Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Bruce Bennett, a seasoned musician and entrepreneur, about the ins and outs of the music industry.

Dive into Bruce’s journey from playing in bands to launching successful music-related businesses. Discover how he turned his passion into a thriving career, creating opportunities like SuperDups and New England CD. Bruce shares his wisdom on treating music as a business, emphasizing the importance of understanding and growing your fan base.

Explore the world of tribute bands with Bruce’s experience in Shot of Poison, a Poison tribute band that gained fame on Jimmy Fallon’s Clash of the Cover Bands. Learn about their marketing strategies and how they leveraged media exposure to their advantage.

But that’s not all! Bruce introduces HelloBand, an innovative app designed to help musicians connect directly with their fans. Say goodbye to social media algorithms and hello to seamless fan communication, tipping, and event management.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear anecdotes and technical discussions that provide a deeper understanding of the music business. Whether you’re a musician looking to expand your reach or a fan eager to learn more, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in and discover how to make your mark in the music world!

The post Music, Marketing, and Mischief with Bruce Bennett — Gig Gab 460 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Unlock the secret to transforming your band from cover to original without even realizing it! If you’re a musician looking to make that leap, this episode is your guide.

Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Scott Smith, co-founder of the North County Band. Scott shares his journey from strumming around campfires to leading a band that captivates audiences with original music. With no formal musical training, Scott’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.

In this episode, discover how the North County Band transitioned from a cover band to an original powerhouse. Scott reveals the unexpected joys of songwriting and the unique challenges of finding and engaging fans. Learn how they balance cover gigs with original performances and the strategies they use to market their music boldly.

Additional topics include the importance of community support, the role of nonprofit principles in band management, and the art of fan engagement. Scott also shares insights on crowdfunding and recording, offering valuable tips for musicians at any stage.

Ready to be inspired? Tune in and remember, in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing.” Click to listen and elevate your musical journey!

The post From Covers to Originals with North County Band — Gig Gab 459 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling to find your place in the music world? Tune in to this episode of Gig Gab, where we explore the multifaceted journey of a seasoned musician.

Join host Dave Hamilton as he welcomes Parthenon Huxley, a prolific songwriter and performer with nine studio albums and collaborations with legends like Mick Jones and Robert Lamb. Known for his work with ELO Part 2, now The Orchestra, Huxley shares insights from his diverse career.

In this episode, Huxley discusses the evolution of his musical roles, from leading his own bands to being a key part of The Orchestra. He delves into the art of harmony singing, the importance of saying “yes” to opportunities, and the balance between personal projects and collaborative efforts.

Listeners will also hear about Huxley’s teaching experiences, his approach to in-ear monitors, and the significance of maintaining multiple income streams in the music industry.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and personal anecdotes. Press play to listen and remember, in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing.”

The post Parthenon Huxley’s Harmonious Adventures — Gig Gab 458 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling to make your mark in the music industry? This episode of Gig Gab is your backstage pass to the world of live sound engineering with the legendary Pooch, a seasoned pro who’s mixed for icons like Iron Maiden and Whitney Houston.

Join host Dave Hamilton as he chats with Pooch, a recording engineer turned live sound maestro. With a career spanning decades, Pooch shares his journey from the studio to the stage, offering insights into the evolution of sound technology and the art of mixing live performances.

In this episode, Pooch delves into the challenges and triumphs of live sound, from the adrenaline rush of mixing for thousands to the technical intricacies of ensuring vocal clarity. He also discusses the importance of people skills in the industry and how saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities can change your career trajectory.

Whether you’re a budding sound engineer or a musician looking to understand the tech side of performances, this episode is packed with valuable lessons. Tune in to discover why the mantra “Always Be Performing” is key to success in the music world. Don’t miss out—click to listen now!

The post Pooch’s Path: From Recording Rooms to Rocking Arenas — Gig Gab 457 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Struggling with sound issues at gigs? You’re not alone. Dive into this episode where Dave Hamilton and Mike Schulte tackle the challenges of playing live music in less-than-ideal conditions.

This episode centers on the art of compromise in live performances. Dave and Mike discuss the importance of adapting to different venues and audiences, sharing personal stories about the trials and triumphs of using electronic drum kits and managing sound levels. They emphasize the need for musicians to be flexible and professional, even when the gig isn’t perfect.

The duo explores the dynamics of sharing gear with other bands, the benefits of using a tempo monitor, and the value of having a supportive band. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and the role of technology in enhancing live performances.

Ready to learn how to “Always Be Performing” no matter the circumstances? Click play and join the conversation!

The post Bandmates Unite: Navigating Gig Challenges Together — Gig Gab 456 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Ever wondered how an all-female Aerosmith tribute band came to be? Meet Susie Major, the voice behind Ragdolls, who defied expectations and carved a unique path in the tribute scene.

Susie shares her journey from singing male-dominated rock to leading a band that pays homage to Aerosmith while maintaining its own identity. Discover how she navigated the challenges of forming a tribute band and the unexpected twists along the way.

Press play to hear about the creative process, the importance of authenticity, and why Ragdolls stands out in a crowded field. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that redefines what it means to be a tribute band.

The post RagDolls Rise: Susie Major’s Tribute Band Story — Gig Gab 455 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Dive into the fascinating world of Buck Dharma, the legendary guitarist from Blue Öyster Cult. Buck shares his incredible musical journey, starting from his high school surf band days to becoming a founding member of Blue Öyster Cult—a gig he’s held for over five decades!

Discover how Blue Öyster Cult evolved from playing bars to achieving major success, and learn about the band’s current lineup, which has been rocking together for over 20 years. Buck also reveals his appreciation for technology in live music: in-ear monitors and guitar modeling technology have transformed their performances.

Explore the band’s unique approach to songwriting and harmonies. Buck explains how their music, often mislabeled as heavy metal, actually incorporates complex arrangements and pop sensibilities. Plus, hear about their extensive touring history and the importance of maintaining good relationships within the band for long-term success.

This episode is packed with insights and stories that will resonate with musicians and fans alike. Whether you’re a casual listener or a tech enthusiast, you’ll find something to enjoy. Tune in to Gig Gab and join the conversation!

The post Buck Dharma: Guitars, Tech, and Touring Tales — Gig Gab 454 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Join Dave Hamilton as he explores the fascinating world of microphones with Matt McGlynn, the mastermind behind Roswell Pro Audio. Dive into the origins of Roswell Pro Audio, born from Matt’s passion for sound and his ventures with Recording Hacks and Microphone Parts. Discover the art of choosing the right microphone as Matt breaks down the differences between dynamic and condenser mics, offering tips on selecting the perfect match for your voice.

Ever wondered how to achieve studio-quality sound at home? This episode covers the importance of acoustic treatment, with practical DIY solutions and professional product recommendations to enhance your home studio setup. Plus, learn the insider’s secret: testing multiple microphones side-by-side to find your ideal sound.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, this episode promises to equip you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your audio game. Tune in and join the conversation—your voice deserves the best!

https://youtube.com/live/JhCf2AelA9k

The post Sound Science: From DIY to Pro Mics with Matt McGlynn — Gig Gab 453 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Join host Dave Hamilton as he dives into the fascinating world of songwriting with the legendary Gary Burr. Discover how Gary’s career took off, writing hits for artists like Juice Newton, and hear about his incredible collaborations with Ringo Starr over the past two decades.

Gary shares his unique approach to songwriting: preferring to write quickly rather than getting bogged down in endless revisions. You’ll learn about his creative process and how he navigates the ups and downs of being a working musician. Plus, Gary gives us a peek into his imaginative book, “Reunion,” a rock and roll fairy tale that envisions a world where John Lennon lived and The Beatles reunited 20 years later.

This episode is packed with insights and stories that will resonate with musicians and music lovers alike. Whether you’re curious about the songwriting process or the lifestyle of a working musician, this episode has something for you. Press play to hear Gary’s tales and tips, and feel inspired by his journey in the music industry!

The post Gary Burr: The Art of Songwriting and Saying Yes — Gig Gab 452 appeared first on Gig Gab.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Gig Gab! Dive into a microphone showdown where Dave compares the Roswell Pro Audio Mini K87 with his trusty Earthworks Ethos. Discover how these mics stack up in sound and setup, offering insights for podcasters and musicians alike.

Ever struggled with cleaning your in-ear monitors? Dave shares a clever tip: use your smartphone’s magnifier app to tackle earwax with ease. It’s a simple yet effective solution that every musician should know!

The episode also delves into the OnSong app update. Learn about the differences between OnSong 2020 and the new OnSong 2024, including enhanced markup features that make managing your music sheets a breeze.

And for REM fans, meet “Begin the Begin,” an REM tribute band dedicated to recreating the iconic sound of the legendary group. Hear about their approach and what makes their performances stand out.

Finally, Dave discusses his experience with the Kelly SHU kick drum microphone mounting system. Discover how this innovative setup enhances bass drum sound and simplifies the mounting process.

Tune in for a mix of tech tips, music insights, and engaging stories that keep you informed and entertained!

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