Hi again, Bugsey:

To me, this discussion is not about personalities. It is simply a disucssion of BIAB, and a host of other electronic, computer generated instruments or devices. I did not buy BIAB but I did try it. I thought it was a little quirky, especially when compared with the many types of Arranger Keyboards available. These are basically a keyboard with a computer and tons of instruments available to the user for "arranging" his/her composition and ultimately creating a song.

Many composers use arrangers. The rapid changes in instrument types available for selection now, and their more authentic sound makes these machines a formidable tool to have in one's corner for creating and making music.

The best anology I can give you is that while some of the features available are automatic in nature, the melody, keys and chords must be struck correctly and in sequence for the tune, composition or song to sound authentic. If one is interested in a steep learning curve, new instruments can be created and used by the owner/musician/songwriter or composer. Frank Sinatra did not lead the band, play any or all of the instruments but the band certainly enhanced his vocal.

The same can be said for BIAB or Arrangers. Also, if I remember correctly, new downloadable styles are happening all the time for BIAB and these other devices to make them more attuned to the different genres preferred by the artist, songwriter or composer.

Given a choice, and a budget sufficient to afford a full-blown studio, complete with orchestra and great demo singer(s)... the orchestra or band or trio played by live musicians would be my preferred choice. It becomes a matter of affordability.

I tend to be very prolific and if I sprung for a full-blown professionally done demo at a studio with a reputation for delivering what the major music labels are seeking, I would be broke now. Even then, getting that demo in the right hands is almost as important as having deep pockets and talent.

Never think that although we may disagree, I certainly never intend to portray you as "the bad guy" in this conversation. That's why they make Fords, Chevy's and Toyotas. It's a matter of taste, choice an affordability.

If I were an oddsmaker, I'd wager that few if any of us here will ever make any money in today's music world. The deck is stacked against us and there are too many of us waiting in the wings to be heard or discovered by people in high places.

We are here to exchange ideas and experiences. I've been at this for ten years now, have come close to monetary success as a writer several times but I'll probably never recoup my investment in time and costs. I write because I have no choice. I enjoy it... and I suspect you do to.

May success propel you to the top, my friend.

Regards,

Dave