The phrase "played a gig" refers to the act of performing in front of an audience, typically as a musician. However, there are several synonyms that can be used to express the same concept with different nuances. For example, "performed a show" emphasizes the entertainment aspect of the performance, while "rocked a concert" implies a high-energy, exciting performance. "Gave a recital" connotes a more formal and structured performance, often in a classical music context. Other options include "played a set," "took the stage," or "had a performance." Ultimately, the choice of synonym may depend on the genre of music, the setting of the performance, and the specific tone or mood desired.