If you’re a gigging cover band, you have a lot to bring to a gig. Not only are you schlepping your instruments, but cover bands also are often saddled with bringing full PAs, lighting, and more. In all the packing, there are a few major — if smaller — items that can often be overlooked. So we put together this helpful list of gear essentials that you won’t want to be without. Let’s get right into it.
Accessories
For the most part, when we say accessories, we’re talking about all the smaller items that you don’t directly interact with during a performance but that are essential to crafting a great show.
Cables
If you’ve ever performed before, you know the value of having multiples of every type of cable you use. Think about it. As a cover band, you’ll need instrument, speaker, power, MIDI, and XLR cables. And those are just the most common. Use Apple products? That’s a whole new list of cables and adapters to add. That’s why Sweetwater offers our convenient Cable Finder to ensure you always have plenty of the right cables for the job.
Pens
We’re not just talking sharpies here (even though you’ll definitely want a bunch of those on hand). Today, you’ll find useful markers for marking effects pedals settings, a Superlube Gel Pen for making sure your gear is in great working order, and Sweetwater pens to simply take notes before the show.
Earplugs
Playing music, especially around live drums, loud amps, and large PAs, does a number on the human ear. So if you’re able to protect your hearing during the show, do it! We have a ton of great earplug options at Sweetwater, from foam inserts to high-tech dB-reducing designs that still allow all the frequencies to get through.
Strings, Drumheads, Sticks, and Picks
Nothing will derail a performance faster than breaking guitar strings or drumheads, losing picks, or throwing your last drumstick into the crowd. Whenever your band is ready to hit the stage, make sure you have plenty of all of these to keep the show on track.
Technology
Technology plays a larger role in live performance than ever before. But we’re not just talking about digital consoles and the keys player’s latest synth. Many cover bands today rely on laptops, iPads, and software for backing and click tracks, rehearsal tools, set lists, and as a convenient way to keep song lyrics right in front of them. So whether you’re in need of a new and more reliable iPad, a powerful handheld audio and video recorder for referencing performances, or even a new computer, we’ve got you covered.
The less-tangibles
Sometimes the accessories you need most can’t be held in your hand. Here are a handful of the ones we know are vital to have in your back pocket at every gig.
Positive attitude
While you’ll find plenty of this around Sweetwater, it’s not something you can order online. It doesn’t matter if you have everything else on this list in spades and more talent than Mozart, if you wear a frown, show up late, and have trouble adapting to the demands of a gig, keeping your spot in the band will be hard. So before you pack everything else, make sure you have plenty of positivity to go around.
Software
Let’s start with an actual product. Making sure your software and apps are all up-to-date and that they work with your system is extremely important. Ever taken the stage to realize your backing tracks won’t play? No fun. Ableton, DJ software, and even recording software to capture your performances can all add professional-quality production to your band’s shows — when they’re working, that is.
Backups of everything!
Ok, so you have your gear, the band is rehearsed, and there’s a smile on your face. Now go back and get doubles of EVERYTHING! And that includes your sunshiny personality. I promise, you’ll need it eventually.
Of course, we all want that next drum set, new mic, or shiny bass, but the things listed above are the ones that mean more to getting paid than almost anything else. Make sure you bring all of these items to your next cover-band gig or rehearsal, and you should be good to go. Want to make double sure you’re not forgetting anything? Give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700. They’ll get to know you, your gig, and your gear, setting you up for success every time you take the stage.