Top 10 Items I Can't Perform Without
If I'm heading out the door to a performance, there are 10 things you can bet will be packed tight in the back hatch of my Kia Soul. My top 10 gig essentials:
10
1. Business Cards - It is SO IMPORTANT to keep your business cards on you at all times, especially when going out to perform. I can't count the times I have given my business card to someone and been contacted to entertain for them. It's all about making new connections, and a visual reminder for people is super helpful.
2. Water - I know, this is obvious. BUT as a singer, it has been drilled in my brain to stay hydrated (thanks, Dr. Miller). I just grab my Klean Kanteen, fill it up, and I'm good to go. It is even personalized with my name and an eighth note on it! Such a thoughtful gift from my fiance, Kyle. Oh, and it's environmentally friendly so it's a win all around. Drink your water, fellow singers!
http://www.kleankanteen.com/collections/bottles/products/single-wall-classic-27oz?variant=1604623299
3. DI Box - A DI box isn't completely necessary, I'll admit. I like to use one because when you plug your guitar (or other instrument) straight into a mixer, your sound is "unbalanced." What this means is that it is susceptible to picking up other sounds we don't want coming through the speakers like buzzing and humming. It also gives the musician more control over their instruments levels and gives the instrument more power to get to the mixing board. Like I said, these are totally optional, but there are so many benefits and the sound is great, so why not?
4. Monster Cable - A quarter inch cable is a standard in most guitar player's collection, but this Monster brand cable has lasted me for years! Before I purchased this cable, I would go through others like hot cakes; they were always shorting out. Now, I never have to worry that I would get on stage, short out, and have to sweet talk the sound guys to let me borrow theirs (yes, this happened more than once). Although they are a bit higher in price, you get what you pay for.
http://www.monsterproducts.com/products/cables/music-instrument?Page=3 (similar, mine is very old)
5. Corral Fringe Cowboy Boot - These. boots. (are made for walking). But seriously, these boots are a new staple to my "gig wear," as I like to call it. They are everything I could ever want in a boot; not too flashy, not too tall, fringed, gold details, and a pointed toe. I got mine at Buckle!
6. Hands-free harmonica holder - The main reason I bring this along is for one song: Piano Man. Not only do I love playing the harmonica, but I love the audience reaction when I throw it around my neck. There is always a sea of exclamations, "what is that thing?" I just think it is a unique touch to break the monotony. If you are looking for something to spice your set up, this could be it!
7. Jim Dunlop medium picks - These are also a no brainer, but I thought I would share with you my favorite picks. The Jim Dunlop medium has been my "go to" since I started playing guitar in fourth grade (after it became illegal to make and buy tortoise shell picks) and they have never disappointed me. I have strayed and tried others, but I can honestly sat that these are some of the best on the market, and for a great price!
8. Snark tuner - This is actually a new item for me. I picked it up at a Guitar Center a couple months ago and it is a game changer! I had always just stuck with the standard "set on your knee" Korg, but this guy is amazing! You just clip it on the end of your instrument and it is digital, colorful, and EASY. It is so annoying to get on stage and have something be out of tune. With the Snark, I feel a little better when that happens.
9. Kyser tie dye capo - I have always been a fan of the Kyser brand capos, but when I saw that they have them in tie dye now...well the rest is history. I prefer the clamp style as opposed to the ones that you have to screw the backs on (I'm all about doing it the lazy easy way).
10. Taylor 714ce - Ah, the best for last. This is another no brainer, but I am absolutely in love (seriously, I might need to see a therapist) with my guitar. I received it as a Christmas present in 2007 from my parents and I am so thankful to have such a wonderful instrument! I have played a lot of guitars in my musical career and never have I found a better sounding guitar. It is full and rich and the perfect color and finish. It has mother of pearl detail around the sound hole, the fret board, and the headstock. I would like to make an entire post for just my guitar in the future...stay tuned for that.
If you are a performer, what are your essentials? Comment and tell me what I left out!
Did you like this post? Share it on Facebook! Comment below and let's talk about music (or food, or clothes, or life, or anything ok I just like to talk). If you want to see more videos of me singing, head on over to www.youtube.com/taylordyemusic.
TTFN, ta ta for now,
Taylor
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