INTERVIEW ON THE PRICE OF BUSINESS SHOW, MEDIA PARTNER OF THIS SITE.

Recently Kevin Price, Host of the nationally syndicated Price of Business Show, welcomed Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes to provide another commentary in a series.

The Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes Commentaries

Street Preacher Benji is a fiery one-man band blending outlaw soul, punk-folk, and gritty gospel blues into an electrifying live act. With a beat-up guitar, a suitcase kick drum, and a voice that’s equal parts redemption and rebellion, he preaches raw truth through song. Born in the streets, raised on heartache, and fueled by sheer determination, Benji’s music heals, howls, and hollers for the underdog in all of us.

This article walks through what it actually takes to land gigs as a solo singer-songwriter. From writing your first batch of songs to making content, releasing music, playing open mics, and begging venues for that sweet 20-minute opening slot, this guide hits all the highs (and humiliations) of going from your bedroom to the stage. It’s honest, a little unhinged, and filled with practical tips for turning your songs into a set—and your set into a show.

So, you’ve got a beat-up guitar, a burning heart, and a dream to melt faces at a local bar while some dude yells, “Play Wagon Wheel!” Welcome to the glamorous life of the solo singersongwriter. Here’s your crash course in actually getting a gig:

1. Write Songs That Don’t Suck

You need at least 5-7 solid original songs. If your chorus rhymes “fire” with “desire,” rewrite it. A good set feels like a short story, with some highs, some heartbreak, and maybe a banger about your ex who stole your hoodie and your dignity.

2. Post, Even If It’s Cringe

Yes, you have to be on social media. No, you don’t have to dance (unless you want to). Post rough takes, behind-the-scenes songwriting moments, clips of gigs, and yes—your cat listening to your ballad. Your online presence is your digital stage.

3. Record Something—Anything

Start with a single, an EP if you’re feeling bold. Write the lyrics, arrange the tracks, learn what the heck “EQ” means, and produce it—at home or in a studio (aka your drummer friend’s basement).

4. Make It Look Cool

People do judge a track by its cover. Design a cover image that matches your vibe. Don’t use a blurry photo from your cousin’s birthday unless your vibe is “I gave up.” Canva, free stock images, or even AI art can help here.

5. Release It Everywhere

Use a distro service like DistroKid, CD Baby, or Tunecore. It’ll push your music to all the streamers. Then tell the world—email your mom, text your ex (optional), and spam your followers (gently).

6. Open Mics: The Training Ground

Play anywhere that’ll have you. Coffee shops. Dive bars. Farmer’s markets. The library? Maybe. This is your lab. Test out songs, build confidence, and meet other musicians.

7. Canvas Like It’s 2002

Go to venues. Watch shows. Tip bartenders. Compliment sound engineers like they’re holding your career in their fader-flicking fingers (because they are). Then ask: “Hey, do you ever need openers? I’d love to send you my stuff.” Send links. Be chill. Be kind. Follow up in 10 days. Repeat.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

That five-minute slot at Tiny’s Taproom? Treat it like Coachella. Show up early, sound great, thank everyone, and post about it. Momentum builds with every gig.

Final Word:

It’s not instant, and it’s definitely not easy. But if you keep writing, showing up, and shouting your story into the mic—even if no one’s listening yet—you’ll carve out your stage.

Keep preaching, Street Preacher. The choir’s coming.

Song: She Curses Like a Sailor from album Year of the Dog by Benjamin David Barnes aka Bencasso

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6MiTA1jQksbtXfjsAQaMGz? si=8cfe94c96e8745a0&nd=1&dlsi=05178f0359fb42b5

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/she-curses-like-a-sailor/1608707576? i=1608707578

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/albums/B09S5V1ZYY? marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_4UdL8iX948J3eLJk9OS ppAFDc&trackAsin=B09S5HQ8M7

Artwork: Desert Flowers by Bencasso Barnesquiat: https://bencasso.org/featured/desert flowers-bencasso-barnesquiat.html?product=art-print