by Mark Scott | Oct 23, 2023 | Gear, How to, PA Systems, Pro Audio
Achieving the perfect sound is a blend of art and science. One of the most powerful tools in the box is the compressor. But what is compression, and how can it be used effectively in a live music setting? Let’s dive in. What is Compression? At its core,...
by gritandgroove | Oct 18, 2023 | Best Practices, Inspiration
Unless you die young, you’re going to get older. The good news is that there’s an undeniable charm, wisdom, and depth that comes with age. The journey of a musician, from early days to golden years, is filled with lessons both personal and professional. In this...
by gritandgroove | Oct 9, 2023 | Best Practices, Getting Gigs
First gig in a new room? It can be a fresh opportunity to showcase your talent and potentially secure a regular spot. How do you ensure that your first performance isn’t your last? Here are some strategies to help you get return dates and become a favorite in...
by gritandgroove | Sep 28, 2023 | Best Practices, Inspiration, Original Music, Songwriting
Writing a song is a blend of art and science, a dance between intuition and structure. Whether you’re an experienced musician or just beginning your songwriting journey, there are foundational principles and practical tips that can guide you toward crafting your...
by gritandgroove | Sep 27, 2023 | Gear, Microphones
Sennheiser is a brand with a considerable history of delivering quality and precision. Among their vast range of microphones, the e935 and e835 stand out, especially for vocal applications. While both microphones are designed to deliver top-notch performance, they...
by gritandgroove | Sep 26, 2023 | Gear, Mixers, Pro Audio
Among Yamaha’s vast product lineup, the MG series of mixers stands out for their versatility and audio quality. Whether you’re a solo acoustic performer or part of a small band, the Yamaha MG series has a mixer tailored for you. This post breaks down each...
by gritandgroove | Sep 21, 2023 | Gear, Microphones, Reviews, Vocals
Shure has long been a household name in the industry. Two of their most popular models, the Shure SM58 and the Shure Beta 58, are often a subject of debate. Both mics are known for their durability, sound quality, and versatility, but there are subtle differences that...
by gritandgroove | Sep 20, 2023 | Best Practices
Welp, it happened again last night. You probably know what I’m talking about. Every musician at some point in their career will encounter that one very special patron, bless his heart, who’s had wayyy too much to drink — and look — he’s headed your...
by gritandgroove | Sep 20, 2023 | Best Practices, Vocals
It’s true: Cardio benefits singers. For vocalists, maintaining optimal lung health and capacity is essential. Not only does it support longer and more powerful vocal performances, but it also ensures the longevity of your singing career. One often overlooked...
by gritandgroove | Sep 19, 2023 | Gear, PA Systems, Reviews
In the ever-evolving world of audio gear, the Electro-Voice EVERSE 8 stands out in innovation and practicality. Designed for those who demand both functionality and quality, this speaker offers a suite of features tailored to meet the needs of live performers and DJs....
by gritandgroove | Sep 16, 2023 | Amps, Gear, Reviews
With its combination of affordability, versatility, and top-notch tones, it’s no wonder that the Boss Katana is a staple in many guitarists’ arsenals. In this review, we’ll dive deep into four of the most popular models: the Katana-50 MkII combo, the...
by gritandgroove | Sep 14, 2023 | Inspiration, Quotes
“If music be the food of love, play on.” – William Shakespeare. Music is a universal language that speaks to the soul and expresses what words alone can’t. From iconic musicians to celebrated philosophers, many have attempted to capture its essence in words....
by Mark Scott | Sep 13, 2023 | Monetization Strategies, Original Music
Getting your original music out to the masses has never been easier. Platforms like Spotify and others have revolutionized the way artists share their songs. If you’re a musician looking to distribute your tracks, this is for you. Here are the steps you’ll...
by gritandgroove | Sep 13, 2023 | Best Practices, Getting Gigs, Monetization Strategies
Open mics are a fantastic way for artists to showcase their talent, for audiences to discover new voices, and for venues to attract a crowd. But how do you convince a venue to host your open mic night? And once you do, how can you ensure its growth and success? In...
by Mark Scott | Sep 13, 2023 | Gear, Reviews
In the vast world of online music retailers, there’s one name that has consistently stood out for me: Zzounds.com. For over ten years, I’ve been a loyal customer, and there are a plethora of reasons why. From their unbeatable zero-interest “Play As...
by gritandgroove | Sep 13, 2023 | Best Practices, Recording
Stepping into the recording studio can be both exciting and daunting. With hourly rates and the pressure to make the most of every second, you want to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. In this post we offer a comprehensive to-do list to help you make the...
by gritandgroove | Sep 12, 2023 | Gear, Microphones, Reviews
While the Shure SM58 has been the iconic choice for decades, the subsequent models, including the Shure Beta 58 and the Shure Beta 87a, have carried forward its legacy with significant advancements. Among these, the Shure Beta 87a Supercardioid Condenser Mic emerges...
by gritandgroove | Sep 12, 2023 | Gear, Guitars
Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the Seagull S6 Original Slim combines tonal perfection with impeccable design. In this blog post, we’ll look at what sets this guitar apart. 1. Craftsmanship Hailing from the reputable Seagull brand, which has...
by gritandgroove | Sep 12, 2023 | Booking, Getting Gigs
Gotta pay that rent! If you’re looking to increase your gig frequency, you’re in the right place. Today we delve into proven strategies on how to get more gigs. 1. Harness the Power of Social Media If you’re not on social media, you’re missing out on a...
by Mark Scott | Sep 12, 2023 | Best Practices, Playing Covers
Cover songs have stood the test of time, connecting generations of music lovers. Whether it’s Joe Cocker’s raspy rendition of The Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends” or Whitney Houston’s stratospheric version of Dolly...
