Definition of busking: performing on a street corner to get cash donations from strangers.
Some homeless youth have no desire to stay in one place. Instead, they travel from city to city, coming up with creative ways to secure resources along the way. Busking is one of many methods they use to earn money for food and other daily necessities.
5 Tips for Better Busking
Like any money-making enterprise, successful busking requires a good strategy. If you’re inclined to busk, here are 5 tips to get you started.
1. Go where the people are.
In the Twin Cities, it’s common to see people performing in the skyways, on Nicollet Mall, or outside sporting venues like Target Field and the Xcel Energy Center after an event. Summer block parties offer another chance to catch the attention of crowds in the city.
A man plays a trumpet outside Target Field during the 2013 Twins Home Opener. Photo by Joe Bielawa.
2. Don’t be a nuisance.
With a battery-powered amp, you can busk with an electric guitar. However, you’re more likely to attract police attention with amplified sound.
In St. Paul, city ordinances prohibit amplified sound that’s louder than conversational speech at a distance of 50 feet or more from your busking spot. Due to laws like these, most people choose to busk with an acoustic instrument. Photo by Newsbie Pix
3. Busk safely
Protect yourself and your property by choosing a spot that is well lit, populated, and protected with a wall behind you. Photo by Clare Bell
4. Not making money? Try something new.
The quality of your performance matters. If you don’t make enough money playing an instrument, try something else. If you can’t impress people with raw talent, try to make them laugh. Photo by Edwin Tee
5. Play together.
It’s more fun to perform with friends. You’ll get more attention and make a stronger impression on the crowd. Photo by I Love Trees
Heading photo by: Faramarz Hashemi