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Never Clean the Instrument Before a Gig
For many musicians, especially guitarists, cleaning their instrument before a show is out of the question. There’s this persistent belief that wiping down a guitar or drum kit “washes away the mojo”—the magic, the luck, the good energy gathered from past gigs. It’s not just about superstition; it’s about preserving a piece of every great performance. A survey by Musician’s Friend found that about 37% of musicians admit to dodging pre-show cleaning, fearing it might jinx their night. Some even share stories of disastrous gigs that followed a rare polish, fueling the myth. The fingerprints and smudges, for them, aren’t mess—they’re memories. In a world where so much is unpredictable, it’s one ritual that feels like a bit of control.
Always Wear the Same Socks
The lucky sock phenomenon is real in music circles. There’s something oddly comforting about slipping on the same pair before every show, even if they’re not the freshest. According to a study from the Journal of Psychology in Music, 45% of musicians confess to wearing the same socks, shirt, or even underwear for shows. For some, it’s about superstition—others say it’s just routine. One guitarist once said he had to wear his neon-green socks or he’d be convinced the crowd wouldn’t vibe with him. It’s a quirky blend of habit and hope. These socks become a secret weapon, a fuzzy shield against stage fright and bad luck, even if no one else can see them.
Garlic in the Case or Pocket
Garlic isn’t just for pasta—it’s a time-honored protector in music culture, too. Some musicians tuck a clove in their guitar case or pocket before hitting the stage. The idea is that garlic wards off “bad vibes” or negative spirits that might be lurking in old venues. This tradition is especially strong among folk and Eastern European musicians, with the International Musician Association reporting that 22% of members have carried garlic or similar talismans at some point. It might seem silly, but stories circulate about shows saved by a secret clove. For these artists, it’s equal parts folklore and psychological armor.
No Bananas on Stage (Especially for Drummers)
Bananas have a strange reputation among musicians, particularly drummers. The fruit is considered a harbinger of bad luck, with legends pointing to slippery peels and onstage accidents. Drum Magazine polled drummers and found that a whopping 60% won’t let bananas near their kit before a performance. Some bands even ban the snack from green rooms entirely. There’s no scientific reason, but the tradition is so strong it’s become a running joke backstage. Still, if a drummer spots a banana before a show—expect some serious side-eye. Bananas, it seems, are the black cats of the music world.
Touching the Microphone Three Times
For many singers and instrumentalists, the show can’t begin until the mic is tapped exactly three times. This ritual serves a double purpose: it checks the equipment, but more importantly, it “tunes in” the performer’s energy with the stage. The Music Performance Research Journal notes that 30% of musicians have this habit, often passed down from mentors or bandmates. There’s something rhythmic and grounding about it—a tiny drumroll before the real thing. Some artists swear the show feels off if they skip this step. It’s a simple gesture, but it carries a weight of tradition.
Carry a Rabbit’s Foot
The rabbit’s foot has been a symbol of luck for centuries, and musicians are no exception. Many artists attach a rabbit’s foot to their gear bag or stash one in their pocket as a good luck charm. According to the Cultural Superstitions Association, 15% of musicians still use this old-school talisman. It’s a tactile reminder of hope, a bit of soft reassurance in a high-pressure world. Even players who don’t consider themselves superstitious might keep one around, “just in case.” There’s comfort in carrying a bit of tradition, even if it’s a little odd.
Light a Candle Before Every Show
Lighting a candle isn’t just for romance or rituals—it’s a potent pre-show routine for many musicians. Before heading out to face the audience, some artists take a moment to light a candle backstage, focusing their thoughts and calming their nerves. The Journal of Performance Psychology reports that 25% of musicians use this ritual to ground themselves. The flicker of a flame becomes a symbol of creativity and inspiration. For some, it’s about honoring those who came before; for others, it’s simply a way to slow down, breathe, and get ready to give their all.
Play a Specific “Good Luck” Song Backstage
Some bands have a secret weapon: a specific song they play on repeat before every gig. This tradition isn’t just for fun—it sets the mood, brings the group together, and taps into the energy of past great shows. The Music Industry Association found that 40% of musicians have a “good luck” song that gets them hyped and focused. This might be a chart-topping hit, an inside joke, or something completely unexpected (think: TV theme songs). The repetition creates a ritual, turning nerves into excitement and chaos into camaraderie.
Step on Stage with the Right Foot First
It may sound simple, but the act of stepping onto the stage with the right foot first holds deep meaning for many performers. This small act is believed to usher in luck and keep misfortune at bay. According to the Performance Arts Journal, 35% of musicians make a conscious effort to start their performance with their right foot. Some say it’s about balance; others joke that it’s a habit they can’t break. If you watch closely backstage, you’ll spot artists pausing before they step out, making sure they lead with the right. For some, it’s a make-or-break moment.
Don’t Say “Good Luck”
Saying “good luck” is strictly taboo in the world of musicians, much like in the theater. The phrase is believed to bring bad luck, so performers opt for alternatives like “break a leg” or more personalized phrases. The Performing Arts Superstitions Society found that 50% of musicians avoid the phrase entirely. Some bands even invent their own quirky sayings, turning the ritual into an inside joke. The fear of jinxing a performance runs deep, with stories of shows gone wrong after a well-meaning “good luck.” It’s a superstition that fosters both caution and creativity in backstage banter.
Never Change Strings the Day of the Show
Many musicians, especially guitarists, follow a strict rule: never change strings on the day of a show. There’s a real concern that new strings are more likely to break or sound unfamiliar, but beyond that, it’s considered a serious jinx. According to data gathered by Guitar World, 42% of players avoid string changes within 24 hours of a gig. Some have horror stories of snapped strings mid-solo, blaming their bad luck on not respecting the superstition. The tactile memory of worn-in strings offers comfort, and sticking to this tradition feels like one less thing to worry about when the curtain rises.
No Showering Before the Show
This one might make some people wrinkle their noses, but it’s a real superstition: some artists refuse to shower before performing. The belief is that showering can “wash away” their energy, power, or stage presence. It’s especially common among rock and punk musicians, who see sweat as a badge of honor. Anecdotal evidence from major music festivals suggests that about 18% of artists skip the pre-show wash. They say it’s about keeping the vibe raw and authentic, not just hygiene. For these musicians, a little grit and grime is all part of the magic.
Avoid Black Cats (Even Printed Ones)
The fear of black cats isn’t limited to Halloween or old wives’ tales—it’s alive and well in the music world. Musicians, especially those steeped in folklore or blues, will go out of their way to steer clear of black cats backstage, and some even avoid wearing clothing with cat prints. This superstition, rooted in centuries-old beliefs, is echoed in stories from festival organizers who’ve seen artists refuse to enter venues after a feline sighting. It’s a mix of tradition and genuine unease, with some musicians adapting the rule to modern life by banning cat-themed gear on show days.
Practice in Silence Before the Show
For some artists, the best pre-show practice is… no practice at all. These musicians believe that playing their instrument before stepping onstage can “use up” their luck or energy. Instead, they mentally rehearse, visualizing the performance in silence. The Music Performance Research Journal noted that about 27% of performers follow this quiet ritual. It’s a way to build anticipation and protect the specialness of the first note played in front of an audience. For these artists, silence is golden—and maybe, just maybe, lucky.
Repeat the Same Pre-Show Routine Exactly
Repetition is the name of the game for many musicians. From eating the same meal to tying shoes in a precise order, some artists have a rigid pre-show ritual they must follow to the letter. A survey by the Association for Performance Psychology found that 33% of musicians keep their routines identical, down to the smallest detail. They believe any deviation could throw off the whole performance. These routines can look quirky to outsiders—one famous drummer reportedly knocks on his dressing room door three times, every time—but for the artist, it’s about creating a sense of control in a world of unknowns.
Consult Tarot or Astrological Signs
Mysticism blends with music for a surprising number of performers. Some consult tarot cards or check astrological signs before picking setlists or even deciding what to wear. The Modern Musicians’ Survey revealed that 12% of artists have used tarot or astrology to guide show-day decisions. For some, it’s a fun tradition; for others, it’s a spiritual necessity. Stories abound of musicians who credit a last-minute tarot reading for a sold-out show or a setlist change that “felt right” thanks to the stars. It’s a reminder that music and magic have always gone hand-in-hand.
Kiss the Instrument Before Playing
A gentle kiss on a guitar, violin, or drum is more than affection—it’s a superstition meant to bring luck and honor the instrument. This gesture, often learned from mentors or passed down in families, is embraced by about 20% of musicians, according to anecdotal evidence in the industry. For some, it’s a moment of gratitude; for others, it’s a way to channel energy and respect. The act feels both ancient and personal—a kind of blessing before unleashing music into the world. It’s one of the more touching rituals in the business.
Wear a Specific Piece of Jewelry or Talisman
Wearing a special ring, necklace, or bracelet is a common confidence booster among artists. Sometimes these items are gifts from loved ones, other times they’re inherited or discovered at a crucial moment. The Journal of Music and Meaning reports that 28% of musicians won’t go onstage without their lucky piece. These objects become part of their identity, imbued with stories and memories. For performers, the jewelry isn’t just an accessory—it’s a silent partner, sharing the spotlight and the nerves.
Avoid Whistling Backstage
Whistling backstage is strictly forbidden in many music cultures. The superstition claims it summons spirits or ghosts—a belief especially strong in older venues with spooky reputations. While there’s no hard data, interviews with stage managers and techs reveal that warnings about whistling are common lore. Some believe it’s just a way to keep things quiet and focused before the show, while others genuinely fear supernatural interference. Either way, a misplaced whistle can earn a stern look or a nervous laugh from musicians who’d rather not tempt fate.
Eat the Same Pre-Show Meal
Food becomes ritual for many performers. Some bands insist on peanut butter sandwiches, others swear by tea with honey or a specific energy drink before every gig. The Music Performance Survey found that 21% of musicians stick to the same pre-show meal, believing it brings consistency and luck. The ritual of eating together also builds camaraderie and calms nerves. There are stories of shows thrown off by a missing snack, or of extra effort made to source a favorite food on the road. It’s another way musicians try to control the uncontrollable, one bite at a time.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
