10 Things You Didn’t Know Musicians Do After A Concert

If you’ve ever been to a concert, you know how exhilarating it can be. The energy, the music, the crowds – it’s an experience like no other. But have you ever wondered what happens after the show? What do the musicians do once they’ve left the stage?

As it turns out, most bands have a lot on their plate after a concert. From packing up equipment to settling financials, there are a lot of important tasks to take care of. But perhaps one of the most crucial things they do is meet and greet fans.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why connecting with fans after a concert is important and how it can help musicians build a loyal and dedicated following.

Meet & Greet Fans
Load Out Gear
Eat Something
Settle Financials
Review The Performance
Check Social Media
Travel To The Next Venue
Rest & Relax
Practice The Setlist
Write New Music

MEET & GREET FANS

Connecting with fans is a crucial aspect of a musician’s career. Fans are the lifeblood of the industry, and meeting with them after a show can help build a loyal and dedicated following.

This makes fans feel appreciated and valued and helps spread the word about the musician’s music, tour, and other projects. The fans become advocates for the musician, promoting their work on social media, telling friends, and attending future shows.

Meeting fans also allows musicians to hear direct feedback and suggestions, which can help improve future performances.

INTERACTING WITH FANS

Musicians interact with fans in a variety of ways after a show. For example, they may hold a meet-and-greet session where fans can get autographs, take photos, or chat with the musicians. Sometimes, musicians will invite fans backstage, where they can interact in a more personal setting.

Some musicians also sign merchandise, such as t-shirts or CDs, which can create memorable souvenirs for the fans. These interactions can also include sharing stories and experiences to inspire aspiring musicians.

BENEFITS OF MEET & GREETS

Meeting and greeting fans after a show is crucial for a musician’s career. Not only does it create a personal connection with the fans, but it also helps to promote the musician’s work and spread the word.

These connections also lead to a dedicated and loyal following, which can be an asset in the long term. Musicians who interact with fans also gain a deeper understanding of their audience and what they want, which can help improve future performances.

Not sure what a meet-and-greet is like? Check out A Fan’s Guide To Meet & Greets: Tips & Tricks For Making It Memorable.

By building a relationship with fans, musicians can create a powerful network of support that can help to propel their careers to new heights.

Meeting and greeting fans is a critical activity for musicians after a concert. It provides an opportunity to connect with fans, promote music and merchandise, and gain valuable feedback. By engaging with their audience, musicians can create a dedicated and loyal following that can help support their careers in the long term.

LOAD OUT GEAR

After a show, packing up equipment is necessary for musicians because it ensures that their gear is safe and secure as they transport it to their next venue or back to their studio. Musicians may use a variety of instruments, amplifiers, microphones, and other equipment on stage, and all of it needs to be properly packed up to prevent damage during transport.

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to set up a stage for a concert? Check out our post to learn the answer.

Additionally, packing equipment can help prevent theft or loss, which can be costly and detrimental to a musician’s career.

TYPES OF EQUIPMENT

The types of equipment musicians need to pack up after a show can vary depending on their specific needs and the type of performance they give. However, some common types of equipment include:

Instruments: Musicians may use guitars, basses, keyboards, drums, or other instruments on stage. Each instrument must be properly packed in a case or protective covering.
Amplifiers: Amplifiers amplify the sound of an instrument or a microphone. They must be carefully unplugged, disassembled, and packed up to avoid damage.
Microphones: Microphones capture the sound of the instruments or the musician’s voice. To avoid damage, they must be unplugged, disassembled, and packed up carefully.
Cables: Musicians use a variety of cables to connect their equipment. These cables must be coiled and packed carefully to avoid tangling or damage.
Accessories: Musicians may use other accessories like stands, pedals, or lights on stage. These items also need to be packed up carefully to prevent damage.

PROCESS OF PACKING

Packaging up equipment can vary depending on the equipment used and the musician’s specific needs. However, some common examples of how musicians pack up their gear include the following:

Careful disassembly: Musicians typically unplug and carefully disassemble their equipment to prevent damage. For example, they may carefully remove cables, pedals, and other accessories before disassembling their instruments or amplifiers.
Proper storage: Musicians typically store their gear in a protective case or bag after disassembling it. They may use foam padding or other protective materials to keep their gear safe during transport.
Labeling and organization: Musicians often label their gear and keep it organized to make it easier to unpack and set up at the next venue. They may use tags or other labeling systems to ensure that each piece of equipment is easily identifiable.

EAT SOMETHING

After performing on stage for hours, musicians tend to have worked up a sweat and burned a significant amount of energy. As such, bands must refuel their bodies with adequate nutrition. A healthy meal or snack is essential to post-concert recovery and helps them regain their strength and energy.

In addition, consuming the right foods and drinks can also impact their future performances. Musicians who don’t have anything to eat after a show can become weak and fatigued, which may decrease their ability to perform the following day.

CHOOSING WHAT TO EAT

Musicians choose their post-concert meals based on what is available and convenient. Some artists prefer healthy meals low in calories, such as salads, grilled chicken, or fresh fruits. Others, however, indulge in more substantial meals, such as burgers, pizza, and other fast foods. Many musicians opt for high-protein foods to help rebuild muscles and keep them satiated.

Similarly, drinking plenty of fluids after a show is vital. Water is the most common choice for many performers, as it helps to rehydrate the body, but some prefer sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost during the show. Some musicians even opt for a glass of wine or beer to help them relax and unwind after the show.

SELF-CARE ON TOUR

Taking care of oneself after a performance is essential for physical health and mental well-being. Musicians work hard to put on a great show, and after the adrenaline of performing wears off, they may experience a crash. Eating well and staying hydrated can help musicians regain their strength and maintain their focus.

Having something to eat and drink after a concert is essential to post-concert recovery. Musicians who eat and drink properly can perform at their best, maintain their health and improve their future performances. Musicians must prioritize their well-being after a show to keep doing what they love and continue bringing their fans joy through their music.

SETTLE FINANCIALS

After a concert, settling financials is one of the most important tasks musicians must complete. They must ensure they pay all their bandmates, crew members, and vendors on time.

The financial transactions can be complex and time-consuming, especially if they are on tour, as they may need to pay for travel expenses, accommodation, and food. Musicians have to manage their budgets carefully to ensure that they have enough money to cover all their expenses while on tour.

WHO GETS PAID

Musicians must pay a wide range of people and vendors after a show. They may have to pay their bandmates, sound technicians, lighting engineers, merchandise sellers, and venue staff.

The payment terms may vary, and some vendors may require payment upfront, while others may accept payment after the concert. In addition, musicians also have to pay for any equipment they may have rented, such as sound systems or lighting rigs.

INVENTORY & MERCH SALES

Merchandise sales are a significant source of revenue for many musicians, and they need to keep track of their inventory and count their sales after a show. They may have to reconcile their sales with their inventory to ensure they are not missing any items.

If they have a merch table, they must pack and transport the remaining items to the next venue.

BEING RESPONSIBLE WITH FINANCES

Financial responsibility is crucial for musicians, who are often self-employed and have to manage their budgets. Musicians must clearly understand their financial situation, income, and expenses. They must budget carefully and ensure enough money to cover their expenses while on tour.

They must also keep accurate records of their transactions and receipts to ensure that they can claim any expenses for tax purposes.

Settling financials is one of the critical tasks that musicians have to complete after a show. It requires careful budgeting, accurate record-keeping, and responsible financial management. By managing their finances carefully, musicians can ensure they have the resources needed to continue performing and growing their careers.

REVIEW THE PERFORMANCE

After a concert, it’s common for musicians to take some time to review their performance. This process is important because it allows them to assess how they did, identify areas that need improvement, and celebrate things that went well. Reviewing a performance can be a collaborative effort with bandmates, and it can help musicians to hone their skills and create a better experience for their fans.

Performing on stage is physically and mentally demanding, and staying focused throughout the show can be difficult.

After reviewing a performance, musicians can reflect on and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. They can assess how they executed their setlist, identify what worked well, and make changes to improve their show in the future. This process of self-reflection is important for any musician looking to grow and develop their skills.

THINGS TO DISCUSS

When reviewing their performance, musicians may discuss various things with their bandmates. One common topic is the technical aspects of the performance, such as how well the instruments were played and the sound quality. Musicians may also evaluate their stage presence and audience engagement, discussing what worked well and could be improved.

Another important topic is the overall flow of the show, including how the setlist was arranged and how the transitions between songs were executed. This can help musicians to identify if there were any lulls or moments where the energy dropped and how they can improve the pacing of their show.

Musicians may also discuss any unexpected events or mistakes during the performance. For example, if someone misses a cue or plays a wrong note, they may discuss how to prevent that from happening again.

IMPROVING & LEARNING

Reviewing performance is an essential part of the learning process for any musician. By identifying areas where they could improve, musicians can work to refine their skills and create a better experience for their fans. It’s also important to celebrate the things that went well and build upon those successes.

Learning from mistakes is one of the most important benefits of reviewing their performance. No performance is perfect, and it’s natural for musicians to make mistakes on stage.

However, by reflecting on these mistakes, musicians can identify what went wrong and take steps to prevent them from happening again.

Ultimately, reviewing performance is an important part of a musician’s growth and development. It helps them assess their skills, identify improvement areas, and refine their craft.

Social media has become essential for musicians to connect with their fans and promote their music. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook allow musicians to share updates, photos, and videos with their fans, engage in conversations, and build relationships with their audience.

For many musicians, social media is a way to expand their reach and attract new fans. By sharing content regularly and interacting with fans, musicians can create a loyal following and build a strong online presence.

SOCIAL MEDIA AFTER A SHOW

After a concert, musicians will often take the time to check their social media accounts. They may respond to messages from fans, share photos or videos from the performance, or thank their audience for coming out to the show. By doing so, they can continue to build relationships with their fans and create a sense of community around their music.

Many musicians also use social media to promote their upcoming shows or releases. They can create excitement and anticipation for their next project by sharing updates and teasers. They may also use social media to connect with other musicians or industry professionals, collaborate on new projects, or network for future opportunities.

Not sure what to post about? Review our list of The Dos & Don’ts Of Social Media For Bands & Musicians.

Another way that musicians use social media after a show is by reviewing their performance metrics. Musicians can track the engagement and reach of their social media posts, seeing which posts have the most likes, comments, and shares. This information can be useful in helping them to understand their audience and tailor their content to better connect with their fans.

STAYING CONNECTED WITH FANS

For musicians, social media is essential for staying connected with fans and promoting their music. By engaging with fans, musicians can build a strong following and create a sense of community around their music. They can also use social media to promote their upcoming shows and releases, building anticipation and excitement for their next project.

In addition to promoting themselves, musicians can use social media to collaborate with other artists and industry professionals. They can connect with other musicians, producers, and promoters, potentially opening up new opportunities for future projects.

Social media is essential to a musician’s marketing strategy in today’s digital world. By staying active and engaged on social media platforms, musicians can build a strong following and attract new fans. Social media also allows musicians to track engagement metrics, providing valuable insights into their audience and the content types that resonate with them.

Reviewing performance and checking social media are just two of the many things musicians do after a concert. By reflecting on their performance and connecting with fans, musicians can continue to grow and develop their skills and build a loyal following of fans who are passionate about their music.

TRAVEL TO THE NEXT VENUE

After a concert, touring musicians must travel to the following location. This can be a challenging job, especially if the next venue is far away. There are several ways that musicians can travel between shows, and the mode of transportation depends on a variety of factors.

For shorter distances, musicians may choose to travel by car or van. This allows them to control their schedule and bring their own equipment. However, this can be tiring if the distances are significant or if they need to drive overnight.

Have you ever wondered how bands travel overseas? Check out our post, How Do Bands Travel Overseas: The Ultimate Checklist.

For longer distances, many musicians choose to fly. This allows them to travel quickly and efficiently, but it can be expensive and require much planning. Musicians also need to consider the time it takes to get to and from the airport and the possibility of flight delays or cancellations.

Some larger touring acts may also travel by bus, allowing them more space and amenities for longer trips. This can be more comfortable than other modes of transportation but can also be expensive and require a larger crew.

TYPES OF TRANSPORTATION

The type of transportation musicians use depends on their success level, budget, and other factors. Here are a few examples of the types of transportation that musicians may use:

Car or van: Many up-and-coming musicians will travel in a car or van with their equipment and crew. This option is affordable but can be tiring and uncomfortable for longer trips.
Plane: Established musicians with more resources may choose to fly to their next destination. This is a quick and efficient option, but it can be expensive and require careful planning.
Tour bus: Larger touring acts with more crew and equipment may opt for a tour bus. This allows for more space and amenities but is more expensive and requires more coordination.

Check out our comprehensive guide on The Ins & Outs Of Touring In A Van & Making It A Comfortable Experience.

STAYING ENERGIZED & HEALTHY

Traveling between shows can be tiring and stressful for musicians, especially if they are on a tight schedule or have multiple shows in a row. Musicians must care for themselves during travel to stay energized and healthy for their next performance.

One way musicians can stay energized is by getting enough rest. This may be challenging if they are traveling overnight or have tight schedules, but taking naps or breaks when possible can help. Musicians can also try to eat healthy meals and stay hydrated during travel.

Another important aspect of staying energized during travel is exercise. Musicians may not have access to a gym or other workout equipment while on the road, but they can still try to get some physical activity by taking walks or doing bodyweight exercises in their hotel room.

Finally, taking care of mental health is also important during travel. Musicians may feel isolated or homesick while on the road. They need a support system and take time for self-care activities like reading, meditating, or journaling.

REST & RELAX

Performing can be physically and emotionally demanding for musicians. After a show, they need to rest and relax in order to recover and recharge before their next performance.

Rest and relaxation are important for physical health because they allow the body to repair and regenerate. Musicians may have strained their voices or muscles during the show, and taking time to rest can help prevent injury and improve recovery time.

Have you ever wondered where musicians sleep on tour? The answer might surprise you.

Rest and relaxation are also important for mental health. Performing can be stressful and anxiety-inducing, and taking time to unwind can help reduce stress and anxiety. Musicians may also use this time to reflect on their performance and review their goals and aspirations to stay motivated and inspired.

HOW MUSICIANS UNWIND AFTER A SHOW

Musicians may unwind after a show in various ways, depending on their preferences and available resources. Here are a few examples of how musicians may relax and recharge after a performance:

Take a shower: This can help relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation. Here’s a list of 12 Ways Musicians Take Showers On Tour.
Listen to music: Musicians may listen to their music or other artists they enjoy to unwind.
Watch TV or a movie: This can help distract their mind from the performance and allow them to decompress.
Spend time with friends or family: Being around loved ones can help musicians feel grounded and supported.
Go for a walk: This can help musicians get fresh air, exercise, and explore their area.

MENTAL & PHYSICAL CARE

Maintaining mental and physical health is crucial for musicians, especially those touring or performing frequently. In addition to rest and relaxation, there are other things musicians can do to take care of themselves.

One important aspect of physical health is nutrition. Musicians may not always have access to healthy food options while on the road, but they can try to make healthy choices when possible. This may include bringing snacks from home, choosing healthy restaurant options, or even cooking their own meals in a hotel room.

Another important aspect of physical health is staying hydrated. Musicians should drink plenty of water and avoid or limit alcohol and other dehydrating beverages.

Taking care of mental health is also important for musicians. Performing can be stressful and anxiety-inducing, and musicians may struggle with being on the road or away from home. Musicians may benefit from talking to a therapist or counselor or practicing self-care activities like meditation, journaling, or creative expression.

In addition to taking care of themselves, musicians may benefit from forming relationships with other musicians or industry professionals. This can provide a sense of community, support, and opportunities for collaboration and growth.

After a concert, musicians have a lot of important tasks to take care of to ensure their success and well-being. Traveling to the next location, resting and relaxing, and taking care of physical and mental health are just a few of the things that musicians must prioritize. By caring for themselves and their business, musicians can continue performing at their best and connect with their fans.

Man with black shirt practicing the drums

PRACTICE THE SETLIST

One of the most important aspects of being a musician is the need for constant improvement. Whether you are a solo artist or part of a band, practicing your craft is essential for growth and success. After a concert, many musicians will take some time to practice and refine their skills.

Practicing can help musicians to improve their technique, develop new ideas, and refine their performance.

For example, a guitarist may work on their fingerpicking technique to increase their speed and accuracy. A vocalist may practice hitting high notes or perfecting their breath control. By putting in the time and effort to practice, musicians can improve their overall performance and create a more polished product for their fans.

WAYS TO PRACTICE AFTER A SHOW

There are many ways that musicians can practice after a show. Some may rehearse with their bandmates, working on new material or refining existing songs. Others may prefer to practice independently, working on individual skills or techniques.

One way musicians can practice after a show is by reviewing performance footage. By watching a recording of their show, they can identify areas where they can improve and make adjustments for future performances.

For example, they may notice that their vocals were too quiet in the mix or that their guitar solo could have been more polished. By reviewing their performance, musicians can identify areas where they can improve and work on them during their practice time.

Check out our list of 10 Practice Spaces For Bands That Have Nowhere To Rehearse.

Another way that musicians may practice after a show is by working on their stage presence. This can include practicing their movements on stage, working on their banter with the audience, or even practicing their facial expressions.

By putting in the time to practice their stage presence, musicians can create a more engaging and memorable experience for their fans.

IMPROVEMENT & GROWTH

The music industry constantly evolves, with new sounds and trends always emerging. For musicians to stay relevant and successful, it is important to continue improving and growing. Practicing is essential to this process, allowing musicians to refine and develop new skills.

In addition to improving their performance, practicing can help musicians stay inspired and motivated. By setting goals for themselves and working towards them, musicians can stay engaged and passionate about their craft. This can help to prevent burnout and ensure that they continue to create music that resonates with their fans.

WRITE NEW MUSIC

One of the most exciting and fulfilling aspects of being a musician is the ability to create new music. After a show, many musicians will take some time to write and work on new material. Writing new music is an important part of the creative process, allowing musicians to express themselves and explore new ideas.

Writing new music can also help musicians to stay relevant and engaged with their fans. By creating new and innovative sounds, they can attract new fans and keep their existing fans interested and engaged. This can help to ensure a long and successful career in the music industry.

WRITING MUSIC ON TOUR

There are many ways that musicians can write new music on tour. Some prefer to write alone, while others collaborate with their bandmates or other musicians. Some prefer to write with a specific theme or emotion, while others prefer to let their creativity guide them.

Musicians can write new music after a show by recording ideas on their phones or other devices. They may capture a melody they came up with during soundcheck or a lyric that came to them during the performance. By recording these ideas, they can revisit them later and use them as inspiration for a new song.

Another way musicians may write new music after a show is by collaborating with other musicians. This can involve jamming with bandmates or other musicians, bouncing ideas off each other, and creating something new together.

Collaboration can lead to new and innovative sounds that may not have been possible otherwise, and it can also help to bring different perspectives and ideas into the creative process.

Wondering why musicians collaborate with each other? Check out our guide to the Essential Benefits of Collaborating with Other Musicians.

Musicians may also write new music after a show by reflecting on their experiences and emotions. They may be inspired by the energy and excitement of the crowd or by something that happened during the show. By tapping into their own emotions and experiences, musicians can create songs that are authentic and relatable to their fans.

CREATIVE EXPRESSION & INNOVATION

In addition to staying relevant and engaged with their fans, writing new music is also important for musicians to express themselves and push the boundaries of their craft. They can inspire others and help shape music’s future by creating something new and innovative.

Writing new music is also a way for musicians to challenge themselves and grow as artists. By experimenting with new sounds and styles, they can expand their horizons and push themselves out of their comfort zones. This can lead to new and exciting career opportunities and help keep them engaged and passionate about their craft.

After a concert, musicians have a lot of work to do. From packing up their gear to settling their finances, many tasks need to be taken care of. However, it is also important for musicians to continue practicing and writing new music. By putting in the time and effort to improve and create something new, they can stay relevant and engaged with their fans and continue pushing their craft’s boundaries.

BEHIND THE SCENES

In this article, we’ve discussed ten things that musicians typically do after a concert. These activities include meeting and greeting fans, packing equipment, eating and drinking, settling financials, reviewing the performance, checking social media, traveling to the following location, resting and relaxing, practicing, and writing new music. Each of these activities serves a purpose and is important to the success and well-being of the musician.

We encourage our readers to support their favorite musicians. Whether buying their albums, attending their concerts or simply following them on social media, every little bit helps. The music industry can be tough, requiring hard work and dedication to succeed. By supporting our favorite musicians, we can help them continue to create the music we love and inspire us with their talent.

Being a musician is not just about performing on stage. There are many important tasks that musicians must take care of after a concert. These activities may be time-consuming, but they are necessary for the success and well-being of the musician.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into being a musician and encourages you to support your favorite artists.

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10 Things You Didn’t Know Musicians Do After A Concert