The word "setlist" is spelled S-E-T-L-I-S-T. It is a noun that refers to a list of songs that a band or musician plans to play during a concert or gig. In phonetic transcription, "setlist" is pronounced /ˈsɛtlɪst/. The stress is on the first syllable, and the "e" is pronounced like "eh." The "t" and "l" are pronounced separately, with a consonant sound in between. The "i" is pronounced like "ih," and the final "st" is pronounced like "ist."
A setlist is a term mainly used in the context of music performances, particularly concerts or gigs. It refers to a predetermined, structured selection of songs or pieces of music that an artist, band, or musical group plans to perform during their live performance. The setlist is often carefully created, typically with a specific order of songs, in order to create a desired flow and experience for the audience.
A setlist serves as a blueprint for the performance, providing a reference for both the musicians and the technical crew, such as sound engineers and lighting operators, to ensure a well-coordinated and polished show. It outlines the sequence of songs, including any breaks or encores, and may also include additional performance cues, such as special effects or stage movements.
Setlists can be different for each performance, varying according to the artist's discretion, the venue, the desired atmosphere, or the intended audience. They can be created by the artist themselves or developed collaboratively with the band members or musical director. In some cases, setlists may also be partially improvised, allowing the artist to gauge the mood of the crowd and adapt the performance accordingly.
For both fans and artists, setlists hold significance as they showcase the artist's repertoire, allowing fans to anticipate their favorite songs, and providing the artists with an opportunity to emotionally connect with their audience through their musical selections.
The word "setlist" is a compound word that combines "set" and "list". The etymology of the word can be understood by examining the origin of each component:
1. "Set": This word comes from the Old English word "settan", meaning "to put in a fixed or definite place". The word "set" has been used in various contexts to refer to a collection or grouping of things arranged in a specific order. In the context of music, a "set" typically refers to a collection of songs performed by a musician or band during a single performance.
2. "List": This word has its roots in the Old English word "liste", meaning "to desire or please". Over time, it evolved to refer to a series or enumeration of items arranged in a specified order. In the context of music, a "list" denotes a compilation of songs or musical pieces arranged in a particular sequence.