Live Music Is Not Dead

Around the pubs and clubs in the UK there are still many performers playing for only a few pounds to demanding audiencess who at the same time request Chuck Berry and the Arctic Monkeys. Keeping all these disparate individuals in the audiences happy is never easy, but not impossible either. With wonderful stage craft and clever of tunes at a specific Venue, a wonderful performer might make everybody happy.

The organization of these performers is extraordinary. They must find like minded artists that are committed. Then they must find somewhere to practice. This is not simple as most can’t do this at home. If you are fortunate to have a house big enough, it’s un like ly you might get round the neighbours, as it’s so loud! It can’t be turned down as everything must be as loud as the drums. A performer often hires a room to practice, at amazing fee to themselves.

A band must furthermore spend literally thousands on equipment. PA, lighting, guitars, drums etc.

The next hurdle is transport. For some reason most drummers can’t drive! Cars are again and again inadequate as you would need a fleet of about 5 for your gig, truly expensive on the fuel, and impractical. Most bands have to hire or buy a van, again at exceptional fee to themselves.

When they have finally rehearsed all there material over weeks or months, they’re ready to play live. It is an rousing day, one of wonder, excitement and slight fear. You turn up to the Venue to find one man and his dog. And that man is very drunk, wants to be your manager, and giving you all the worth of his ‘wisdom’ in the music game! The landlord is additionally drunk, and you can’t work out if he likes you or not.

You get poorly paid, if you get paid at all, and return home often out of pocket.

Still the real rock heroes come back for more. They find the best Clubs, obtain a reputation, and performance at some amazing places. Sure they still have bad gigs, but the wonderful ones make up for it. They make it look so easy, but it isn’t. One such performer may be seen at http://www.thehalfmonty.tk

The Half Monty have had there share of ups and downs. They have been ripped of at shows, played in the most dodgy Venues, and heckled to death. But they are still here, bigger and better than ever having learnt from their early days.

So remember, when you see a Local/Regional performer advertised at a pub or venue, go see them and support them. It isn’t easy for the lads and lasses. Perhaps buy them a beer following the performance if you really enjoyed it. , for these are the true heroes of rock.