The Ultimate Guide for Solo Acoustic Gigs | Do Not Break These Rules (Ten Commandments)

If you want to get more gigs as a solo acoustic artist then you first need to know what common mistakes gigging acoustic musicians make. This is especially important when you first start gigging as a guitarist. The right solo acoustic gig setup consists of knowing what the pitfalls are. To get the most gigs possible you need to avoid these 10 common mistakes. I will do all I can to give you tips to help you make a living as a musician. I am calling this the Ten Commandments of Solo Acoustic
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:08 1. Thou Shalt Not Play Too Loud
02:58 2. Thou Shalt Not Talk Too Much Between Songs
03:55 3. Thou Shalt Not Shamelessly ask for Tips
05:07 4. Thou Shalt Not Ignore The Atmosphere In The Room
06:09 5. Thou Shalt Not Play Extended Loops And Solos
07:02 6. Thou Shalt Not Play The Same Set In The Same Order
08:16 7. Thou Shalt Not Drink
09:25 8 Thou Shalt Not Exploit The Perks
10:32 9. Thou Shalt Not Be A Spoiled Sport
11:35 10. Thou Shalt Not Arrive Late
14:24 Outro
The Art Of The Tip Cup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5eTXqSJeMaCaNEsi=_2Ae-P2WRCGV0WNB
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[@johnheer3059]

When playing an all request night, never ask anyone what their favorite song is. Ask them for their favorite band or artist and then you are not pinned down to one single song.

[@FrankPersico]

That is a great piece of advice.

[@e.f.kridermountainmist5530]

Excellent advice, been doing a solo acoustic act since '99 and the only thing that I would add is: Try and look like you're having a good time - the tips are better when you smile. Great work, thanks.

[@FrankPersico]

I absolutely agree thanks for sharing

[@alexandredormani2093]

Yeah! It’s the only rule that allows me to derogate (a little) to the « don’t drink rule ».

[@ksullivan1088]

These rules are spot on and have worked for me. Rule 11, don't take long breaks.

[@FrankPersico]

Yesss that is a great addition

[@coolramone]

Rule 12, practice.

[@Beadgcfb]

As an audience member I also agree with all of these. We notice. I like when the musicians have a venmo code for tipping- more discreet, and I don't always have cash.

[@FrankPersico]

The venmo code is key lol

[@jivanbansi9640]

Don't swear. Don't put down any musical style, or song. Don't let them hear you tune { too much or too loud]. Don't forget to carry extra strings, batteries, cord.picks, pen paper, Don't finish your sets early.

[@FrankPersico]

Fantastic tips! Thanks for sharing

[@cliffsandifer3877]

Some one asks you if they can " check out your guitar dude " be nice but say no firmly, I let a fellow play mine and he lost his grip, dropped it on the monitor ...cracked the side...he slyly left before he was going write check...my 100 $ gig cost me 175 $ repair 1990(?)...just say no 6:58

[@thereisnopandemic]

I will always put down country music, it is pure 💩and I can’t stand the twang.

[@spiffokeen]

I like most of what you’re saying but I’ve gotta disagree on the tuning one. As a spectator there’s nothing worse than someone not taking the time to get it right and saying it’s close enough. I don’t care if you’re Clapton. If you’re out of tune, you suck.

[@hegemonycricket2182]

​@@spiffokeenuse a true bypass tuner, this way its quick and QUIET. He didnt say dont tunr, he said dont let them see you do it too much or too loud. This is good advice. A guitar that stays in tune is the best investment. But you are right- def dont be out of tune.

[@russellsaunders9502]

I would add a number 11 - always have a backup, cables, power, mics, strings et.

[@FrankPersico]

Good point but hard to preface with “though shalt not” lol

[@russellsaunders9502]

@@FrankPersico Thou shalt not forget to pack extra ...............

[@FrankPersico]

Lol... simple but effective. Start making videos! lol. thanks for the input i appreciate it. and you are right. very important especially having strings!!

[@artcarnrick6905]

Amen brother! Been doing this for 60 years and agree with all of it... Once folks realize that you follow these commandments they will let you enter at the front door and walk near the liquor cabinets and dessert trays!

[@FrankPersico]

Hahaah that’s a good one lol

[@jameswilcox763]

My goodness Frank! With a career background as a professional speaker and trainer; these are spot on. My wife and I now play a weekly duo gig at our favorite hotel. Modeling your tips has helped increase our following! Thanks

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for the comment. Nice to have some confirmation from someone out “in the field” so to speak … I’m sure being a pro speaker made ur comfort level much greater when it comes to performing … all the best to you

[@billbozly763]

Great advice. Been a professional musician for 15 years now and a lot of it is because I follow your rules. Only thing I would add is : Thou shalt not stare at your tablet the whole gig.

[@FrankPersico]

Ahhhhh good one!! I have committed that one lol

[@holboroman]

That reminds me of an ESSENTIAL one. Know your stuff. Practise , practise, practise. Gigging bands do not have tablets or bits of paper to look at. I would reserve the tablet for requests. But if you can seriously engage an audience, then they wont have any requests.

[@timlucasentertainment]

I wholeheartedly agree with everything you listed and said! Awesome video

[@FrankPersico]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@danpost4755]

I agree wholeheartedly! This list basically outlines my rules as well. One of my favorite ways to gig is as an acoustic duet. When both guys can sing, harmonize, and play guitar well, that opens up tons of possibilities. Great video, Frank!

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. I rarely gig as a duet but I should try. Finally add some harmonies to those Simon and Garfunkel tunes I play 😬

[@Southernguitar74]

Yep, my best friend and I have played as a duet for years. It is more fun to me, and like you said, it opens up many more possibilities.

[@annfoster465]

Thank you so much, excellent advice. Love from Scotland.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. I appreciate the comment :)

[@zapwai]

Fantastic video, thanks for posting!

[@FrankPersico]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ttaurus393]

I couldn't agree with you more. Well done my musical brother. Happy gigging.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. I appreciate the kind words

[@MarkCook-tl8po]

Excellent suggestions. This helped me. Thank you.

[@FrankPersico]

Glad to hear that. All the best to you

[@markgaudet4403]

Great insight Frank. You are a true seasoned performer. Thank you

[@FrankPersico]

Thank you so much. I hope you got something you can use from it.

[@sachachanyan]

Some things I would add: 1. If it’s an important gig at which you want to do well and maybe play some new songs, then arrange for one or two „warm-up“ or „test“ gigs a few days before it. That way ypu can see how the new songs worked for you and the audience, build up the confidence in performing them and eliminate the anxietyof performing something new for the first time. 2. Have spare batteries, cables, strings.... 3. Learn all the lyrics by heart eventually so you can be more in the song itself rather than having to concentrate on reading. 4. Take time to chat with your hopefully satisfied audience after the gig. 5. Be very nice and helpful to the personnel of the establishment. You’re in a business partnership and interaction in that moment. Make your interaction a pleasant experience. 6. Don’t count your tips or your pay in front of the audience. Pack it up last,because some people come and tip you even after you‘re done while you’re packing up but count the money at home!!

[@FrankPersico]

These are some gold nuggets u are dropping on us! Thanks so much. I think we may need to add a few more commandments

[@noproblemguitar7395]

#6. Good add. Kenny said it best, “Never count your money while you’re sitting at the gig”. . . or table lol

[@JustBGuz]

Your well-placed advice and professional attitude are duly noted and much appreciated. Thanks for sharing this highly relevant, practical insight (I had to learn each and every one of these concepts before things really started coming together). 😎

[@FrankPersico]

Glad it was helpful! All the best to you and thanks for commenting

[@meljohnson5579]

Great tips. When I sit back and think of things from the audience/consumer perspective ...the answers are obvious.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks. I will be making another vid with. Few more or these “commandments”

[@jimkellyacousticmusic869]

Good suggestions for sure. Thanks for doing this video

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for watching!

[@FASFatherandSon]

Love this, great wisdom.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks

[@adventurefreaksss]

Well done Frank! Keep up the great work!!

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much

[@sachachanyan]

You’re very welcome! Glad to help! 😘👍

[@jimwaller5465]

Great information and I agree with about all of your advice. I will have a FEW drinks, but never overdo it. I am also a nut about being on time. Thanks Frank, glad I found your channel!

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for commenting and welcome

[@Virtual-Media]

As someone who enjoys a good performance almost as much as giving one I'd have to say your first rule was the most important. When my wife and I or other family members or friends go out to a venue for an acoustic performance and we have to shout to have a conversation we generally leave.. and not to contradict talking too much between sets, but a great sense of humor sprinkled lightly between sets can be a real asset for the performance. Everyone loves a good laugh to steer clear of religion and politics. I love it loud when going to a concert, but not so much for acoustic performances. And we're not shy about telling the venue, restaurant or otherwise why we're leaving. not trying to be a jerk just being honest.. Anyway, love the channel and advice. Keep it up. ✌️

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for your perspective. I totally agree with u. I can’t stand when I go out and the music is so loud I have to scream at the person next to me

[@keylimewinesingersongwrite862]

Very great info! Thanks Man !

[@FrankPersico]

My Pleasure. Thanks for the comment

[@joenovak2815]

Thanks for sharing your wisdom.

[@FrankPersico]

It’s my absolute pleasure. Wish you the best

[@gregsmith29]

Fantastic Advice, much appreciated!!

[@FrankPersico]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@majorfeelgoodrecords2740]

In Australia, we only have a tip jar if we are busking😜🎼🤘🏻

[@FrankPersico]

One of these days I’m gonna go out in Central Park and busk. Never did it properly

[@derekhandley3270]

Excellent advice . Thanks 👍

[@FrankPersico]

My pleasure!

[@henryalianel9912]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge brother.

[@FrankPersico]

My pleasure

[@sachachanyan]

Totally concur on all points! ☝️😉 I‘ve seen all those mistakes made.....

[@elcaminodelbusker]

terrific tips, thanks, also applyable for busking

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks. Glad you found it useful. I appreciate the comment

[@guitarnuccio]

Great advice!!!

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks … have a great day

[@alanjohnson2853]

Great advice, well done!

[@FrankPersico]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DrJoshGuitar]

Lovely video my friend. Keep inspiring.

[@FrankPersico]

Thank you. I appreciate the kind words

[@kelly2558]

Frank, wisdom gained over time has made you the Moses of solo gigging LOL. This advice goes to the heart of doing the job right ie. being professional. I know I will be keeping it in mind while moving forward with my budding career. In case I lose track of any specific rule, my one overriding guide will be: be gracious.

[@FrankPersico]

LOL moses...be gracious. thats a great tip in and of itself and so true.

[@ChrisHardyWorld]

Dang, I'm 10 for 10 - it's a miracle, lol. This is ALL great & solid advice right here, well done!

[@FrankPersico]

hahaah. keep it up and thanks for the support

[@phillipdumond600]

Spot on!!

[@FrankPersico]

Thank u

[@ambroseharper8316]

Great tips, every one 👌

[@FrankPersico]

Lovin the feedback from everyone as well

[@bluzikmusic]

Good tips - thanks.

[@FrankPersico]

My pleasure

[@allamericanadventures]

Another great video!

[@FrankPersico]

Thank you very kindly.

[@robertgrimsted877]

I find doing live music i usually fill exhausted after nervous exhausted energy drink helps its always good to take a friend with you if you can for helping get the sound test plus giving you some feedback love the video it really helps

[@FrankPersico]

That’s true it’s also nice to know at least you have ONE fan in the room !!

[@acousticabuse6953]

Been binging "Callums corner" videos and when this popped up in reccomemded thought "wow callums a man of many talents" 🤣🤣

[@paddyofurnituredelcotroubadour]

Well done, Sir!

[@FrankPersico]

Thank you 🙏

[@ThorsonMooreMusic]

Your etiquette is incredible. Nothing more to say;)

[@FrankPersico]

Wow, thank you!

[@tjzini]

I'm 67. Been playing since I was a teenager. I still love it and play out at least a couple times a month. Great rules. Especially liked the volume one. I get complimented on that all the time. The crowd needs to be able to hear you but they should be able to comfortably converse at their table and the waitress should be able to hear them call for a drink. I don't drink before starting but I drink beer during the whole performance. Three hour gig I have at the most four. I have about 8 hours of songs and play a 3 hour gig so I'm always mixing it up. Don't just shake it up, ask for requests. If you can do it, do, if you can't compliment the song and give your regrets and try to do something in a similar vein. I learned a couples' requests last month and they were very appreciative. They were songs I like OK, didn't think they would come across that well solo but did them anyway. She wanted to hear Brandy and he wanted Drift Away. They came out decent and like I said were well received. I don't talk much but I try to make eye contact, smile, nod at raised glasses, tell the crowd that people who sing along or dance are cool. I usually start five to ten minutes early and will play late if the crowd is into it. Not too much later, tho, one or two songs.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for dropping all this wisdom on us! I for one appreciate it and I’m sure everyone else does as well.

[@stevemcclanahan3845]

Fantastic Advice as Always Frank! Just to add to your advice on not having a tip jar for Private Events. I agree 1,000% and what I have found is that if people want to tip you at those Events, they find a way :)

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. Yes that has been my experience as well. It’s insulting to the host I feel to solicit tips from their friends and family when you are actually getting paid to play

[@johnnyxmusic]

Nice. Keep it classy.

[@arnoldrutjens6663]

Played my whole life and learned all of this the hard way...but you're so right.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for commenting

[@alexandredormani2093]

Thank you big brother!

[@FrankPersico]

You are welcome ..🙏

[@MustafaBaabad]

I am not a professional musician but I enjoy your advice. Thank you very much Chief. That 10 commandment is excellent and you covered all the important aspects. Cheers feom Indonesia.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. Best to u

[@gordontyrrall5299]

Enjoyed that - came across your channel by accident, but very entertaining. We don't really do the "tip jar" thing in the UK,unless you're busking, but I know you're aiming at the U.S audience. I've been a pro singer/guitarist all my life (never got anywhere mind you😂) and my golden rule is - LEARN THE SONG! Has anyone ever seen a great live performance from someone looking at a phone or tablet?

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for the comment and yes I’m totally aware of the fact that diff cultures have different norms when it comes to tipping. And to your point about “never getting anywhere” well you can say the same for me and for 99% of us “pros” without the credentials of what used to be considered success in this game. I really appreciate your taking time to comment and welcome to my channel.

[@mkrj2576]

OK I’m stopping early in your commandments, as you won me over with number one first and foremost., and I’m giving you the thumbs up. Outside of solo gigging, I recently joined in with a band where too much volume is a real problem. I’ve never heard of or had any one leave a performance, because people complain the volume was too low. All the time I see people walking out of gigs, myself included, because it is so loud. It is damaging my hearing, and I can’t even talk to someone sitting a foot away.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for the comment. The volume things is a real issue. I can’t stand playing with other players who are in the volume war

[@gdub999tub.]

Volume is a weird macho thing. Bands play WAY too loud and no one can hear anyone else speak, and it's literally painful. But everyone in the audience pretends it's cool because only a clueless nerd would complain that 'waah, it's too loud and it hurts my ears.' But it does... I have learned to wear db-limiting earplugs to concerts, just as I do when I go shooting at the range. The music sounds fine.

[@RichardMatoon-sj4sy]

Great video and terrific responses! I respectfully add the following; If I have something coming up like a songwriter event where I will be front and center to a sit-down crowd. or a recording session where spot on is the aim, I do this: For at least a couple of weeks, every day, I rehearse at the exact same time as my upcoming obligation, blessing, gift, privilege, opportunity, and gig. (That's what it is to me, all of those things.) When I put the work in this perspective and nail down times places and song sequences, gig time comes, and I am used to digging in with confidence, just in a different place. I hope this is helpful to some folks out there. It also helps to alleviate stage fright. Thank you for this video. Great work!

[@tedlivermore6955]

​@@gdub999tub.DJ s are also too loud.Most weddings I ve been to lately I spend the reception outside.Really dont feel like going deaf or getting tinnitus for the sake of pretending how great it is.

[@RickyLaneMusic]

Well done, Frank. You've obviously done your share of gigs. Also, when playing originals, make sure you disperse them among known popular covers so as to keep your audience comfortable.

[@FrankPersico]

Great idea. And I need to make it a point of adding more of my originals: I seemed to have stopped doing it lately and it’s not good.

[@noproblemguitar7395]

I’ve found it works better if you don’t announce it’s original, or at least save mentioning it in passing- after the song. Feels less like a “Look at me” moment, which if you’re doing it right they already are lol. Just play and let the music/lyrics stand for themselves.

[@johnsnow9232]

Excellent video. I’m in my 26th year of acoustic performances.

[@FrankPersico]

Ahhh a veteran!

[@robertgrimsted877]

Remember to smile some times when you’re nervous definitely don’t drink alcohol try and enjoy yourself good advice love the video

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much . Glad you can relate to it

[@davidbrandt6925]

You are the Bas Rutten of gigs. Great work!

[@FrankPersico]

Hahahah thanks

[@jghollowell4]

12:18 In my recording class, we were taught early is on time. On time is late. Late is fired

[@FrankPersico]

Exactly. I got my Intro to this at HS for Performing Arts here in NYC. You could miss math but you better not miss rehearsal lol

[@danielcruzmusika]

I took your advice and subscribed😊

[@FrankPersico]

Welcome aboard!

[@davegmusicchannel]

spot on

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much

[@reliablebow]

Thank you!

[@FrankPersico]

My pleasure

[@chriscalver8595]

brilliant

[@FrankPersico]

Thank u

[@zackhagains]

Thanks for the content and info. Do you have recommendations on gear? A "don't leave home without it" list perhaps.

[@FrankPersico]

I will try to make a video about this soon!

[@colbydove12-stringwonder61]

I've been gigging professionally as a solo acoustic artist since 2019 and I couldn't agree with you more on all of these. I've seen too many of my fellow musicians showing up late, begging for tips, playing too loud, or being pissy when they don't get a reaction from the crowd. I love all of these "commandments" (even though I'm occasionally guilty of #5). This should be required viewing for all solo acoustic musicians !!

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for the comment. Nice to see when an other pro is on the same page. Number 5… hahaha me too. Thats a tough one to completely break but the heck with it we deserve it! Lol

[@ericwillmusic_tpa]

Being too quiet has been bad for me as well. I hosted an open mic night.. and from the audience I could tell it needed to be turned up. From the stage it always felt too loud. Thanks for the video My go-to phrase when i gig has been "its not about what goes wrong... its about how I respond to it" - helps quell some anxiety - because things will go wrong

[@FrankPersico]

Good stuff thanks for sharing. Love that quote!

[@awerle2055]

A close friend runs a band, they're always so loud no one can talk. I assumed they feel the purpose is dancing and watching them play. 🤷

[@thegrigg]

All these rules work for bands too!! Great advise

[@FrankPersico]

Yes it does! Thanks for the comment

[@robertgrimsted877]

I think if you are nervous I say just go for it I think if you got the right mindset you sound better sing and play better love the videos thanks frank

[@FrankPersico]

my pleaure!

[@JoeReblMusic]

Glad I do all of these! I don't eat at a gig- with setting up, sound check, and playing, who has time for that? Also, drinking- if you are playing, it's sort of hard to drink too? If you are getting tipsy at a gig there may be a bigger issue there. Also add 11- Don't be "silent" during breaks- have a playlist of tunes so that vibe continues while you are not playing and 12- don't take long breaks (saw others stating that as well)- Support local live music!

[@FrankPersico]

Great input. Yeah the don’t take long breaks should have been in there!!! Pretty soon we are gonna be up to 20 commandments! lol

[@jy285]

Good advice

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks so much. Welcome

[@robertbain5076]

Great advice! Cannot emphasize #1 enough, especially in bars and restaurants. Playing so loudly that guests have to shout at each other is a real downer. Dial the ego down and realize that people might want to talk to their dates!

[@FrankPersico]

Absolutely. Really can be a deal breaker for sure.

[@modjohnsenglishdisco]

I was recently at my music-friendly neighborhood bar where a guy set up in the corner during a sports semi-final of the local team. The owner, the night before, admitted the conflict he'd inadvertently set up and he was a bit nervous about it. It worked out. The dude played with the TV sound off for the first half, and waited until the game was over to play again. But you could still feel some tension in the room! As an occasional promoter, I've made the mistake of not checking out what's going on in the outside world... including, and especially, weather!

[@FrankPersico]

Oh yeah. Especially post season sports like playoffs lol. Music comes 2nd :(

[@danmarjenka6361]

Also, put a small sticker with a smily face on the top edge of your guitar facing you, to remind you to smile. Works great.

[@FrankPersico]

That's a great idea!

[@andysmith6156]

Amen, spot on.......Rule 11 don't play 2 minor key or major 7 key songs in a row and don't play all the same key songs in a row.

[@FrankPersico]

Good stuff

[@smokinmoose2]

The first one is funny to me, for this reason. Years ago I was in a band but the other guitarist and I also did acoustic guitar duo shows. One night we were booked in a bar on the near north side of Chicago, a trendy place for the times. There was a stage but no PA (we were told by the club manager we didn't need to bring one so we assumed that they had one there). Anyway, we started to play to a somewhat rowdy crowd, were three or four songs into our first set, and the manager on duty that night walked up to the stage and told us to turn down. I don't know how much quieter we could have become but we soldiered through somehow.

[@FrankPersico]

That’s a tough one. Sometimes I have had venue owners make me play so low I wonder why they even bother having live music

[@LA610]

good tips

[@FrankPersico]

Glad you think so!🙌

[@LanceEads]

Number 7: I learned a long time ago when I was drumming in a cover band that drinking and playing was not a good combination. I'll sip on my complimentary beer while I'm playing, but even after a two hour set I'll still have a quarter of my beer left. I just drink enough to keep my whistle wet.

[@FrankPersico]

Good judgement indeed :)

[@jamesburns4363]

Great list. Double thumbs up on the drinking/partying. Ric Beato has a great story about how his lead singer put too many back before a gig and as a result the singer definitely put his foot in his mouth and it sort of spelled the end for that band. Booze and work never mix. At least that been my experience. Even when they provide it and you think it's going great as you said someone is noticing.

[@FrankPersico]

I vaguely remember that episode where Rick talked about this..

[@jamesburns4363]

@@FrankPersico I've been sober for a few winks and nods so I am biased but it's the same story I hear over and over and over ie loose lips sink ships. Enjoy your channel. Thanks.

[@jboughtin7522]

Most of the banter stuff I hear musicians doing between songs I just don't want to hear it, but I have seen some people who had particularly entertaining or funny stories. So that one varies for me.

[@FrankPersico]

Yeah I get it. Some people do have a knack for it. Few and far between from what I’ve experienced .. some nights I’m more chatty… one night I heard a lady say “alright already” lol. Broke my own rule

[@thenaturalmidsouth9536]

Todd Snider....his stories are almost as good as his music.

[@bobaldo2339]

I agree that one should not play too loud. As for the rest? It depends on your act, the venue, the age group, the local culture, etc. Many years ago, I would sometimes tell people that when the young lady passes the tip jar they should even give that money they were saving to buy their grandmother a hanky for Christmas, etc. But then, some spontaneous dark comedy was always a part of my act.

[@FrankPersico]

Hahaha I like the dark comedy bit. I always tend to say the wrong thing though smh :)

[@outerbanks854]

I don't usually take breaks, so I have to consider fatigue on my voice...I try not to overdo the loop soloing, so I have discovered that I can do longer intros or outros... and multiple short solo breaks in some songs, quote other songs instrumentally, and add a solo break in songs that didn't have them originally...ie: solo break after the second verse on CSN 'helplessly hoping' or Greg Kinn 'breakup song'

[@FrankPersico]

Great tips. Thank you for commenting. I do have a bad habit of not taking breaks and pushing my voice

[@chrisgoodenough1374]

Loving your content. Add “Thou shalt not use vocal chorus pedal”…..I’m sure there are some that have mastered the use if this little toy but I haven’t come across any of them yet. At best it sounded cheesy and I’ve heard some that (especially if they’re not great staying on pitch anyway) go off the rails pitch wise. While I haven’t tested the waters yet on looping, I agree with “thou shalt not loop too much”. One of our local artists is an extremely talented musician and plays 5 or 6 instruments. While it’s very cool, waiting for him to loop in each instrument before actually getting to the song gets old quickly.

[@FrankPersico]

I hear ya. I also am not fond of heavy effects on the acoustic guitar. I feel like many players hide behind it

[@billregan1981]

Good stuff! Where’d you learn to sing or does it just come naturally?

[@FrankPersico]

It was sorta half and half. I did take lessons to help me with my weaknesses. At some point I am gonna do more vocal tips for singing guitarists on the channel. Just trying to figure out how to approach the topic

[@KeithCollyer]

On parking, check with the venue - they may have a loading bay you can use, at least to get your gear out, if the nearest parking lot is a way off.

[@FrankPersico]

Good call. Thanks for sharing

[@JasonPruett]

"life is like a box of chocolates you never know what you're gonna get" " you know there is a map in the lid right?"

[@FrankPersico]

Hahaah this is true :

[@HenryMcGuinnessGuitar]

Michael Hedges used to talk for about 20 minutes between songs :) Alas if I did that people would start to file out after 3 - to many "um"s and "er"s

[@FrankPersico]

Oh wow I didn’t know that. So I guess it’s not just me lol

[@user-xd3ql7cj4l]

Thanks for the good advice! Hey, what do you do when you're playing the best you can and someone walks up and starts talking to you in the middle of your playing?

[@FrankPersico]

It’s frustrating when that happens. You just try to be polite and tell them to stick around and you will catch up with them at your set break.

[@langyampsdmb]

These are incredible commandments! Any tips for trying to connect to your audience? Do you single one or two people out and try to get some interaction?

[@FrankPersico]

I think I’m going to do a video on this. I scan for who is enjoying it and try to feed them music I think they will like. Once you get a cluster of people going it tends to be contagious. That’s when it’s going your way lol. Not always the case

[@RichardMatoon-sj4sy]

If it's a café or coffee shop, I go right up to each table or I stroll. I thank every group personally for being there. Guitar/harmonica instrumentals are good to use for this idea.

[@johnheer3059]

Great list. After 20+ years, I no longer take a set list. I play requests. Might as well play what they want to hear. Never say anything about tips. No drinking! And arrive 1hr before to set up and be ready.

[@FrankPersico]

Sounds good. What area are you giving in?

[@johnheer3059]

@@FrankPersico Southeast Idaho

[@larrypower8659]

The tip jar can be an important part of a gig these days, especially since the pandemic. When I started playing professionally-almost 60 years ago; yup, I’m a dinosaur-no one put out a tip jar. In my opinion, the pandemic gave bar/club/restaurant owners a built in excuse to PAY LESS. Even in the early 2000s I began to see more tip jars. And, honestly, once someone puts something in the jar, more do so. I think people are inherently generous.. They get it. Good vid, good advice. Same goes for bands. “The schmooze factor” is part of it, too. If people like you, you’re in like Flynn. 7,000+ gigs down the road, that’s how I see it.

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks for taking the time to comment and give your perspective. Good stuff man. All the best to you. Man 60 yrs of playing!! God bless

[@mortonyakimadetectingthepa9015]

At 1:30 are you playing a Propsom guitar. I ask because Mike Propsom is a friend of mine who apprenticed under Bozo of Bozo guitars and makes a fantastic product. Looks like his logo on the head stock

[@FrankPersico]

Hey there. No that is a Gibson songwriter. If you notice on the headstock. It looks a little weird because the tuner is clipped on halfway over the Gibson logo. Cheers!

[@MrXyzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz]

The point about the tips jar will vary quite a lot between cultures. Many small gigs I go to in Germany pass a hat round to collect money. This will often be the only payment the musician(s) get and so it is only right that the guests pay what they would expect to pay for entertainment of that kind. I have observed that it is much better to get a friend to come around with the hat rather than the musician. While you are playing leave the hat in an obvoius place so that if someone is leaving early or misses the hat being brought round then they can still pay you. If you are playing a function such as a wedding/conference you should already be paid for the gig so a tip jar sends out the rude message "the organisers aren't paying me enough".

[@FrankPersico]

You make some good points. Thankyou for sharing

[@mikeholper5992]

Love Commandment #3. There is a solo performer in the area I live in that always has 1-2 of his friends take the tip jar to tables and literally stand there waiting for people to dig money out of their purses and wallets. Unbelievable.

[@FrankPersico]

Wow yeah that to me is just not cool.

[@kelly2558]

Wow, I guess you just can’t keep the mafia out of the entertainment business.

[@FrankPersico]

@@kelly2558lol

[@FASFatherandSon]

That's wack

[@veryfewpeople]

Agree. At some point, you've crossed the line into panhandling. Actually, since that probably pays more than some gigs I've played 😮...

[@TheFeelButton]

My biggest pet peeve is constant chatter about the Cds available, last album, next album, latest album, new album, did i mention the album available? Cheers!

[@FrankPersico]

Yeah the over selling is not a good look.

[@tomeasley3538]

I was at a private event last evening and the performer was exceptional , he did follow most of your rules. one of the things I noticed is that he was sorely lacking in self promotion, I would love to hire him for an event we have coming up but there was nothing with his name , contact info , during his break he left the area with the person hosting the event so I didn't have time to ask him before we left , so maybe you can do a talk on how you recommend to self promote. ....

[@FrankPersico]

That’s a good point. Just last night when I set up at my gig I realized I had forgotten to put business cards into my case! I was kicking myself!

[@1man1guitarletsgo]

I agree with all of these, plus the ones posted in the comments. I would add: tidy yourself up. Wear smart clothes that show you respect your audience and the people who've booked you. Learn the words and chords. It's ok glancing at a crib sheet now and again, but reading all the lyrics either from paper or (worse) a tablet while you're singing, sucks any believability out of your performance.

[@FrankPersico]

Great input. Thanks so much

[@lm-bq9lh]

As a pro with thousands of gigs behind me, I agree with all of these. I will point out that you won't be able to gauge nor react to your audience, or assess the reception of your volume properly if your eyes never leave the tablet. Learn your songs, and do all of these things too.

[@FrankPersico]

Yes the tablet was definitely one that could have made it in. Maybe we will have to add some amendments.

[@lm-bq9lh]

@@FrankPersicoI understand using it on a request you really don't know all of the verses to, but every song, nope. Real live music is totally about the interaction. When asked advice about playing restaurant/bar gigs I would usually tell players they first needed to understand where they fit in the restaurant hierarchy. They are usually stunned at the fact that they fit in just below the dishwasher. I explain that the restaurant can go on without you tonight just fine, not the DW.

[@kirkbaker5073]

How many songs do u think a solo acoustic performer needs in rotation on their setlist? At least so you can keep songs in practice and memorized so you don’t have to read from a lyric or sheet music?

[@FrankPersico]

Hard to say. Ideally of course the more the better. I would say 75 songs should be more than enough to get you though 3 sets. You won’t play all of those songs but you will have 75 to choose from to pick the best tunes for the venue for that particular night .

[@vertigo2112]

I am a drummer who learned acoustic guitar and singing later in life. I got good enough to take it on the road. My problem is how do I land a gig at other bars and restaurants? The solo scene is so different than the band scene. Nobody ever answers emails.

[@FrankPersico]

It’s sad but true. It’s even hard to get people you know to respond sometimes

[@fredmorgan996]

I have a question. In a typical restaurant environment, how many sets and how long is each set? Also, how long should the breaks be?

[@FrankPersico]

Typically it’s 3 sets of 45 mins with about 15 minute breaks between.

[@coolramone]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@FrankPersico]

Thanks 🙏