Busking: The Art and Practice of Street Performance

Busking, or street performance, is the act of performing in public spaces for voluntary donations.

While buskers may have a hat or open instrument case to receive tips, the key element is that the audience sets the value. This differentiates busking from other public performances where the fee is set beforehand.

The origins of busking can be traced back to ancient and medieval entertainers like troubadours, minstrels, jugglers, and puppeteers who would travel from town to town plying their trade in public squares and markets.

Over the centuries, busking has taken on many forms - from the organ grinders of the 1800s to the diverse range of musical and performance acts found in cities worldwide today.

More than just a way to earn money, busking builds communities and enhances public spaces with creativity, vibrancy, and shared experiences. Buskers provide free, easily accessible entertainment that all walks of life can enjoy. At its heart, busking facilitates a human connection between artists and audiences. Many buskers are motivated not just by money but by the joy of bringing their art to the public.

Today busking exists as both an honored tradition and controversial practice. Concerns around noise, congestion, talent levels, and licensing requirements have led some cities to impose stringent busking regulations, while others actively celebrate their busking culture. Approached ethically, busking can greatly benefit communities when done properly.

This guide will get into the intricacies of modern busking. For those curious about taking their talents to the streets, it provides key insights into making busking rewarding for both the performer and audience.

Types of Busking

While the most recognizable buskers are often musicians, many other performance disciplines have established niches in the busking world. Some of the most common types include:

Musical Performances

• Solo acts - Singers/guitarists, piano players, a cappella vocalists, accordion players, harmonica players, etc.

• Duos or trios - Small bands with portable instrumentation like guitars, violins, mandolins.

• Larger bands - Full bands with multiple vocalists, guitars, percussion. Require more equipment and space.

• Diversified acts - Combining genres like rap vocals with a DJ or beatboxer.

Musicians may play anything from current chart hits to jazz standards, folk tunes, and original compositions. Music choice depends on the setting, target audience, and busker’s abilities. Many rotate between familiar crowd-pleasers and unique pieces to demonstrate versatility.

Other Performance Arts

• Jugglers - From balls and rings to chainsaws and torches, skilled jugglers captivate crowds.

• Magicians and illusionists - Close-up card tricks or large stunts can gather an audience.

• Mimes - Silent theatrical performers in distinctive makeup.

• Living statues - Street performers posing as human statues with creative costumes, makeup, poses.

• Dancers - Tap, breakdancers, ballet solos, costumed characters.

• Poets - Spoken word/poetry, with or without musical accompaniment.

Hybrid Acts

Some buskers combine multiple disciplines, such as:

• Music and juggling

• Poetry with guitar or vocals

• Dance alongside musical performance

• Magic tricks between songs

• Comedy skits mixed with a musical act

This diversity of performance types allows buskers to tailor their acts to their own unique talents. It also gives audiences a wide range of entertainment options.

The Busking Toolkit

Succeeding as a busker requires diligent preparation and having the right gear for your act. Key elements include:

Skills and Talent

No matter your performance type, strong technical ability is essential. As a solo busker, you have no bandmates to cover any weak points. Audiences expect professional-level skills. Extensive practice beforehand is a must.

Equally important is engaging the crowd. Make eye contact, project energy and confidence, and do not hide behind your instrument. Facial expressions, movement, humor, and showmanship will help draw people in. Read the audience and tailor your set accordingly.

Choosing the Right Gear

Portability and reliability are key for busking gear. Consider:

Instruments - Acoustic guitars, violins, harmonicas and other easily portable instruments work best. Drum kits or piano are impractical.

Amplification - A battery-powered speaker gives sufficient volume without needing access to power outlets. Avoid excessive loudness.

Microphones - High-quality vocal mics enable singers to be heard over ambient noise. Lavalier mics allow for movement.

Backing tracks - Pre-recorded instrumental tracks let solo acts sound fuller. MP3 players or tablets can provide backing tracks.

Props - Items like magic wands, juggling supplies, costume pieces, merchandise table, tip jars.

Weather protection - Umbrellas, tarps, instrument covers, and other protection from rain or sun.

Lights - Battery-operated stage lighting for visibility and ambiance in evening hours.

Cases - Sturdy instrument and gear cases for safe transport and storage.

Research local noise restrictions, permits, and electrical access before investing in gear. Busking does not require expensive specialty equipment. Start with minimal, portable gear and upgrade as you progress.

The Ideal Pitch

Carefully selecting your performance location is crucial. Prime spots offer:

• High foot traffic and visibility

• Acoustics that complement your act

• Limited competition from street noise or other buskers

• Safe, level terrain

• Legal and convenient parking/loading access if driving

While heavy crowds are ideal, also consider crowd flow. Pitching between common destinations often catches people en route. Near public transit stops can build transient audiences.

Ideally, secure a spot 1-2 hours before peak times on weekends or holidays. Many buskers plan recurring sets in established locations to build familiarity.

With some scouting, research and trial and error, you can discover the best pitches for your specific act and goals. Signage can also help build awareness if returning regularly.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While busking offers creative freedom, working in public spaces comes with logistical considerations:

Permissions and Licensing

• Research local busking laws. Some cities require performer licenses or spot reservations.

• Unregulated busking may still necessitate business permission and occasional relocation.

• Handling payments legally also requires research into permits.

Respecting the Space

• Volume must suit the environment. Avoid excessive amplification.

• Be mindful of surrounding businesses and residents.

• Leave the space clean, and regularly remove any litter around your area.

Audience Interactions

• Make donations completely voluntary. Never pressure audiences.

• Politely decline inappropriate requests. Defuse tense interactions calmly.

• Consider needs of children, elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable groups.

Following regulations and maintaining positive relationships with the community ensures busking remains welcome. Even where legislation is lax, common sense etiquette goes a long way.

Making the Most of Busking

To build a successful busking career, performers must go beyond musical talent and treat their act as a business. Promoting yourself wisely, making merchandise available, and actively engaging with your audience can help maximize your impact and income as a street performer.

Promoting Your Act

Getting the word out is crucial when starting out. Some effective promotional strategies include:

• Leveraging social media - Create accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter to promote your upcoming performance locations, times, and video clips. Use relevant hashtags like #busking to connect with fellow buskers and fans.

• Eye-catching posters - Print up posters or flyers with your photo, performance schedule, social media/website. Post on community boards and lamp posts with permission.

• Email list sign-ups - Offer a free song download or merchandise discount for email sign-ups to build your newsletter list. Send out updates on performances, new music, or announcements.

• Free merch - Having stickers, buttons, or postcards with your logo and site gives potential new fans something to remember you by. Hand them out to crowds or those stopping to listen.

• Collaborations - Team up with other local performers to cross-promote on social media and draw each other’s existing fanbases.

• Busking events - Research any organized busking festivals in your area. Apply to perform and gain exposure.

Offering Merchandise

Sell branded merchandise during your sets to provide income between sets. Smart items to offer include:

• CDs and audio recordings - Have a stock on hand to sell immediately after sets. Sign copies upon request.

• T-shirts, hats, bags - Display on your merchandise table. Size your inventory based on expected demand.

• Stickers, buttons, keychains - Inexpensive to produce, easy impulse purchases for supporters.

• Songbooks, sheet music - Great for other musicians hoping to learn your repertoire.

• Custom art - If you have artistic talents, offer original drawings, paintings, or other crafts.

Keep your merchandise display neat and organized. Price items fairly and competitively. Having a Square or PayPal reader enables you to accept credit/debit payments.

Interacting with Your Audience

Busking is meant to be an interactive experience. Strategies to engage your crowd include:

• Greet passersby. Make eye contact and exude positivity. Thank anyone who leaves tips.

• Share some backstory on certain songs or your personal journey as an artist. Allow your personality to come through.

• Take requests from the audience. Reward their engagement by tailoring your set to their tastes.

• Incorporate humor between songs. Funny banter makes you relatable and memorable.

• For musicians - invite other musicians in the crowd to join you for a song. Have backup instruments on hand.

• Conclude your set by recommending that supportive audiences visit other buskers nearby. Cross-promotion builds community.

By properly leveraging promotion, merchandise sales, and audience interactions, diligent buskers can build a regular following and income stream from their art and self-marketing abilities.

The Joys and Challenges of Busking

Busking offers creative fulfillment and opportunities not found in traditional performance venues. However, the unpredictability of street performing also poses unique challenges.

The Joys

For many buskers, the joys and rewards are well worth the effort.

• Artistic freedom - Buskers can play whatever they choose rather than catering to venue or client expectations. You control your own setlist and style.

• Flexible schedule - Busking part-time supplements other income. Full-time busking allows performers to be their own boss.

• Tour and travel - Busking enables musicians to fund their travels playing city to city. New crowds every day.

• Attention and appreciation - Passersby who stop to enjoy an impromptu street show offer gratitude and validation.

• Supplemental income - From pocket change to hundreds of dollars on a good day, busking provides a direct income stream.

• Networking and connections - Audiences, fellow buskers, and business owners can offer performance opportunities.

• Skill development - The demands of busking build confidence, stamina, and mastery of your craft through constant public practice.

The Challenges

Busking also comes with its share of hardships and variables beyond one’s control:

• Inconsistent income - Earnings fluctuate widely day to day based on weather, crowds, and reception. Financial stability requires planning.

• Outdoor elements - Wind, cold, rain, or extreme heat pose challenges buskers must adapt to. Portable protection helps.

• Licensing issues - Navigating local busking regulations, permits, restrictions adds a legal learning curve. Fines for violations impact income.

• Territorial disputes - Some buskers jealously guard prime spots, though mutual respect usually prevails.

• Hecklers and critics - Negative public feedback is inevitable. Developing patience and mature responses takes time.

• Equipment issues - Gear must withstand transportation and outdoor use. Theft is also a risk requiring vigilance.

• Slow days - Periods of low foot traffic provide no income. Perseverance is key.

While busking tests one’s passion and persistence, the thrill of live street performing keeps dedicated buskers coming back. The rewards and personal growth make the challenges worthwhile for many.

How Much Money Can You Make Busking?

A major motivation for many buskers is earning an income from their craft. But revenues can vary widely depending on several factors.

In general, busking on a part-time basis may earn you tens of dollars per hour on average. However, earnings range from just pocket change some days to over $100+ per hour in prime spots at peak times.

Variables impacting busking income include:

• Location - Heavy tourist traffic, large events, and generous demographics (e.g. affluent areas) pay best. Prime spots in major cities can earn hundreds daily.

• Time - Evening and weekend performances tend to earn more as crowds increase. Holidays and summers also peak.

• Weather - Good weather brings more people outside, increasing potential earnings.

• Type of act - Novel, flashy acts often attract more attention and tips than standard musical acts.

• Skill level - Top talent earns more than amateurs. A strong stage presence and engagement with the audience help build revenues.

• Sound level - Strategic use of amplification and projected vocals encourages more giving.

• Special events - Festivals, conferences, and major attractions can be very lucrative gigs.

Supplementary income streams like merchandise sales, soliciting bookings, and online fan donations also boost overall busking income.

In short, part-time buskers can realistically expect to supplement other earnings with hundreds of flexible dollars monthly. Full-time buskers in ideal markets may potentially earn $20,000-$50,000 annually or more with hustle and skill. For most, busking is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but rather a rewarding way to exercise their passion while earning income.

Famous Musicians Who Busked

While busking is often seen as an activity for amateurs, many now-famous musicians launched their careers by performing in the streets. Busking helped them hone their craft and gain exposure before mainstream success.

Ed Sheeran

As a teenager, Sheeran left home to busk around England and slept outside Buckingham Palace. After building a fanbase online, he eventually went on to become a global pop superstar.

Rod Stewart

In the early 1960s, a teenage Stewart busked around London with his harmonicica. He went on to become a rock icon with over 250 million records sold.

Tracy Chapman

Chapman started out busking in Harvard Square in Cambridge, MA. A demo tape of her busking led to a major label record deal and hit songs like “Fast Car.”

Guy Laliberté

The billionaire founder of Cirque du Soleil started out busking as a street performer playing accordion. His experiences helped shape Cirque’s unique public street-style performances.

Jewel

Folk-pop singer Jewel famously lived out of her car in her 20s, making money busking around San Diego coffee shops and clubs before landing a major record deal.

While these musicians ultimately moved beyond busking to success, their early street performing days instilled crucial performance experience and helped forge unique sounds. Busking can serve as the first step for major acts, though very few actually reach stardom. The key is honing your skills and seizing opportunities when they arise.