David's Tip of the Day: Joining a Band - Part 5 (Song Essentials)

Now that you have your quick list that details the essentials for each song (key, groove, start, end, etc.), the main focus is to learn to play... and memorize... the signature elements in each song. If a hook exists in a song, learn it ("I'm Ready" for example) If there's a head, learn that too ("Chicken Shack" for example) If there are breaks ("Next Time You See Me" for example), be ready to play the lick associated with it (if there is one), and memorize the lyrics that immediately precede it, to signal that it's coming. You're learning material for a night's-worth of music, focus on just the essentials.