New 'old' ways to get closer with your audience.

So I'm here at the Majayjay sitting through The Lettermen Christmas Show. As cheesy as it sounds (and is) the blue hairs are eating it up in the crowd and it's almost a sold out show, I think there were 15 seats left. There are lot of fake snowflakes, white wooden reindeer, and general Christmas fluff to add to the cheese factor. But, one thing they do during their performance engages the fans and I think is an excellent idea that bands should take advantage of. During one of their songs, Up Up & Away, they encourage the audience members to come up on the stage for a photo op. The crowd loves it and there were people lining up in the aisle. I think more bands need to get in touch with their fans and this is a great way to show appreciation. Now I'm sure there are plenty of venues where this is not possible due to the stage and main floor set up, but bands should make an attempt to engage the audience more than the typical "hold the mic up and sing", banter, and what not. This idea does have the potential for mayhem though, fans not cooperating, rushing the stage, hogging photo time...etc. etc. but if instituted well it can be enjoyable for everyone involved!

Another thing that a lot of the artists do here at the Majayjay is an autograph/photo sessions after a show, another great way to make the fans feel an even closer bond with the artist.

Since I've started taking online Music Business classes on Berkleemusic.com, I've really come to embrace the business side of the industry...the artists are a product and they need to sell themselves and their music as a brand. (i used to consider this selling out, but now realize these musicians need to make a living like everyone else!)

back to the concert: they are playing almost every Christmas song written, plus some of their classics in 'classic' medley form (I'm sure they're classics for someone out there) These guys have an amazing line of merch (and are shamelessly plugging it every chance they can get, also not a bad idea)...Cd's, teddy bears, shirts, 8x10's, golf balls...and they are willing to sign everything after the show. They've been doing this for 49 years, so I think they've got a steady income...even though they have become quite obscure, playing small theaters like the Majestic.

oh my...intermission already!

love all over ya!
tR/Fo