Of all the band members listed, how many show up on the
job?
The short answer is fourteen. There are the normally eleven
band members on stage plus an additional three
crew members (out of the pool of five) for any given job.
Can I pick the songs I want the band to play?
Not exactly, there are factors that influence which songs
the band should play that a client can not be aware of. Unlike
a DJ, there are performance and endurance factors for particular
songs which have to be taken into consideration when songs are
called through the course of the event. The band always strives
to deliver a quality performance and does not want to put it's
sound into a compromising position, for that reason, the band
will make the decision of what songs will be played. However,
the group will take into consideration what songs the client
likes and dislikes by having them vote from the song
feedback form. The band will use this feedback and make
every effort to select the songs according to the clients (and/or
their guest) wishes. The lead singer, Joel Lewis, reads the
crowd, refers to the submitted feedback, uses his vast experience
of live presentation and crowd reaction, and then calls the
tunes to the band members onstage as they are being played (using
the bands intercom system). The ability to spontaneously adapt
"to the moment" is a feature of this large band and
enhances the potential to get the best possible reaction from
their audience.
How long does it take the band to set-up and pack-up?
Typically (depending on the venue), it takes the crew 1-1/2
hours to set-up and 1 hour to pack-up.
Should I contact an agency or can I hire the band directly?
Prospective clients can contact and book the band directly.
However, if an agency has first contact, bookings and follow-up
will normally be handled through that agency.
Who do I make the check out to?
Deposits are made to the agency (unless it is a direct
booking). Balances should be paid to the band leader Randy Neilson.
How far in advance does the band book?
Depending on the season, some clients will book more than
one year in advance. However, dates can be booked up to one
month in advance (provided the date is available).
Does the band break down into a smaller group?
No, Bobby & the Believers signature sound is dependent
on having all of the parts present. The Believers songs are
arranged specifically for the talents and capabilities of the
members of this group. However, there are some splinter projects
that a few of members are involved in. These groups
present a totally different type of music and presentation from
Bobby & the Believers.
Why does the band need breaks?
Playing an instrument is a physically challenging activity.
Entertaining with intensity is even more challenging. To that
end, the band needs breaks to avoid major fatigue, bleeding
lips, and late night cramps. However, the party doesn't stop
when the group takes a break. The band will provide taped music
to carry through to the next energetic set.
Does someone from the band need to visit the venue before
the day of the event?
No, the band is equipped to adapt to most any set-up. Upon
arrival, which is typically two hours before the doors open,
the crew will assess the venue and determine the scale of the
equipment necessary for the room. The crew will then coordinate
with the staff in preparation for the show.
What's that thing on the drummers head?
Kevin the drummer, prefers to wear a headset instead of
in-ear monitors. But since he is so active, the headset tends
to slip off his head. So one day he got hold of the guts of
a hard hat, wrapped and tied his headset to it, then decorated
it with mirrors and other things. Now when the room is hazed
and the spot lights shine on him, it sends reflective beams
radiating from his head. Since he is up on his platform, it's
kind'a like having a mirrored ball ... quite a spectacle.
What if I can't meet all of the terms in the contract
rider?
W hen hiring the band, the contract
rider is the starting point for logistical concerns. This
rider is not indented to be a hardship for the client. Any resulting
issues should be discussed with the band prior to the event
so things will run smoothly and there shouldn't be any surprises
the day of the event.
If I want the band to play special songs at my wedding
reception, how far in advance do they need to know and how many
songs can I request?
The band will entertain learning one special song (typically
the first dance). This song needs to be declared at least 60
days prior to the event so the band can work it into their rehearsal
schedule. (The band reserves the right to decline the request
and play the tape/CD if the group is not able to do the song
justice.) If there are other songs requested, the band would
be happy to play the customer-provided CD.
Who will do the announcing and what information needs
to be provided beforehand?
Joel Lewis will provide MC services if desired. Most information
is contained on the Wedding Planner Guide
and, typically, Joel will review the pronunciations with
the client (or coordinator) just prior to the announcements.
