Set List Alchemy: Transforming Songs into Unforgettable Shows

Nov 13

Crafting the perfect set list for a performance is like putting together an intricate puzzle.

At first glance, it might seem like a jumble of pieces - songs of different tempos, styles, and moods scattered before you. As you begin to arrange these pieces, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities. Which song should open the show? How do you maintain energy throughout the set? Where do you place that new ballad you've been working on?

But as you start to fit the pieces together, a beautiful picture begins to emerge. You find that upbeat song that perfectly complements your soulful ballad. You discover how that jazz standard transitions seamlessly into your original composition. Suddenly, your set list becomes more than just a collection of songs - it transforms into a cohesive musical journey for your audience.

Just like a completed puzzle reveals an image greater than its individual pieces, a well-crafted set list creates an experience that's more than the sum of its parts. It's not just about playing great songs; it's about creating a narrative, building emotional connections, and taking your listeners on a captivating musical journey.

In this blog post, we'll explore the art of setlist creation. We'll dive into strategies for selecting and arranging songs, balancing familiar tunes with new material, and crafting a performance that keeps your audience engaged from the first note to the last. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, improving your set list creation skills will transform your shows and leave your audience wanting more.

The Art of Tension and Release

Now that we've set the stage for the importance of a well-crafted setlist, let's explore a fundamental principle behind great performances: the art of tension and release.

In music, as in life, contrast is key. It's the ebb and flow, the push and pull, that keeps us engaged and emotionally invested. This principle of tension and release is not just a musical concept; it's a universal element that resonates across all art forms.

Think about your favorite movie or novel. The plot doesn't move in a straight line; it twists and turns, building anticipation before delivering a satisfying release. Visual art does this, too. A masterful painting doesn't present a flat, monochromatic surface but plays with light and shadow, creating depth and intrigue.

In the context of your musical performance, understanding and applying the principle of tension and release can transform your set list from a mere sequence of songs into a captivating journey. It's about creating moments of anticipation and resolution, keeping your listeners engaged and emotionally connected throughout your performance.

As we dive into the practical aspects of crafting your set list, keep this concept in mind. It will guide you in selecting and arranging your songs, helping you to create an impactful performance that resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression.

Creating Effective Set Lists

Before making a set list, you need a complete list of all the songs you perform in an easy-to-access, readable format. This ‘master song list’ is your starting point for creating your set lists.

1. Organize Your Songs

While I’m not a fan of spreadsheets, they’re incredibly useful for this purpose.

You can use any spreadsheet software you’re comfortable with or even start with a basic list on paper. The key is to have a system that works for you.

If you're like me and dread the thought of spending hours creating a spreadsheet from scratch, I've got you covered. I've designed a cloud-based Master Song List using Google Sheets that's ready to go. This template is perfect for collaboration and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. You can download it for free HERE. The spreadsheet comes with clear instructions on how to use it and is completely customizable, so you can change it to fit your needs.

2. Include Essential Information

Whether you're using my template or creating your own, these key details are essential for each song. You’ll use them later when it’s time to create your setlist.

Song Title
Composer
Key
Tempo (e.g., slow, medium, fast)
Feel (e.g., swing, Latin, ballad, rock)
Solos: (Specify the instrument for each solo in a song or arrangement. This allows you to distribute solos evenly among band members, ensuring everyone gets featured and avoiding back-to-back solos for any one musician in your performance.)
Additional notes (e.g., arrangement details, who solos on which tunes, last performed date, composer)

3. Maintain Your List

Keep your list current as you learn new material. A great time to do this is when you’re practicing.

PRO TIP: If your Master Song List is in the Cloud, it has so many uses!

You can use it to keep track of charts and lyric sheets, study tunes by storing links to recordings for reference, remember what needs to be done next for each song, and store links to song research materials. Discover more in this blog post.

Set List Starting Points

With your Master Song List prepared, here are some things to think about before choosing songs for a specific show:

The context of the performance

When crafting your set list, carefully consider the venue and event type.
A multi-hour club gig demands a totally different approach than a wedding reception or concert hall performance. Ask yourself these questions:

Will the audience be focused on your performance, or will your music serve as background entertainment?
What's your relationship with the audience? In other words, how well do they know you and your music?

Performance coach Tom Jackson uses a relationship metaphor to describe this:

"Dating": When the audience is new to your work, prioritize accessible material. Blend crowd-pleasers with a few unique pieces to showcase your style. Remember, in this phase, you're introducing yourself musically, so keep your set list engaging yet approachable for newcomers.
"Married": With dedicated fans, you have more freedom to explore your entire repertoire, including new or experimental pieces.

Let's see how understanding your relationship with the audience can help you choose songs. Here are some simple examples for different types of performances:

For Audiences You’re “Dating” (new or unfamiliar):

At a jazz club: Mix accessible standards with a few intricate arrangements to showcase your style.
For corporate events: Tailor your approach based on the event’s focus:
- As background music: Stick to recognizable, mellow tunes that won’t overpower conversations.
- As a featured performance: Prepare a mix of crowd-pleasing hits and impressive arrangements to captivate the audience.
At a dance club: Focus on high-energy, popular tracks to keep the crowd moving.
For a wedding reception: Blend well-known romantic ballads with crowd-pleasing classics.

For “Married” Audiences (dedicated fans):

At a jazz club: Showcase more intricate arrangements and lesser-known tunes.
In a large concert hall: Present a diverse repertoire with more complex arrangements, original compositions, and songs that showcase your artistic range.

Remember to balance audience expectations with your artistic vision. Tailor your set list to the venue, event type, and your relationship with the audience while always maintaining your unique style and artistic integrity.

The final question to consider before selecting songs for your set (or sets) is:

The length of the performance: How many songs will you need to fill the allotted time?

Through years of performing, I've developed a handy rule of thumb: plan for about five minutes per song. This isn't just the song length—it includes the talking and instrument changes between tunes. While the actual length may vary, five minutes usually covers all the bases.

Keep in mind, though, that this isn't set in stone. You'll need to adjust if you're extending songs to keep people dancing, weaving together medleys, or incorporating lots of dialogue in a cabaret-style performance. But for most gigs, five minutes per tune is a solid starting point.

Set List Structure

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to structuring a set list—every performer develops their own approach. So, think of the following as a starting point, a flexible framework you can adapt to fit your unique style and the specific demands of each gig.

Let's walk through an example to illustrate this process.

Imagine you're the opening act at a jazz club with a 45-minute set. Using our five-minute-per-song rule of thumb, you'll need about 9 songs to fill your time slot. Remember, this is just a starting point—you'll fine-tune it as you gain more experience.

Imagine you're the opening act at a jazz club with a 45-minute set. Using our five-minute-per-song rule of thumb, you'll need about nine songs to fill your time slot. Remember, this is just a starting point—you'll fine-tune it as you gain more experience.

Choosing Your Opener

Choose a song you know inside and out for your opener. This helps you navigate any technical issues or nerves and provides a strong foundation for the rest of the show. I always start with a song I could sing in my sleep. Why? Well, there are many things I'm adjusting to in those first moments. For instance, even with a sound check, the on-stage sound changes when the room fills with people. I want that opening number to be one I could easily perform, even if something unexpected happens. No matter what, the show must go on, and that familiar opener gives me the confidence to power through.

Setting the Tone

Besides familiarity, what else should you consider when choosing your opening number? Should you kick off your set with a showstopper—a big, attention-grabbing tune? Or is it better to start with something quieter to draw people in? The answer often depends on your venue and audience.

Club Strategy

In a club without an M.C., I always start with a song that grabs people's attention. When the room is buzzing with conversation and clinking glasses, you need an opener that can gently but firmly pull focus. It's about striking a balance between something catchy enough to turn heads but not so overpowering that it feels jarring. The goal is to smoothly transition the audience from social mode to "Hey, there's a great show starting here!" mode.

Unconventional Openers

However, unconventional openers can be powerful in the proper context. I once attended a concert by the extraordinary bassist and singer Esperanza Spalding. The stage was set up like a library, with a cozy overstuffed chair in one corner. The lighting was soft and warm, and a silhouetted figure sat in the chair. Slowly, the figure got up, moved to a bass nearby, and began playing a quiet, introspective tune. The lighting shifted, revealing Esperanza as she began to sing. The effect that the set, lighting, and music had on the audience was mesmerizing. It pulled us in and held us rapt while she performed. It worked because we were "married" to her music, and the setting had primed us for something unexpected.

Creating Musical Flow

Now that you've picked your opening song, review your Master Song List to choose the rest of your set. Remember, you're not just picking songs—you're orchestrating a musical journey for your audience. Your goal is to create a performance that resonates with listeners, weaving moments of tension and release throughout your set.

One way to do this is by changing up the rhythmic feel and tempo of each song. The "feel" column in your Master Song List is really useful for this. Use it to alternate between upbeat numbers, mid-tempo tunes, and ballads.

For example, if you opened with a show-stopper, follow it with a medium-tempo song. For your next number, change it up again with a tune that has a completely different rhythmic feel. For your fourth song, you might want to slow things down with a ballad
.

Here's an example set list from one of my jazz gigs that illustrates this approach:

Before the title of each song, I’ve labeled each tune as swing, Latin, or ballad to indicate the rhythmic feel. The opening number, “World On A String,” kicks off with an uptempo Latin arrangement. “Till You Come Back To Me” follows with a medium-tempo swing feel. “Walk On By” shifts to a loping mid-tempo Latin groove, and then I’ve included a medley of ballads centered on the theme of losing in love.

My goal is to avoid clustering too many tunes with a similar tempo or rhythmic feel together. Why? Because when people get used to a consistent tempo, they tend to tune out.

After the ‘Crying Medley,’ I continue to vary the set with different tempos and styles. “Bye Bye Blackbird” mixes swing and Latin, “Close Your Eyes” offers a sultry swing, and “Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most” features an upbeat arrangement that adds an unexpected twist to this traditional ballad.

Next, for contrast, is “Charade” a downtempo ballad. Lastly, the set closes with a medium-up tempo bossanova tune. This variety keeps the audience engaged and creates a dynamic flow of tension and release throughout the set, all while showcasing the band’s versatility.

Changing keys

Another way to maintain musical interest and avoid monotony is to avoid playing too many songs in the same key back-to-back. Again, your Master Song List comes in handy here. On this example set list, I’ve indicated the key for each tune after its title.

Indicating the key after each song has another benefit: Many jazz musicians know these songs inside and out—in the original key. However, they might not be familiar with the key or rhythmic feel I perform them in. Providing a set list that includes the feel and key for each song gives them a valuable heads-up so they can take a closer look at the chart if needed.

Pro Tip: Make Sure Your Set List Is Readable

Print your set list in a large, easy-to-read font. Stage lighting can be dim, making small text hard to see. This is especially important for set lists taped to the floor. You should easily see the next song with a quick glance.

Balancing Familiar & Unfamiliar Tunes

When crafting your set list, you can also use familiar songs and deeper cuts as tools to create tension and release. Well-known tunes act as comfortable touchstones, allowing listeners to relax and connect effortlessly. Lesser-known or original songs create a ‘cognitive stretch,’ challenging expectations and sparking curiosity. This type of tension and release keeps your audience on their toes — imagine following a crowd-pleasing classic with an intriguing new composition. The trick is to find the right mix. You want to introduce fresh material to keep it interesting but also include familiar tunes that people know and love. This way, you keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them. Think of it like serving a meal - you want to offer some new flavors, but also include some comfort food.

Preserving Your Voice

Another crucial consideration when creating your set list is maintaining vocal stamina and flexibility throughout your performance. Here are two strategies to help you preserve your voice:

Strategic song placement: The first strategy is all about strategic song placement. Arrange your set list to alternate between vocally demanding songs and those that give your voice a break. This approach helps prevent vocal fatigue and gives you time to recover between challenging pieces.
Using Instrumentals: The second strategy is all about using instrumental pieces. Instrumentals will give your voice a rest, highlight your band members' playing, and add variety to your set. These breaks are especially valuable during longer gigs, helping you maintain vocal stamina while keeping the audience engaged throughout your performance.

Through years of experience, I've learned the hard way that pacing yourself vocally is essential for a successful performance and long-term vocal health. These two strategies will help you maintain a consistently solid vocal performance throughout your set. It's not just about sounding great for one song—it's about delivering a powerful performance from start to finish while protecting your instrument for years to come.

Planning for Multi-Set Performances

Two Sets:

For a concert where you’re headlining, you’ll typically perform two sets with an intermission. When creating set lists for this format, follow the structure we’ve discussed, but pay special attention to your first set’s closer. Choosing a high-energy tune energizes the audience and leaves them eager for your return after the break.

For the second set, you have more flexibility with the emotional arc. You might start with an emotionally charged, down-tempo piece and gradually build towards the evening’s climax, ending with a song that showcases your unique vocal talents—leaving the audience wanting more — which leads to your…

…Encore!

If the audience is reluctant to let you go—great! But make sure you’re prepared—always have two or even three encore pieces ready. The first one can bring the energy down just a notch. If that satisfies your crowd, you’re done. However, if they keep calling you back for more and you’re ready to wrap up the night, choose a quieter, slower song for your second or third encore. This will naturally lower the energy in the room, gently easing your audience into a reflective mood.

Think of it as offering a musical nightcap—a final song that lingers in their minds as they step out into the night. The goal is to leave them with a sense of completion and a subtle longing for more so that the echoes of your performance accompany them on their journey home.

Three Sets:

Longer gigs often involve performing more than two sets in a night. During Nu Shooz’s early days, we frequently played three sets a night, up to five nights a week. I’ve also performed three-set evenings at jazz clubs. While using instrumental tunes to rest your voice is crucial, it’s also important to consider the energy levels and mental endurance of both you and your audience throughout these longer performances.

For longer gigs with multiple sets, consider this strategy:

First set: Focus on songs you know inside and out, with perhaps one new tune if you’ve rehearsed it thoroughly and feel confident performing it. This is when your audience is typically most alert and engaged.

Middle set: The audience is warmed up and receptive to variety (or they’ve been drinking, and their focus is slipping!) Your voice and brain are also in full swing, so it’s a great time to include more challenging vocal material and introduce a couple of new tunes.

Last set: Sometimes the crowd has stuck around for your final set. Sometimes it’s thinned out. Either way, those who are left are likely your most dedicated fans who are open to new experiences. This is your opportunity to experiment with less familiar material and push creative boundaries.

Additional Tips:

Running Through Beginnings and Endings of Songs

For shorter performances, you can make your set more engaging by fine-tuning the transitions between songs. Here's a helpful tip to create a more cohesive experience for your audience and spot any potential problems before your show:

Look at the order of your songs and think about how they connect emotionally. Are there other songs you know that might tell your story better?
Next, play the beginning and end of each song in order. Pay attention to how the key, speed, and mood change between songs. This gives you a sense of how well your songs fit together. I learned this trick while making playlists for our albums, and it works great for live shows, too.

Trust your artistic instincts during this process. If a transition feels jarring or doesn't serve the overall flow of your show, don't hesitate to change your song order. This approach helps you refine your performance, weaving together a seamless musical journey for your audience.

Reusing Your Setlist For Future Performances

Once you've invested the time and effort into creating a well-balanced set list, it can become a valuable asset for future performances. Don't be afraid to reuse it at different venues or even years later. It's like a fine wine, getting better with age. Each performance is a chance to add a little polish, discover hidden gems, and maybe realize that your triangle solo wasn't quite the showstopper you imagined. So go ahead and give your set list another spin. Who knows? You might just stumble upon the perfect recipe for musical magic - or at least figure out why the audience always leaves during your 20-minute cowbell feature.

Another Perspective

Different Approaches to Set Lists

While we've explored the advantages of a carefully crafted set list, it's worth noting that not all vocalists approach their performances this way. Some singers, particularly in the jazz world, prefer a more spontaneous approach.

Take, for example, the renowned jazz vocalist Nancy King. Known for her improvisational skills, King rarely uses a setlist. Instead, she calls out tunes as she feels them during the performance, often taking requests from the audience. This approach allows for a highly interactive and dynamic show, where the energy in the room can influence the direction of the music.

On the other hand, I always rely on a setlist. For me, knowing the song order in advance is liberating. I know what's coming next, which frees me up to focus on the music and connect more deeply with the audience.

The truth is, there's no universally "right" or "wrong" way to approach set lists — it's about finding what works best for you and your performance style. Some artists thrive on spontaneity, while others prefer the structure of a planned set. The key is to experiment and discover the method that allows you to deliver your best performance and connect most effectively with your audience.

Key Takeaways for Effective Set Lists

Even if you lean towards a more spontaneous style, mastering the art of crafting an effective set list is essential. A well-designed set list can transform your entire performance and offer invaluable direction to your fellow musicians. This seemingly simple tool has the power to dramatically improve your show.

So, let’s recap. When crafting your set list, here are a few things to keep top of mind:

What’s the performance context? (venue, audience, length)
What’s your relationship with your audience? Are they new to your music or dedicated fans?
Start with a familiar song to build confidence and handle potential technical issues
Create a musical journey by varying tempo, feel, and key throughout the set
Balance familiar tunes with new material to keep your audience engaged
Use instrumental pieces strategically, especially during longer performances
Organize your set list to manage vocal strain and sustain energy throughout the show
For shorter performances practice transitions between songs to ensure a smooth flow
Consider the audience’s energy levels and how they might change throughout the performance, especially for longer gigs with multiple sets
Prepare two or three encore pieces to end the night on a high note and leave a lasting impression
Reuse and refine successful set lists to discover new nuances and enhance the overall flow of your show

The Final Measure: Set List Artistry

Creating compelling set lists is a skill that evolves with time and experience. It’s a blend of intuition, creativity, and adaptability. Each show is a chance to learn and grow, refining your ability to fit the pieces together.

Embrace experimentation. Try unexpected song combinations, stay attuned to your audience’s energy, and your set lists will evolve along with your artistry. This process has the potential to enhance your performances and deepen your connection with your listeners.

Remember, your set list is more than just a sequence of songs—it’s a canvas for your musical expression. As you hone this skill, crafting effective set lists will become second nature. Then you can focus on what truly matters: creating music that resonates with your audience and brings your creative vision to life.

Pro Tip: Organize Your Charts for Smoother Performances

Over the years, I've learned that a little preparation goes a long way. Here's a trick that can save you countless on-stage headaches: After creating your set list, arrange all the charts in performance order at the front of your band members' notebooks.

That might sound like a small thing, but it's a game-changer. Here's why:

First, it eliminates that awkward shuffling through pages between songs. I can’t tell you how many times I've watched musicians frantically flip through their books, searching for the next chart.
Second, it gives your band members a chance to quickly scan the upcoming charts. This is especially crucial if you haven't had a chance to rehearse.
Third, it reduces the need for talking between songs. Even if you enjoy connecting with the audience, it gives you the option to let the music speak for itself.
Lastly, it keeps the energy flowing. When you've got a smooth-running show, the audience stays engaged, and you can take them on that emotional journey you've planned. This level of organization makes the whole performance feel more professional, which can really enhance the audience's experience.

A little upfront organization can make your performance so much smoother. Your band (and your audience) will thank you!