Robben Ford Discussion

[frank0936]

Here's a suggestion for a new discussion. How about all you that make your living playing music helping those of us who just wish we were? I'm talking about the ones that can honestly put "musician" in the occupation space on your tax form, and not "convenience store clerk"! Give us some tips on how to earn a living playing music.

I'll throw out the first one-spend your hard-earned bucks at venues that feature live music(that doesn't mean karaoke either). If clubs see a profit from live music, they'll keep hiring us! Let's hear some more.
Frank

[bkrueger]

I figured this one would get a lot of response. What's with the echo?

I never tried to make it my livelyhood, but have some cover club playing experience in a city not known for it's great live music scene. (Robben was last here 8 years ago ) Here's some club guidelines for non-star-power players:

Upbeat, danceable. More than 2 slow numbers a set and drink sales slow down. Romantics beats Pink Floyd.

Look like you enjoy it- play the crowd as well as your axe. Nobody likes a frump, and tempermental performers come off really stupid on stage.

Your equipment is much more important to you than to them- don't agonize over your live rig, if you're just OK with it, they'll love it. And bring a spare everything.

Singer trumps guitar player, unless you're Robben, and have both bases covered. Know how to lay back and make the singer sound great.

That should get something started.
_________________
almost 50 and working on my chops- again

[frank0936]

Thanks for the great start! I think maybe the holiday just slowed things down. When everyone gets back it will probably pick up.

It sounds like I'm in a similar place as you. I, too, am closing in on fifty, play in an area not known for it's great live music scene, and play in band that does a lot of covers as well as original stuff.

Thanks again for the response and the tips.
Frank