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[–] TheBuddha [S] 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago  (edited ago)

I have to drive by a music store tomorrow. I already planned on stopping in. I know the owner pretty well, and stop in whenever I have a chance. So, I'll see if he's got a set for me. You're the third or forth person whose told me about them. If he has them, I'll grab a couple of sets and throw them on two different guitars to give them a test.

But, yeah, I'll throw Fender strings on if I'm out on the road and there's nothing better. They are kind of flat sounding, but their medium strings are pretty tough and cheap. I used to not have a whole lot of money, which is pretty much describing every musician. I would also restring everything after every show as part of my routine. Get home, unload the gear, clean, restring, double check cables, replace my consumables in my gig bag, etc...

So, being a poorfag back then, I got into the habit of buying bulk. I often buy strings by the 10 pack and I also buy bulk individual strings. And picks. Don't forget picks. I buy those fuckers in bulk, too. I have a bunch on my mic stand and, if I'm gigging big shows, I'll throw them into the audience. I even carry green felt tip pens because somebody is going to forget my name but they'll ask me for an autograph anyhow. Dudes... I'm playing in a cover band at your local club or bar. I'm never going to be famous and you'll have forgotten my name by Tuesday. But, I'm paid to wear a smile so I've signed them. I found a felt tip pen is good for signing small picks and green is my favorite color.

So, that's why I gig with a pocket full of picks and a green felt tip pen. Not because I'm ever going to be famous, but because the audiences were usually drunk.

See? Let it be known these threads are full of helpful advice!

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[–] Cheesebooger 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago  (edited ago)

I used to do the same thing with a felt tip pen and sign boobs, pics or whatever. I always laughed when people wanted an autograph or a photo, but hey, whatever. Even if I were famous I'd still be a regular guy. I'd probably go and hang out with fans at their place just because I think its interesting to see how people are. I mean, I have after gigs

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[–] TheBuddha [S] 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

Free drugs, booze, and sex! It's really the only perk. The pay is generally pretty shitty, once you count the hours invested.

I've had the good fortune to play some sizable shows and play with some pretty good bands. But, I'm never gonna be famous for music. I've opened for J. Geils, played on stage with Susan Tedeschi, and fucked around in a studio with Noel Paul Stookey. I suppose those would be the closest I've come to fame. I have no idea what motivates people to want your autograph.

Now... I have been in a band that had a dedicated group of followers. Calling them groupies is a a bit of a stretch. Those folks are pretty fucking awesome, however. They are the kinds of people who will drive 200 miles to see you play. They may even help load gear! Those guys are awesome. Yes, yes I will give them free shirts and merch. No, no I am not going to make the mistake of letting them come up on stage again. Lesson learned.