I like to open with something up-tempo, but one that I'm so familiar with I hardly have to think about it. That gives me time to adjust to mike, seating, lights and audience while getting their attention. The second piece us usually also up-tempo, but with more intricate guitar. After that, I just try to mix up tempos, topics, etc. to keep the audience guessing what's next. And always try to leave them with something they'll remember and want more of — usually raucus and/or funny. And if I get an encore — which, of course, is a BIG if — I try to make 'em cry. Don't know why, but people seem to love to cry at the end of concerts.

david