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RE: Tips To Starting A Working Band - How To Get Musicians To Work
This article made me think of a personal experience. When I was much younger, and in need of more funds to support my growing family, I joined a gospel quartet group as the bass player. I did not need a lot of rehearsal as I was familiar with most of the music. After the first gig where we took in a few hundred dollars , the band went out for food. I didn't order anything because I did not hve money with me, I was just waiting for the split of the collection. Finally I asked when we would be splitting the offering. I was told that all of the money was used to buy meals and outfits and a new bus they were saving for. This did not sound like what I had in mind. I quit and started a work for pay band with some old friends.
Damn, that would suck. I always paid my bandmates right after the gig.
But this one time I had a drummer sit in who had a drinking problem and I had to babysit him all day to be sure he was sober for the gig.
We made about $400 each that night and I paid everyone right in front of each member but when I got to him and was just about to hand him his money, I pulled back my hand and said, "Wait a minute, I have to charge you for babysitting services."
He looked at me surprised as I tallied up the fees, adding 30% because I charge more to babysit adults. The total came out to his entire $400 cut.
Without missing a beat he said, "You want to buy some boots?", as he took them off his feet and showed them off. They were pretty cool boots and in my size to boot.
"How much?", I asked.
"$200.", he said.
I bought the boots and eventually his pants, belt, shirt, and everything he had on him save his underwear.
He walked out of the club with a case of cold beer a handful of cash and wearing only his underwear. Funny as hell.
I'm happy to say he is clean and sober now for many years and still is rocking the drums.