Lately I've been trying to find work. In all of the avenues I have available to me, the work that I am best at and ultimately happiest doing is playing drums live and/or working as a stage-hand for venues. As I have been perusing the internet I keep coming across similar posts and similar ideas that, quite simply, disturb me.
In regards to whether or not someone should be "hired" (get paid) to play drums for a band or just simply join a band for enjoyment (as-if getting paid to drum isn't enjoyable). In the articles I've read there seems to be a clear line distinguishing whether or not you do it for fun for no pay or you play in a band for money that you may not enjoy as much. I understand that if you don't LOVE the music that is being played it can seem more like work. BUT, those of you who are getting paid to play, isn't that the purpose of what you're doing? If not, move over so those of us who love to play and are struggling to eat can get a chance. I can tell you honestly, regardless of the situation, if I'm getting paid or not to play I am treating it like its the best gig in the world.
On top of that the idea of "you get what you pay for," to me, is going out the door. You might be hiring me as a drummer to play for your band but whether you're paying extra for it or not you're also getting an experienced stage-hand with years of experience with sound, lights, cables, stage managing, rigging, crew management, etc. This day in age we, as musicians, have to be flexible and marketable. Regardless of job responsibilities if I'm on a show or a tour where I'm paid to be the drummer, you can bet your sweet bippy that if something needs to be done (running cables, setting up stage, organizing, anything at all) to better the setup or the show..... I'm going to step in and do it. I spent far too much time in bands with certain members who refused to help the group with setup or tear down and ultimately fired said members. There's just no room in this industry for anyone to be lazy or have that kind of attitude/ego.
This was made overly obvious to me when I attended the Rancid show recently. One of the musicians on-stage was working his ass off and still seemed to be loving his life. Justin Bivona played guitar for The Interrupters, played Bass (keys) for The Transplants, then played Keys for Rancid. Guaranteed he's part of that entire family.
This is the attitude I have always approached music and work with. I'm here for the long haul, you may as well put me on the payroll and get more than you bargained for.
