Almost everyone knows the classical music of Beethoven. Mozart, and Tchaikovsky, And world renowned modern and contemporary artists like the Beatles, Michael Jackson, Beyonce, Lily Wayne, 50 Cent etc. to name only a few musicians who have gained worldwide fame, and whose music has already become “classics”.

Every country has produced its own musicians, who have achieved a level of professionalism that has propelled them to fame, either in their own country or as international stars. They,  in their own unique and individual styles, have taken the music industry to new levels.

One quality that famous musicians have is a passion for both composing and performing music. To them, music is not just a career; it Is their life and passion. . but it more than just a “job” and a paycheck and “food on the table”:  it’s their passion. And they want to be the best.

Famous musicians are the world’s “communicators”. Music is a universal language. It communicate emotions, and create feelings without the need for words — it’s all in the music.  And people can enjoy a song even if the words are in a different language. The Sound of Music  is a universal language.

There is nothing more exciting than seeing great musicians – individual performers or a band or orchestra — playing live on stage. Then, music becomes a performance, where the audience can participate: they can sing along, dance to the music or just listen in one great communal experience. A live performance connects and interacts with its audience that a mere “recording” cannot do.

Good musicians are well organized. They are disciplined and prepared when it comes time to perform. Music is a business as well as an art; despite what the tabloids say, tardiness, and irresponsibility is not part of a great musician and performer’s values or vocabulary.  Performance and recording schedules are tight, and often erratic. They must always meet their deadline and their obligations.  They must find the time, and have the discipline to rehearse whenever necessary to take their performance one step higher for each gig.

How did they achieve that pinnacle of fame and become musical legends?

It’s not just talent, but also discipline, hard work and exceptional communication skills. Their aim is to deliver a unique and very personal message to their fans. They must not just perform,  but must interact with their audience, through the music, the performance, and their personality. A performer needs to have a unique sense of showmanship, but also must keep their egos in check.  Great musicians perform at the highest level every time and always give an audience their money’s worth.

Great musicians do not live in a vacuum. Everyone can learn and be inspired by another’s work, and knowing what their fans want and need, and also what’s going on in the music world, keeps them at the top of their profession.  But too much egotism and arrogance alienates audiences and fellow musicians as well. To stay on top, be “on top of your game”. Audience expect t get their moneys worth perfection.  Famous musicians play well with others. You should perform and expect the highest quality, but you should also be able to adapt to suit the needs and abilities of your musicians.

In a live concert, preparation is essential. Know the acoustics qualities of the venue you are performing in. If you are playing outdoors in a park or stadium, or inside a concert hall, you need to tailor your performance and the acoustics of you instruments. You audience will not enjoy a performance where they cannot hear the music, or if the music is so loud it is painful to the ears. Make sure the volume on your instruments, especially a guitar or piano is at the required level that will support, but not drown out the vocals and other instruments.  A balance between all elements of the performance including vocals is necessary. You can achieve this if you are well prepared. Good preparation will see you blend your sound in the best way. Ensure you have the right kind of instruments for the music to be played for a gig. Always remember–know your audience.

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