How to Write a Set List for Gigs (With Free 24-Song Download)

Thinking of performing live? Here’s how to plan a killer set list.

Whether you’re prepping for your first open mic night or gearing up for paid gigs, knowing how to write a set list is one of the most important skills you’ll ever learn as a performer.

It’s not just about throwing your favourite songs together.
It’s about:

• Reading the room

• Managing energy

• Keeping your audience engaged

• And most importantly: not panicking halfway through your set

After 20+ years of performing around the world, I’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t)—so you don’t have to.

In this guide, I’ll show you:

• How to write a set list that works for any gig

• Mistakes to avoid as a beginner performer

• Crowd-pleasing songs that never fail

• And how to grab my free 24-song acoustic set list to get you started fast

What is a set list and why does it matter?

A set list is the order of songs you plan to perform during a live show or gig.
And trust me—having a good one can save your whole night.

A great set list helps you:

• Keep the crowd engaged from start to finish

• Create a natural flow between songs

• Avoid awkward silences or panicked decisions mid-performance

• Leave the audience wanting more (not checking their phones)

If you want to get booked again, get better tips, and actually enjoy performing—start with your set list.

Step 1: Know your audience before anything else

When you're learning how to write a set list for a gig, this is the golden rule.

It’s not about what you want to play.
It’s about what they want to hear.

Ask yourself:

• What’s the age range of the crowd?

• What’s the event type (open mic, wedding, pub, background music)?

• What kind of energy or vibe is expected?

Example:

At a Saturday night pub gig full of 30-somethings?
Think: Mr Brightside, Sex on Fire, Valerie.

At a chilled-out Sunday afternoon acoustic session?
Go softer: Budapest, Tennessee Whiskey, Fast Car.

Step 2: Open with confidence (and something they know)

The first song in your set is your one shot to make a great impression.

Choose a song that is:

• Instantly recognisable

• Mid-tempo or upbeat

• In your vocal comfort zone

• Easy to groove along to or sing with

Strong openers for solo performers:

• Valerie – Amy Winehouse

• Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison

• Shotgun – George Ezra

• I’m Yours – Jason Mraz

Step 3: Structure your set like a pro

Your set list should have flow—you’re taking the audience on a ride (a fun one, not a confusing one).

Example flow for a 12-song set:

1. Open strong with a feel-good crowd-pleaser

2. Keep the energy up with 2 or 3 upbeat songs

3. Drop it down for a slower or emotional moment

4. Rebuild with mid-to-upbeat tracks

5. Finish with a singalong or high-energy anthem

Keyword tip: This structure works whether you're building a set list for an acoustic gig, open mic night, or background music performance.

Step 4: Be ready to adapt mid-gig

Even the best set list won’t survive a crowd that’s not on board.
So build in flexibility.

Have a few:

• Extra upbeat songs in case it’s a lively crowd

• Easy singalongs in case they want to join in

• Fallback ballads if things need calming down

Bonus tip: If someone shouts a request and you can play it—do it. You'll win the room instantly.

Step 5: Close with a bang

Ending your set on a high is as important as starting strong.

Choose something that:

• Everyone knows

• Feels big and satisfying

• Encourages singing or dancing

• Leaves a great final impression

Popular set closers:

• Don’t Look Back in Anger – Oasis

• Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond

• 500 Miles – The Proclaimers

• Country Roads – John Denver

• Angels – Robbie Williams

You want people clapping, singing, and saying, “They were brilliant.”

Want a ready-made set list to get you started?

I’ve created a FREE 24-song gig-ready set list designed for solo performers, duos, acoustic acts, and anyone who wants to start gigging.

This free download includes:

• 24 proven, crowd-pleasing songs

• A balanced mix of tempos and styles

• Links to accurate chord and lyric sheets for every song

• Perfect for pubs, weddings, open mics, or private events

I’ve used these songs at real gigs in front of real people—and they work.

Download Your Free 24-Song Set List Here

(No spam. No fluff. Just plug in your guitar and go.)

Final Thoughts: Writing a Set List Shouldn’t Be Stressful

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to plan your gig—or worried about losing the crowd—you’re not alone.

But with the right songs, a little structure, and some pro-level flexibility, you can create a set list that actually works for any audience.

So stop overthinking it.

Download the free set list, grab your guitar, and get out there.