Coverband Confidential's Podcast

This week on the pod, Adam and Dan are back in the saddle for a classic meatballs-style episode—light on the structure, heavy on the sauce.First up, Adam finally built his own RJ45 audio snake! It’s official: he’s the kind of guy who owns a punch tool and knows how to use it. We dive into what that means, how it works, and why you might want to DIY your own cables too. Spoiler alert: it’s cheaper, easier than expected, and makes you feel very powerful.Then we get into auditions—when to pre-screen, how to test prep vs. bluff, and why personality matters as much as chops. Whether you’re a dictator or just the guy who set up the rehearsal room, we’ve got practical advice for building a team that actually gels.Also in this episode:-Dan’s easing back into acoustic gigs post-surgery-Adam’s mystery gig is stirring up conspiracy theories-A PRS-Les Paul Jr. trade loop finally closes-The Billy Joel doc on Max is three hours long and barely gets into the '80s-K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix absolutely rules (Adam cried)-

Welcome to the Cover Band Confidential podcast! Adam and Dan kick off this episode with a deep dive into the challenges of leading a cover band, dealing with flaky band members, and the importance of having a clear band leader. They also explore the latest tech adventures, including vibe coding with Chat GPT and experimenting with audio over Cat6. Listen in for a classic analogy that compares dealing with unprepared bandmates to handling Brussel sprouts from the '50s. Plus, find out about their big gig opportunity and their thoughts on 3D printing for music gear. Don’t miss the discussion on how to handle band politics and keep your cover band running smoothly!MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track

In this week’s bite-sized-but-beefy episode, Adam and Dan dig into a fun little thought experiment: If you weren’t playing your current role in your band… what would you play instead? A surprising number of bandleaders in our Patreon community dream of swapping their front-and-center duties for a backline spot—and let’s be honest, we kinda get it.From the romanticized lives of bass players and drummers (spoiler: not as chill as they look) to the hard realities of load-in, leadership, and showing up late without consequence, we unpack the psychological and practical trade-offs of switching roles in your band. We also dig into how being a multi-instrumentalist or doubling as a front-of-house tech makes you better at your main gig.Oh—and we roast bass players. Lovingly. Because we are them. Sometimes.Topics Covered:Why bandleaders fantasize about being sidemenThe great drummer delusion: is sitting down actually easier?Subbing on bass: heroic or horrifying?FOH techs as secret weapon gig ninjasHow learning other r

In this episode of the Cover Band Confidential podcast,  Adam and Dan dive into various categories of songs that cover band musicians commonly despise playing but perform nonetheless due to their popularity and effectiveness in live settings. They explore songs categorized as overplayed, repetitive, cheesy, cringe-worthy, too slow, and surprisingly, too difficult to play. The episode includes listener input gathered through surveys and discusses how these songs, despite being loathed by musicians, remain crowd favorites. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and insights on balancing the band's preferences with audience demands.MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverba

This week's episode covers Adam's AMAZING 80's prom gig, Dan's road trip, and why we're not completely sold on the new Helix Stadium release from Line 6. All this and more on your favorite podcast for cover band musicians and band leaders!Juan Jusino- www.juanjusino.comArni's YT- https://youtube.com/@arnieitthvad?si=-hr0HqprZ1nbGdZX  Song Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FY7LWWBMaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesThank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  Linktree: linktr.ee/adampatrickjohnson                linktr.ee/coverbandconfidentialFo

Welcome back to the podcast for cover band musicians and bandleaders who don’t know when to quit, even when they’re soldering guitar guts 48 hours before a gig.Adam kicks things off with a PSA: don’t get sushi on a Monday. Unless your idea of a good time involves food poisoning and a spiritual cleanse via your bathroom floor.###

This week, Adam recounts an absolute **gig-nightmare scenario**: playback dropped, in-ears failed, subs cut out, and nobody knew why. From mystery malfunctions to last-minute workarounds, it's a crash course in what can go wrong—and how to stay professional when it does.Meanwhile, Dan shares the highs and hurdles of playing his first gig back post-Achilles surgery. From unexpected vocal compliments to near wipeouts at the pedalboard, it’s a reminder that returning to the stage takes more than just heart—it takes *balance* (literally).

Adam is holding down the fort solo in this special episode. With Dan on tour, Adam chats with Tory Smith, the co-founder of Black Box Prompters.Tory spills the beans on how he and a genius AI engineer cooked up the ultimate teleprompter for musicians. Discover how this game-changing gadget can keep your lyrics and chords in check, even during those last-minute song requests. With features like wireless syncing, customizable settings, and extreme durability, Black Box Prompters are nothing short of revolutionary. Whether you're rocking the bar scene or leveling up to corporate gigs, this episode has all the deets on making your performances smoother. Plus, hear about future innovations that promise to make rocking out even more epic. Don't miss it!DISCOUNT LINK (Save $100!) - https://blackboxprompter.com?coupon=discount4cbc MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlighti

This week we’re keeping it light with a grab bag of hot takes straight from our Slack channel — because holiday gigs are frying our brains and y’all deserve something snackable.We’re talking:•Ray-Ban Meta's - new gig essential?• Is “Freebird” the new Rickroll?• How much time should really be between soundcheck and downbeat (spoiler: it’s not 30 minutes, Kevin).• Why the best critique comes wrapped in a compliment sandwich.• And a little love for our global Slack fam (what up, Australia

Why Being a Lead Singer Isn't As Hard As You ThinkIn this episode, we dive into a hot take about lead singers and their role in a band. Discussing their duties of internalizing and externalizing music, we compare the workload and challenges faced by lead vocalists versus accompanists and instrumentalists.Through personal anecdotes and metaphors like dance leading and following, the conversation explores the intricacies of performing arts and the importance of background roles. Join us as we unpack the nuances of being a lead singer and whether it truly requires more or less effort compared to supporting musicians.MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.co

From freebie gigs to $10K+ stages, we're breaking down the different levels of musician pay-and what comes with each one. Whether you're gigging for beer or headlining high-dollar private events, there's a LOT more to compensation than just a number. Let's talk tiers, expectations, responsibilities, and what it really takes to move up the ladder. MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesThank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  Linktree: linktr.ee/adampatrickjohnson                linktr.ee/coverbandconfidentialFollow us on Instagram!@coverbandconfidential

In this week's episode Adam and Dan  discuss the evolving challenges and strategies for maintaining success with a long-term project. Adam delves into a recent decline in inquiries and competition from a new band. The conversation covers the value of identifying unique selling propositions (USPs), the dynamics of managing band roles, the potential shift towards a 90s focus, and the prospect of leaning into live band karaoke. Tune in to gain insights on staying relevant, adapting to market changes, and continuously improving to keep your band operating at it's peak!MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesThank you so much f

In this episode of Cover Band Confidential, Adam and Dan dish on first-time gig experiences, casino gigs, and the ultimate lessons learned. They chat about Adam's wild Mexico trip filled with monkey encounters and dive into exciting new gear announcements. Discover the buzz around Dark Glass's new bass modeler and Neural DSP's latest updates. Plus, get the scoop on Seymour Duncan's PowerStage 170 and its live gig potential. Don't miss out on these insider tips and the hottest gear news!MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesThank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with you

This week on Cover Band Confidential, we're back with fan favorite and newly minted bandleader Mark Frederickson, who’s learning what it's like to start a cover band for the first time! After his first appearance struck a chord (pun absolutely intended), we brought him back to spill the tea on their first actual rehearsal, the gear rabbit holes he’s fallen into, and the reality of getting ready for a real-deal gig—Make Music Day no less.We’re talking song selection struggles, how to keep a new band from imploding over which way to approach a song, and whether it’s too early to start rocking in-ear monitors. Plus, some honest talk about what it really takes to lead a group of humans with instruments and feelings.Whether you're starting your own group or just want to hear someone else stumble through it first, this one’s got all the teachable moments and lessons you didn’t know you needed.

How New Tariffs Are Shaking Up the Music Industry!

Today's episode kicks off a whole new ongoing thread in the CBC saga! Meet Mark Fredrickson, who joined our community  recently because he (wait for it) wants to start a cover band! He's never done this before, but he's gathered a small squad of beginners, and has ambitions of hitting the stage! We'll hear from Mark and his team periodically along their journey. This week it's the beginnings of the adventure--goal-setting, branding, and the first rehearsal!Thank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  Linktree: linktr.ee/adampatrickjohnson                linktr.ee/coverbandconfidentialFollow us on Instagram!@coverbandconfidential@adampatrickjohnson@danraymusicianIf you have any questions please email at:Coverbandconfidential@gmail.comConsider supporting us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/coverbandconfidentialOr buy us a cup of coffee!paypal.me/cbconfidentialAnd for more info check out www.coverbandconfidential.comGear Used in this Video (Affiliate):

In this episode, we delve into tips and strategies for building a loyal local fan base. From strategies for engaging directly with fans to innovative marketing tactics, we explore the essential elements of creating meaningful connections with your audience.Whether you're a solo artist or part of a band, discover actionable advice on how to make your shows memorable, foster genuine relationships, and ultimately build a strong local following. Tune in for practical tips, real stories, and a fun, engaging discussion on what it takes to turn casual listeners into devoted fans!MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesThank you s

This week on the Cover Band Confidential podcast, Adam and Dan dive into some heavy topics while juggling their own recovery stories - Adam from a spider bite and Dan from surgery. They share personal anecdotes and tips on the importance of mentoring the next generation of musicians, including some real-life parenting struggles with their own kids in the arts. Expect insightful discussions on balancing guidance and independence while staying hands-off. Plus, get the lowdown on their latest gig setups, tech hacks, and a dose of witty banter. Tune in for a heartfelt yet snappy episode!MaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxBOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copyBlank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resources

In this week's episode, we dive into a listener question about expanding a cover band into multiple products at different price points. Join us as we discuss business models, upgrading performances, and maximizing revenue by diversifying your band's offerings. Discover insights on managing various projects, the importance of market differentiation, and leveraging existing skills and tech to stand out. Whether you're looking to break into weddings, private events, or corporate gigs, this episode has the tips you need to succeed! Blank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contractsBacking Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resourcesMaestroDMX (10% off discount link): https://maestrodmx.com/discount/DISCOUNT4CBC?redirect=%2Fproducts%2FmaestrodmxThank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  Linktree: linktr.ee/adampatrickjohnson                linktr.ee/coverbandconfi

In this spicy episode of the Cover Band Confidential podcast, Adam and Dan stir up controversy with their hot take on why using a tablet on stage might be destroying your live performance!