Thoughts.....

A while back, my nephew TERRY LODA posted a rant as a blog about the rules that bands/musicians should follow when playing a club/bar and/or dealing with promoters. This rant turned blog, has made it literally around the world and back. There have even been several establishments which have gone as far as to post it as "House Rules" for the performers that play there. This was written because he finally tired of dealing with, for lack of a better term, "Divas."

Which brings me to my point; why do some musicians/bands/artist feel that they are so much more successful than they actually are?

Is it age? Youth and inexperience? Is it large egos that are fed by "adoring fans," friends and family? Why is it that so many good entertainers fall into this trap? I ask these questions because I've seen this happen to many different artists. These issues transcend all musical genres, sexes, and styles.

Let's take my radio program for example. ROCK ON RADIO was started because I am a musician. Over my thirty five years of involvement in numerous musical communities; I've met many quality musicians and people. I remember the thrill when I was fifteen years old when I heard my band's music on a local FM radio station. I'll never forget the night; I was walking past a booth at a church carnival and heard the song coming out of a transistor radio. The premise behind ROCK ON RADIO was to try and give other bands/artists the same "thrill" that I had on that very evening.

So why is it, that so many musicians who in the grand scheme of things haven't accomplished anything just yet, feel like they have? Oh, they may have a CD, and some moderate airplay, or maybe some great contacts; but until they've actually been signed to a major label, or are touring as either a supporting act, or a headliner...are still just "local musicians."

Now I know that this seems harsh, but I'm just trying to put some things into perspective. I realize that in the entertainment industry, EGO so often is the number one problem; so a dose of reality never hurts anybody!

So listen up people, try and remember the days when you first started, first gigged, the failed projects, and everything that made you and/or your band who/what you are today. Take a look back and realize that without those yesterdays; you wouldn't be what you've become today. So, when someone offers to help your career, appreciate them. When they offer to assist you, take your time to thank them not advantage of them. Always remember where you came from, because you'll never get to where you want to be without the help from others along the path to success. Above all, remember that you're only as good as your last gig, and how people perceive you both on and off stage.

Tonight on ROCK ON RADIO; due to a last minute cancellation, my new guest is singer/songwriter MICHAEL DANTE SUMMONTE from Long Branch NJ. This young, talented guitarist has a bright future ahead of him!

Turn On...Tune in...and ROCK ON!