How To Set Up For A Live Stream Event
If you’re wanting to offer a live stream concert to your fans, it’s important to consider the quality of the content you’re putting out. If the intent is to perform and ask for tips, or just any interaction in general, having the right gear to help you sound professional is REALLY important. The good thing is, you don’t need a bunch of expensive gear to achieve a great sound. I will say this, running a livestream is not for the faint of heart, but it’s not impossible to do it well, and on a budget.
One important thing to note, you need to PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE before the actual day of the livestream. Do not try to do this until you’re comfortable. Many things can go wrong, so it is best to be prepared for anything.
Gear You’ll Need To Level Up:
A computer that is reliable is of the utmost importance. If your computer doesn’t have enough processing power, your computer may lag, or worse, give up the ghost in the middle of your livestream.
An interface that will allow you to plug in your microphone, and an instrument.
A camera that has a decent quality, your built-in webcam will do the trick, but if you want 4k level quality, don’t expect that from a regular webcam.
Headphones, or in ear monitors would be best. This way you can configure your audio to hear yourself.
Software That Will Make Your Livestream Run Smoothly
A streaming platform that is built for pushing audio and video to the masses. OBS is free, and has plenty of features to fit many different needs. There are many out there, you’ll need to do some RESEARCH and figure out what is best for you.
Read through your streaming platform’s instructions on how to encode your audio and video content. THIS IS CRUCIAL. It will affect how well your audio and video come across to your listeners.
An assistant, or someone who can troubleshoot for you during the livestream.
Having someone read the comments on your videos to you, or to ask you fan questions can be really helpful so that you do not have to sort through and possibly miss a fan’s question. You don’t want anyone to feel left out.
If a cable shorts out, you need a glass of water, or you need to show off your merchandise, they can be an extra set of hands to assist you.
Create a visually stunning background.
A eye-catching background will help pull people into your livestream concert. If you take your time to really think through how to create this one-of-a-kind experience, your fans will notice your hard work. Also, pay attention to what you wear. Make sure that you do not blend into the background. You want to stand out.
Lastly, craft a setlist that does not require you to feed off of an audience.
This is perhaps one of the hardest things about live stream performing. You don’t have the audience in front of you, but they are definitely there. (That is why having someone present with you to help monitor questions and interact is super helpful.)
As you perform, be sure to tell your story. You don’t have to sing straight from start to finish, it’s okay to talk, but really craft what you want to say. Make your words mean something to your fans. Don’t be afraid to joke and have fun either!
