Wanderer – PRESHOW RITUALS

In this Preshow Rituals segment, the pop artist, Wanderer, shares what he does before every show. You can check out his rituals, after the break.

I’ve been playing live shows since I was in middle school, so I have my fair share of experience with nerves, things going wrong, and any kind of shenanigans that can happen when going onstage. I’ve played to 5,000 people, and I’ve played to less than five. For me, the biggest thing I can say to prepare for a performance is to simply that – prepare. A lot of people talk to me about nerves and stage fright and those negative feelings that come with going in front of people. For me what has made a huge difference is simply turning that nervousness and anxiety into excitement. Just in mind head, thinking of it differently puts me in a better headspace, one of positivity instead of doubting myself.

As far as the specifics, I’d say I always try and warm up my voice earlier in the day before a show, and definitely warming up and doing vocal exercises before going onstage. Since becoming a singer/frontman that’s been crucial. I like to also try and be alone right before a show, to center myself, visualize things, and calm down. Even now before bigger shows I still get nervous, so getting away from everyone and chilling by myself helps me to think clearly and feel better about everything. I don’t do anything too weird before a show, but some of my vocal warmups sound really goofy….

Even with all your preparations, things will inevitably go wrong at shows sometimes. For me, it’s important to not lose your head, and stay positive, especially if it’s in front of a crowd. People usually won’t remember technical difficulties or something breaking, but they will remember how you react to it, and if it ruins the show for you. Above all, music is about connecting with people and having a good time, so just do your best and put passion into it, and people will enjoy it.

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