Band dynamics are so interesting to me. I’d love to know if your band is aligned? Sometimes we can see that it’s a group attached to a single person and looking for guidance from them. And other times, it’s very apparent how deeply the band is bonded and that they work fully as a team.
I have found this really interesting when working with bands and seeing how their dynamics impact the success of the group. To start with - let’s be real, there are so many ways to make it work and so many dynamics that can be present. In a group. What I so see is that some of them are completely aligned on their actions and strategies, some of them all work as separate pieces, and some have one fearless leader that makes more than 90% of the decisions on their own. I can see that it’d be a struggle when other bands aren’t all on the same page or there is a power struggle. I’m sure you’ve heard of the term LSD (Lead Singer Disorder) but it could be true of a number of members of the band. It’s almost like being married to a bunch of people at once!
There is more than one way to structure the band and work together in a way that it will play to the natural dynamics and personalities within the group. There are certainly merits in having one designated leader and in having no set leader and working fully together, completely integrated. I would however seriously watch out when the whole band operates as separate units. It is incredibly difficult to finish recording, schedule shows, coordinate releases, promote the band and so much more when everyone is their own unit. While I think there is total merit in developing your own personal brand and endeavours, like sponsorships, or your own clothing brands or something that is close to your heart, the band has got to stick close especially in those early times!
Do you all learn from each other and take criticism and suggestions easily? This is another piece of the puzzle. If you’re all working toward the same goal and to the greater good - it’s so important that you can be open and honest with each other and give feedback. You’re all working to make your music the best it can be, so you have to have that space coming from a place of love in leaning on each other for the feedback. It’s a lot easier when you know that you are aligned and completely comfortable being open with each other and vulnerable in that way - personally and creatively. This can be a struggle, but always keeping in mind that you all are after the same desired outcome.
Whether you are or you aren’t aligned and working together - It shows in your playing whether live to a crowd or even just on your recorded releases. Have you been to a show where the band hates each other? It’s so easy to see!
Not to name names - but I did see a very legendary band about 10 years ago that famously doesn’t get on with each other and it was one of the most awkward shows I’ve ever seen where it was truly like each person was playing a separate show. Yikes…
It can also shows in how you show up for your audience online, especially if you don’t have a social media manager… your messaging and tone can be all over the place when you really need consistency. You want to make sure that you show up united as a band. Even when you have your designated leader. Make sure when putting together your content, it all sounds similar (unless you’re doing a page takeover kind of situation!)
The most important piece is that you have open and honest communication between members. If there is an issue, be sure you feel comfortable speaking about it with the band otherwise it’ll lead to resentment and the further it goes, the harder it’ll be to resolve. Put things out in the open when they’re small things before they become big things - Hey maybe you have to think of it like a marriage!
When you come together as a united front, your fans will feel it, your music and performance will reflect it and your future will blossom because of it. There is nothing cooler than seeing a tight band who genuinely connect with each other.
No matter how you decide to structure your band, make sure that you are aligned in your goals and that everyone is on the same page for growth. It only works when you work together, otherwise after a while, it will crack and fall apart. Especially when you’re getting started this is the time to build strong foundations, you want to get the right people in that you can connect and grow with as people and as artists.
How’s the health of your band doing? Book in a discovery call and we can chat about having a band health checkup!
How’s the health of your band doing? Do you need some help with your band or maybe the next steps with your own career? Let me know!
#musicindustry #communication #musiclover #artistmanagement #artisticgrowth #creativewriting #songwriting #bandmanagement #leadsinger
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