Skip Navigation Website Accessibility

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

By Philip Hendrickson

On stage we are all shining stars to some degree. Some bands are true communities of equals, but this is rare. Typically a group has one or more leaders. It might be the singer(s), a soloist who has become a “name brand”, or just the person who finds and books the gigs. Career tip: if one person’s name is on the marquee, make that person the brightest star in the sky that night.

Any time there is a leader (who may or may not be a diva), the sidemen need to play in such a way as to spotlight the leader. Never drown them out; always play under them and support them. When given a solo, definitely play well (sounding bad is never good) but make your target 80 - 90 percent of what the leader is doing on that particular night. Of course, if the leader calls you out in the spotlight for the show, go ahead and give them what they ask for.

When the leader feels supported and encouraged by the band, he or she will call you back for the next gig. If they feel jealous or inferior because of your showing off, don’t expect that call any time soon.