we’re selfish. Each time a fan or other person listens to your songs, leaves a show, buys a
t-shirt, etc., they come away with something more. What is it? Finding the answer goes a
long way toward gaining a clear understanding of your fans and audience-at-large.
- What do your fans always expect from you?
It might be a certain sound or type of music. Maybe it’s the type of lyrics. It couldalso be a killer stage show. For example, I can’t think of a single Iron Maiden fan who
wouldn’t be severely disappointed if Eddy didn’t show up in some way, shape or form.
The point is that your audience is expecting something when they listen to you and/or
see your live performance. This is a good one to ask your fans directly. Why guess when
you can simply ask?
- What is it you always do and want to be known for, both musically and your stage
presence?
This might also cross over into other areas such as political viewpoints or various so-
cial commentaries and causes. It can also be a stage experience that’s tightly ties to the
music. Dylan was known for social and political commentary. So are many other acts.
Bowie was known for creating characters such as Ziggy Stardust, Major Tom and the
Thin, White Duke. KISS, well, that kind of goes without saying. Rock, roll, makeup,
spewing fake blood, fire here and there and costuming that was just a bit over the top.
- What is one thing that your band and music stand for?
If a fan comes away with one thought after hearing you, what would you like it to be?
That can be a tough question. For me, Billy Joel is “brilliantly entertaining songwriter
and performer.” For Ozzy, it’s, “Whoa! What fun! That guy’s crazy (and appears to be on
a train). Meatloaf is, “This is theater, spectacle and it’s great!”