My guest on the podcast this week, Tory Smith, dropped some serious wisdom during our podcast chat about keeping your setlist diverse and exciting.
Drawing from his experience with an '80s cover band, he's seen firsthand how nostalgia creates powerful connections with audiences – leading to more engagement, better tips, and spontaneous song requests.
Try blending popular hits with unexpected gems from the pre 2000s. This sweet spot targets a demographic that's actually willing to invest in live music experiences!
Want to really blow their minds? Reimagine some classics in completely different genres. Nothing keeps an audience more engaged than those, "I know that song but I can't place the title" or, "I never thought of that song this way" moments.
Striking the Perfect Balance
Integrating covers isn't about filling space – it's a strategic move. Here's my approach:
Match your style. Choose covers that complement your genre and sound for a seamless experience.
Know your crowd. Select tracks that resonate with their tastes while still feeling authentic to you.
Play to your strengths. Pick covers that highlight what you do best (like I did with those Broadway songs), whether that's your vocal range or instrumental skills.
Make it yours. Don't be afraid to reinvent a familiar tune with your unique spin!
Keep the energy flowing. Alternate between fast and slow songs, and group pieces by key or tempo for smooth transitions.
Why Covers Are Your Secret Weapon
Let's be real about the power of covers:
They're instantly recognizable door-openers that make audiences comfortable.
They're proven crowd-pleasers, letting you focus on delivery rather than wondering if the song works.
They showcase what makes your sound unique when compared to the original.
They boost your online discoverability when you post videos on YouTube or clips on social media through search benefits (hello, new fans!).
The Catalyst for Superfans
When you blend these strategies into your performance – mixing familiar covers with your original work, putting your own stamp on the cover songs, and engaging beyond just the music – you create magical moments that transform casual listeners into die-hard superfans.
I still remember when an entire coffee shop in Nashville was belting out a DC Talk song in unison. Had that not happened, I probably would never have remembered that artist's name, let along bought his CD!
Always in your corner,
<3 Bree