We're in one of the few professions where, in many cases, it's OK to drink while working.

I did it for over 30 years...six nights a week...at least one old fashion glass with more than an ounce of straight brandy each hour.

I found out that I couldn't do at 45 what I did at 25. The hardest part of quitting was realizing I wasn't nearly as good as I thought I was at 1:00 A.M.

What do you think about drinking while on the job...OK or not?

Russ

One of the rules I always have followed is to not drink when I'm working. I will have a glass of champagne on New Year's Eve and that's about it. It's hard enough to do what we do sober!
DonM

Drinking Liquor is a NO NO on stage....
Not only will it impair your playing/singing....
you could also end up in Jail on the way home driving late at night!!
Years ago Pot & Drinking was the trend, but today is another it's world out there.....I vote NO.

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www.donnypesce.com

Absolutely NOT!!

Not worth it... risk/reward is as bad as it gets!

Russ,
C'mon - be serious about this profession. Drinking at work is dangerous. just because we work in places that serve booze is no reason to think of it as a "gimmie". Drinking is one of the biggest gripes I have about this business. I realize that people need ways to let off steam, but really now .... What other jobs is it "OK" to drink at work? No way. No How. No time.

Wow good question.. I guess it depends on the environment, and type of gig.... I remember years back when I played guitar and was lead singer for an alternative band. What a great few years that was. We had regular sets at the local bars, and I knew the owners.. We not only got money in the pocket, but the band always got drinks on the house. Sometimes I think we played better when we were drinking Of course every so often our other guitar player would have too much and his solos would last 10 minutes.. I would have to toss a pick at him to get him to end it There were those gigs that were not of the bar environment and to drink was not acceptable.

Squeak

"I only drink when I'm by myself or with somebody." Foster Brooks. In reality, Brooks did not drink at all, but he played a great role. As for drinking on the job--never!

Gary

Our band drinks beer during the breaks, but never on stage. I personally only drink after and during the 3rd set.

I normally do not drink when I gig, and recognize that it's not good for my voice, but do not see this habit as a "religion". In places where I gig regularly, towards the end of the function, I do not forbid me a drink or two, having always on my mind that I'll have to drive home afterwards.

-- José.