How to Build a Set List That Actually Works

If you’ve ever built a set list by just throwing together a bunch of songs you like… you’re not alone.

We’ve all done it. The “ooh I love that one” method. The “I saw someone play this at an open mic once and it went down well” strategy. The “I guess this fills 45 minutes?” approach.

But here’s the thing:
A great set list isn’t just a bunch of songs. It’s a performance plan. It’s what turns your nerves into confidence, your practice into applause, and your playlist into a proper show.

And if you get it right?
You’ll have your audience hooked, singing along, clapping like seals, and maybe even buying you drinks after.

So… what makes a good set list?

Glad you asked. Here are the essentials:

1. Start strong, end stronger

The first song sets the tone. It should be something you can nail without thinking, even with shaky hands and dry mouth.
And your last song? That’s the one people remember. Go out with a bang—or a goosebump-raising singalong. Just don’t fizzle out with a slow B-side no one knows.

2. Think about flow (not just tempo)

Sure, mix up fast and slow songs. But also think about:

• Key changes (too many big jumps can feel jarring)

• Vibe shifts (going from heartbreak to party banger to heartbreak again is… emotionally confusing)

• Your voice (don’t stack five belty high-note songs together unless you want your vocal folds filing for divorce)

3. Balance familiarity with freshness

Yes, people love songs they know. But if you only play the same tired hits, you’re a human jukebox, not an artist.

Aim for a mix of:

• Crowd-pleasers (the ones that always land)

• Personal favourites (that you perform with genuine joy)

• Wildcard picks (for the “ooh what’s that?” moments)

4. Read the room (before you’re even in it)

Who are you playing for?

• Drunk Aussies? 

• American country fans? 

• A retirement home? 

Pro tip: Don’t plan the same set for every gig. Have a few options up your sleeve and adjust as needed.

5. Make it playable (and sustainable)

No matter how cool a song is, if it:

• Requires 14 chords you don’t know yet

• Wrecks your voice

• Kills the vibe because it’s too long, too hard, or too niche…

…it probably doesn’t belong in your current set.

Pick songs you can actually pull off. Confidence > complexity every time.

And for the love of all things musical… put it somewhere you can find it

Not in twelve separate voice notes.
Not scribbled on a napkin.
Not buried in a folder called “SET LIST V3 FINAL FINAL ACTUAL FINAL”.

Use something that’s:

• Easy to update

• Accessible during gigs

• Organised by key, tempo, vibe, and length (if you’re fancy)

Want a cheat code?

If you’re sitting there thinking, “This sounds great, but I’ve got zero time to build this from scratch,” I’ve got you.

Grab my FREE mini Superstar Set List—a little taster of my full 1400-song interactive set list, with curated song suggestions, audience notes, and links to accurate chords and lyrics.

It’ll save you hours of Googling and second-guessing, and help you build a set that actually works.

Download the free mini Superstar Set List here