When most people think about being in a band or group out in L.A. they think of the reward: recognition, respect, partying and special treatment. While that is a part of playing in a band out here, it’s far from the the complete reality. A bit of it is conflict, a portion confusion coupled with frustration and mostly it’s work. All kinds of work; Practice, moving gear around, getting to the whatever venue on time, booking shows, developing a fan base, writing songs, getting along with band mates. The list goes on and on.
And that’s sort of the cold, hard truth to it all. But the public sees is the end result. Which can make playing in a band seem like this pure, fun dream. Which is far from reality. And something I’ve come come to accept in playing out here in L.A. is that nothing is achieved through simplicity. Everything is work whether you want to do it or not. No matter how deep the passion is. There are multiple challenges such as kicking a member that’s not working out of the band. And that’s never a fun conversation. Not to mention the process of finding another player who hopefully does work out.
However, if playing in a band is something you’re deeply passionate about I would say give it a go. But it has to be something you really want to do because you love the music. Not because you want to be rich and famous. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure it’s a nice consequence. Money is great But that’s where it ends. It’s not the reason to pursue your art. Because it’s a huge risk. You risk instability of all sorts: Money, family, friends, health and other odd jobs for survival are all at risk during the rock journey. It’s also extremely challenging to find the right people to play with. People who share the same goals who can check their ego’s at the door. Honestly, it can take years to find the right people. And sometimes exceptions need to be made. If I had my druthers I’d be playing drums in a band that sounded close to Motley Crue or that realm of hard rock. But I found a solid punk player who shares the same goals and is willing to work on finding a nice balanced sound so we both get what we want. At the end of the day that’s more important. And it creates a stronger, more original sound. As opposed to having members in a band that all listen to the same few artists. We have a good working relationship and have started to expand and increase our show density.
And that’s when the rewards start to come in. There’s no feeling like nailing a show that people liked and then they start to follow you. It’s better than almost any feeling. That’s the real reason anyone gives it a shot. It’s for that feeling of collaboration and payoff. Knowing that you’re climbing the mountain, yet not alone. It’s not even about money. In fact you usually lose about 20 bucks for a pay to play show. That’s if all the tickets you sold for the venue show up. But it’s worth it when it all works out. It’s worth it when there’s people at the venue hearing the band for the first time and then becoming fans. Honestly, that’s the main reward. Spreading your music and people enjoying it. And that’s what makes all the work seem not like work at all.
