Gigging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽค
Add to dictionary

gigging

[หˆgษชษกษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

musical performance

Gigging refers to the act of performing music at various venues, typically as a part of a band or as a solo artist. This term is commonly associated with live performances in bars, clubs, and festivals where musicians showcase their work to an audience. It embodies the lifestyle and culture of musicians who rely on these performances for income and exposure. Gigging can take on various forms, from casual jam sessions to organized concerts.

Synonyms

entertaining, performing, playing.

Examples of usage

  • The band has been gigging every weekend this month.
  • She loves the excitement of gigging in different cities.
  • They are gigging at a local club next Saturday.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The rise of 'gig culture' reflects a shift in the economy where short-term, flexible jobs are becoming more common, especially in creative industries.
  • Many famous musicians, like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran, started in smaller venues, highlighting how gigging is crucial for emerging talent.
  • Reality shows and documentaries often showcase musicians preparing for and performing at gigs, emphasizing the dedication behind the scenes.

Economics

  • Gigging can contribute significantly to local economies, with events bringing crowds to restaurants, hotels, and shops in the area.
  • The gig economy, which includes artists and other freelancers, offers diverse job opportunities but can also create instability for workers due to lack of regular pay.
  • Various platforms now facilitate gig work, connecting performers with clients looking for live entertainment.

Psychology

  • Performing live can trigger 'flow' states in musicians, where they feel completely absorbed and energized by the experience.
  • Gigging can be a source of stress for some artists, leading to performance anxiety; however, many find it exhilarating to connect with audiences.
  • The community aspect of gigs can provide social support for artists, creating bonds through shared experiences with fans and other musicians.

Music History

  • Jazz and blues genres heavily influenced the concept of gigging, with artists often touring and playing in clubs or small venues.
  • The practice of gigging has roots in the 1960s counterculture, where bands would perform widely in emerging music scenes, like The Beatles in Liverpool.
  • Local and regional music festivals often showcase gigging as a way to promote both established and new artists, preserving musical traditions.

Origin of 'gigging'

Main points about word origin

  • Originally, the term 'gig' referred to a performance, derived from the early 20th-century slang used by musicians.
  • The word may have connections to 'gigue', a lively dance from the Baroque era, emphasizing rhythm and energy in music performances.
  • Over time, 'gig' evolved to encompass any kind of employment, particularly short-term jobs in the creative sector.

The term 'gig' originally emerged in the early 20th century, deriving from the jazz and symphonic music scenes. It was initially used to describe a musician's job or performance engagement, particularly in the context of casual or smaller venues, as opposed to larger concerts. Over time, the term gained popularity and became widely synonymous with any musical performance, informal or formal. The word 'gig' itself is believed to have roots in the slang of jazz musicians, where it represented a short-term job or engagement. This shift in connotation reflects the transient nature of many musicians' careers, often moving from one performance to the next. As the music industry evolved, so did the meaning of gigging, extending to various genres and styles, ultimately encompassing the entire live performance culture.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,504, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.