After years in the music industry—from playing instruments and touring the world to managing artists and working as a stage manager—I’ve picked up some valuable insights on what makes a performance truly unforgettable. One of my favorite things to do is help artists with their development, particularly when it comes to creating impactful sets. Here are six essential tips to help you elevate your performances and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Your set will be far more effective and engaging if you have a specific goal in mind. For example, when I managed Christian rap artists, many had the general goal of “spreading the Gospel.” While that’s wonderful, I encouraged them to be more specific. Did they want to focus on creation, the beauty of God, joy and celebration, or perhaps lamenting the evils of the world? The more specific you are, the more opportunities your audience has to connect with the message you intend to deliver.
Every audience is diverse, with different learning styles—auditory, visual, naturalistic, and kinesthetic. Just like a teacher in a classroom, cater your “lesson plan” or set in a way that appeals to all these styles:
By being intentional, you ensure everyone in your audience can engage with your performance in a meaningful way.
Push yourself to create a set that you think can’t be topped—then, after that show, challenge yourself to make the next one even better. It’s about constantly striving for growth and creativity, so your performances continue to evolve and impress.
You don’t need a huge budget to craft a great show. Creativity often trumps cash. If you don’t have a band or DJ, consider using an extended performance track. Add transitions, pauses for talking, and sound effects to make it dynamic. While you might need to pay a DJ or producer to add these elements, it’s a cost-effective way to enhance your performance.
If you can’t afford professionally created videos, invest in apps like CapCut, Canva, or iMovie to DIY your visuals. You can even use a quality YouTube video if needed. Better yet, partner with a local university’s communication department and collaborate with their video production team as a class project.
Having a mental concept of your performance is great, but professional rehearsals are just as important. If you want an excellent show, have excellent rehearsals. Sweat, cry, jump, run, sing, yell—perform as if you’re in front of millions, even when you’re just with your band or by yourself. This dedication will reflect in your actual performance.
Surround yourself with people who are critical and perfectionists. Allow them to respectfully critique your shows and give suggestions for improvement. Evaluate their feedback and plan accordingly. Remember, we don’t have it all together, but together, we have it all.
Conclusion
Creating an unforgettable set isn’t just about what happens on stage—it’s about the thought, preparation, and creativity you put into every aspect of your performance. By being intentional, challenging yourself, using what you have, and continuously seeking feedback, you’ll not only elevate your shows but also build stronger connections with your audience and your band.
If you’re ready to take your artist development to the next level or need a brand strategy consultation, hit me up. Let’s work together to make your next performance the best one yet!
– Sharona D. Henderson
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