Every artist who has ever stepped on stage to perform has had some sort of stage fright. I think it is fair to say that even the pros can get butterflies before going up on the stage. As a musician that’s just something you have to deal with and overcome. While it is nearly impossible to overcome nervousness completely there are things you can do to help mange the symptoms and minimize the possibility of a catastrophe on stage. Lets take a look at some dos and don”ts to help you fight stage fright.
1. “Let’s Have A Few Drinks Before Going Out On Stage”
How about, let’s not. Sure, we all know what having a few beers can calm us down, but its not the same when you are about to go up on stage compared to sitting at home or in a bar. Drinking too much before a show is a problem that has happened to many performers over the years, and the results are almost always the same, bad show. So don’t risk it, be sober and chances are you will put on an amazing show for your fans.
2. Work On It A Little Bit At A Time
It is impossible for you to over come fear of stage fright completely and especially in the short term. Try to focus on little improvements at a time so you can build up your confidence. Be honest with yourself, don’t set unexpected goals.
3. It Is Natural
I think a lot of artists over-look the fact that stage fright and fear is a natural thing, it is part of human nature. Your not any less manly because you have stage fright. The first step is to admit this simple fact and realize that it is okay to have stage fright. Because in order to “treat” something you first have to be “diagnosed” with it (sorry for the medical reference here). But you guys get the point.
4. Keep Going, Don’t Quit.
Experience is very important in dealing with stage fright. Who do you think will have a better chance of overcoming stage fright: Tom does 1 show per year, compared to Tim who does a couple of shows per month. I think most of you will agree with me and pick Tim as an obvious choice. So don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, and so what if you fail the first time or the second time, all that does is give you an advantage for the third time.
So use the tips above to slowly over come stage fright and remember doing common things like drinking tea or exercising regularly can all aid and contribute in one way or another to dealing with stage fright. Before we sign off on this post, I also want to address a different stage fright for those of you who make beats at home.
Legit question:
“I don’t need to worry about stage fright since I make most of my beats at home, and I will never have to get on stage and perform”
This is a very interesting scenario because the above gives a falls sense of security to producers and people who make beats. So the answer here will be directed to the average person using lets say dubturbo, or FL to make beats at home who think that stage fright will never affect them.
Answer:
Have you ever thought about the fact that if some day you get signed to a major label (hopefully all of you reading this will) that you will have to perform in front of the Managers or Presidents of the company. The word “stage” can have multiple meanings. You can be on stage by just performing in front of one person at home in your living room.
So while your at home by yourself making beats, you need to start thinking about, what would happen if someone was watching you?
How to over come stage fright for people who make beats at home.
Simple. Do it in front of people.
Every now and then, have friends or family come over and simply watch you as you make you masterpiece, surely you will feel some butterflies from it.
Then, just keep doing it over and over again, until you feel comfortable around everyone.
Hope this post was helpful to you guys, now go and practice overcoming your fears.