Permanence and Evolution: Do Musicians Get Bored of Singing the Same Songs?
Do musicians ever get tired of performing the same songs over and over? This question often arises in the world of touring and the music industry. The repetitive nature of performing familiar tunes night after night can indeed feel monotonous, leading to a variety of emotional responses among artists. Let's explore this topic and see how some famous musicians have navigated this challenge.
Repetition: The Boring Blues of Being a Touring Artist
Performing the same songs repeatedly is a necessity for touring musicians, but it can also be a source of fatigue. Many artists, whether seasoned touring veterans or rising stars, find themselves grappling with the monotony that comes with playing familiar hits. This phenomenon is often referred to as 'repetition fatigue'.
For instance, musician Joe Walsh has occasionally quipped, “If I knew I was going to have to play it the rest of my life, I’d have written something else.” This statement captures the essence of the struggle many artists face when they are perpetually performing the same material. Despite his witty remark, Walsh remains active in his career, ensuring that fans and himself continue to enjoy the live experience.
Evolution Through Creative Growth
Musicians are not static entities; they are evolving artists who often seek to explore new sounds and ideas. Sticking to the same material can feel limiting, as it hinders artistic growth and experimentation. However, the pressure to deliver familiar songs can sometimes restrict artists from showcasing their newer works.
David Bowie, for instance, announced in a 1990 MTV interview that he would continue making and performing new music but was done with his earlier "Ziggy Stardust" and "Hunky Dory" material. Bowie's adaptability and evolution are legendary, and his decision to move forward creatively is a testament to the ongoing struggle and the eventual triumph of artistic growth.
The Pressure of Audience Expectations
While audiences often crave familiarity, the constant performance of popular songs can alter the significance of these tracks. What was once a fresh and meaningful experience can become routine. This pressure to play what fans want to hear can be both a boon and a burden.
An interesting anecdote involves The Who during a show after the death of John Entwistle. “It sounds like John went out having a pretty good time…,” explained Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend during the pause between songs. This snippet reveals the stark contrast between the emotional significance of a song and the commercial reality of live performances.
During the recent show at a large amphitheater, Robert Plant, the lead singer of Led Zeppelin, opened for The Who. Many audience members were not aware of the opener and didn’t recognize his music. However, when the group started into "Whole Lotta Love," the crowd's reaction was electrifying. Plant's face reflected a mixture of fatigue and exasperation, highlighting the emotional impact of performing classic hits night after night.
Adapting and Moving Beyond the Past
Several musicians have found ways to adapt and move beyond their past, often by incorporating new arrangements, improvisations, and covers into their setlists. This can help keep performances exciting for both themselves and their audience.
Paul McCartney, for example, continues to perform both his solo and Beatles classics, but he’s also releasing new music. His ability to balance the past and the future resonates with fans who appreciate his enduring relevance and creative evolution.
Similarly, The Police's reunion was a one-off event as Sting sought to explore new musical territories. His work with Alison Krauss and bluegrass music is a clear example of how moving beyond past hits can lead to new opportunities and creative growth.
Conclusion: The Emotional Journey of a Musician
Musicians are human, and their feelings and urges are natural. Some may get bored of singing the same songs, while others embrace the familiar and evolve creatively. The balance between the two is crucial for maintaining a vibrant and engaging live performance experience.
What strategies do you think musicians can use to combat the monotony of performing the same songs? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
[EDIT: See the comment from Mark Silowitz below. He questions my memory of the fact that I saw Plant with The Who after Entwistle died and he could be right that I’m misremembering when I saw Plant it may have been that Plant was opening for somebody else. If I can confirm one way or the other I’ll edit this accordingly. The rest of this answer stands.]