Thoughts on Subbing

Been doing some sub dates with a few people over the summer (and had a few people sub in for gigs I do). A few takeaways:

• If you say yes to something, do it 100%. Don’t justify not putting in the work because you don’t think you’re making enough money. If you can’t take the time to nail it, say no to the gig.

• You will get judged by how closely you follow what the usual guy does. Don’t try and reinvent the music unless the MD specifically tells you to get creative.

• The artist or band you’re subbing in with has spent decades getting to where they are. They deserve to have someone care as much about their music as they do.

• You won’t get everything perfectly locked the first time you sub in, so be open to criticism and ask what needs to be better the next time. Don’t pretend you nailed everything if you missed stuff.

• Swagger/confidence is key. Practice to the point where you can be outwardly confident onstage.

• Your reputation as a musician is judged based on what level you can show up to every gig with, not just your regular gig. If you are great with your usual artist or band but flounder every time you do anything else, people who can move your career forward will notice.

• If someone has hired you to play with them, you are already good enough and belong on that stage. Act/prepare accordingly.