From the moment I wrote down my first song, the unspoken "deal" I made with myself that is absolutely non-negotiable, is that I be true to who I am as an artist and say what I gotta say because if I don't - the entire thing is pointless. Songs are my therapy sessions and if I become artificially smiley, overly chatty or god forbid schmoozy - that is when I will have shit upon my art. I like my art, it works for me and allows me to put my mouth on....
There was someone on a social network recently who puts together fairly high profile charity events - this person asked this question:
"What do I need to do differently to get y'all to come to these shows, buy these pre-sale tix, etc?" Good question! For whatever reason, I didn't have the option to comment, but if I did, this is what I would have said:
1. Don't get shitty bands/shitty solo acts to play.
2. If your standards are only to get folks that "look" the part - maybe make sure Seattle has heard of these peeps - or offer some kind of preview content (video, etc.).
3. Don't create and live in a weird bubble - if you expect the community to believe in what you're doing which will eventually lead to the community trusting your judgment - include the community. People have way fucking better things to do than go to a shitty show that is made up of "them" and "us" - time is the only valuable asset any of us have - maybe you should ask yourself what would make YOU take the time to go?
4. Nothing will ever change, be made better - or even more tolerable until people can be included and contribute their part in whatever the common goal may be and BELIEVE in it, as well as be appreciated.
This blog entry was a total tangent, but whatever - I might be naive for believing this, but I believe people can do amazing things when they don't have the limitations of assholism or status-itis. I believe there is something to be said for following your gut, being loyal, accomplishing based on merit and of course - laughing a whole fucking lot.
Peace out...
