The Value of Lighting and Visuals
As a music artist, you're always looking for ways to create memorable experiences for your audience. While your talent and music are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the production quality can significantly enhance the overall concert experience. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of working with experienced production teams and how a well-designed concert can lead to increased ticket sales and better touring opportunities.
A Recipe for Disaster
It was the day before the much-anticipated music festival in Chicago, Lollapalooza. A buzz-worthy pop singer and his team were buzzing with excitement. At the behest of artist management, the talent decided to bring along an entourage of friends and creative collaborators, believing that their combined good vibes would be enough to create an unforgettable show.
In the green room, the artist and their friends imagined the crowd's ecstatic reaction and the satisfaction of giving it their all. They were confident they would "crush it," despite not having rehearsed the production elements in a professional setting and without the support of experienced crew members like lighting directors, lighting techs, and video screen operators. Instead, they relied on the festival's overburdened production crew, who already had their hands full with other responsibilities.
As the artist took to the stage, they were unprepared for the technical issues that awaited them. Their in-ear monitors began cutting in and out, leaving them unable to hear themselves as they sang. Panic set in, as the lead's voice started to tense up and quiver. Instead of recovering gracefully, they complained to the crowd about how "this shit sucks," eliciting a negative reaction from the audience.
To make matters worse, the festival production company decided to use the artist's set as an opportunity to train a new team member on the lighting console. Front lights were turning off unintentionally, leaving the artist in the dark and the crowd struggling to see.
Six feet away, the video screen operator, although a bit more experienced than the lighting booth, was displaying a frenzy of stock video loops on the LED wall that were better suited for a set at EDC. This mismatch in visual content further detracted from the burgeoning pop artist's performance, making the overall concert experience awkward and uninteresting.
Months later, as the artist planned their first headline tour, they faced a harsh reality: concert promoters and bookers were giving them the runaround due to viral videos of their disastrous on-stage performance circulating in music industry circles. This setback left the artist questioning how they could have prevented such a catastrophe, with the typical blame placed on the artist manager, who had set out that fateful day with the goal of making the artist happy.
The artist's team, though enthusiastic and eager to contribute, lacked the experience and understanding of the big picture that goes into a successful live performance. How does an artist set themselves up for success? As we'll see in the following sections, the answer lies in investing in professional production services and proper planning.
The Role of Visual Production for Live Music
Live music production is an essential aspect of concerts and music festivals that often goes unnoticed by the audience. It encompasses stage design, lighting, sound engineering, and visual effects that, when executed well, can create an immersive experience and elevate your performance to new heights. Professional production services bring expertise, creativity, and access to top-of-the-line equipment, ensuring your show stands out from the competition.
Increased Ticket Sales
A visually stunning and expertly crafted concert not only enhances the audience experience but also creates buzz and positive word-of-mouth marketing. When your show is known for its high production value, you're more likely to draw larger crowds, sell more tickets, and attract new fans. Ultimately, this can lead to increased revenue and a more successful music career.
Enhanced Reputation and Better Touring Opportunities
Your reputation as a music artist is directly affected by the quality of your live performances. A well-produced concert leaves a lasting impression on concertgoers, venue owners, promoters, and fellow musicians. By investing in professional production services, you're signaling your commitment to delivering top-notch performances, which can lead to better touring opportunities and the chance to play in larger, more prestigious venues.
Showcasing Your TALENT
Your live shows are an opportunity to showcase your unique artistry and create a connection with your audience. A talented production team can help you bring your creative vision to life, designing a stage and lighting setup that complements your music and enhances your performance. This collaboration can result in a truly unforgettable experience for your fans, setting you apart from other artists in your genre.
A Worthwhile Investment
While professional production services may come with a higher price tag, they should be viewed as an investment in the future of your music career. By working with experienced production teams, you're ensuring that your concerts are visually and aurally impressive, which can translate to increased ticket sales, better touring opportunities, and a stronger connection with your audience.
Conclusion
Investing in professional production services for your live shows is a strategic decision that can positively impact your music career. By working with experienced production teams and focusing on delivering a high-quality concert experience, you'll be well on your way to achieving greater success in the competitive music industry. Remember, your live performances are a reflection of your artistry and commitment to your craft, so make sure they're nothing short of spectacular.
