A few thoughts on this thread

Make sure you have an alternative source standing by for playing back those sequences or files. Sooner or later, all technology fails.

Learn as many of the lyrics as you can (by practising with your song folder closed – if it’s open, you’ll always be looking at it)

Play one or two numbers 100% live with your own keys or gtr for accompaniment, if you’re worried that the inclusion of pre-recorded music in your act may threaten your credibility as a ‘real’ musician.

Sadly, yes – stick to covers. Choose not those that you like the best but those that are likely to go down the best with your audience.

and (sorry Mac for I know you were going to post this) practise, practise, practise. Then when you’ve practised enough, practise some more.

Good luck

Marc