50 Things Bands Should Bring to a Gig
While you won’t necessarily need all 50 of these items for every gig, we thought it would be helpful to compile a complete list to ensure your show runs smoothly.
1. Spare strings
Your bass or guitar strings can snap at any moment. It’s inevitable.
2. Gaffer/duct tape
On the road, stuff happens. For musicians, it’s just a part of everyday life.
3. String cutters
You can make the inevitable string change last minute as fast and painless as possible.
4. String winder
It pays to make life easier.
5. Screwdriver
It is so important. It’s so important.
6. Pliers
This is the main point. Tools are essential.
7. Your merchandise
You can sell your band’s merchandise and make some money… t-shirts. Stickers. Posters.
8. Extension leads for plugging
Is your amp’s plug not reaching the mains? It’s no problem!
9. Plug adapters
Not necessary if you are playing abroad, but it is essential nonetheless.
10. Setlist
It should be instilled in every person’s brains and written in front them.
11. Batteries
If you need to use all the plug sockets, this is for your tuner, pedals, etc.
12. Pen and pad
It is essential to write down changes to setlists and make notes.
13. Tuners
Do not let your set get out of tune.
14. Spare leads
One person always ends up with the dodgy leads.
15. Choose from a variety of options
You can take a bag-load of picks with you in case they begin to disappear into the pick vortex.
16. Spare strap for your guitar
If your strap is broken, you will end up sitting down.
17. Your instruments
…erm…yeh?
18. Amplifying
It might be worth having a spare amp if yours is not reliable.
19. Spare tubes
Tube amps are the worst.
20. Spare patch cables
In a flash, replace the unreliable pedal connector.
21. Spare pedals
It might be worth buying a spare if you have a pedal that you cannot live without.
22. Capos
A spare for the person who loses it all the time.
23. Earplugs
It would be best if you weren’t blaring your ears night after night. Tinnitus can be a nuisance.
24. Wear rags
It is not a good idea to have bright lights shining on your sweaty forehead.
25. Cleaning spray
Before the show, make sure all your instruments sparkle.
26. Drum key
In case you have any questions, here are some suggestions.
27. Spare drum skins
If the drummer is a bit heavy-handed,
28. Drum breakables
You may not have access to the house kit cymbals, stool, or pedals.
29. Damper pads
You can remove unwanted resonance to get a more punchy sound.
30. Spare drum sticks
Problems with a snapped stick during a gig are serious.
31. Medicine pack
Always worth having: Paracetamol, decongestants Dayquil, Advil and Dayquil.
32. Torch
Even if you only have the app installed on your phone.
33. Electrical tape in colors
You can use this tool to mark stage positions and color-code your cables.
34. Cash
If your card is lost or stops working, keep a few notes handy.
35. Business cards
All your contact information must be available to potential music biz executives and bookers.
36. Copies of your release
You can use USB sticks or CDs. It’s impossible to predict who will be there.
37. Banners/promo materials
A way to show people who you are.
38. Quick snacks
Never go on stage hungry
39. Water bottle
This is especially important for your lead singer.
40. Directions
Do not get lost on the way to a new venue.
41. Venue’s contact details
In case you do get lost along the way.
42. Beer/liquor
Right?
43. Condoms
No glove, no love.
44. Spare clothes
It’s easy to get sweaty on stage and want to look great for the afterparty.
45. PA system
The venue might provide this, but you should always verify for smaller gigs.
46. Monitors
Check with your venue to confirm whether you need floor or in-ear monitors.
47. Spare a mic
Some musicians prefer to use their microphones. Sometimes, the mics in a venue can break.
48. Blu-tack
Keep spare picks handy in case your grip is lost mid-song.
49. A crowd
It’s not always possible to rely on people just showing up. Invite your friends.
50. THE FURY!!
Be comfortable on stage. Take ownership of your performance and give the audience something they will never forget.