Your onstage (split) personallity

As a gigging musician you will at one time or another need to wear many hats. Fist and foremost that of the artist. There is also the producer, the engineer, the roadie. One role that many of us play and some do not is that of the on stage personality. For some of us, it is a natural and almost unconscious transformation, for others it is a well thought out character.

Now I know the type of music and venue play a part in this but how many of you have an on stage personality. Now I’m not talking a larger than life persona although for some this is just the case. What is it that is different about your alter ego when the lights go up.

I have a sort of Jekyll and Hyde personality. When I’m at a gig, the set up, and preparation is all business. I’m usually pretty quiet and focused. When I hit the stage, I am almost uncontrollably moving all the time. Now I’m not jumping around like a mad man but the music goes through me and Mr. Hyde comes out to play. Sometimes he is mischievous and sometimes he is down right brutal but when we have a break between sets, Dr. Jekyll is back in control and it’s time to review the set list, tune up, whatever.

I think this is a crucial part of being a live musician. If the audience sees a difference in the on stage appearance and attitude it only enhances the experience.

Scott