Although I'm firmly on ASCAP's side in this, I'll agree with Kit that suing Skip's to the tune of $7-10K per song is the Wrong Way To Go. ASCAP should allow them to settle cheap and obtain a license.

In other words, enough of this "making an example" nonsense. Approach the venue, clearly explain the system, focus on why it's worth the expense. Lawsuits should be the last resort.

The club scene is brutal enough without shutting down clubs over a few cover tunes. Yeah, artists should get paid but unless this guy was a gross, repeat offender (like, if booked cover bands every night) I don't see the benefit in losing a venue.

That said, both parties in this story sound like bumbling idiots (the ASCAP investigator was drinking? And he's the one to believe?. And geez dude, just pay the $700 and hire a cover band for a few weekend to make your money back.)

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Scott Andrew and the Walkingbirds
DIY acoustic pop and strange country thing
Hear it: http://www.scottandrew.com/main/music

[This message has been edited by scottandrew (edited 12-08-2003).]