John Doe's set list, HopMonk Novato, 8.6.18
That piece of paper that often lays below they players on the stage may seem like nothing much, just a bunch of words and notations that is often soaked with booze by the end of any given night of music. But alas, it is so much more than that, as it is the coveted Set List, and it’s presence to both musician and fan is incredibly important.
To the musician, the set list for any given performance can help them remember what songs to play, in what order and in what key. Sometimes notes are added as to who sings or plays during that song. The set list can be a constant reminder of what to do so that they can focus on playing the music without thinking “Oh Shit, what’s next?” Set lists are not always followed exactly, for example troubadour folk singer Ramblin’ Jack Elliot often does set lists, but usually doesn’t follow them. He jumps around, singing songs that may or may not be on the list, often taking requests from the audience or completely ignoring a song he was set to play in lieu of another.
To the musician, the set list for any given performance can help them remember what songs to play, in what order and in what key. Sometimes notes are added as to who sings or plays during that song. The set list can be a constant reminder of what to do so that they can focus on playing the music without thinking “Oh Shit, what’s next?” Set lists are not always followed exactly, for example troubadour folk singer Ramblin’ Jack Elliot often does set lists, but usually doesn’t follow them. He jumps around, singing songs that may or may not be on the list, often taking requests from the audience or completely ignoring a song he was set to play in lieu of another.
 Ramblin' Jack, HopMonk Novato, 11.10.19 |  Johnny & June Forever, Sweetwater, 10.6.19 |
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| Townes Van Zandt Tribute, Sweetwater, 7.10.18 | PSDSP, Sweetwater, 7.20.18 |
To the fan, the set list is often a prize fought over at the end of a show. It’s a keepsake for the experience one has, a memory for what was played during shows, a treasure that says “I was there! I was witness to this night!” If the list was handed to the fan directly from one of the musicians, it is even more of a gift, as that brief interaction with a favorite musician is noteworthy to any fan of their music and can add to the story.
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