The Art of Sitting In.

I just read a blog by Danny Barnes called “how to play in someone else’s band”. It’s an excellent read and should be required reading for any musician: http://dannybarnes.com/blog/how-play-someone-elses-band

As I read Danny’s blog it occurred to me that there are also some basic rules of etiquette for musicians sitting in on another band’s gig. Whether you are asked to sit in or “gulp” ask to sit in, it is imperative to know and follow a few simple courtesies.

Don’t Try to Take Over the Show.

You are a guest, not a guest star. Save the showboating for your own gigs. Taking over the mic with rambling monologues is a no-no and yelling “how’s everybody doing tonight” is just silly. Chances are, unless you are Slash or Springsteen, no one is as impressed at your cameo appearance as you think they are.

Don’t use your spot as an audition or an opportunity to promote your band and don’t bark orders at the musicians on stage.

Limit Your Time.

Know when enough is enough. If you haven’t agreed on how many songs you will play beforehand, learn to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle hints that your welcome has been stretched thin. Some musicians might be too shy or polite to actually say anything so keep your eyes and ears open for telltale signs that the band is ready to resume their set. Two or three songs are usually adequate and if you have to resort to playing “Johnny B. Goode” then that’s a good sign that the well has run dry. Which brings us to:

Know What You are Going to Play.

Show the band a little courtesy and have some idea as to what songs you can do together. If it’s a classic rock band and you’re Mr. Up-To-The-Minute-Hip don’t expect them to know the latest noise from some obscure screamo punk band. In fact, before you sit in, listen the band play a few songs or a set and if you aren’t familiar with the band’s material, don’t get on stage.

Don’t Screw With the Gear.

If you are not professional enough to play on unfamiliar gear, do not get on stage and readjust everything to your liking. Remember you are a guest; don’t waste time fussing with guitar straps, amp settings and drum hardware. Get up, play and get off.

Respect the band’s gear. Maybe you play like some coked up gorilla on your drum set but don’t beat the living shit out of someone else’s gear. And if by chance you do damage something, don’t offer to pay for it, INSIST on paying for it. Right now, then and there.

Just Say No.

Exceptions abound but really most bands do not welcome sit ins. It is intrusive and it eats into their opportunity to play out. You might be asked to sit in as a gesture of politeness. Try this: If asked to sit in, politely decline and if they persist then you can be sure that you are actually welcomed and not just being tolerated.

And if you’ve asked, begged and/or needled the band to sit in, well, shame on you.