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What do you think about when you play bass?
- Thread starter IamGroot
- Start date
I sing close harmony with three other singers, so I'm usually trying to pay attention to that. Also I run the PA from the stage, so I'm kind of thinking about that as well.
also, boobs.
also, boobs.
THANK YOU for sharing that!! That has happened to me a lot. Especially on songs that are so simple and that we play all the time....which are usually the tunes I don't work on when I'm practicing music for shows. I became so overwhelmed with anxiety on a gig that my brain shut down when the BL called "My Girl". I literally was like....."MY Girl?!?! *** is MY Girl?!?!" it took me about 10 seconds to relax and gather myself.....all the while everyone on stage is looking at me like....."REALLY Dude?!?"
It depends, If it's a busy bass part or a song I have not played a lot I'm thinking of changes. Otherwise I am thinking about showmanship while my mind and hands play.
I chose cheeseburgers. I' play covers and have been doing basically the same set almost every weekend for close to 5 years.
On a slow night I am definitely thinking about a late night meal options, but with a good crowd I am probably mostly thinking
Trying to practice more while NOT looking at my fingers to get away from it on stage, but I currently do look at my fingers about 75-80% of the time. The rest I'm either feeling the music with my eyes closed, scanning the crowd or rest of the band, or happily spacing out until I hit a clam
Mmmmm......Clams
Sorry, but "liking" the music I play has a lot to do with my feeling. Blame it on too much "artist" influence in me vs. "musician". Especially when neither seem to garner compensation in the form of much money in my area. I am a capable "musician", but being an "artist" is my hobby. Unfortunately, the financial balance sheet around here makes being a musician a hobby in the eyes of the taxing government.
"Don't screw up, don't screw up, oh God here comes my walking bass line, don't screw up!" 
This poll should have included "listening to the band as a whole, as you play, and playing along with them". If you can avoid this and still make good music, it's either rock or pop or country, or you're just a really top, top player.
What do I think about when I play?
Time.
I think about how 45 minute sets often feel like they're only 5 minutes each. Tempus Fugit, especially when you're having fun!
Tempo.
I try to make sure that the songs breathe, and that adrenalin doesn't make me play them faster than I should.
Entertainment.
I always try and move, make eye contact with the audience and convey energy & emotion. Nobody goes to a club to look at a cardboard cutout of a bass player; they go to be entertained.
No second chance to make a good first impression.
I do my best to always be prepared, stay relaxed, be in the moment and give the best performance I can.
Serve the Song.
Yes, there moments for every band member to shine, but always remember that you are there to support each other and to make each song more than just the sum of its parts.
Thankfulness.
I make sure I take the time to personally thank each and every friend that came out to see the band. They spent their time & money to come out & support you, so remember to show your appreciation.
Time.
I think about how 45 minute sets often feel like they're only 5 minutes each. Tempus Fugit, especially when you're having fun!
Tempo.
I try to make sure that the songs breathe, and that adrenalin doesn't make me play them faster than I should.
Entertainment.
I always try and move, make eye contact with the audience and convey energy & emotion. Nobody goes to a club to look at a cardboard cutout of a bass player; they go to be entertained.
No second chance to make a good first impression.
I do my best to always be prepared, stay relaxed, be in the moment and give the best performance I can.
Serve the Song.
Yes, there moments for every band member to shine, but always remember that you are there to support each other and to make each song more than just the sum of its parts.
Thankfulness.
I make sure I take the time to personally thank each and every friend that came out to see the band. They spent their time & money to come out & support you, so remember to show your appreciation.
