Being successful at playing music professionally requires so many different skills, but among the most important aspects is being able to do, and play, the right thing at the right time; being able to "play well with others," so to speak.

It can be very impressive to be the burnin' cat who shreds at lightening speed at 120db but the musicians who generally get the most calls are ones who know how to be a "supportive" player.

Over-Playing - YUK!

This can apply to soloing but when it really becomes a problem is when you're playing rhythm behind a singer or soloist. One of the most important things you can do when you're on stage is support who ever currently has the spotlight. Don't play too loud and don't play a part that will distract the listeners from what the soloist is doing. Try to make sure that what you're playing locks in with the rest of the rhythm section and motivates the soloist and makes them feel good. This doesn't mean you shouldn't dig in and play aggressively, playing aggressive rhythm is often what's needed to make the situation work. It just means you should always stay conscious of what the soloist is doing and constantly use discretion so that you are playing the right thing in order to make the band's performance the very best it can be.

Be listening to what the rest of the rhythm section is doing. Sometimes focusing on the drummers hi-hat is a great thing because that's where you'll find the subdivisions of the time and groove and it makes a great focus point for the whole band to lock-in to and be tight. Listen and try and play off and lock-in with each player so that the groove is solid and motivating.

Whenever it comes to hiring a player, I will always call or recommend professional musicians who's playing makes the music, and the rest of the band, feel good when they are performing on stage. A lot of new players think that it's the drummers and bass players who have the responsibility of making the band feel good but it is the responsibility of EVERY player to make the situation feel great for the soloist, the other rhythm players and, ultimately, the audience.

When it's your moment in the spotlight, take that opportunity to feel the rest of the band supporting you and what you're doing. It's a great feeling and can really elevate the level of your playing and soloing and you'll easily be able to see, and feel, the value of being a supportive player.

See ya next month - Ted