BRENT HARVEY
kbhentertainment.com / hmmawards.com
Brent Harvey is the founder of KBH Entertainment, as well as the executive producer of the Hollywood Music in Media Awards. For three decades, he has produced and promoted showcases, concerts, film festivals, fundraisers and awards shows.
Prepping vs Winging
Some artists can banter spontaneously, but they usually have a lot of stage experience. As long as they’re engaging, focused and stay on point, winging it could work. With that said, nothing beats preparation and, in the beginning, artists need to practice banter.
Monologue vs Dialogue
There are different types of banter: monologue and dialogue. Having a dialogue and engaging the audience works best. Pontificating about something no one cares about will lose the crowd.
The Story
People love good stories. Artists who can bring an audience into their world with a great story will attract fans. People remember those stories, sometimes more than the songs.
Hey, Sound Guy
Very few acts acknowledge the sound engineer. Saying, “Hey, give it up for the sound guy!” can go a long way––and ensure that your show sounds great.
Be Real
Artists must be authentic and real––and that applies to stage banter too. Banter should match the relevance and intensity of the music, and reveal the artist’s personality. Bottom line, be true to yourself and let the audience into your world. •
