Recording or performing...?

Posted by: captain Russ

Recording or performing...? - 11/10/14 10:46 AM

For the first time in my life, I'm considering cutting back. Now, I do one national session a week. It goes from 2:00 PM Sunday to 8:00 PM Monday, with only bathroom breaks. Then, I go back to Lexington for a 9:30 PM job, try to recover on Wednesday, play 4 more jobs and run my production company.

The production company that does the national stuff wants me to commit to two productions a week. While income would be over $5,000.00, I'd be stupid to try to keep a regular playing schedule. The restaurant work only pays $150.00 per night, but last night I got a job for $175,000.00 from a new client who visited the restaurant and will be likely to be good for at least $100,000.00 annually for the near future. My contact with an automobile manufacturer located near Lexington has resulted in average annual business in the $250,000.00 range for over 20 years. Seems like prospective clients are more impressed by live performance than by recorded samples.

Last time I went to a town 50 miles away, no one in Lexington (club owners, bookers, mainly) remembered me in six months.

The studio business, working as a director/production specialist (that means you play ALL parts)is pretty fragile. Producers have been fired for saying the wrong thing to a client or just not getting along with someone from the agency.

While I'm not an entertainer, I enjoy the people who come to visit me, and have used my venues as a place to locate new business, entertain clients, etc.

Considering some medical issues, I cannot do two sessions and play regularly. This is on top of my 4 trips overseas.

I guess this is a GREAT problem to have. Too much work, especially at 70 years old, is not a bad thing, IF you're up to doing it.

What do you think?


Russ
Posted by: DonM

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/10/14 11:19 AM

I'm certain you don't need the money. Slow down a little and enjoy life.
Posted by: Fran Carango

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/10/14 11:43 AM

Russ, I agree with Don..

Do what you really want to do, don't let money dictate your life...I am sure you already know that is not what makes a person happy...

Enjoy family, friends, and doing for others..and most important, let family enjoy you..

If taking on a second recording job makes you happy, and doesn't hurt anyone you care for....then do it....but if playing out makes you the happiest...then do it..

If folding tent, and just enjoy everyday events (believe me, there are many)....just do it..

I never did anything , just for the money....and I know I am the most satisfied person I know smile
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/10/14 04:03 PM

Russ, the guys above nailed it. Today, I turned down a job, one that would have paid very well for the two hours they wanted, and I went fishing with some guys I went to high school with. We went out on a charter boat, caught our limits of striped bass, drank a couple beers, ate Hoagies, talked about the old days, and had a wonderful day on the water. Sure, I still work hard nearly every day, but there will come a time when that is no longer physically possible. When that day comes, I'll walk away and say to myself "this was one Hell of a ride, cowboy." Then, with any kind of luck, I'll take my children and grandson sailing, or maybe teach my grandson how to fly-fish in some nearby farm pond. I want him to enjoy that same ride that I have enjoyed for the past 74 years.

Good luck,

Gary cool
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 08:04 AM

Just got back from the last session in Louisville...a national pizza chain...annual report. Session started Monday at 4:00 PM and ended at about 7:00 PM last night, in just enough time to get back to Lexington for a 4 hour dinner gig.

I'm "up" from the experience, but, man, what a nerve wracking sequence of events.

10 hours into the process, with the debut scheduled at 9:00 AM today in New York, the entire concept changed, leaving 9 hours to complete 15 minutes of exact audio (directly to motion on the screen). Talk about a way to end up a basket case.

I'm happy with the result and pay. I'm worn out. I have another, starting on Sunday.

Because of that, I had to turn down a tribute to Herb Ellis, a long-time hero. No money (very little), but very important to me.

Guess I need to figure out what I want to do when I grow up.

My philosophy has always been, "never turn down a job".

That's getting harder every year.

I am always afraid that my shoulder or left hand will give out before I'm done.

Russ
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 08:12 AM

Originally Posted By: captain Russ


My philosophy has always been, "never turn down a job".

That's getting harder every year.

Russ


Russ, there will come a time when you will look in the mirror and there will be an old codger looking back at you. With luck, that old codger will say to you "Russ, it's time to smell the roses. There's another, beautiful world out there waiting for you to explore - now is the time."

I was just like you up until two years ago. I never turned down a job, never thought there was a job that I couldn't do, no matter how long it took or how difficult. The day I raised the sails on that boat and pointed the bow south for the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas is when that mentality ended for me. Now, I'm a bit crippled up, bad back, and shot to Hell lungs, but if I can still climb aboard that old tub, I'll be sailin the high seas again next fall. Smell those roses, Russ - before you no longer can smell them.

Good luck,

Gary cool
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 08:44 AM

I know you folks are right, but there's a lot of satisfaction in competing on an international basis with the best in the business. It's a real compliment to be chosen to do these things over others in the industry with national reputations and portfolios. The satisfaction level is as high as the frustration.

This is playing with the "big boys", and in the heat of the moment, there's nothing more exciting.

Plus, the income, which is ridiculous, allows me to do a lot of good for those who need it. For instance, my check for the session ended last night will pay for a new $ 6,000.00
curtain for the drama club at a school I support. The current curtain was installed in 1955. Next week's session will buy 8 new wireless mics, receivers and installation. This is at a school for disadvantaged and those little guys need all the love they can get.

I guess right now, my "sailboat" is that school and those kids.

I just need an attitude adjustment, I guess.

Man, I'd love to live where I could have a boat.


Russ
_____________________________________

More damn toys than ANY reasonable person should have.
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 08:49 AM

Anytime you in the neighborhood, Russ, and if the weather is relatively cooperative, you're more than welcome to climb aboard and explore the Chesapeake's upper reaches.



Gary cool
Posted by: cgiles

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 09:49 AM

Originally Posted By: captain Russ
I just need an attitude adjustment, I guess.



No you don't. Your attitude is just fine. I just wish more people had the same 'attitude'. Russ, for some people, giving back, not taking, IS the reward. Keep on doing what you're doing, brother. If you DO kick off, at least you'll be remembered (in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King) as "someone that tried to help somebody".

chas

BTW, don't sell the guitar collection, sell the GUN collection; and for Pete's sake, go down and re-register as a Democrat......kidding, kidding smile.
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 11:26 AM

Actually, Chas, I sold 100 pieces of the collection and donated
the proceeds a year or so ago. Those funds went to New Orleans.

BAD NEWS! the number is back up to over 200 remaining pieces.

I am thinking of getting a broker to sell many, if not all of the guns. The proceeds would fund badly needed renovation of a shelter here.

And, Chas, I voted for Obama, and, today, I would again.
He may have shown some inexperience and slipped up a time of two, but I think he's a good man, good husband, great father and really has the country's best interest at heart.


Russ
Posted by: DonM

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 05:37 PM

The question is Which Country?
Posted by: cgiles

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/12/14 07:32 PM

Originally Posted By: DonM
The question is Which Country?


Uh, the one that elected him......twice. You know, the one ABOVE the Mason/Dixon line.

chas
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:14 AM

Now boys...(thought I should rethink that one) LOL)!



Russ (closet liberal) Lay
Posted by: cgiles

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 08:33 AM

Sorry Russ, it's just that I get SO sick and tired of the constant Obama bashing. Here's another great example of Southern solutions. Gosh, how far we've come.

http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/10/forme...-its-just-math/

chas
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 09:43 AM

Chas I was making a "funny". This stuff is pretty scary, though!


Be well. Don is one of the brightest dudes here and likes a little good natured excitement every once in a while.

I really wish we could all visit in person.

R.
Posted by: DonM

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 10:14 AM

Chas, if you are suggesting their is racial bias in me, you are dead wrong. You immediately rush to put everything on that level.
I am for secure borders, balanced budget, belief in and adherence to our constitution, and many other items which this president has blatantly ignored. Obama has used more "executive orders" than all other presidents in history combined. His buddy Harry Reid has several hundred bills stalled on his desk because they do not suit THEIR agenda.
I am for Ben Carson. He is way more black than Obama will ever be.
Wait to see how the people vote next time. The recent elections are the tip of the iceberg.
Oh, and be assured that big O will give millions of illegal immigrants immediate citizenship. Could it be there is a reason for creating all those grateful voters? You can believe that is the plan!
I'm done with this subject. This is an arranger keyboard forum and not the place for this discussion. I apologize to the OP but I am passionate and angry over the whole situation.
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 10:40 AM

I'm the one who is at fault here. I intentionally responded to a comment about politics in a totally joking way.

Two of my friends here, who would be crazy about each other in person had their "hot buttons hit".

The "good news":both responses reflect a proper level of concern and an articulated opinion; both of which I understand.

This one's on me completely.

Sorry to both Don and Chas.


Russ





Posted by: cgiles

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 11:28 AM

For once Donny is right....this does belong in The Bar, or even better, nowhere at all.

Originally Posted By: DonM
Chas, if you are suggesting their is racial bias in me, you are dead wrong.


Then you are indeed a unique individual. I wish I could say that.

Originally Posted By: DonM
You immediately rush to put everything on that level.


Not true. Frankly I don't care if it's racial or political; as a 10 yr. veteran who loves his country, I respect the office of the president AND as a proud Black man I view this president as a symbol of the long hard struggle from the 'back of the bus' to the front of Air Force One.

Regarding your 'talking points' above, I've heard it all before (we only get right wing radio down here in beautiful Georgia), in fact, I hear it every single day. It's taught in kindergarten. Not sure where you got your facts but, as an example:
Originally Posted By: DonM
Obama has used more "executive orders" than all other presidents in history combined.


The REAL facts:

Obama --------193 executive orders
George Bush - 291
FDR --------- 3522

For the complete list, http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/data/orders.php

So maybe before you get TOO passionate and TOO angry at the 'Kenyan', I would caution you about using Fox News as a sole source for your 'facts'. Oh, and as for Ben Carson, you are more than welcome to him. It's like trotting out the only slave that fought on the side of the South. Of course, if he ever did win anything, I can guarantee you he would suffer the same fate as all the rest of his predecessors who suddenly became 'too powerful'. Trust me Don, we still have a long way to go in this country. All the ugliness of the past is still just a micron beneath the surface, and all it takes is the tiniest of scratches to bring it to the surface.

As far as getting together with you and Russ, I'd love to, but let's make it in NYC. I've met Russ and we've also communicated a lot via phone and email. He really is a first class individual who is willing to speak up for the underdog, help the needy, put his money where his mouth is, and if it costs him a few friends along the way, so be it. The fact that he also happens to be a very talented musician is merely a bonus.

Soooooo...let's put this thing to bed and get back to making 'sweet, soul music'.

chas
Posted by: tony mads usa

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 01:01 PM

Don, you apologized to the OP, who was Russ, who apologized for perhaps getting the subject off track ...

So, back to our regular programming ...

Russ ...don't think about other people's opinions ... do what [b]your[/b] gut tells you to do ... just be happy with it ... no matter how long we are in this world it probably isn't long enough, but we will only find out if there is something better on "the other side" when we get there ... so enjoy "this side" as much as you can ...
Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 02:07 PM

Tony, I think the reality that I can't do everything I want to is what's really bothering me.

I'm still working about 100 hours a week and want to do more. Teaching, writing, film making, package design, assorted graphics, performing, recording...I love it all equally. I like to write copy, for instance, as much as I like to play guitar.

Today, I'm on deadline for a brochure for an Australian manufacturer which will be critical in securing a 14 million dollar order from COSCO. I LIKE the pressure, but, for the first time in my life, I'M TIRED.

Love the motorcycles, but a bad knee that recently started acting up may end that.

For the first time, I just hired someone to clean out my KOI pond...just didn't have the energy.

Everything is out of synch. I've NEVER had this much enjoyable work all at once, and everyone wants the work at the same time.

I also have to commit to larger projects taking upward of 5 years to complete. If I make it, I'll be 75 before they are completed. An example would be all packaging, point of sale display, on-product graphics, installation instructions, training materials, ad slicks, TV ads, etc. for a manufacturer of a line of coating supplies from Italy.

I REALLY enjoy the work. And, it all pays serious bucks (not the issue anymore).

Need to cut back, and that's harder than I thought it would be.

Should be glad I'm lucky enough to have the work. Just can't handle it all.


And that's really HARD to admit!


R.
Posted by: Dnj

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 02:16 PM

1,2, cha cha cha..
Posted by: tony mads usa

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 02:36 PM

Russ ... please excuse Donny ... he must have thought he was in the Fred Astaire forum ...
Get rid of the stuff that isn't so enjoyable ... you might like the koi pond, but YOU don't have to take care of it any more ... let someone else have that responsibility and you just use it to sit next to and enjoy a fine Kentucky bourbon and a cigar as you watch the koi eat the food you just threw in to them ...
I don't mind spending time getting rid of millions of leaves at this time of year, but my idea of doing that is collecting them with the garden tractor, while smoking a fine cigar ... wink ... the heavy stuff - garden areas, under bushes, etc. gets done at the end of November by a landscaping crew ...
Having a lot of 'work' you love to do is a has been earned through the years ... just get rid of the stuff you don't HAVE to do ...
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 03:08 PM

Well, I like my pond, too, and unfortunately, the liner sprung a leak. New liner is sitting in the basement, which will go in when I return from the Florida keys. Koi ponds are neat, and relaxing to watch the fish during feeding time. Now, if I could just find a way to get rid of the damned great blue herons that predate on the koi. They get 90 percent of the fish every year.

Today, I turned down a lucrative yacht club job, a job that 5 years ago I would have jumped on like a tick on a dog's back. They only wanted an hour a week, and they offered twice my going rate. However, that would have required me to do a lot of Friday doubles, and I'm just too damned old to do doubles anymore. I would rather watch my koi swimming around the pond on Friday evening, after I finish my Friday Happy Hour job at the nearby retirement community.

Good luck, Russ,

Gary cool
Posted by: tony mads usa

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 04:12 PM

Blue herons got 100% of my koi while I was away on vacation a couple of years ago ... since then the pond has been inhabited by 'feeder fish' which have grown fairly well - although no where near the size of the koi.
They react a lot like the koi at feeding time.

Gary ... I think you've got to find s 'younger' keyboard player/vocalist and take him/her under your wing to pick up the gigs you are dropping ... Your grandson is a little too young, but how about you son or daughter?

If I weren't so far away I would try to help you out ... of course your clients would have to realize that when you "can't get the best, you have to settle for less" ...
Posted by: DonM

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 04:57 PM

As I said, I'm through with the argument, but when I must say I was misinformed about the number of executive orders, and I don't watch Fox News.
Those that are interested may want to read this, from a fairly liberal media outlet.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-...s-predecessors/

That's all folks. Let's play music.
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 06:12 PM

I don't like, or play, soul music. wink

Gary cool
Posted by: cgiles

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:00 PM

Originally Posted By: travlin'easy
I don't like, or play, soul music. wink

Gary cool


Well thank God for that.
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:11 PM

smile
Posted by: ianmcnll

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:15 PM

Originally Posted By: captain Russ

Tony, I think the reality that I can't do everything I want to is what's really bothering me.

Need to cut back, and that's harder than I thought it would be.

Should be glad I'm lucky enough to have the work. Just can't handle it all.


And that's really HARD to admit!


R.


Yes, it is hard to admit, Russ, but sometimes it's best for us to make the choices in slowing down (when and how), rather than Mother Nature stepping in and doing it for us, and she may not use a method we can live with...

In my case, it was my ego...it was difficult to admit to myself (and my friends even more) that I was no longer as fit to keep up the rather intense schedule I had slowly built up over the years (also ego driven, when I'm honest with myself about it).

I'm not saying that's your situation, but it does merit investigation. If I'm to read into your posts, you sound and feel much like I did before I made some changes...and, in retrospective, I am very glad I did make them.

I still play, and, I still help others, but it's at a chosen speed that makes my life so much easier to view, rather than watch it rush by in a blur. I am content.

My late Uncle Jim, who lived to be nearly 95, had a saying, "Life is meant to be sipped...not gulped."

I think you are at a crossroad and your posts are your way of getting your dilemma out in the open where you can see it better...things always look different when exposed to the light.

I wish you the best of luck, and any support I can give, regarding your inevitable upcoming decision...plus you have all your good friends here on SZ.

I hope it is you that makes the change (or changes) instead of, the far less predictable, Mother Nature.

Your friend in music,

Ian
Posted by: Uncle Dave

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:40 PM

aaaahhhhhh ... make it stop!
frown
Posted by: ianmcnll

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/13/14 07:53 PM

Posted by: captain Russ

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/14/14 01:40 PM


It's time to stop acting like an infant. I had just got off at 36 hour session and was tired.

Man, I am so grateful for the chance to do work at this level.
At 70 years old, I NEED TO GROW UP!


Sorry,


Russ
Posted by: ianmcnll

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/14/14 02:10 PM

Studio time and regular time are not the same...the former passes twice as fast as the latter, especially if the studio has few windows.

I limit mine to a few hours a week. We've been using the Tyros4 a lot, mainly for quick laying down of bass and drums tracks...we are doing demos for budding song writers...time is money, and they don't have much of the latter.

At 65 years old, I continue to work harder on the art of laziness while still thoroughly absorbed in the art of music.

Keep your stick on the ice, Russ. You don't need to grow up, but if you want to keep playing and being happy...you do need to grow older.

Ian
Posted by: travlin'easy

Re: Recording or performing...? - 11/14/14 05:11 PM

Russ, DO NOT GROW UP! This is important. When you grow up, you no longer have fun, and more often than not, you quickly die. Growing up is for other people. My wife said I never made it beyond age 17, and I like it that way. wink

Good luck,

Gary cool