Bob:

I hear what you're saying but sometimes the way it is, IS what it is. I've read where some bar owners aren't even going to have live music anymore because they don't want to pay fees to ASCAP and BMI, etc for the cover songs performed by bands in their venues.

You are correct that if I'm successful at creating a buzz (no pun) for my music, I'll be in demand and venue owners who want me to play would have to pay me to play. But they would be willing to do that because they know they will make a profit from my appearance. It's just a business decision really (not saying you don't already know that).

But the reality for us unknowns is that the venue owners want to know that we can bring in a crowd that will spend money there. Some will take a chance on someone who is talented but that's the exception IMO, not the rule. I've seen some bands that were pure crap IMO, who could easily pack a 100 seat venue. And I've seen very talented bands with 10 people in the audience.

I can be the best dang entertainer in the world but if I can't bring people in to see me, I won't be getting any paid gigs. That's why I have to do a few freebies, open mics, generate mailing lists and circulate flyers in order to hope I can get enough people out to see me. Once I develop a following, I have to keep it interesting for them so they don't get tired of following me.

In the meantime, I've got to work my day job so I can afford to pursue my passion and still support my responsibilities to my family and such.

But I'm sure you know all this. I'm just not sure what you think we can do to change it. If you have ideas, I'm all ears.

BTW, I look forward to meeting you too.

Buzz

Van Borden
a.k.a. Buzz Grudge