Musician Forum - Band Discussion Board - BandMix

I usually don't play requests unless I know the tune AND like it. I politely ask the requester if they ever heard of musical reciprocity. If the artist requested is still alive I tell the requester that I'll only play a song by that artist if they play one of my songs and leave it at that...

fisherman bob wrote:I usually don't play requests unless I know the tune AND like it. I politely ask the requester if they ever heard of musical reciprocity. If the artist requested is still alive I tell the requester that I'll only play a song by that artist if they play one of my songs and leave it at that...

That's what I'm talking about!

GO BOB!!!

I like that Bob. Coming from you I know you mean it just the way you say it as well. Being an amateur guitarist and all, the though of someone wanting me to play someone else music is scary. One of these days I hope someone request you to play one of my songs. LOL

I see the opposite Bob- we are paid to sell beer, ultimately we work for the patrons, so if they want me to play a song that reminds them of good times..

like billy joel said in piano man- "play me a melody, I'm not really sure how it goes, but it's sad and it's sweet, and I knew it complete, when I wore a younger man's clothes"...

It's another day in paradise too

Amen Kramer !!!!

Kramerguy wrote:I see the opposite Bob- we are paid to sell beer, ultimately we work for the patrons, so if they want me to play a song that reminds them of good times..

like billy joel said in piano man- "play me a melody, I'm not really sure how it goes, but it's sad and it's sweet, and I knew it complete, when I wore a younger man's clothes"...

It's another day in paradise too

When we play the bar usually does really well. I've noticed over the years our music makes people drink more. Not sure if that's a good thing or not...as long as the band members don't get drunk. That's all I really care about..oh yeah and getting repeat gigs.

Depending upon the venue. If our crowd started drinking beer I'd ether have to join em, or just run! LOL

If you started playing Billy Joel, I'd leave and never come back.

Have some dignity!

Nothin worse than a band playing a request they don't know how to play. Seems like that would drive people to drink.

Play what YOU love.

And play it with PASSION.

After all - you took the time to learn the instrument, practice it, hone your craft, put a band together, rehearse, buy gear and learn songs... You should be playing what YOU want to play.

And if you do it with passion and energy and real enthusiasm, and if you play the song well and make it sound polished, people will enjoy it.