Helpful Advice On Sound, Lights & Stage For Typical Bands By Scott Grove

[@RDYC]

We got to see one of Scott's live gigs and he took me through his whole setup and it was amazing! I'm a retired sound man, 5000 live events, but his setup also includes the ability to DJ, do Karaoke, and accompany himself. He took the time to really show it to me and I really appreciated it. Thanks!

[@kevinstarofficial]

Awesome way to start the day with a video from you! Besides all the wonderful knowledge you are a great entertainer. Glad to have new videos from you.

[@elfhermie]

If you could ever do a video (or multi-part series of videos) where you show a beginner band, who's never played in public yet (but who wants to play super small clubs or even just in backyards for small parties), the bare MINIMUM gear that they need and the EASIEST (and CHEAPEST) setup possible (because these are beginner's who have only JUST gotten to the point where they can PLAY well enough to even THINK about playing in front of an audience) to come out looking respectable and sounding better than similar starter bands that just use amps, that would be SUPER helpful. Basically a video where you go step by step setting up the SIMPLEST stage possible for a debut 3-4 piece band (bass, drums, guitar, singer) where you show each piece of equipment that's absolutely needed, how and where to place it and use it, etc.. I'm talking for bands that are just getting their feet wet with this stuff, people who at this point know nothing beyond plugging into a practice amp but who can now actually play well enough to want to try to do so in front of others... and who probably don't understand half of the terminology used in the above video... and/or who just want to have fun being in a little band of buddies but still sound as good as possible without breaking the bank or making things complicated for total non-gearheads. I see these kinds of small bands all the time using nothing but amps and it does indeed sound awful (REALLY awful) and gives away the fact that they're newbies but... they ARE newbies (and can't be blamed for being new and not knowing this stuff yet) and newbies really need these kinds of thing spoon fed to them kindergarten style as if they've never seen or heard any of this stuff before because they haven't. That kind of video would help soooo many people get the courage to play in front of people without the paralyzing fear of not knowing what they're doing, sounding rotten and looking stupid which is a huge part of why they've never even tried playing in front of others. It's hard to step back and remember that there are people who don't know ANYTHING at all about gear and sound and playing live in front of small crowds, but I can attest to the fact that the vast majority of people who play an instrument do so at home and at home only because that's all they know. In fact, places like youtube with so many people giving sooooo much (often too much) information at once for the ripe beginner band to comprehend and/or being given contradictory information depending on the source (damn the web is full of that on EVERY subject) can have potential future hair bands pulling their hair out before they ever got a chance to try playing a power ballad to anybody other than their pets. I remember you did a beginner "how to use an amp" video and that's the kind of really basic step by step video I'm talking about but instead it would be a beginner "how to go from the bedroom/basement/garage to the small stage" video. If it's something you think you could do, I know it would be MUCH appreciated by many. Thanks, Scott.

[@groovydjs]

Not a problem my friend. It would be my pleasure. You've always been a great person all these years and I'll put that for you for sure! Thanks for asking for it.

[@Riffman42]

@@groovydjs I'm looking forward to this!

[@terryhoffman8049]

Very true in all aspects of the video. It's very easy to tell from the way you talk about and explain things that you've been there and, done it. I've been a musician and, singer well over 50yrs. Played in several bands and, still do gig today. Agree with you Scott on everything you said. You can prepare your show or your performance all you want but, playing live in front of an audience is what makes you better and, makes you try harder to be all what you can be. There is just no substitute for this experience. In an interview Joe Walsh commented you can be a star in your basement or garage but, playing in front of people is an absolute and, you'll probably suck when you first start but, that's how it happens. I can remember my first gig and, my dad took pictures of us, every now and, then I look back at those pics as a reminder from where I came from and, how far I've come. We had no PA just Fender dual channel amps, Mic in the normal, guitar in the vibrato. No lighting, I mean we started bare bones and, after we got paid for our first gig, $20 total we thought we were rock stars. Man those were great days and, everything was new and, exciting! I wouldn't trade those days and, experiences for anything, totally priceless. Thank You Scott for all of your good words and, advice. Should be more out there like You.

[@charliecroxdale1876]

I've been watching these videos since I started playing guitar in 6th grade- now I'm in college playing some little gigs. Dr. Groovy you're a fuckin legend thank you for everything

[@groovydjs]

You are WAAAAAY too groovy for the kind compliment!!! I'm glad that you are still tuning in. You're the legend.

[@gitboxful]

I don't have a band but I play guitar and I watch a lot of your videos. I appreciate all of your info and think you are doing a great service to all of us. Thanks from Germany.

[@maxnicodemus3330]

Great video Scott! Excited to dig deeper into your content.

[@groovydjs]

Awesome, thank you!

[@dalepal]

I don’t know much about sound systems for gigging but the information you shared in this video sure makes a lot of sense.

[@topcturvee1]

Hi Scott, Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us, deeply appreciate it !! Have A Groovy Day!!!!

[@bobross5580]

That Gig poster for The Scott Grove band in Wales says allot about your touring and how much distance you have traveled for the love of music. It is not shown in this video but it IS there. I love Wales and I wish I were there when your band played there. I really appreciate your video's, nothing but uncommon sense that some of us lack. Thank you and keep this channel alive.

[@fl00dsm0k3]

Hi Scott. Thank you for making this video. Glad to see your back. I can’t get enough of your videos. Can you recommend a wedge monitor?

[@wackyweatherman601]

Howdy my man. Your buddy Jerald here. We was playing well me and my previous band small chance and the drummer lol had two color lights red and blue and that was all. They were on the floor lol It was small things like that that was stupid lol.

[@marcellofranco8771]

Amazing! Thank You

[@WickedFesterBand]

Thanks Scott! You explained that well. I enjoyed it.

[@joeltaylor4821]

Good advise! I learned so much from this! Scott, your looking and sounding much better today. Keep it up and stay off the doctor prescribed drugs. You don't want to be a zombie!

[@sentforth5]

Holy smokes, Scott, I am so guilty of so many "don'ts" in this video I can hardly stand it! Thank you!!!!

[@A.J.Collins]

Thank you for the information.

[@marcusandrew9172]

Great video scott, great info as well, one of these days if you have time, we need an updated guitar collection video. You look like you got a lot of groovy gear. Keep rocking

[@Riffman42]

More videos like this! Stay Groovy, Scott!

[@cliveclive54]

Truth,RMS is so important and Wattage on average (volume wise) is logarithmic,bless ya Scotty!

[@briguylor]

Hi Scott, great to have you back and as usual I learned a lot. I would really appreciate your thoughts on the Bose PA systems.. I bought the Model 11 and B2 sub awhile back. Using it for a 3 piece band backing a young female lead singer, mostly in small bar situations. Thanks

[@sidneysnottley6414]

A wealth of info - Many thanks.

[@douglaswalther8489]

Grab the info while you can! Doc knows his shit.

[@thomboy54]

great video Scott

[@suekennedy8917]

Yes! Scott is back. Bye bye trolls. Trolls go and hang out with Phillip or other guys who want to sell unnecessary things. Dr. Groovy can I ask you a question. Why do you have the Alesis reverb unit in you rack when you also have the TSR-24 which also has reverb. So glad you are back, and waiting for more videos. You trolls stay in the trash!

[@groovydjs]

They are for drums and acoustic guitars.

[@suekennedy8917]

Mega thanks. I donated ten bucks and ten cents so you will know it's me...LOL. You are a good man and I hope the miserable trolls never get to you again. Ahhh, the nice clean sound of a Peavey amp and a Fullerton with single coils. Dr Groovy rules!

[@groovydjs]

SOOO very appreciated! You are the second person in 10 years to ever use that link. lol I thank you!

[@lefthanddavey2053]

Hi Scott. for your next video could you give advice on stagecraft. Tips on how to engage with the audience, appropriate things to say, inappropriate things to say, how to dress as a band etc. I've seen bands who come across as self indulgent and it is not fun to feel excluded as an audience member. I look forward to your advice. Keep preaching the word to the guitarded my friend.

[@Riffman42]

Yes! Definitely more of this info. There is a severe lack of info out there from actual gigging musicians about this.

[@groovydjs]

Sure thing my friend. Yeah, I've noticed that there is nearly NOTHING covering this stuff out there.

[@williamj.nerison8834]

I remember your review for your Fender Performer guitar. I loved it. Did you ever find a Fender Performer bass guitar?I would love to see your review on that bass guitar!

[@groovydjs]

I've found a few, but never did pick one up for some reason. They are superior basses.

[@metalmethod420]

Any opinion on Harley Benton guitars?

[@groovydjs]

I've never seen nor played one.

[@thomascrisp9895]

Scott if you can / would, please tell me about the origins of a Greco Mirage guitar I purchased some years ago through eBay from Japan. The serial number at the top-rear of the head-stock is 0 2958. Thanks in advance. TC

[@greghobbs1728]

If you haven't checked out John Robson guitar tuition & you want a lot of information on " bang for your buck" guitars from Harley Benton .

[@brianhenderlong6186]

Great video. Jimi Hendrix tuned up between and during songs but I get the point I'm not Jimi Hendrix.

[@onsesejoo2605]

Please add some simple graphics about the system here and there. It might be helpful to clarify the spoken description.

[@brettkramer6316]

can a keyboard be played through a bass amp? I have an old tuck n roll 200w Kustom head and 2x15 cab and want to run a keyboard through it.... anyone?

[@groovydjs]

It will sound HORRIBLE, but you can. The MAN thing you need there is a good horn. Going through speakers only, without a horn will sound like a dog trying to bark with a sock in its mouth.

[@johnnygonzales3211]

You are very knowledgeable my friend😜

[@jessegaronband]

You mentioned nothing about compression, making mixing a snap?

[@groovydjs]

This was a very brief set of helpful tips. I use a compressor on every channel and EQ's on many channels as well. So, In total, separate compressors for 48 channels. If you want to learn how to use compressors CORRECTLY, then you can purchase my 10 hour video.

[@jessegaronband]

@@groovydjs I am not trolling just checking things out because you never know what you can improve on. My Bassist, one of the finest musicians one could play with was Sound Engineer in Nashville for seven years for the Grand Ole' Opre'. I was fortunate enough to learn from him. Two others for recording Live sound. One from Electric Lady Studios. The other Grammy nominated. Keep your chops up! - Peace

[@corneracers9009]

Scott, I like this video, but somehow I need clarification! Sorry for not getting it...

[@97warlock]

We us e 2 massive 18 Cabs for the Lows along with 2 15s & 2 horns ... with a Peavey 1200w PA also 2 12 Floors .... Can NOT run the kick pedal EQd for the kick & still have clear vocals. Every hit distorts the vocals, or momentarily overpowers the vocals. Sorta like a momentary dropout because the Vocal is battling with a big bass hit from the same speaker

[@groovydjs]

Yep, that would be a nasty sounding rig. It sounds more like a DJ setup for Mexicans. They love that setup.

[@semperrockosuarusgiganticu7452]

Hey Scott. You seem to be the one people love to hate. Probably because you are considered what I am, The sacred cow slayer. Great advice that, if some people would just take a few minutes to research and test a lot of your suggestions, they would find, you are for the most part , correct. Not everyone will agree with everything, but, put the suggestions and or theories to the test, before showing great ignorance and saying, YOU'RE WRONG, YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT YOU'RE TALKING ABOUT. Good info as usual. Semper Fi.

[@littlejohnny1498]

You better have a very good front man if you have very much time between songs. I used to get so mad at some of the bands I was in for taking too much time in between songs. Most good bands will go from one song right into another. Just my thoughts from the years I played in bands. And for heavens sake ,be on time for the gig.

[@DetroitWrecker666]

I never understood how to be late to ANYTHING. I get there are times in life where there's NOTHING you can do about it and I'm sure it's happened to me but so infrequently I can't even remember a time. And yes! Nothing worse than watching each other pick each others or their own ass in between songs.

[@97warlock]

You said Run everything thru the PA .... Problem is...... The kickdrum, in order to put out good bass, will interfere with Vocal clearity. - Whats your opinion on this? MY thoughts was ... Get a Seperate (or 2nd) PA just for the kickdrum.

[@groovydjs]

Nope, don't do that. You simply do not have a good sound system. There is not one band in the world that does anything special for the kick drum. It sounds like you don't have enough power driving your cabinets and that you don't have a compressor on the kick drum. If you do, it's not being set correctly.

[@97warlock]

Compressor for the kickdrum? He has a weird round Mic on a short long stand in front of the hole of the kick drum. DOnt think theres a compressor,not familiar with one of those though. The PA says 1200 watts ............. so just for fun say its 300w iTS only pushing the vocals only ........... it wont do Kick & vocals. Thats a big issue with our band is Lack of low end. .... If we were to be shown in 7 Graffic Equalizer form...... The far left 2 sliders would probably be almost zero. ... Getting some depth or feel out of the kick drum seems to be the bigest lack in our band. - / Okay - SO...... If he EQs the PA just for the kick, he can get it pounding out pretty good . .... But start singing & the beats clip into the vocals.

[@DetroitWrecker666]

@@97warlock You need to hire a sound guy. And I'm NOT EVEN trying to be a dick. MOST musicians have NO IDEA what they are doing outside of playing their actual instruments.

[@Timmiemetz]

Kich drum...run your subs from an aux and only put kick, keys and a little bass in them. NO KICK IN THE MAINS...or very little to add highs. That will remove any vox/kick correlation. You really don't need 100hz and lower from any other instrument.

[@filianablanxart8305]

This is fascinating , and I want to have a good understanding . But , alas in my area ,none of the (traditional) country bands use any of this . Sound systems for vocals only . ( Occasionally for bluegrass, a mike for the dobro, but that's it .) Real Country isn't a big draw , and the venues are all small enough that the amps and drums already fill the room .

[@groovydjs]

If amps and drums fill the room, folks need to get rid of the amps all together and grab an electronic kit. If the people in your area don't use any of this, I truly feel sorry for them and the audience. It really is the way to go. So many people flying blind when it comes to this stuff. That's why I'm putting it out there. I can't remember the last time I used an amp at any gigs. It just makes for such a better sound through the sound system. Thanks for writing in and I'll do a lot more on this subject.

[@bjlevi5768]

where's the tea bag shirt bro!?

[@masterstacker2833]

Listen to Dr. Groovy.

[@moondiver8652]

interesting vid 👌

[@DetroitWrecker666]

There's a couple videos out there, one Zakk Wylde and one Slash that come to mind. They were having trouble getting sound and proceeded to adjust their amps. Probably the amps that were doing nothing more than having a power light. LOL! Sad stuff when guitar players make themselves look as dumb as they are. LMAO!

[@c.i.dangelo4515]

But John Entwistle had TWO "sport drink bottles" with the silly stretchy straw on his mic stand!

[@ShawnJonesHellion]

Never "bend" with a guitar around your neck anyways. Always squat unless u dislike your guitar and back

[@bjlevi5768]

I just realized who you look like...an angry Jack Black jaded roadie :) lmao, just messing with ya ;) Best line ever..... "IM making up a number, but its probably true" ...im using that shit!

[@johnwarren5492]

All that equipment sounds expensive as hell. I don't have that much dough lol.

[@Scott__C]

A lot of this made me laugh because I've been in bands I've been in. Why is it the people who gripe about "I need this or that in the monitors" etc. are always the ones who buy nothing for the system?

[@marcellinden7305]

Good job on this Scott. Not technically perfect but not leading anyone astray either... a very Rock-n-roll way of describing things ... I'm just a little sad for all the super interesting good stuff you left out...

[@groovydjs]

Yeah, just people's feet wet who don't know this stuff. I'll have to rerecord the 10 hour tutorial. That puppy is fairly thorough.

[@garyeggleton1142]

wish we all had your money and time.....but good info to have.....I set my band up all the wrong way from this video, but maybe we dont play for the vast amounts of people you do lol

[@groovydjs]

It doesn't take any money. This is info for even the smallest setup.

[@garyeggleton1142]

I would like to understand the seperate monitor feeds better.....but I have 2 power amps, a board, an in ear system....and monitors and mains....no subs......trust me Scott, im not givin ya shit, I follow your advice all the way :)