I don't often get on here to blog and discuss the bad, mainly the good. In truth, I (like a lot of my peers) keep quiet about what we do. Why? Simple answer: job security. I thought about flipping the script today. A post from an artist I work with got me thinking about it. “Why do I remain silent while these artists can post, sometimes recklessly, about their 'careers' and the 'musical landscaping of touring, recording'?" I ask myself that a lot. While I am blessed to work with many incredible and considerate artists who get that asking to be a part of their dream means time away from yours, your home and sometimes your goals. I am not trying to say “poor pitiful me” but some times, you get paired with an artist that only considers themselves time and time again. Why do I stay? To pay my bills and support my family. When the artist takes a break from full band things, you pivot. You have to. I get it. I am out there and I live it. The landscape and culture has changed considerably. People aren't coming out to shows like they used to. Times are hard.
So when and artist posts things like “stepping away from the full band hustle”, it doesn't go unnoticed. If times are hard for concert goers, then they are hard for the hired guns who beg to be on your sessions or write songs with you, the artist. We are looking to find means to support our way of life and stay home with the ones that we love too. I guess the point of this rant blog is that maybe artist should remember the pressure you feel to provide for their band should remember their band is sacrificing a lot if not more to play your songs and promote your band.
I am here to do the best job I can to support you. I pride myself on being reliable, great at what I do and all I ask is you don't forget we count you but you count on us too. Don't take the ones that help make things happen for granted. IF you can find another player to do it, then by all means go get them.
Be kind, don't be an asshole. This digital thing may not be tangible but it definitely has invisible weight. Our livelihood hinges on you seeing value in us and the full band hustle.
Signed,
a pissed professional musician