I played a show with Mike Mannarino this weekend and he did a really good job engaging with the crowd.  I thought it would make a good topic to talk about.  Mike is an experienced solo musician in north east Ohio western Pennsylvania.  I met him a few years ago on the strip in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio,  where we both play in the summer.  He also travels and plays in Key West in the winter months.  He’s a pro.

I consider myself average on stage banter.  I can hold my own and I am comfortable on stage especially when I know people and they are pretty active.  However, I was reminded Friday at how good Mike really is at this.  Listen to this episode as I explain how he tactfully got thing going..

1. Speaking between songs is an art.
2. When do you need to speak between songs
3. Go to other peoples shows, watch on YouTube - both famous and locals.  See what they do.
4. Be yourself - do YOUR thing.  You don’t have to be Mike Mannarino, but you can learn and do your own thing.  Be yourself and dont force it.
5. Have some “go-to” subjects or things to talk about.
   1. “The more wine you drink the better i sound”.
   2. “Whos celebrating something tonight?”
   3. Who’s first time here?  Is anyone visiting from out of state?”
   4. Thank the staff - point out their tip jar….and yours.
   5. Introduce the song - or experience that relates you to the song.
   6. Announcements from the venue (drink specials, food specials).
6. Write stuff down on your set list
7. Practice/ Plan
   1. Look up the venues website - get the history
   2. Look up the city history for interesting facts
8. Be flexible and “present” to the room.  Keep observant and be spontaneous.  Read the room.
9. Ask the crowd easy yes / no questions.  How great are the bartenders here?  How’s the wine?  Are you ready to rock?
10. Don’t talk about technical difficulties - PA system problems or broken guitar strings.  Don’t make a bunch of excuses - keep entertaining.  People are there to forget their problems - they don’t want to hear about yours.  Tell them to time you while you change your strings.
11. Mix it up - dont say the same things between each song.
12. Thank everyone that tips you - even during songs and between songs.
    1. “Thanks for the love”
    2. If you like what you hear and can help me with a gallon of gas I would appreciate it.
13. Try different things - see what works for you.