On this episode of Stage Matters, we're sitting down with the incredible rock guitarist Vikram Vivekanand. He's pulling back the curtain on the real world of live music, from the sometimes chaotic but always revealing soundchecks where anything can happen. Vikram shares how his laid-back personality translates directly to his stage presence, proving you don't always need a wild persona to be a rockstar.
We also dive into the nitty-gritty of working with gig organizers, what a musician truly expects, and why the technical rider is basically gospel. Plus, Vikram gets real about the often-tough financial realities for full-time musicians, offering some smart, practical advice on saving money and planning ahead – including a surprising tip about home cooking!
Finally, we explore the enduring magic of live performance in today's digital age. Vikram explains why those raw, unedited moments on stage create an unparalleled connection with an audience, something you just can't get from a perfectly curated 30-second video. It's a candid look at the passion, challenges, and unique joy of playing live.
