S
stevieb
Just another guy, really.
...a lot of people on this site pigeonhole me as a dumb punk rocker playing nothing but powerchords and fast drums...
Hey, you said it, not us.

(You HAD to know that was coming.)
...a lot of people on this site pigeonhole me as a dumb punk rocker playing nothing but powerchords and fast drums...
Actually, it's an intangible fusion of the two ideals that I would say is impossible to put one's finger on. It's a paradox if there ever was one. If it were true that people only made music for themselves alone, they'd be the only ones to hear it. The very fact that people share their music and thank others for generally positive comments, for me casts considerable doubt on the claim that no one elses view matters. Making music is rarely like wanking, despite the oft made comparison.
But precisely at the same time, the paradox kicks in because when one is making music, it is often for one's own self and therefore the thoughts, desires and tastes of others pale in importance. I'd say at that time, they're not important.
Both elements are true, despite seeming to contradict each other. That's why it's a paradox.
I think those of us that tend to take the "I'm in this for myself" perspective aren't so much saying 'people and their views don't matter' as much as we are saying 'do not attempt to dictate to me the music I will play, how I play it or how you like it or want it'. Besides, each individual listener demands different things and he who tries to please everybody pleases nobody.
Considering the listener is a nebulous, vague concept though. Consider them how ? If you play metal, you'll attract headbangers, unlikely you'll attract soul boys. So who are you considering and what does the consideration consist of ?
that is, indeed, the goal!!! the dream, the wish, the desire. the reason for my breathin!!!I'm living off doing what I love.
...But just last night I picked up a new Thursday gig in Orlando and I can already see the drummer, an old black dude, is one of those guys that's bitter about the music scene.
he was griping and complaining all night long about the club, the owners, the audience not seeing our skillz blah blah blah.
I see it ALL the time. Guys that are bitter and angry about their careers and what has happened to the music biz.
That's stupid ......... if it's not fun what's the point?
well, I'm in the same situation .......... I'm playing that same gig with him. And I don't complain or even care.Perhaps because that's his only (or at least best-paying,) marketable skill, and he's gotta make a living, somehow. But what a sucky position to be in, eh?