Lots of my stuff now has 4 to 8 bars lead in.

RealTracks.

Just the bass for a couple of bars, then the drums, then the background guitar. Then start.

For variation, just the drums for 2 bars, then the bass (I use the root for the 1st bass bar to get my 'bearings'. Then the guitar..

Works much better, sounds realistic.

I do have 1/2 a dozen where I come in on keys first watching the flashing by of the chords and then the drums, then the bass, then the actual song. That works great too, but I need a computer and don't use one much.

Did a dozen 3 to 4 minute standards the other day, mp3 player to their sound system, regular piano in the hall. Pre meeting cocktail hour type of thing. Got $50 tips. Not bad. Donated said tips back to Children's Hospital, (it was their fundraiser). Got a receipt, will get back 30 percent off my taxes.

John Conley
Musica est vita