In today’s world of live musical performances, musicians often look for ways to bring their shows to the next level; to deliver an incredible, unforgettable experience. One method that has gained popularity in recent years, among solo performers and bands alike, is the use of backing tracks. Last week we discussed why you might want to consider using backing tracks for your practice sessions. This week, we’ll take a look at how it might help your live performances too!

What Are Backing Tracks

First, a quick refresher if you didn’t read last week’s blog. Backing tracks are audio recordings of instruments or vocal performances of a song. They might include drums, basslines, keyboards, additional harmonies, or more. Musicians use backing tracks to help fill out the sound during live performances. They also help to mimic the sound of the studio version of a song by adding elements by performers not on stage, or extra layers that may be difficult to reproduce with live instruments alone.

Pros & Cons of Using Backing Tracks For Live Performances

Pros:

• Better sound: Backing tracks provide an enhanced, more polished sound. This gives the live performance a sounds more akin to the recorded studio version of the songs played.
• More versatile performances: With backing tracks, musicians and bands can play arrangements that are more complex and/or can add instrumentals or vocal performances that may not be possible with the band’s members or budget.
• Consistency: Perhaps the most obvious advantage, backing tracks make sure certain elements, like intros or effects, are the same from one performance to the next.

Cons

• Lacks spontaneity: The opposite side of the consistency coin is a lack of spontaneity. Relying too heavily on backing tracks can reduce improvisation and lead to bland, cookie-cutter performances.
• More required equipment: In order to even use a backing track, you’ll need several pieces of extra equipment. For example, you’ll likely need a laptop, a stereo DI box, a small mixer, and all the necessary cables and connections. This means added expenses and more stuff to carry around and set up at each show.
• Technical difficulties: Every bit of added technology is another place where something can go wrong, like playback glitches.
• Artificial feel: Some musicians don’t like backing tracks because they feel they compromise the live aspect of the performance, making them feel inauthentic.

Prepping Backing Tracks

If you choose to use backing tracks for your live performance, there are a few important things to consider.

Choosing the Proper Format

One of the first considerations you’ll face when choosing a backing track is whether to use a stereo or mono track. Stereo tracks may provide a fuller, more immersive experience. However, mono tracks are often used for more basic setups.

Pre-Made or Custom Tracks

Then it comes to obtaining a backing track, there are several options. Some buy pre-made tracks, while others create their own to suite their specific needs. This tends to be rater straightforward with little to no options for the song available. On the other hand, custom tracks may allow you to add or remove instruments, adjust the speed, or incorporate other effects.

Backing Track Playback & Syncing

Syncing Your Live Performance with Your Backing Track

There are several methods to ensure synchronization. You might use a dedicated audio interface, a sound desk, or even an app on a computer or tablet. Some musicians even use an earpiece to hear the backing track clearly as they play. This helps them stay on tempo and provides a reference for the entire band.

Playback Equipment  Options

Many musicians utilize a dedicated media player or software on a laptop for their backing tracks. Others prefer the more “hands-on” approach of foot pedals or MIDI controllers to initiate sections or loops during the performance.

Here are some things you may require:

• A laptop.
• A Digital Audio Workstation. May use Garageband or Ableton Live.
• An audio interface for your computer to send the track to the outputs.
• In-ear monitors so the entire band can hear the track clearly and stay on tempo.
• And connecting cables your equipment requires.

Practicing & Performing with Backing Tracks

Adding a backing track to your performance isn’t as simple as putting on the track and playing; it’s something you’ll need to practice first. Here are a few things to consider:

• Communication: You’ll need to establish clear cues and signals to make sure your transition between live playing and playback is smooth. Furthermore, come up with a contingency plan for if and when you have a technical issue during your performance. It’s likely to happen at some point, so be ready for it.
• Remember, less is more: While it’s true that backing tracks may add more depth or complexity to your performances, you should use them purposefully. That means, rather than relying solely on the tracks, add in as many live vocals and instrumentals as you are able. This will help preserve and maintain the authenticity of the live performance.

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