These tales are ALL TOO common, and if it hasn't happened to you yet ..... don't worry - it WILL.

The best advise I ever got about this business was to "Be flexible". Sounds vague, but it's true. The gear, the playlist, the hours ..... all these things are subject to change at a moment's notice.

Some of my most favorite times are when the unexpected takes over. It's like the defense intercepting a pass and running in for the touchdown. You have to be READY for that possibility all the time.

If you look at averages ...... I'll bet 90% of your jobs (ok, ok GIGs!!!! ) are well within the limits and conditions of your preparation. Maybe even 95%. If you bet the odds ( a WISE move )you should carry the gear needed to accomodate this 90% mark, and always have a built in "backup" or secret weapon at your avail.( more gear in the car, CD backups of tunes etc...)

This year, I only remember two times that I regretted not having both speakers at a party, and in retrospect ....... I'm glad I didn't carry them in because the only time they wanted "more" was in the last 20 minutes of the party anyway.
It helps to know your crowd and know the room before you set up, but if a surprise arises ...... go with it as best you can. Give it your best shot and maybe it will turn into other opportunites for you.

I rate parties as a success or failure based on the number of business cards I hand out .... NOT the money or the laffs!

It's not much different than any other performance career ..... you are only as good as your LAST perfromance. So make each one really count !