Fletcher wrote on Thu, 06 January 2011 06:29 |
Jim Williams wrote on Wed, 05 January 2011 11:34 | It is typically a 2 year program, either you graduate to something better or you drop out. There are no long term employment opportunities in that field. Those currently employed will find that out as those before them have.
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I also wonder if Frank Zappa could get signed today. For that matter, I wonder if The Rolling Stones could get signed today... though I'm sure there is another "Right Said Fred" around the corner much like Lady Gaga is the new Madonna... its a weird world - I'm just glad I have friends who turn me onto stuff like Dark Buster and Swamp Cabbage.
Peace.
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Imagine a young 20 year old Robert Zimmerman being interviewed by today's A+R person:
Well, Mr. Zimmerman, we find you have a good talent for writing songs. However, you have an appearance and demeanor that we are not looking for right now. We are prepared to offer you a starting staff job as a song writer, under some conditions.
First, you need to drop those funny lyrics and write love songs. You also need to shorten up those songs, about 2:30 is our target. No more long tales that bore the listener.
Now, can you work with us, Mr. Zimmerman?
Recently, oldtimer Brit-rocker Dave Mason did a show here in San Diego. Famous for many Brit rock outfits, he's probably best known for writing "Feeling Alright" for Traffic, stints with Fleetwood Mac and playing acoustic guitar on Hendrix's version of "All Along the Watchtower". It was easy for old Dave, he lives up the coast in Santa Barbara. He did an interview in the local UT. It was very enlightening.
Dave offered some insights into the "record biz". First, he said he's given up on the "industry". He no longer plays in the record biz. He does not intend to release any new material, ever. He said he didn't leave the record biz, the record biz left him.
Still, he has his studio and records constantly. Dave says he still gets together and records with friends for FUN only. He said he only does it for himself, not the fans or public. The tracks are to never be released except to those close friends and the participants. It is on it's own enough for Dave, but not enough for the rest of us.
For Dave Mason, recorded music as art is now a private family affair. I personally understand Dave completely. There is a freedom that comes from unshackling the chains we attach around ourselves. Dave is now a free man, free to pursue his dreams and loves, unhindered from outside forces and influences.
As such, the man is at peace with himself. I can only hope to be able to hear his unencumbered work some day.