I was at an amphitheater show recently, five or six thousand people. The headliner was a household name. Big shows, big tour, vibrant fans.
Every ‘indie’ band under the sun was vying for the opening slot on this tour. Every agent and manager who had connection to the headliner was pulling strings trying to get their act on the bill.
After all that scrambling, one act got the prize.
So much work and sweat and favors and negotiation to get to be the opener. And they were a good band, quality songs, strong voice.
But they forgot the most important part of being an opener on a big gig like that…If you’re opening up for thousands of people who don’t know you, be sure they remember you. For something. For anything. Do jumping jacks while wearing clown shoes. Doesn’t matter. Give them something you know they’ll remember you by.
Because if you play your songs and no one remembers them or you, why are you on this gig?
»» I must say, openers have a special place in my heart. I love talking about (and helping with) the dynamics of being an opening act because it’s such a strange, complex, tricky situation.
