Now is the best time ever for BANDS/ARTISTS to learn how to do live streaming. Enjoy the experience after all it is like learning a new talent. ONLINE will never replace LIVE but in times like this it's the best way to keep the music alive! #SupportLocalMusic #SupportLiveMusic

1) Make sure you're closest to your wifi signal. If U have to stream next to your modem please do so. If you're unsure watch how others are doing it... you'll learn what you should do & what you shouldn't do.

2) Check out the best plaforms for your target audience and for what you intend to do musical performance, interviews, talkshows, streaming audio/video... Facebook Live, Instagram Live, YouTube Live, Periscope, Twitch, etc.

3) Equipment needed for your livestream and technical stuff you need to check... a pc, laptop, mobile phone; a microphone, headphones, tripod (especially if you're talking to people), a properly lit room. A power source you do NOT want to run out of juice midway.

4) Do a tech check way before with a friend if you have to... check audio/video feeds, make sure you understand you streaming platform/software (OBS, Zoom, Streamyard) & how to read chats, comments whilst performing or how to change views if you are interviewing multiple people.

5) If U are performing live make sure U check the balance between your instrument/playback system and your voice (Some mics have a tendency to compress you if you're too close or screaming into it). Nothing worse than have your voice MILES in front of the music.

6) Always prepare before the livestream even the most basic of points or a rundown for performances can keep you on track and not wandering all over the place. Don't forget to promote what you need to.. your other social media channels, latest releases, merchandise, etc

7) Always remember that the audience may be people who have no clue who you are so do take the time to introduce yourself, your band (even if they may not be with you) and your music.

8) Always PROMOTE the livestream especially if you're selling tickets, premiering a release/video, doing a special performance. It's just like promoting a gig... date, time, VENUE, how much, where to buy tickets. U should SPELL OUT the venue do not assume everyone knows you.

8 b) By PROMOTING EARLY you may time to get more people to your show and other performers may learn to avoid your time slot. At least you won't be competing for audience!

8 c) You can think of doing teasers either by video or going live for short sessions prior to your stream... also always encourage people to bring friends to your stream, take advantage of the fact that people have no where to go!

9) Because people are always late to the stream always warm up the room for 10-15 minutes. If U are particular about starting on time get online & streaming 10 minutes before your set so people can see already online. Unless you have performers before/after you

10) ENGAGE WITH YOUR AUDIENCE. It's different than just being on stage. Interact with your audience, take time to answer some questions and also ask some questions... learn to read the chat. The music is important but so is engagement.

11) Don't make your sets too long... you may be dong this for a while so pace yourself. Don't do everything you know is one night... the road may be long so it's better to always keep people wanting to return.