What makes a good front person?

spectorbass83 · #1 10-20-2005, 09:21 AM

I want to know what you look for in a front man and what do you think are some "must haves" of an individual in this position?

Oysterman · #2 10-20-2005, 09:27 AM

He/she has to love standing in front of a crowd. And it has to show somehow. When you find a person who simply radiates confidence and is able to communicate with the audience (verbally or otherwise), you have a frontman. Being musically competent doesn't hurt, but I find the above generally more important, especially in rock bands.

spectorbass83 · #3 10-20-2005, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Oysterman

He/she has to love standing in front of a crowd. And it has to show somehow. When you find a person who simply radiates confidence and is able to communicate with the audience (verbally or otherwise), you have a frontman. Being musically competent doesn't hurt, but I find the above generally more important, especially in rock bands.

Couldn't have said it better myself

Matt Till · #4 10-20-2005, 09:55 AM

The ability to frighten people with the Armadillos in their trousers

GROOVEjunkie · #5 10-20-2005, 10:55 AM

They have to remember the lyrics!!! And also, as important, kill the dead air in between songs by talking to the crowd; keeping it interesting and fun. Nothing makes me more upset than hearing dead air. Nothing. Well, maybe the audience booing.

buzzbass · #6 10-20-2005, 11:35 AM

2 things, a decent voice and a big set. Anything after that can be worked on.

zac2944 · #7 10-20-2005, 12:20 PM

James Brown. IMHO he is the greatest front man there every was. He commands his audience and his band. He does it with attitude. A band leader has to be a pitbull; make no mistakes and take no prisoners.

I have lead a band before. When in doubt I'd think: "What would JB do????". It didn't work for me though. I'm more of a sheep dog than a pitbull.

bigtexashonk · #8 10-20-2005, 12:37 PM

Charismatic
Likeable
Engaging
Attractive
Energetic
Mysterious
Poised
Dynamic

--other qualities that can work--

Arrogant
Snotty
Foul
Repulsive
Smelly
Psychotic
Angry

Petary791 · #9 10-20-2005, 12:43 PM

I would normally say good stage presence, but the thing is that Maynard is one of my favorite front man and he has insane stage fright.