Preparing for a solo acoustic gig can feel like a big task, especially when it comes to building a setlist that’s long enough to fill your time slot. Whether you’re playing at a coffee shop, a local bar, or an open mic night, learning enough songs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right approach, you can pull it off and have a great time doing it. Here’s how to get started.

1. Figure Out How Much Music You Need

First things first—how long is your set? If it’s an hour, you’ll probably need around 12-15 songs, depending on how long each one is and how much you talk in between. For a two-hour gig, you’ll want closer to 25-30 songs.

Think about where you’re playing and who’s going to be there. Is it a laid-back coffee shop crowd? A lively bar? The vibe of the venue can help guide your song choices.

2. Build a Well-Rounded Setlist

You want your setlist to keep people interested, so mix it up. Include some:

• Upbeat songs to get toes tapping.

• Slower, emotional songs for quieter moments.

• Covers that people know and can sing along to.

• Originals if you write your own music—this is your chance to shine!

A good mix of tempos and styles will keep things fresh. And if you’re doing covers, aim for familiar songs that aren’t overplayed.

3. Start with What You Know

The easiest way to get going is to work with songs you already know. These will be your foundation. If you’re close to knowing a few others, spend some time polishing those up too. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—use what you’ve got!

4. Keep It Simple

When you’re learning new songs, go for ones with straightforward chords and structures. Acoustic gigs are all about the raw, stripped-down sound, so you don’t need anything overly complicated. Songs in common keys like G, C, or D are usually easier to play and sing.

5. Try Medleys or Mashups

A fun way to stretch your setlist is by combining songs into medleys or mashups. Find a couple of songs in the same key or with similar vibes, and blend them together. It’s a creative way to make your performance stand out and cover more ground.

6. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Don’t forget about the tools out there to help you. Apps like Ultimate Guitar or OnSong can give you quick access to chords and lyrics. YouTube tutorials are also a lifesaver for learning tricky parts. And if you need a little help keeping time, try practicing with a metronome or backing track.

7. Practice Smart, Not Hard

You don’t need to spend hours slogging through your set. Break songs into smaller sections—like verses, choruses, and bridges—and focus on one part at a time. Then, work on transitions between songs so your set flows smoothly.

Once you’re feeling good about your songs, practice playing them straight through, just like you would at the gig. It’ll help you build stamina and confidence.

8. Be Ready for Requests

At some point, someone in the crowd might yell out a request. Having a few “crowd-pleaser” songs ready to go can be a lifesaver. Think of songs like “Wonderwall” or “Take Me Home, Country Roads” that almost everyone knows. Even if you only know the basic chords, you can make it work!

9. Work on Your Stage Presence

A solo acoustic gig isn’t just about the music—it’s about connecting with your audience. Practice talking to the crowd, introducing songs, or sharing little stories about why you picked them. It’ll make your set feel more personal and engaging.

10. Over-Prepare Just in Case

Always learn a few extra songs beyond what you think you’ll need. You never know if the set will run long or if someone will ask for an encore. Better to have too much material than not enough.

11. Reflect and Improve

After your gig, take a moment to think about what worked and what didn’t. Did the audience love a particular song? Did a certain part of your set feel flat? Use that feedback to tweak your setlist for next time.

Wrapping It Up

Learning enough songs for a solo acoustic gig might feel like a lot at first, but it’s totally doable if you take it step by step. Start with what you know, pick a few new songs to add, and practice until you feel comfortable. Most importantly, enjoy the process and let your love for music shine.

When you hit the stage, it’s not just about playing the songs—it’s about sharing a moment with your audience. So relax, have fun, and make it a night to remember!