn't a great time to start.

[@argydubbaya]

Thanks Tom. Nice street too.

[@NadiaYTPage]

Thank you. These were good tips!

[@MeneerHerculePoirot]

Our busking band is comprised of 2 of my guitar/bass students and a drummer/percussionist. She carries two buckets w/a tambourine, maracas, bass block. She uses one bucket to sit on and one as a snare. The bass block takes a 9v. Plugs into a Vox Mini G2 3w. Bass player has a passive 90s Washburn 5 str w/a Roland Micro Cube Bass RX. A Boss TU-2 tuner as well. Guitarist has a strat w/an HB bridge pup through a Vox Mini 5w. Behringer distortion, Snark clip-on tuner. As I'm the singer I've got a Beyer mic, Tanglewood TW-15 12 string, Artist TC-59 tele through a 20w AGA Soundcloud. Has xlr and 1/4" inputs. A Boss TU-2 and Boss distortion. All amps and pedals have 2 sets of AA and 9v rechargeables respectively. Except the bass block. It has a Duracell. We have about 35 classic blues, r n r and some instrumentals like Little Wing, Walk Don't Run, Jeff's Boogie...the gp is REALLY advanced. lol It's fun and we make good money. The rig is pretty simple. We use cooler bags from markets for the amps. Set up and strike combined takes about half an hour.

[@dmisk2010]

I was waiting for the dont be disheartened tip cause its definitely a big one , some of the looks you get can be pretty degrading especially if your really struggling at the time , but that being said some my favorite memories have been while i was out busking ,more so the people you meet and thats what its all about i think , getting out and about meeting new people , gettimg comfortable playing infront of people and possibly getting paid to practice

[@peterlaws1653]

thanks Tom great work

[@ElectricBrown1]

Had me at tracy chapman

[@CulsuzGezgin]

Thanks for awsome advice and experience

[@ChaosInSpace]

This was really helpful thanks! I used to busk as a kid years ago and I'm just getting back into music again and thinking of taking it up again :)

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Amazing! Goodluck with it!! 😊

[@RobertJones-et7gh]

Excellent! Thanks!

[@johannakotvojs4002]

Thank you!! They way you put it makes so much sense and is also really funny ^^ love your humour. Imma go out there busk my ass offffff

[@MrPetepoet]

Thankyou great tips 🎼🎶

[@bluebeazley1390]

Thanks Tom invaluable!! Blu

[@robgoldstein6910]

Great advice thank you

[@CalvinKlown]

Great tips. I would advise that buskers should put a bit of money in their hat to start with. Like a "suggested donation", some people don't know how much is appropriate to tip. This can also make the people, who would otherwise just dump all their loose change on you, think twice.

[@BarryGrueter]

Very cool thanks for sharing 👍

[@jgroove007]

Helpful! Thanks gigantically!

[@jeweliaofficial]

This video was amazing and so helpful thank you!!!

[@tomsoutheymusic]

You're welcome Julia! Glad to help! 😊

[@adventuresoflochie5557]

Nice tutorial for an aussie like me. So confusing, this made it so much clearer.

[@tomsoutheymusic]

No worries Lochie!

[@jackparry6983]

I just went out with a £30 crap classical guitar no amp or mic made £20 in 30 mins I think that's alright. If you don't have the equipment don't let that stop you from going out and earning some cash to buy the equipment! Other than that thanks they're helpful tips cheers

[@holjenks9787]

Im going busking for the second time and i might be filmed and im poooor so i wanna be good and enjoy myself so thankyou :))

[@gsbguitarsgsb679]

Thanks I’m starting out. This helped a lot…

[@enslavedbrit7089]

'Busking is inconsistent' - Yep! I made 52p a couple of days ago lol. I made the mistake of not putting money in my instrument case to start. Put money in your case and it's totally different.

[@rickmckeon7399]

Thanks for the helpful tips. I haven't been busking yet, but am getting up the nerve to try. :)

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Yew! you got this Rick! 🤘

[@licksnkicks1166]

@Rick McKeon I am just getting ready to busk as soon as Toronto opens again on Wednesday. I have never busked before. I am so good to go. Have you done it yet? 🇨🇦❤️

[@Oddpistachio1]

Did anyone else hear the subtle knock on his door? "I just thought you'd want some cookies and a glass of milk." "Mom, GET OUT OF MY ROOM!" *throws object at door*

[@lucasthorsen784]

Hey Tom, very good and informative video I'm just left with one question. 13:25 when you say move around to different cities and play there are you even able to break even because then you have to pay for transport like train tickets or bus or gas, so if you move around doesn't this actually risk going home and having lost money rather than actually made money??? again thanks for the video, keep up the good work👍.

[@argydubbaya]

Don’t know who asked this but when using an inverter you will need a 12 volt battery and at home a charger to recharge the battery. The inverter usually has positive (red) & a negative (black) leads. These are connected to the corresponding posts on the 12v battery. The inverter will have A standard 240v ac outlet into which one can plug their fx or small 240v amp into. Understand also that big 12v batteries will give longer performance times. A major drawback is its weight. I prefer to play organic acoustic. Subsequently less lugging!

[@sonofembry7920]

Thanks!!

[@crazy-horsecrazyhorse8543]

Brilliant busking video......:-)

[@tomsoutheymusic]

thanks very much!

[@diamond_ocelot6]

What sort of experience should you have in playing music before you should even _think_ about going out and busking?

[@I.Z.Phooto]

Play in front of someone you know then ask if they think it sounds good enough to play in front of people. Improve your skill level over time and people will tip more when they're impressed by your skill vs hearing you play simple chords

[@DougieLink]

The Wonder Wall comment cracked me up. 5 bucks and move along.

[@MonteLeeMyPOV]

Hey just found your channel you have a great voice and im impressed! Im going to try this because i want to make money from playing my music and i dont need much to get by, 2 questions come to mind. How long do you play for the time you're out there? 1 hour 2 hour?? and then do you move on? and also, who watches your stuff when you have to pee? Do you ever walk away from your gear? I wouldn't. Thanks and i subbed!

[@x2mars]

Good tips

[@neivmusic]

Subscribed! Thanks Tom. Do you use a kick drum, drum pad or loop pedal? If so which one would you recommend?

[@mjt11860]

Any tips on playing while standing, and keeping your guitar neck from moving around when changing chords?

[@instahamx684]

Thank you 🙏🙌

[@johndeal1624]

Great video and I was considering busking in 2020 when Covid hit. Now retired and looking at going out again. Some great tips on your video. I am concerned about doing cover tunes because of copyright issues, since it is a public performance. Does anyone know the legal issues of busking cover tunes?

[@jonroberts806]

Been wanting to for a while but feel awkward, but over Covid I’ve been thinking more about it- only problem is knowing when is safe/ smart to do so because of face masks and what not

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Definitely. I've seen some buskers out, but I haven't been busking since covid. The other day I bought some hi-vis rope, I was thinking I could use to make a circle around myself. I also considered making a water/bleach solution in a bucket to sanitize donations.. But still haven't gone yet..

[@jonroberts806]

tomsoutheymusic Yeah it’s difficult to know what is smart in this climate unfortunately

[@davez4230]

Nice video! Very informative. I,d go see you.

[@micah_noel]

I’ve played in parks a lot because I wanted to get comfortable playing in public. It doesn’t draw a crowd and people rarely even slow down or stop, which is fine with me because I’m not really looking for a lot of attention... yet. And I haven’t even put my hat out to take tips. Just practicing rather than performing at this point. But my concerns are if parks have different rules than streets? I’m a bit wary of going downtown. I’m easily sketched out by certain kinds of people and I don’t want to attract a bunch of crazies.

[@BruceLande]

New sub. Fellow busker😊

[@levelintent]

How long do you recommend busking for? 2hrs? 3 or 4? What's the longest you've ever done it for and what kind of microphone do you recommend

[@arthursorel7289]

Please where did you buy it (10:01) ? I'm looking for that to create my own Thanks a lot in advance !

[@commenter2079]

Hello, I have a question about if you can't play an instrument, can you somehow connect instrumental songs to play on your AMP and just use a mic to perform on them?

[@jpgiffney9811]

Wonderwall. Your can sing ''Today is gonna be the day....'' anywhere, and someone will finish the line. Its the best for a reason ;)

[@zealu]

What amp where you using in the video in the beginning? For vocals and guitar?:)

[@prestonehlers]

Thanks tom this helped! My wife and I are working towards our dream to travel america living out of our van and Id like to start busking to help with our income and social media presents. Ive been playing for a few years now and I gotta say the thought of playing in front of crowds is scary. Ive never really been the type of person who welcomes attention. I love music and I am very passionate about my playing but that seems to go out the window when I am worried about messing up. Have you dealt with nervousness? How do you handle a playing mistake? Perhaps I need to stfu and get out there and just do it lol

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Absolutely! When I first started I was shitting bricks. Ahaha every time you go your confidence builds. Just do it, and you won't regret it. Mistakes happen.. the truth is that most people actually won't notice. You are your own worst critic! Just brush past it, it's how you improve! Goodluck on your dream mate!!

[@argydubbaya]

Thats a good motto to start with. I remember my first time looking out the car window at the crowd. Almost went home without performing. Looked in my rear viewmirror noticed my T shirt, “Just Do It” blazened across my chest. So I just did it!

[@leannbarker572]

Thank you

[@explorewithjai22]

Good thing I saw this video. Thanks for the idea. Well, I am planning to do busking here in UK. Im a Filipino and I wanna continue my singing here. I just don't know how to start so I found your video. unfortunately I don't know how to play any instruments. Can I use only Karaoke from youtube?

[@I.Z.Phooto]

I think if you're singing to songs like there's no tomorrow, people will feel that positivity and be more generous. I think it's very important that you get into it and don't just stand there singing nervously because being nervous can really mess me up

[@carlinisatnirvana8499]

In michigan, I have no idea if I need/where to get a license, I cant find info anywhere!

[@sidewaysrain7609]

You absolutely do not need an amplifier Sing and play with conviction on a decent instrument with a decent voice. People will appreciate you much more if it's grassroots and amplifier can be overbearing to passers by. The second most important thing is to prime your tip jar or guitar case with paper money!

[@MonteLeeMyPOV]

Tell me more?

[@EricFontenelle]

I died laughing at the wonderwall comment - don’t forget “play freebird!” I never know if they are serious

[@zohra3950]

I'm a 15-year-old singer and I am going to try busking but I'll be singing alongside a track, do you know how I'm supposed to make the track loud, as in will I need to connect my phone to the amp, and if so how and which amp is suggested! Thank youu. :))

[@elevengears]

I have a few songs that I can play!sing, including one that I've written. Is that enough to get started? I really want the experience of playing for people w/o going to an open mic. As I think about it I may have several more songs. I may have a set list of about 8 songs

[@TearsofFenixtattoostudio]

Thanks a lot

[@jeffreyswanson3798]

You're pretty cool thanks for the advice bro ibus Caswell man good days and bad days right LOL

[@andybrown6981]

what's gonna happen when we stop using physical coins?

[@hanf71]

Hi Tom, thanks for the great video ! Need some advice if possible? I applied for a busking licence where I’m living (Leipzig,Germany) The council there have stipulated my amp can be no louder than 20watts.( I have the Bose s1 pro that claims to be 150watt) I only use this on a fairly low volume. I’m sure if I had a 20watt amp, but cranked it all the way up, it would be at a far louder volume than what I’m playing through the Bose. Bit of an odd one this, any thoughts on this? All the best Sean.

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Sometimes I think the rules can be abit over the top. The boss S1 is very small in size, and in that way it's a great "small" option. I think if you don't crank it too loud you shouldn't have any issues. The power rating in "Watts" is always abit of a silly measure, realistically they should measure your speaker in dB of actual volume. I'd just use the Bose S1, and turn it down a little if you think you may get complaints or council workers nearby. Maybe even craft a label that says 20watts with a label maker and stick it to the back lol. 🤘

[@Jammingonlinewithanyone]

What songs works best 🎉

[@I.Z.Phooto]

Tips Ive found in the comments. 1. Do it for you, not the money 2. Play upbeat and popular songs, not sad songs. 3. Farmers markets seem to be a common favorite 4. Have a little cash in the tip case already so people know the situation

[@zakklee2556]

Is the CD .mp3 or Audio?

[@stevemorse108]

I have played often in front of crowds of up to 20..I play well bossa nova flamenco folk rock blues etc...but asking for money scares the hell out of me. Thanks a lot for your tips....my busking partner only wants to play non commercial pretty unknown material which I am concerned about....

[@tomsoutheymusic]

You don't have to really ask for it, you can just put a jar or case that says "tips" or "donations". You might be surprised how many people want to show their appreciation! 😊 Good luck mate!

[@argydubbaya]

I don’t ask for money, I am a magnet. I think abundance. I often stop and talk to those wonderful people who obviously love what I’m doing. I don’t go to a street performance to make money, it happens while I’m having a good time.

[@mya5325]

Super inspiring, great video man thanks for all the tips. I've got a question maybe you can or can't answer. I'm looking into busking but as a drummer. This looks a little different as I'm not playing something melodic you could say. Is it relaxed for a drummer to busk without background music? As of now I don't have the equipment or speaker loud enough to back myself up, any recommendations for this? I'm worried people might get annoyed with the sound EVEN if I've got rhythm ;)

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Heya mate! That's a good question. I've seen some brilliant drummer buskers. One that springs to mind on KZbin is "The Bucket Boy". He has a novelty aspect using buckets and he obviously has skills. I also figure maybe those buckets work well because they're not too loud? Compared to a full kit? I think people appreciate all types of music and talent, maybe just start somewhere that had the "least potential complaints" (as in, not many shops or apartments nearby). And see how you go. Try researching other busking drummers on KZbin and look closely at their equipment and styles! All the best man!

[@hollyelbik5288]

I'm sure there 20+ musicians on your block who would love to go busking with a percussionist!! I've considered paying someone to come out with me, lol. It elevates the music, and there are so few percussionists out there.

[@petermoore6251]

Thanks Tom, Thanks for sharing, Can I ask what amp you use?

[@tomsoutheymusic]

AER Compact 60, and now for other gigs I use a QSC K10.2

[@kirstendsilva6124]

What is the song in the intro ?

[@tassiespirit]

When you advertise then you have to pay tax. The ATO will hassle you, but if you are only just starting, don't advetise til you are ready to go full throttle.

[@GraemeMarkNI]

Where I am you definitely play wonderwall 😅

[@Rolanoid]

Great tips thanks. You should cover a Rick Astley song. You might clean up with it!

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Hahaha cheers!!

[@dorapinkdorapink6212]

Great tips!! Thank you! I m planning my first experiment this month.

[@tomsoutheymusic]

You're welcome goodluck!! Any other q's shoot me a message :)

[@ColeJohnstone]

How did it go??

[@Code_breaker_]

@P Huang • 🐯 🐯 🐯 Stay home and stop bothering other people ! ( 29 January 2021 )

[@dorapinkdorapink6212]

@@Code_breaker_ haha

[@Code_breaker_]

@@dorapinkdorapink6212 @ P. Huang 🐯 🐯 🐯 🐯 🐯 Wow, changed your username already ! Here's some free tips for busking : Humiliation. Embarrassment. Being told to get a job. People look down on you. People ignore you. Yeah, sounds like a great gig ! Why doesn't everybody do busking, I wonder ? 2nd February 2021

[@arthurcrime]

I busked in London in my 30's, I played with a guy who was f*#ked by thalidomide, he had a shrunken arm, but he could play violin like a wizard, so we did a stephan grapelli/django rhinehart thing. Damned if I could play like django, but for the most part I could fake it. We played outside tube stations for a couple of hours a few days a week. I think the least money we made was 400 quid. Anyway now I am much older and thinking of trying again. Something swampy. This has been very useful video so thanks.

[@mwpoppy7162]

What is the best busking bundle to start with or what Microphone and other equipment do you need to get started?

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Shure SM58 is a very good starter mic! And a Roland Cube Street or (EX) as a speaker.

[@scottbecker3485]

The Cube Street is now available in a great, new version called Cube Street II (2) - rebranded as Boss rather than Roland. A lot better than the previous model! As for mics, I love my AKG headset condenser mic with a phantom power supply clipped to my belt. No need for a mic stand, then. And faster to break down and carry to the next spot.

[@HumbleHeartMinistry]

If I use a 300watt sine wave power supply like for emergency camping type that they sell, that should run my multi- effects pedal, and looper pedal right? I will be using a Roland Cube EX battery powered amp. So will only need power for the pedals. I don’t want to haul around a car battery and inverter. But I am new to this and don’t want to fry my pedals.

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Yeaah will be fine!

[@argydubbaya]

Purchase a foldup stairclimber luggage trolly, put all ya gear on it, Affix ya signage to the back of it. I prefer all acoustic cos I don’t need ten minutes to plug all that shit together. I play slide n blow harmonica. I use the trolly to lug the resonator n cajon. Have fun! I do.

[@andybrown6981]

Does inverter also need power supply?

[@samridhabarman7292]

Which app ??

[@damo1140]

cool ty

[@heavensangalang651]

Thanks for this! I’ve been wanting to busk, I live in New Jersey and pretty close to NYC. It’s pandemic, I know lol but I soon wanna get out there and finally try it out. Hope you can make a video about beginners busking setup! That’d be cool ♥️ Thanks agaaain :)

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Hey aw nice! I hope things get better in the US soon!! Once things get better people will want to hear your music I'm sure!!

[@DaleLakata]

@@tomsoutheymusic nj is not very musician busker friendly AT ALL

[@bjarkenielsen8515]

I see an Eko acoustic guitar in the rack. I like them, I have an Eko Evo III.... Do you busk with it?

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Hey mate! I don't actually have an Eko. I think the guitar you're looking at is my Martin GPC-Aura GT!

[@abbyjanejames]

what equipment would you recommend for beginners? like which microphone & amp?

[@tomsoutheymusic]

Roland Street Cube & Shure SM58 :)

[@abbyjanejames]

@@tomsoutheymusic thank you! but scared to make the investment, but so know it will get good use and obviously want something that’s good quality 😊

[@Lutemann]

The big problem with busking is that 95% of all buskers consist of a guy playing the guitar and singing through an amp. And they get louder and louder. Here's my group busking. We don't use any amps, not even for vocals.