So (facebook friends), I'm sure you're not really wondering why I decided to bag out people for not coming to my shows. I'm going to detail it all in long-form, anyway. Don't take this as a blanket accusation, just a critical analysis of events with a personal touch, and an open essay on the notion of friendship.
Basically, I've been in bands since 2006, and since then I've been trying to convince the people I know to come and see our gigs, largely to no avail. It's not like I expect miracles, just a little help from my friends. The music may or not be your cup of tea, but does it hurt you that much to come out with me and have a laugh? I'm sure you understand how fickle the Perth music scene, and just original music in general, is. New bands have to rely on a rent-a-crowd to fill out the crowd so that venues will have you back, or other bands/promoters will take notice until you can draw a crowd of randoms. I am frustrated and jilted by slogging in shithouse dives playing to 10 people, none of which have paid to be there. 4 years of it is a little long to make it a sustainable option.
Even the relatively simple task of listening to the songs on myspace, or rating them on Triple J Unearthed is too much for 90% of you. You could even do that without listening. The internet doesn't care if you listen to it or not, just that you clicked (although I would prefer you to listen).
So, we reach the crux of the issue: Why don't my friends care enough to come to my shows?
1.) They aren't my friends and don't like me - I hope this doesn't apply to anyone that I would consider a friend, but please let me know if it's how you feel. If it is anyone with whom I've had a professional relationship then I'm sure it won't be affected.
2.) They are acquaintances and feel uncomfortable rocking up to a random gig - Fair enough, but isn't this what social networking is about? Bring a bunch of your good friends along and have a good time with them and hopefully you enjoy one of the bands.
3.) They like me and don't want to come in case it's bad or they don't like that genre - So what? Should that affect our friendship? I can take constructive criticism, especially in music. I love a good musical debate. I'd actually rather you had something to criticise. You may have noticed I don't take praise too well. Also, I see live music as a separate art to recorded. I love to perform and entertain and make you laugh/cringe. This carries through to all bands I'm in, so even if you don't like the music you'll have a good time.
4.) They're ALL too busy ALL the time - Understandable, especially if you don't really know me. If you do, then consider ways in which I've supported or helped you (this may be very high or very low). Friendship is a 2-way street (this applies to me, too. Feel free to call me out as a hypocrite on this).
5.) You don't want to go because you don't know any of the bands - You're the reason why live original music sucks in Perth. Get out there and diversify and participate in discourse with your friends about bands you've seen.
Thoughts in general? Specific comments for me?
Bring it on!
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