Howdy all. I’m busy trying to book a tour across the country for the middle of January 2008 on my way to and from NAMM. I haven’t really played too many out of town gigs in the past year and just, wow, things have changed. It seems the Green Giant has taken its toll on my favorite type of haunts, the mom and pop coffee house.

 

But Starbucks isn’t the only thing to blame. I’ve talked to a few of the owners of now defunct establishments. Many mentioned performance rights organizations like ASCAP breathing down their necks and imposing unrealistic fees for having live music in their shops. They soon closed after losing live music. Lots of coffee shops have remained open, but stopped having live music to avoid the fees. The only ones benefiting it seems are the performance rights organizations and the big time artists on their rosters…but enough of that before I start sounding too negative. J

 

Of course live music is going to survive, but the situation is pretty damaging to many musicians. It makes it pretty trying for someone like me to make it across the country. But heck, things change as they must and should. In order to keep playing live, Indies have to be opportunistic and not over-specialized. I am definitely an Indie. I’m not big into playing bars, but I’ll play anywhere else- listening rooms, art galleries, house concerts, churches, ice cream parlors, wherever. I just want a place to play every night I’m away from home.

 

I’ve got a few dates in California already, but I still have to fill up my time for the trip there and back. If anyone can hip me to cool places to play in Alabama, Mississippi, Loiusiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, please shot me an email. I’m also very cool with sharing a show or house concert. Like I said, I just want to play my music for folks. For your help, I will definitely return the favor.

 

Hope to see some of you out on the road. In the meantime, consider visiting your local mom and pop coffee shop, buying a big cup of joe, and asking when’s the next time they’ll have some live music. Take care.