This is Why Your Band Sucks III

Here is round three:
A monthly column of advice and things I witness over and over again from bands being naïve and just plain stupid. You can read the first 2 columns here and here

…Because you spent the last year working on a full length that you are no where near finishing.

This seems to be the one thing every friend's band deals with. The never ending recording and group mixing sessions. I know you want to put out the best possible set of songs and recordings, but there is a very very small chance a label will pick your album up and sign you right away. Especially if you aren't touring or playing shows during the time you are recording. I think recording is an excuse for bands to take a break from playing shows. I know your favorite band Radiohead takes half the year off from touring to record a new album, but you aren't Radiohead. YOU STILL NEED TO PLAY SHOWS!

…Because you pay money to play a show

The biggest scams out there are those shows where you have to buy tickets to sell to your friends. I cringe when I see all the high school bands outside the Congress Theater trying to scalp their remaining tickets to Mexican families walking by. "Do you like live local music?" Save your money!

…Because your guarantee exceeds the amount of money you can actually make a venue

I have heard horror stories of blog buzz bands tricking talent buyers into thinking they are hot Brooklyn shit because of their 9.0 on Pitchfork, but they were on their first tour ever! Making the venue well under their 2,000 guarantee. As long as you can make sure the venue guarantees gas money you should be okay with the extra money you make.

…Because your merchandise is sold for a ridiculous price.

$20 for a Hanes t-shirt. REALLY?! CDs for $15?! Who are you? Radiohead?!?!?!

…Because you think your band is special or different from the rest

You are not special. I am not special. We will never will be. Be modest and respectful. We play music because we love to or because this is all we know. There is no need to be a pompous asshole. I hope these columns actually helps someone out. It really hurts to see some bands get their dreams crushed, because of how oblivious they are.