I fear some of you are not taking Gary's post seriously enough. What this means is that at some point, some friend of YOURS is going to be writing a post very similar to Gary's. Of course, Gary's post only has meaning if you care about the welfare of those you leave behind. If that's not the case, then by all means, keep investing your retirement and/or long-term healthcare (and burial) funds in Yamaha's latest 'ponzi' scheme (T1,T2,T3.....).

I have seen way to many instances of musicians (and others, but mainly musicians) living the "eat, drink, and be merry...." lifestyle and leaving someone else to clean up their messes. Their 'messes' are not even always of their own doing and things such as premature failing health (though sometimes brought about by the very lifestyle) and global economic reversals can have a devastating effect one's future (Russ has posted one very poignant example of a very talented friend of his who died recently). In the end, you will be remembered more for your selfishness and irresponsibility than for your musical talent.

I hope everyone goes back and re-reads Gary's original post.

chas