Are Lyrics Displays a Necessity for Singers in Live Performances?
Many performers, whether professional or amateur, frequently use screens or teleprompters to display lyrics during live performances. This practice is often seen in concerts and theatrical shows where artists navigate complex sets or lengthy songs. In this article, we will explore why screens are used, how they are perceived by audiences, and whether they are truly essential for a successful live performance.
Reasons for Using Screens in Live Performances
Memory Aid: For artists with extensive repertoires, displaying lyrics on a screen can serve as a valuable memory aid. Singers often face the challenge of performing lengthy sets with intricate verses and choruses. Having lyrics visible can help them stay on track, especially when emotions and adrenaline can cloud their recollection.
Focus on Performance: Using screens allows performers to concentrate on their vocal delivery, stage presence, and overall performance rather than worrying about remembering the lyrics. This focus can enhance their connection with the audience, making the performance more engaging and memorable.
Live Changes: In the event of last-minute setlist changes, displaying lyrics can help artists adapt quickly. This flexibility ensures that even if a song changes, the performance can maintain its quality and continuity.
Audience Acceptance of Screen Displays
The audience's acceptance of lyric displays is generally positive, especially when the performance is engaging and the artist is able to connect with the audience. Many fans understand the complexities of memorizing a full set of songs and appreciate the overall experience rather than focusing on the technicalities of memory.
Some purists may still prefer artists to sing from memory, but the majority of audiences are likely to be understanding. The enjoyment of the performance is the ultimate goal, and screen displays do not detract from that experience.
Individual Perspectives and Examples
It is important to recognize that different performers may have different approaches and justifications for using lyrics on screens. For instance, singer Liam Gallagher often uses a teleprompter to ensure he hits the right notes, particularly when singing newer material or complex songs. This approach not only helps with accuracy but also enhances his confidence on stage.
Similarly, some songs are so long or intricate that even the most skilled performers may struggle to remember all the words without assistance. A prime example is the song The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald by Gordon Lightfoot, which spans 12 verses. While a screen may not display every word, it can provide crucial lyrics at the beginning of each verse, helping the performer maintain time and stay on track.
For a long time, the use of screens was seen as a bit unprofessional, but more and more performers and audiences are recognizing that it can help expand sets and add to the repertoire. The key is to ensure that the use of screens enhances the performance rather than detracts from it.
Conclusion
The use of screens or teleprompters to display lyrics during live performances is a practical choice that many artists make, and most audiences tend to embrace it as part of the live music experience. Whether used as a memory aid, a tool to maintain focus, or a means to adapt to last-minute changes, the use of lyrics on screen can significantly enhance the quality of a performance.