But what do I SAY?

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Someone I know just gave me the email of a friend of his, whom I've never met but who he said would be interested in getting a note from me. This person is single and cute and plays the same kind of music I perform, so I know there are some shared interests here. And he'll be moving to my area, so there's some chance of actually meeting him.

I want very much to send him a message but I don't know what to say. I'm tempted to spend most of it asking about his music, but I'm afraid that might be boring. Then again, it would be equally boring to talk about me. How do I make myself stand out? How do I get across a casual attitude and a hint of interest at the same time?

Brief is usually better for an introduction like that. Also sometimes mentioning the friend that "referred" you helps establish an early bond which can overcome some typical introductory pressures. Possessing a mutual friend gives you an "excuse" to talk to him, which is something a lot of people seem to require. Also you can't go wrong with a certain amount of flattery, discussing the music not only conveys a mutual interest, but also serves to stroke his ego slightly, something most people like.

Ex.

"Hey... (friend's name) said you played (type of music). I love that genre, and am curious to hear some of your music.... (insert some small talk items here, maybe mentioning you live in the area he's moving to and would love to show him around or something).

-Name"

Of course that's in my overly pedantic and formal style.. but hopefully something similar constructed in your own manner of speaking would work well.

Hopefully that is helpful.

I've been in this situation too. And I'm with machinex, I wrote it kind of like that: Just write something short and friendly, not too many details, not too private and pushy, but still something little for him to ask about.

but I'm not sure I would offer to show him around in the first email, it might feel strange for him to reply to that when he doesn't even know you yet. I would maybe just mention somehow that I lived there. I would give him my msn (or something like that) and continue there instead of encouraging him to answer by email.

Thank you all, a little belatedly. I've sent him a short email and we'll see how it goes.

and...as every musician will tell you...always leave 'em wanting more... good luck.