Whatever music you play, performing in public can present unique challenges when you least expect it. Being prepared for the unexpected could make the difference between a fantastic performance for you, and your audience, or a gig to forget for all concerned. So here's a reminder of what to have in your gigging toolkit:
1. Always carry a spare set of guitar strings. Ideally, if you can afford it, have a spare guitar to hand - this will save having to stop the performance whilst you change broken guitar strings! Bass players should also have a spare set of bass strings - they do break! This happened to me in the middle of a crucial gig - I had no spares and had to perform the gig with a 3 string bass!
Soldering Kit
2. Carry an assortment of cables and connectors - think of all the connections you make with your back line rig and PA system and either carry spare cables (microphone cables and guitar cables are top of the list!), or connectors (such as XLR-Jack) that will get you out of trouble. And don't forget MIDI cables - I have been asked on more than one occasion by another band on the bill if they could 'borrow' a MIDI cable!
3. Make sure you have some basic tools with you - screwdrivers, pliers, drum key etc. If you are proficient with a soldering iron (and you should be!), carry it in your gig bag - it can be a lifesaver!
4. Batteries - always carry a healthy stock of all the batteries you use and make sure that each guitar, radio microphone or effects pedal has a battery that will last the gig - you do not want to be fumbling around mid-song to change a flat battery.
5. Guitar stands and music stands - try to have robust and stable guitar stands and music stands, such as those by Hercules. Not only will they protect your instruments on stage, it will look a lot neater and professional.
6. If you use backing tracks, bring along backups of all the media files or discs. For the ultimate backup, put your backing tracks onto an mp3 player (or even your mobile phone!) so that you can play them back through the PA if necessary. If you use a click track, record the tracks with the click to one side and the backing track to the other, so that they can be separated on the PA mixing desk. I used to use a mini disc player for this and it got me out of trouble on more than one occasion!
Okay, so much of this might seem obvious, but I am constantly surprised by the lack of preparation and forethought that is given to some live performances. We need to concentrate on producing a great gig, not on managing a show stopping crisis!