Creative Considerations for On-Screen Visuals in Popular Electronic Music Performances

Electronic music is at the forefront of contemporary recording practice and DAW-based productions dominate the current popular song charts. However, carefully layered studio productions can be difficult to perform live, due to the fact that they cannot be reproduced live in the same way as they were created. On-screen visuals can add an element of “liveness” to the performance and bridge the gap between what is seen and heard. Through practice-led-research and case studies, approaches to creating successful live visuals are discussed. This is backed by existing research in branding theory, musicology and audiovisual perception. Visuals can be based on filmed footage or graphics. They can be prepared, or created on the fly. In all cases, it is important to create a synergy between what is seen and heard; by amplifying on-stage and audience parameters, by creating abstract visual representations of the music, by creating a narrative context, or by using visuals as a branding tool. Musicians can employ VJs or use a DIY approach. The challenges lie e.g. in creating visuals that match the music and in ensuring that the visual equipment functions properly