Posted on February 6th, 2026

The Art of Performing Covers: More Than Just Playing the Song

Performing a cover isn’t about copying a track—it’s about honoring a moment. At RJS Events, covers are a way to bridge nostalgia, emotion, and live energy in a way that feels personal to every audience. Whether it’s an acoustic take on a timeless classic or a fresh spin on a modern favorite, the goal is always the same: create a connection.

A great cover performance starts with intention. It’s choosing songs that resonate with the crowd, the couple, or the celebration. It’s reading the room, feeling the pulse of the event, and delivering a version that feels both familiar and uniquely alive. The magic happens when a guest hears the first few chords and smiles—not because it sounds exactly like the original, but because it feels right for this moment.

Performing covers is taking a song people already love and giving it a new chapter—one that becomes part of their memory of the night. At the end of the day, covers aren’t filler. They’re connection. They’re celebration. They’re the soundtrack to the moments people remember.

Essential Tips for Acoustic Artists

Stage presence is another crucial factor for solo acoustic artists to captivate audiences during a live performance. It's not just about standing up there with a guitar; it's about commanding the space and giving the audience something to focus on beyond the music itself. Move with intention, even if the space is limited. A slight sway or stepping into a powerful chord can emphasize the music's rhythm and mood. Keep your body language open and inviting, signaling to the audience that you're confident and engaged. Your facial expressions should reflect the emotion of each song—whether you're smiling with a bright tune or conveying intensity in more somber numbers. Don't shy away from eye contact; it helps to forge connections and can make someone feel like you're singing directly to them, creating a personal and memorable experience.

Utilizing vocal techniques effectively can significantly elevate your performance. Warm up your voice before stepping on stage to ensure your vocal cords are ready for the demands of the set. Experiment with dynamics in your singing, much like with your instrumentation. This means playing around with volume, breath control, and articulation to add color and variation to your music. Consider incorporating harmonies, either by inviting a partner on stage or using a looping device, to add richness to your sound. Practice phrasing to enhance storytelling within your songs, using pauses and emphasis on key lyrics to draw the listener's attention to the message you wish to convey. Quality vocal projection is crucial as well, especially in acoustically challenging venues.

Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar

Choosing the right acoustic guitar is an essential part of shaping a unique tone for your solo acoustic live performance. Think of your guitar as the backbone of your musical expression. Different body types—from dreadnought to concert and parlor—impact sound projection and tonal characteristics. Dreadnoughts, known for their deep and robust sound, are favored for their volume and resonance, ideal for venue settings where projection is key. Concert and parlor guitars offer a more balanced, nuanced tone, appealing for intimate settings and detailed finger-style playing. The wood type adds its own flavor to your music as well. Spruce tops tend to provide clarity and brightness, while mahogany backs and sides typically deliver warmth and depth. Exploring different combinations will help you find a guitar that matches your musical style.

Brand reputation can greatly influence your choice of a must-have acoustic guitar. Renowned brands like Martin, Taylor, and Gibson have established themselves with consistent quality and craftsmanship, each with distinct sonic signatures. Don't shy away from trying out lesser-known or boutique brands, which can offer surprisingly unique and personalized tones. Your playing style is crucial here; certain guitars cater better to finger-style, while others support strumming or feature rich sustain for lead playing. It's worth investing time in experimenting with different models to see how their dynamics respond to your touch. Before purchase, spend time playing various guitars to discover which feels like an extension of yourself at reputable music stores like Music Villa in Bozeman, MT. Trust your instincts—they will guide you toward the instrument best suited for your journey.

In Closing

I am able to adapt to the needs of your event. Plug in my Gibson or Taylor, and I’m ready to go. This works well as an opening act when stage space and performance time is at a minimum. When feasible, I like to incorporate harmonies by using a looping device to add richness to my sound and give the audience brief vocal variances to capture their attention. I am also able to add a kick and snare drum to provide percussion which varies the sound for the guests and draws them more completely into the song.

If you’re interested in how my solo performance can add to your event, either as an opening performance or a full gig, please reach out to me at rick@rjsevents.com.

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