Hi Danny

I was considering whether to reply to this thread or not because I do something different and may be opening a huge can of worms.

While I would never dream of playing at a club or restaurant for free I do play at a farmers market on a Saturday morning for which I do not get paid BUT I see it more as “busking”. People give me tips, take my cards and buy my CDs. I have had two corporate gigs from those markets. Those guys Schnapps and Louise on the Jelly last night got to know my music through this market (they are personal friends but didn’t know I played).

I feel I am gaining big time by consistently playing there. They would not have a musician there if they had to pay one. The way I look at it is that I am quite lucky because all the other vendors have to pay for their stands while I just pitch and play for a couple of hours then go home. I sometimes practice the set I am going to do on the Jelly that night. I am not obliged to play every Saturday (not being paid) which leaves to free to go and do my sailing when there are regattas.

To me it is a bit like playing on the Jelly. I do it because it is good for me and I ENJOY IT. If I get tips then that is great but I am not expecting it and won’t give up if the tips don’t flow.

So for me it is a win, I DO HOPE I am not damaging live music for other musicians by doing so.

Btw, the worst is when you are expected to play for free AND bring 10 friends with you. I went to an open mike the other night and the girl said she would love to invite me to the songwriters evening if I could bring 10 friends!!!!

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