In this episode, you’ll join Dave and returning guest co-host Adam Moskowitz, Chief Groove Officer of VAM Band, as they dive headfirst into the world of nanny tracks, first-gig chaos, and future-proofing your sound. From building tracks in Reaper to rehearsing smarter—not longer—you’ll learn how technology can help you bring your band’s best show to the stage fast.
Then, it’s all about mindset: dealing with last-minute cancellations, navigating new players, and keeping your cool when the curveballs fly. Whether you’re warming up your voice with R.E.M. or re-negotiating pay on a sub gig, this episode reminds you that gigging is equal parts art, attitude, and adaptability. Keep your groove steady and—Always Be Performing.


00:00:00 Gig Gab 507 – Monday, November 10th, 2025

November 10th: International Accounting Day
Guest co-host: Adam Moskowitz, Chief Groove Officer of VAM Band


00:01:46 The Benefits of Nanny Tracks and Invisible Conductors

Arrangement and Lyrics are the two big hurdles
Nanny tracks can get you out of the rehearsal room FAST
We play new songs at every show! 25 new songs in 2025


00:06:03 Playing a new song for the first time in front of a crowd
00:10:41 Building the backing tracks

Download from Karaoke-Version and load into Reaper (Adam’s DAW of choice)
Snap the audio to the “grid” using the click provided by Karaoke Version.
Then set stretch markers at the beginning of each measure, so then I can stretch the tempo and everything stays in tune and in time


00:13:42 Filling in … with a blind drummer!

A sub from six months ago called and asked Adam to sub in HIS band
Negotiating the right pay to ensure you don’t lose money
“The band didn’t provide a setlist…so I built one!”
When subbing: check the band’s YouTube to see what keys they play in


00:20:40 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/giggab4 or use code giggab4 at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
00:22:49 What’s your vocal warmup routine?

Dave sings:

R.E.M.’s Finest Worksong (twice)
Optional: Spin Doctors “A Pocket Full Of Kryptonite”


Adam does scales: “Men’s Vocal Warmup – 5 Minutes”


00:28:01 Create a pre-show ritual

Warm up your brain, your body, and set your intentions
Leave your baggage behind, focus on bringing joy and having fun


00:29:49 Avoiding Cancellations with a System

Cover bands that operate like original bands: rare, and coveted! Not all bands can do that.


00:34:02 What happens with 24-hour notice when your singer cancels…and you have a brand-new drummer?

Be like water…go with the flow!
Using tracks as a supporting layer.


00:41:30 What are you trying to do with your band?

Define your band’s intention.
For Adam and VAM Band: create something that’s future-proof
In VAM Band, you need to understand the value of playing the spaces


00:43:58 Learn what is best in an off-stage conversation (versus on-stage)