The Evolution of a Band's Tour: A Comprehensive Guide

Banding together to create music, bands often embark on tours to share their creations with audiences. The nature of these tours can vary greatly, influenced by the band's history, album release cycles, and the band members' preferences. This article explores the nuances of how bands construct their setlists, with a focus on how they mix old and new material to engage fans and promote their latest work.

Understanding the Variability in Band Tours

One of the most notable aspects of a band's tour is the variability in their setlists. Unlike other performances, such as a single album show, a typical band tour usually features a blend of old and new material, tailored to the band's specific circumstances and audience expectations.

For a newer band: If a band has just their first or second album out, they might struggle to vary their set much beyond the order of songs. Given the scarcity of material, early setlists are likely to be repetitive, re-arranging the songs to avoid boredom. However, as the band grows and releases more albums, they gain the flexibility to experiment with different setlist combinations.

jam Band Tours: The Ultimate Setlist Deconstructor

Jam bands, known for their improvisational style and lengthy performances, tend to be the most flexible in terms of their setlists. They frequently change up their songs, creating unique experiences for each performance. For example, the legendary band Phish is famous for their unpredictability. They refuse to play the same show twice, ensuring that each concert features a fresh mix of old and new tracks, creating a memorable and unpredictable listening experience for their fans. Other bands like Phoebe Snow and Fatboy Slim also employ this strategy.

Mainstream Band Tours: Promoting New Albums

For mainstream bands, tours are often geared towards promoting the latest album. They typically perform a mix of new tracks and hits from previous albums. The band's priority is to give their audience a taste of their latest work while also satisfying requests for older favorites. For instance, a band like Lorde or Kodaline would play 3 to 5 tracks from their new album, interspersed with their more popular songs from previous releases.

When a band decides to play a particular song, they consider the hit factor. For example, a single track from the new album might be saved for the encore or have a special performance. The goal is to leave the audience wanting more, ensuring they return for the next performance.

Strategic Tour Planning

Bands often release a new album with the intention of touring to promote it. This tour aims to showcase the new material to a wider audience. Additionally, the band plays some of the more popular songs from their previous albums to maintain fan interest and draw in new listeners. This blend of old and new keeps the tour fresh and engaging, as seen with bands like Michael Jackson or AC/DC.

However, touring can be a grueling process. Touring involves extensive travel, rehearsals, sound checks, and performing multiple nights in a row. For lesser-known bands, touring can be a significant financial investment with mixed returns. They have to pad their pockets with a substantial amount of money to ensure they can continue to tour and promote their music effectively.

On the other hand, well-established acts like The Rolling Stones and Queen benefit immensely from their recognizable hit songs. They can rely on their "greatest hits" to sell out venues and draw large crowds, making touring a highly lucrative endeavor. These shows often focus on their back catalogue, providing a nostalgic experience for long-time fans and a new experience for newer participants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a band's tour is a carefully balanced act of promoting new material, engaging with legacy songs, and providing fans with an unforgettable experience. Whether it's a newer band experimenting with setlist combinations or a well-established act playing their greatest hits, the goal is to create a tour that resonates with the audience and builds anticipation for future performances. Understanding the various factors that influence a band's setlist is crucial for both fans and industry professionals, ensuring that each tour is one of surprise and delight.