In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I sit down with guitarist, educator, and author Dan Lundholm to unpack two decades of hard-earned wisdom from the world of professional gigging. Dan shares his journey from gigging solo across Europe to touring with Paolo Nutini and Girls Aloud, before carving out a new path as an educator and author of 12 Rules for Band Life. We discuss: How the function band scene has evolved — from amps and chaos to in-ears and agency duplication. Why most great musicians are forged on stage, not in college. How to run your band like a business, prepare for lineup changes, and build a system that lasts. The importance of positioning, turning your act into a show, and making the leap from pubs to theatres. The real secret to getting better: gig more, fail more, and fix it on stage.   Whether you’re a full-time performer, an aspiring function musician, or just fascinated by the realities of working life in music — this one’s packed with insight, humour, and brutally honest advice from someone who’s truly done it all.   Connect with Dan @danlundholm www.spytunes.com 12 Rules for Band Life The Guitar Conspiracy  YouTube     This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco