Rundown of a Solo MUSIC GIG - Setup, Gear, and Process

[@amsedelm]

I like your advice about not worrying about whether the crowd likes you. And how you utilize your break time. Stuff that other soloists don't even talk about. Thanks for the video.

[@mrboppah]

As a solo entertainer in Australia I really enjoyed watching this. So many similarities.

[@christinagurrola5335]

Nice video! I am a female singer and felt everything in this video. I have a four hour gig tomoro and am exhausted. Your positivity motivates me to cheer up and get back out there (going through a dark personal time) love your professionalism

[@craigmcgill4612]

Hey Sarah! Solo artist in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 “Some days it’s really easy some days it’s really hard” absolutely spot on, you don’t ever get two gigs the same. So many different dynamics that effect how a gig goes, but as time goes the gigs become more “comfortable” even the harder ones because when you first get started the shit gigs leave u with a feeling the worlds going to end, then after you’ve had so many good ones under your belt you know there’s a better gig round the corner. It’s not for the faint being a solo performer, particularly being an evening entertainer that people rely on to make their big day perfect. A believe some of us were meant to be in bands and the rest were meant to fly solo and bask in the hardship and rewards it brings alone

[@SarahRogo]

i agree!

[@murlyn2]

Solid advice. Every point is spot on. I have been a performer for many years. There's nothing I can add to what you told everyone. Great job.

[@27yearcoach]

What a brilliant idea for a video! Haven't seen anything else like this. Thank you for videoing the whole process. Again, wonderful idea! Very helpful.

[@richardfranklinmorse]

Really good video! Been playing gigs 50 years. I wouldn’t use a Fishman, get a Bose S1 pro, folks! Super lightweight, sounds great, battery lasts eight hours when it’s charged up, not too expensive either. Also, take 15 minute breaks, 10 is barely long enough to tune up. I usually take 20 minute breaks and no one has complained yet. One more thing - stand when you play, sitting down is low energy and you can’t sing as well with your innards all compressed like that.

[@marcusmagellan]

Hi Richard, I checked out some of your videos and I love your style, you have that little bit of jazzyness that works so very well. I agree with most of what you said except sitting down, some acoustic singers carry themselves well like Sarah does, and she sings great, just my opinion.

[@f1s2hg3]

I enjoy all your music videos and your on The Normans Rare Guitar Show!!! Sarah Rogo your a 🌟 ⭐️ STAR!!!

[@TheSingingDoctor325]

I love this video - you not onaly give practical advice but also share how to deal with the emotional impact of performing. Thank you for being real.

[@brucedelaney9606]

Wow, You are really a veteran of SoloArtist Music world. Read the room…That is what I always say. Volume is so important. If I see people leaning to speak, then I turn down. Having your set list broke down to fast and slow songs is perfect 👍. Sometimes the room is mellow, sometimes they are a touch rowdy. Being able to change up moods is imperative. Great job. Don’t give up….. PS: I have a set up that is completely battery powered for busking and beach gigs. I live in Hollywood Florida by the beach.

[@SarahRogo]

awesome! yea its always great to have a battery power set up! Ive done remote beach wedding with that.

[@starfire5656]

What is your set list like, I realize that set lists are very personal, one song does not always fit all but there are usually a few bangers that are crowd pleasers for sure, what would say are some of your best crowd pleasers, if you don’t mind, thx

[@EricInTampaAcoustic]

So well put together. I can so relate to this. Great insight. It really is a different world and it can get lonely but it builds self worth, confidence, advocacy, and musicianship. It’s all worth it in the end

[@SarahRogo]

thanks for watching! yea its a long road but fun to do what we love!

[@markpeavy4005]

Very interesting about the Fishman Loudbox because I have one! Now I don't have to worry about a pa! Thanks.

[@toddj9548]

As a new performer, I've watched many videos on the subject, but this video is gold.

[@brucedelaney9606]

Hi Sara: I respect your road warrior attitude. Here are a couple of things I do on my solo gigs that may help you. Have your background music on your phone or iPad set that up the very first thing and start playing it. It avoids them just staring at you awkwardly during set up. 🤓 Second: have a Plexiglass poster made that is portable. Include your logo, website, etc. I have a QR code on the poster that directs them to PayPal and Venmo to tip me. They’ve just got a scan the QR with their phone. Remember money has germs on it. Lol. I went to Canva and design the poster, and they made it for me very cheaply. I hang it off the amp stand with Bunji cords. Third: Have your business cards next to the sign in a holder. Next to TipJar. When they get home the have something to remember you by….

[@SarahRogo]

great tips!

[@marcyorendorff5493]

Great great tips for ears. My ears really notice it. Earplugs yes!

[@GarethBushMusic]

Full-time solo cover musician/entertainer of 16 years now. Tons of great advice in here.

[@Zayskibop]

13:14 onward has to be the most solid advice I have ever heard in this business.. Thank you so much for speaking on this and teaching us how important resilience is in music!!

[@Zayskibop]

yo and you got that guy up front grooving by the 2nd set!

[@Marykellogg]

Girl….I HAD to subscribe!! You are a fantastic communicator and so smart in gear description…very informative!!!! What a gift you are!!

[@SarahRogo]

thank you! I updated the description with a gear link too if you need

[@f1s2hg3]

Sarah Rogo you sing like an Angel and it’s a true gift to play an instrument and sing. Remember the disappointment in life will make a great song! Blues if sadden and folk if happy and rockabilly if you want to party! You know it and all your songs are great but YOUR VOICE IS FABULOUS!

[@budgetguitarist]

Some really good ideas - love the promo board/business cards idea - I'm totally stealing that one. Also I have the same cart! Just did a video on assembling it last week. :)

[@Theweeze100]

Everything you shared was priceless! Thank you so much..Subscribed!

[@SarahRogo]

thank you!

[@purpleb4682]

So much value, Thanks Sarah for putting this video together

[@catchison8671]

You have an awesome voice and such a great set up!!! Thank you so much for sharing your talent and your tips on solo gigging!!!☺️🥰👏🏼👏🏼

[@RobinRowley]

Hi Sarah. You give me courage to go on. Thank you.

[@richard135b7]

That is very helpful and insightful content!

[@markpeavy4005]

I'm about to play my first open mike in two days. I've finally learned 3-8 songs confidently enough to play in public. I've played in my home for years. I got my wife to listen. I invited a couple of trusted friends to listen and give me advise. I feel ready...but. Forty songs sounds like so much that it's overwhelming. Oh, did I mention I'm about to retire so thinking of this as part time income. Yeah, it's much harder to memorize when one is "older". Thanks again for the advice and inspiration. I wish you the absolute best!

[@SarahRogo]

best of luck!

[@r.towers4374]

Ha, I thought I was the only one who gets away on my 15 min break. I think the same of staying professional to look good for management or owners. I never invite other musicians "to jam" bcuz remember; I'm working. I'm not rude to my audience, but I never socialize if I don't have to. I have a 1973 Jazzmaster, but mainly use my Taylor. You have a great voice and are pleasant to watch. It's just nice to hear what one has in common with other fellow musicians. Hello from South Texas (RGV).

[@leftwrite]

Great job Sarah. A wealth of useful information. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your talent.

[@SarahRogo]

thanks for watching Rick!

[@chroniclesofsunshine4484]

I like that you spend your breaks recharging , I always Felt weird and antisocial for doing it. Your honesty is inspiring, thank you 🙏

[@nicholasmorris9341]

Thank you for sharing your experience and insights. Good stuff. All the best to you.

[@Buffrt66]

Sarah is awesome.

[@SarahRogo]

aw thanks you!

[@thedrammed345]

Thanks Sara, this was refreshingly honest and interesting

[@esieweha]

Thank you so much for doing this video. It helps me a lot, for my first steps 😊✌️

[@SarahRogo]

aw yay! all it takes is one step at a time

[@lowellirish]

That's a GREAT idea for a kick drum! 👏 I have a porchboard. It's ok...but I'm ready to ditch it because it doesn't give me the low bass I seek, unless I'm going through 14" bass speakers...My setup is a stagpass 300 system. The powered speakers have a removable 4 channel board in one speaker, and a small compartment in the other for one cable and one mic. The suitcase I pack them in gas wheels. 2 speaker stands, and 2 behringer toaster-sized Monitors. For a small space, I have an Alto 200w mini tower that has lights. 5 - 5" midrange-base speakers. I use a tapestry backdrop if needed and have a sign in book that requests email and comments.

[@f1s2hg3]

Sarah you have a great sound that goes with any genre of music! Folk music is making a comeback with me and I love bluesy gospel music that jerks a stream of tears from the eyes.

[@danveramusic]

Great video Sara, you have it clear with this kind of gigging, and yeah let’s enjoy our beautiful job !!!😊

[@JoeGrahamMusic]

Well done. Being part of the atmosphere is great advice.

[@Grunfeld]

Thank you for this video, really recognise the authenticity -- I *love* the tip about the handcart -- been playing in England for decades and somehow never thought of this, thank you so much! 🙂

[@bossphillipsuniverse]

Great video! Inspiring and insightful. You really nailed so many excellent points but I think the most valuable one is to not get discouraged and to just do your thing and project the good time you are hired to help create. It can be challenging and sometimes disheartening when you don't always get the response you might hope for from the audience or the venue. It takes a lot of guts to get up and perform and, like you said, what you are doing may not be everyone's "cup of tea" but you are still appreciated with what you are doing. Very inspiring to see that you are making it work for you and are making a living with it. Thanks for the video!

[@SarahRogo]

it really does take alot of guts!

[@thewoodman99]

This video helped me out a lot with my first solo acoustic gig this past Saturday that went very well. Thank you!

[@SarahRogo]

yay!!!

[@HenryWinters107]

I freaking love the honesty of this. Thank you so much for this video. It was a refreshing change. It was exactly what I was looking for as a beginning performer.

[@SarahRogo]

im glad you got something out of it! If you need any gear like I have in this video I just added a link in the description with what I use. cheers

[@timrideout]

It doesn't get any more real than this - thank you for the A-Z run thru :)

[@andrewfield]

some really useful advice here, according with some of my own experiences gigging in different venues. two thumbs up. Rock on!

[@Yenisings]

I am preparing for my first solo gig and your video was incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for sharing these tips!

[@heatherbells6818]

Thank you so much! I want to start gigging and I really found this video extremely helpful with where to start, and what gear to use. Great job!!

[@SarahRogo]

thanks for watching and good luck! just go for it!

[@SarahRogo]

just added a gear list link to the description of the video if you need

[@georgeoliverdavidthalman1091]

Awesome advice and creativity. 🤩

[@mariodacunha1161]

You’re are awesome❤ Love to get back as I have the equipment very much like yours good advice

[@FrankPersico]

Hi Sarah. Great video I can relate having been a solo performer for a looong time now and also a fellow KZbinr. Wish you the best

[@jcemagine72]

Great video. Im in Toronto Canada but I have done a gig in Carlsbad for a 4th of July event. Great memories. I've been performing as a solo artist for more than 20 years and I found this helpful. I completely relate and will give pause for your suggestions on my gig tonight. Peace and love.

[@SarahRogo]

im glad! hope you had a great gig!

[@jeffrivera887]

Great and informative video Sarah; thanks for sharing.

[@SarahRogo]

thanks Jeff! hope you are doing well!

[@ClassicGuitarRockJFL]

Very helpful video! Thanks!

[@marcusmagellan]

I can’t believe some folks don’t like you. They are just jealous ❤️ keep doing what you’re doing.

[@Nikoo033]

Really enjoyed this intimate video👏🏻, filled with great tips, should I ever have the courage to do a gig 😁🙈

[@John-cw4no]

Love the content, I enjoy living vicariously through your experience. Always wanted to do what you do but talent and lack of nerve got in the way

[@markpeavy4005]

Very good advice about matching your music to the venue.

[@phillipdumond600]

Yes. Everything you said I say yes. I'm burned out these days and looking for some revitalization. Glad I found you. I'm doing a bunch right, forgetting to do some things and never considered some others on the topics you addressed. Properly subscribed and video liked. I'll be checking in now and again. Thank you!

[@SarahRogo]

aw thanks you!

[@JTSunriseMusic]

Very well done and helpful ❤

[@bretmullins]

Agree with everything you said! Great advice and attitude.

[@virgilbrown3215]

excellent advice for newbies and veterans Thank You!

[@JTSunriseMusic]

Such a good video! I did gigs when I was younger and now I’m getting into it again, total fun. Great ideas and tips, you have lots of great gear 😊 thank you

[@MichaelCalkins-t8p]

Great content. I’m new to solo acoustic, always played in rock bands. This helps a ton!

[@DelRamage]

Great job Sarah thx so much!!

[@patfinnegan467]

Thanks for your video. Very good advice, and I love the way you play and sing.

[@joel6427]

Making nice is also a good practice in everyday life. Nobody deserves to be exposed to our bad days, and as Sarah said, making nice usually helps a person get out of whatever is on their mind at the time.

[@shanekerrmusic]

Great video! I can totally relate to all of this info (except tips, people don't generally tip in Australia). I've been gigging professionally for about 20 years now and everything you mention is relevant to my experiences.

[@SarahRogo]

oh interesting! hopefully you get paid better if there isnt much tipping!

[@shanekerrmusic]

@@SarahRogo depending on the type of gig :) I get $450 AU for a 3 hour local club/pub gig (in my home town with no traveling) and anywhere from $1000 to $1600 for a wedding. I'm not sure what you guys get overseas

[@tomrobinson7393]

👍

[@CluelessGent]

Great video! Like you, my Rock-n-Roller cart is an indispensable piece of gear that I couldn't gig without.

[@steelhead197]

Not only beautiful but talented as F^*k! I was first introduced to her on “Norms Fine Guitars” page…this gal is phenomenal! 🇨🇦🤘🏻

[@michaelfox2989]

Awesome set up Sarah,Love your music..I play at home ,, if ever get better may try playing out.. Thanks for showing what's needed..

[@SarahRogo]

I just added a gear list link to the video description if you need it! cheers

[@4Mharmony3869]

Great Advise..You inspired me more. Wishing to see You on Big Stage. GOD Bless You.

[@PaulConstableMusic]

Thanks so much for taking the time to make this video and even spending your well deserved break sharing your thoughts, tips and advice. I'm planning on jumping back into solo gigging after a hiatus of (more than) a few years and you've given me great inspiration and insight. I love your selfless perspective where the main idea is to work hard at helping people have an enjoyable time - if they become a fan, well that's an awesome bonus! Keep up the great work and rock on!

[@SarahRogo]

aw best of luck! if you need any of the gear I use I just added a link in the description of the video

[@rp1526]

Great advice. Thank you.

[@jeffrey3498]

You’re terrific Miss Sarah 😎👍

[@mikeskeins1981]

well i have to say that was a super great video, i enjoyed every moment of it. plus you have a very beautiful voice for that type of setting. good luck in the future with your gigs. put out some more gig vids, ill be watching for ya.

[@Meandmy2Vs]

Thank you for your music..and the video❤

[@rolandlabrecque2820]

Thank You for the great insights. I got a lot out of it. :) You rock.

[@f1s2hg3]

Love that love Sarah Rogo!❤

[@f1s2hg3]

Thanks Sarah Rogo for your dedication to the music career. I love your sound! Wish you were on my radio more!

[@SarahRogo]

aw thankyou!! feel free to request me at your local station =]

[@kimosabi860]

Great realistic info Thx so much

[@tommysaxman]

Thank you!!!! So many great ideas.

[@PriyanshuBharadwa]

Great video 🎉

[@garycreativemusic5271]

Thanks for the advice great ideas for my sets ,I’m just trying to do more solo gigs I’ve now subscribed

[@SarahRogo]

I just added a gear list link to the video description if you need it! cheers

[@jerrythomas9041]

Great episode. Thanks for letting us into your world. Very impressed how the electric guitar compliments you and your style. Your tips are spot on too. I would add that stage presence takes awhile to get right. Like you said you really have to read the room and not be offended by people. We are just basically window dressing to their night out. Unless you are an extremely good songwriter, I would not play originals if you are a newbie. They can ruin your vibe quickly if they don't work out.

[@xseaangelx]

​@SarahRogo Hi Sara! Loved finding this video. Great way to introduce me to you. You're fantastic. I'm now a subscriber. I'm glad you're normalizing the "tip jar". I've been told not to use one by people implying that it gives off a negative vibe but what else do you do when the venue pays so little & banks on you putting out a tip jar? I finally began using a tip jar and it makes me feel valued. It also is a form of feedback in a sense. For example, if I seem to get tips after a specific song, I know that song style is a crowd pleaser. Thank you for sharing your honest experiences. They let me know what to genuinely expect from one gig to the next. The ear plug suggestion is a great one. I have to start doing that!

[@MichaelGreenTv]

Great advice, I echo all of the information

[@jewelthompson4210]

Hi, new subscriber! Your channel is so helpful. I was wondering if you could go more in depth about getting gigs through an agency?

[@Dave-gf3kd]

Great! Very informative. Thank you!

[@aka4146]

Thank you Sarah that was cool ,I don't think I will ever get up the guts to play out but it's fun to think about.

[@1man1guitarletsgo]

Great video Sarah! I notice that you check that you haven't been double booked on arrival. I usually phone the venue during the preceding week, to check that "my name's on the wall". Your suitcase drum looks really good, and it's interesting to see that you like the Loudbox. Both of those items are on my GAS list.

[@dwstoeckel4740]

Thank you for this, I love it! ..... , I’m hoping my uh “musicianship” continues to improve, and hopefully I can supplement my retirement income by playing small gigs too! (Someday)..... for now I’m happy learning from artists like yourself.. and playing gigs for no one , in my spare bedroom .. 😂😂😂

[@ralphchavez6025]

I like this girl, keep on trucking.

[@richardsteinbergmakingknives]

Many times I have been double booked but played the gig because I was there first and set up ready to go. Once I'm set up they have to pay. I figure they pay me to move the gear. I play for free.

[@jonnybeck6723]

Hey-oh Rogo... brilliant vid... You remind me that as I battle my own schizophrenia I'm not so completely alone ...so thanx and 💘to you

[@AdamDobbs-j5k]

Not to take away from this great video with good tips.They have a pedal to add drums looping nowadays obviously its preference and I have my scanner codes for tip

[@guitarnuccio]

Great tips. Thanks!😅

[@wanderingsurf2842]

What a great video, watched it all.

[@AdaptivePhenix]

Great to see you using a solid-body. That same-old, same-old acoustic strumming stuff gets old. I use a Variax JTV-59 which gives me open tunings by simply turning a knob👍😎

[@markpeavy4005]

dam! so smooth!

[@jnbernard]

I recommend a Taylor T5z for acoustic. It feels like a Les Paul and doesn’t hurt playing for a long time.

[@toneranger]

Cool video, nice setup, love your less is more setup, I've seen duos using 2 EV 50m for a small pub with a few ppl, way too loud kills the vibe #overkill. I had the RocknRoller, I found it took up way too much space in the car, a flat folding trolley is more bang for your buck

[@Troy1g]

All great suggestions. Yes, the cool mic matters. Do you play your Jazz Master straight in or through a pedal. I am also more comfortable with my Electric guitars. Also setting the sound for acoustic guitars to me is challenging. Thank you!

[@kellyharrison1081]

I really liked your real-- good and bad-- breakdown of being a solo performer. Do you use the acoustic guitar amp for both electric and acoustic? You mentioned that you use the Strymon pedal but are you using an amp/cab sim or pedal? It sounds pretty good! Your tone is very minimal which I love!

[@SarahRogo]

yup. use it for everything. now I wold be mindful if youre running really heavy effects like distortion out of it. especially if its not the fishman pro. you dont want to blow out the speaker