Sound check.

At its best, it’s boring. At its worst, it’s a stressful, anxiety-inducing exercise in frustration. But whether you’re performing for 10,000 people at a festival or a handful of folks at a coffee shop, it’s an essential component of live performance.

So, how do you make it go smoothly?

By laying the groundwork beforehand, showing up prepared, communicating clearly and respectfully with sound technicians and your bandmates, and staying calm when the unexpected happens, which it often does. Not an easy task!

I’ve failed miserably at all of the above. I’ve learned, mostly the hard way, how to navigate sound checks without getting so over-activated that I carry my frustration and anxiety onto the stage when it’s time to perform.

To make your experience smoother, I’d like to share some practical tips and advice from my 30-plus years of performing with bands, both large and small.

In this Blog Post, you’ll learn best practices for sound check:

Preparation

Set-Up
Order (What to do when)
Your monitor mix and EQ
Communication with sound technicians
And Soundcheck etiquette

Plus, I'll share a few tips on what to do when your sound check is cut short or doesn't happen at all.

Preparation is Key

The first ingredient for a smooth sound check is preparation.

Checklist ✔

Start by creating a detailed checklist of all the gear you’ll need. I’ve played hundreds, if not thousands, of shows. You’d think that by now, I’d have my gear list memorized. Nope! I still depend on a list for every show. Here’s the checklist I relied on when performing with a big band jazz orchestra.

If you’re not going home between sound check and the show, bring your stage clothes and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Unless I'm performing at a festival without private changing areas, I pack my stage clothes in a garment bag and wear something that’s easy to move gear in. Plus, sound checks often involve plenty of waiting, so you might be standing around for a while. Comfort is key!

Make sure that all of your gear is in good working condition before heading to the venue, and have backup items in case a cord, microphone, or mic stand malfunctions. If you’re responsible for providing the sound system, this step is even more crucial. But, even if you’re only bringing your microphone and an instrument, having spare batteries and an extra cable can be a life saver.

Technical Rider & Stage Plot

Another essential ingredient for a successful sound check is your technical rider and stage plot. You’ll need to send them to the venue, and sound company a week or two in advance of the show. That way, they’ll know your needs before you arrive. Sharing your stage plot with your bandmates is a good idea, too, especially if they haven’t performed with you before. Knowing where to set up when they get to the venue will save valuable time.

(By the way, if you don’t have a stage plot and contract rider or are unsure of what they should include, check out this blog post. It covers everything you need to know!)

Essential Pre-Show Details Before You Head to the Venue

Before you head to the venue, there are just a few more important details you'll need:

The venue address
Loading and parking instructions, including specific load-in times or restrictions. (There's nothing more frustrating than returning to your vehicle after the show to find a parking ticket on your windshield—or worse, discovering it's been towed!)
Soundcheck start time Note: This is not the set-up time. Everyone should be fully set up and ready to go before the sound check begins. Drummers and those with more gear should arrive at the venue earlier than the rest of the band if you’re not traveling together.
Lastly, make sure to share the contact information for any questions or emergencies if you’re not the person they should reach out to.

If you’re the band leader or the one who communicates what’s happening and when, share those details with your bandmates prior to the day of the show.

Also, let them know about any other specific set-up instructions and the day’s schedule. This heads-up helps everyone arrive on time and makes the sound check and your show go more smoothly.

If you’re not in charge of your band’s communication and the bandleader hasn’t provided you with the day’s details, don’t hesitate to ask! Gather as much information as possible using the above list as a guide.

OK. With your preparation complete, it’s time to shift our focus to the day of the show.

Before we move on, I want to mention something essential to your success — the foundation of all human interaction: treat others as you’d like to be treated. It sounds simple, yet it’s surprisingly easy to forget when tensions run high. That’s why I can’t stress this enough. Your performance isn’t a solo act — it’s a collaboration. Your bandmates, the audience, sound technicians, and venue staff all play a part. By approaching each interaction with genuine kindness and respect, you’ll contribute to a positive atmosphere that sets the stage for an exceptional show.

Arriving at the Venue

So, it’s the day of the show. Let’s imagine you’ve checked off all the items on your list, driven to the venue, and found a parking place. Go ahead and grab a few lightweight items and head into the venue.

Communicating with Venue Staff: If you’re the first to arrive, say hello to the staff and ask them to open the door you’ll be using to load in.
Introduce Yourself to the Sound Technician(s): Once inside, find the sound tech. If they’re available, introduce yourself and offer your stage plot and input list (assuming you’re responsible for these.) It never hurts to have a printed copy with you. If they’re busy, wait for a better moment. This respectful approach helps build good cooperation. You need these folks to be on your side!
Set up your gear: If you play an instrument, now’s the time to set up your gear. Find where you’ll perform. Set up, check all your cables, and make sure everything works. If you can, quickly test each piece of equipment to make sure there are no issues. This step is crucial because it helps you fix technical problems before the sound check starts.

But what if you have your own vocal mic? That’s a different story; what happens next depends on the venue.

In a club setting, you’ll typically have more direct access to the equipment.

If there’s a sound technician, ask if it’s OK to switch out the microphone.
Before unplugging anything, make sure the channel’s level is turned down to avoid any loud pops or feedback.

In a setting with a stage crew, it’s a bit different.

Larger venues or professional settings often have strict protocols for handling equipment.
Always ask the stage manager or head of the sound department before touching any gear. Let them know you have your own microphone and would like to use it instead of the one they’ve provided.
If they’re OK with that, allow the stage crew to make the switch for you.
Be prepared for the possibility that they might not allow the switch due to their standardized set-up or union regulations. This rarely happens, but if it does, have your sanitary wipes handy. Singing on a dirty mic is a recipe for illness, plus it’s gross. Trust me, I’ve sung on shared mics that smelled so foul I could barely bring them close to my face—let alone sing through them!

Pre-Show Preparation Areas

Next, locate the dressing room and green room (if available). After setting up your gear, find the spaces where you and your bandmates will prepare for the show.

The dressing room is typically a private area for changing into stage clothes and storing personal items. The green room, on the other hand, is usually a communal space for performers to relax, warm up, and socialize before the show.

If the venue lacks dedicated spaces for performers, you’ll need to get creative. While some singers thrive on pre-show socializing, I prefer to save my voice for the performance. I look for a quiet spot for a few warm-ups (like the vocal siren and to focus on the material for the performance. My car often doubles as a makeshift green room. Other times, I’ll ask venue staff about any available spaces—even a roomy closet can work in a pinch for warming up and changing clothes.

When dedicated spaces aren't available, finding privacy can be a challenge. I've often resorted to using restrooms or even port-a-potties as makeshift dressing rooms. Port-a-potties are far from ideal, but sometimes you've got to get creative. (This is another situation where those sanitary wipes are invaluable!)

Now It’s Time For Sound Check

OK. You’ve set up, checked out the backstage area, and are ready to go. What’s next?

Waiting. And maybe more waiting. After you’ve set up, whether you have plenty of time or barely a moment to catch your breath, there’s typically an order to sound check, and you, as the singer, will usually go last. But don’t worry, there’s a good reason for this!

As a vocalist, you need to hear the full band so you can adjust your monitor mix and volume levels based on how they sound. So, unless you’re a singer who plays drums, be prepared to hang out and be ready when it’s your turn.

Sound Check Order

So, what’s the typical sound check order? A sound check usually starts with a line check where each instrument and microphone is tested to make sure it’s connected to the correct channel on the mixing board and functioning correctly. Once the line check is complete, the actual sound check begins.

Here’s the order that most sound technicians prefer when checking instruments:

Drums
Bass
Guitars and Keyboards
Other Instruments like horns or strings
Vocals

While waiting for your turn, protect your hearing by using earplugs or retreating to the green room or dressing area—but always stay within earshot of the stage. As soon as you hear the bass or chordal instruments checking their monitors, it's your signal that you're up next.

Checking Your Monitor

Now it’s time to check your monitor. Give your full attention to what you’re hearing. Take a deep breath to center yourself, especially if you’re feeling anxious about the upcoming performance. I mention this because I often struggle to concentrate in chaotic environments, especially when I’m nervous — or excited. A brief moment of mindfulness helps me tune into my monitor’s sound more effectively. It can work wonders for you, too.

Once you’re focused, here’s what to do:

Set the volume levels: Begin by adjusting your microphone’s volume. Sing at your average, loudest, and quietest levels. Make sure you can hear yourself well at each. But remember, hearing yourself isn’t just about volume—it’s about frequencies, too. If your monitor isn’t properly EQ’d—meaning the frequencies don’t match those produced by your voice—you won’t hear yourself well, regardless of the volume. You might compensate by straining to produce missing frequencies, potentially straining your voice, like I did years ago. When your monitor is EQ’d correctly, you’ll sound louder without increasing the volume—crucial for preventing feedback issues! That’s why your next step is so important: adjusting the EQ.
Adjust the EQ: By adjusting specific frequencies, you’ll not only hear yourself more clearly but also enhance your voice’s sparkle, presence, depth, and warmth.

Here’s how to fine-tune your vocal EQ during sound checks: (If you’re working with a sound tech, I’ve also included some phrases you can use to communicate your needs effectively.)
- Clarity and Brightness: Listen for crispness in your voice. Frequencies above 6000 Hz add brightness or sparkle. If it sounds muffled, you might say, ‘Can we add some high end to my voice?’ If it’s too harsh, try, ‘The top end feels a bit piercing. Could we warm up the highs a little?’
- Presence and Projection: Pay attention to how well your voice cuts through the mix and how loud it sounds. The 2,400-3,400 Hz range is crucial for vocal presence. If you’re struggling to hear yourself, ask for some mids to create more vocal presence in your monitor. If your voice feels too forward, say, ‘My voice feels a bit too “in your face”. Can we pull back the mids slightly?’
- Warmth and Fullness: Notice the body of your voice. Frequencies around 150-500 Hz provide depth and warmth. If it sounds thin, ask for additional lows in your monitor to warm up the sound. If your voice is too boomy, you could say, ‘There’s a bit too much low end. Could we tighten up the bottom a little?’
Finally, I always perform a Vocal Siren. (This lesson in my free course, Becoming A Singer, demonstrates this essential vocal exercise.) Sliding through all the frequencies in my voice makes it easier to hear which ones need boosting or reducing.

Small tweaks in frequencies can make a big difference, so listen carefully after each change. The goal is a balanced sound where you hear yourself clearly without straining.

PRO TIP #1: If you're still not satisfied and time permits, try this: Ask the sound tech to position themselves between you and your monitor. This allows them to hear your natural voice in one ear and the monitor in the other, making it easier to match frequencies. It's often the fastest route to optimal vocal EQ.

PRO TIP #2: If you own a small sound system, play around with the EQ settings. This hands-on experience will help you recognize how different adjustments affect your voice. As you practice, you’ll gain confidence in identifying which frequencies need tweaking. Eventually, you’ll be able to request specific EQ changes from sound technicians. For instance, if you feel the low-mids are overwhelming, you could ask, “The low-mids feel a bit thick. Can we dip around 400 Hz to tighten up the sound?” In my experience, audio techs are often impressed when singers can “speak their language.” (I’m not exactly fluent, but I give it my best shot!)

3. Lastly, add any effects: If you’re using any vocal effects like reverb or delay, apply them now. Remember, less is often more when it comes to effects. You want to enhance your natural voice, not overshadow it.

Remember, your voice is one-of-a-kind, so don't hesitate to ask for what you need in your monitor mix. Finding that ideal balance is crucial. When you're in love with how you sound, you'll be free to focus on your performance without distraction.

**Why Do People Say ‘Check’?**

Ever wondered why people always say "check" into a microphone during sound check? The word "check" is actually perfect for testing audio equipment. It's short, sharp, and contains a mix of consonant and vowel sounds that help sound engineers gauge the microphone's response across different frequencies.

But saying "check" over and over can get monotonous. That's why I like to mix it up a bit. Instead of the usual "check, check, check," I throw in a "rice checks, wheat checks, corn checks." It keeps the sound crew on their toes, and who knows? Maybe we'll accidentally invent a new breakfast cereal in the process. If "Vocal Cord Crunch" becomes the next big thing in breakfast, you heard it here first!

Bringing It All Together: The Final Sound Check Run-Through and What Instruments You’ll Need In Your Monitor

Once you’re happy with your monitor mix, it’s time to perform a song or two as if it were the actual show. This gives you a chance to hear how your mix blends with the other instruments and vocals, allowing you to fine-tune if needed.

What you’ll need in your monitor mix depends on stage size and personal preference. On smaller stages, you’ll likely hear the surrounding instruments naturally without adding them to your monitor. However, on larger stages, you’ll need to add other instruments to your monitor to stay in tune and in sync with the band.

PRO TIP: On large stages, set up closer to band members, especially those providing harmonic support. This helps you hear better and maintain eye contact for non-verbal cues.

Here’s what to request in your monitor, in order of importance.

Remember, less is more when it comes to other instruments—your vocals should always take center stage. A touch of these supporting elements goes a long way:

Harmonic instruments: Piano, guitar, or synth help with tuning and starting notes.
Other vocalists: Hearing harmony parts or backing vocals helps you blend and stay in tune. If you’re singing harmonies, hearing the lead vocal is crucial.
Bass: Provides harmonic context and helps with timing.
Kick drum: Helps with timing, especially in complex songs. If you’re having trouble subdividing the rhythm, hi-hat in your monitor can help, too.

I learned the importance of a well-balanced monitor mix during a live performance of our Nu Shooz hit “I Can’t Wait” in a cavernous, gymnasium-like auditorium. The song’s opening bass line bounced off the back wall, creating a disorienting echo that altered my perception of the pitch. I began singing in the wrong key and had to stop the band and restart—a humbling experience that forever transformed what instruments I ask for in my monitor!

Sound Check Etiquette

Now that you’ve honed your sound check skills, let’s explore some essential tips for your pre-show preparation. We’ll cover sound check etiquette, effective communication strategies for working with stressed-out sound technicians, and practical solutions for those nail-biting moments when your sound check time is cut short—or vanishes entirely.

First, let’s talk about sound check dos and don’ts. These tips will help keep things running smoothly:

Stay On Stage: Unless everyone knows for sure that it will be a while until it’s their turn to sound check, all band members should stay on stage during the entire sound check. Even if your part has been checked, you may need to play or sing while the sound engineer checks another instrument.
Avoid Noodling: No noodling, please! Don’t play your instrument or sing when it’s not your turn. Noodling makes it difficult for the sound engineer to focus on the instrument or voice they’re currently working on.
Communicate Clearly: If you need a change in your monitor mix or the overall sound, communicate this clearly and respectfully to the sound engineer.

It’s worth emphasizing: Clear, courteous, communication between band members, sound technicians, and stage crew is essential for a smooth sound check and performance. This is especially true at festivals or multi-band shows, where the sound and stage crews have often been there for hours. They’ve probably endured multiple sound checks, some with bands who’ve shown little respect. Your positive attitude can be a game-changer — for them and your show.

Side Note on Sound Techs:

But what about those times when you've done your best to be respectful and professional yet still find yourself at odds with an uncooperative—or downright difficult—sound engineer or stage crew member? Let's dive into what I've learned about handling these tricky situations, along with some tips to help you keep your cool when things get heated.

In the world of live performance, you’ll encounter two basic types of sound technicians. The first type is professional, knowledgeable, and unflappable. They have a deep understanding of the equipment and room acoustics, and they’re calm in any situation. They also communicate clearly, adjust quickly to changing circumstances, and work seamlessly with performers to achieve the best possible sound.

The second type, however, is more challenging to work with. They may be easily overwhelmed and have trouble managing their emotions in high-pressure environments. When faced with technical difficulties or unexpected changes, they might react with frustration or anxiety, making the sound check process more stressful for everyone.

Navigating the second type of audio engineer isn’t easy, especially when time is limited, and stakes are high. It’s challenging to remain calm in the face of that kind of energy, but it’s essential both for you and the people around you. Here are some strategies to help you manage these situations:

Stay Calm and Collected: Your calm demeanor can help diffuse the tension. Take deep breaths and maintain a composed attitude, even if the sound tech is visibly stressed. Your calmness can be contagious and might help them regain their composure.
Clear Communication: Be clear and concise in your communication. Explain your needs and concerns without raising your voice or showing frustration. Clear and respectful communication can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress.
Offer Solutions: If you notice the sound tech struggling with a particular issue, offer constructive suggestions or solutions if you have the expertise. However, be careful not to come across as condescending or overstepping your boundaries.
Be Patient: Understand that everyone has off days, and the sound tech might just be having one. Show patience and empathy, recognizing that their job is also challenging.
Focus on the Goal: Keep the main goal in mind – achieving the best possible sound for your performance. Stay focused on this objective and work collaboratively to reach it, even if the process is more difficult than usual.

Using these strategies, you can help create a more positive and productive atmosphere, even when working with an easily overwhelmed sound technician. Your ability to stay calm and professional won’t just improve the sound check process — it’ll set the tone for a successful performance.

When Time is Tight: Prioritizing Your Sound Check

Sometimes, you’ll find yourself in situations where a full sound check just isn’t possible. This is especially true when you’re part of a multi-act show.

I’ve toured with several 80s shows where there were 10 or more acts on the bill. Each group would perform their hits, and then it was on to the next. Sounds fun, right? Well, it was, except for one tiny detail: there was absolutely no time for a proper sound check.

In these situations, you need to know exactly what to prioritize. Here’s what I learned to focus on:

Line Check: This is absolutely essential. Make sure your mic and other instruments are connected and working. Nothing else matters if the audience can’t hear you!
Volume Level: Get your mic volume set correctly. Sing a few lines at your loudest volume to ensure you won’t clip or distort during your performance.
Monitor Mix: Quickly check that you can hear yourself in the monitors. You don’t need it to be perfect; just good enough to sing in tune and in time. Make sure that any other instruments you need in your monitor are in the mix but not so loud that they drown out your voice.

Live Performance Hand Cues

When time is tight, clear communication with your sound technician is crucial. For multi-band shows, there's typically a sound tech mixing monitors from the side of the stage. Introduce yourself and let them know the hand signals you'll use to communicate your needs during the performance.

Here are a few you can use:

To adjust your vocal mic volume, point to it and give a thumbs up or down. For other instruments, use similar gestures. (Your air guitar skills might come in handy here!)
EQ hand signals: Point to your head for highs, torso for mids, or legs for lows. Combine this with a thumbs up or down to indicate if you need more or less of that frequency range.

Unless there's no other option, use hand signals rather than verbally asking for adjustments during the show. Hand signals are far less disruptive to the performance and audience experience. They allow you to communicate your needs to the sound tech without breaking the flow of the music or distracting listeners. Plus, in a loud environment, hand signals are often more effective than trying to shout over the noise.

When time is tight, your ability to adapt and communicate becomes your greatest asset. These non-verbal communication techniques are the crucial link between your abbreviated sound check and a successful show.

Providing a Set List to Your Audio and Lighting Techs

One last crucial tip: Always provide your audio and lighting technicians with a set list and brief notes about your show, especially when working with new crew members. Here's why it's important and what it should include:

Song details: Provide titles, tempos, feel, and durations. Including tempo and feel details (whether a song is a ballad, uptempo, or mid-tempo) further assists techs in adjusting lighting colors, audio levels, and effects to match each song's atmosphere, enhancing the overall performance quality. Providing the duration of each song is crucial for techs to manage the overall show timing, especially for venues with strict curfews or multi-act lineups.
Instrument changes and solos: Note any instrument switches between songs (e.g., acoustic to electric guitar) and highlight which instruments have solos. This allows techs to adjust audio levels and plan lighting cues, ensuring smoother transitions and spotlighting key moments.
Special effects or cues: Note any specific audio or lighting effects needed for particular songs. This could include fog machine cues, strobe effects, or specific spotlight moments.

Provide your set list and show notes to audio and lighting techs as early as possible, ideally a day or two before your show. This gives them time to prepare and potentially program their boards for smoother transitions during your set.

Remember, the more information you provide, the better equipped your audio and lighting techs will be to support your performance. Well-informed techs can make real-time adjustments, ensuring each song not only sounds great but also looks visually stunning on stage.

Conclusion

I hope this guide to sound checks has been illuminating. As we wrap up our exploration of this vital aspect of live performance, remember that your voice is a powerful instrument, and these skills are essential for letting it shine. Whether you're facing a less-than-perfect monitor mix, a frazzled sound tech, or a rushed setup, the knowledge you've gained here will serve you well.

But beyond the technical stuff, it's your attitude and ability to adapt that will really make a difference. So take these lessons, blend them with your own experiences, and step onto that stage with confidence.

Remember, every performance is a unique opportunity to express your artistry and connect with your audience. As you step into the spotlight, let your voice, presence, and preparation shine through, creating a memorable experience that resonates long after the final note fades away.

Sound Check: What Every Singer Needs To Know

Sound check.

In this Blog Post, you’ll learn best practices for sound check: