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Are shorts ever okay?

No. No shorts. You can't stand in 90 degrees for three hours with pants on? Give me a break; that's pathetic. Either toughen the hell up, or just check yourself in to hospice care now and let somebody stronger have the gig.

Additionally, the idea that shorts is going to make such conditions (which aren't even tough IMO/IME) a whole lot better is flawed anyhow. Shorts don't make THAT much of a difference in hot weather.

But seriously, if it's really that big a deal, just wear appropriate pants rather than shorts. If going to the extreme, try a seersucker suit. This is exactly the situation for which seersucker exists (hot/humid weather, yet a certain level of formality/professionalism is desired).
I get the need to look professional, but in daily life, yeah I'm wearing shorts everyday. They might not make a difference to you, but to a guy like me who sweats just standing still outside when its over 70 degrees, it is a life saver. If I were playing in 90 degree weather in pants, I'd be changing 30 seconds after the last song.

Of course on the flip side being hot natured, I don't wear a jacket until it hits the 30's and wear shorts and sandals down into the 40's.

I might be pathetic, who knows. No more pathetic than guys who whine about the difference between an 8 pound bass and a 9 pound one when they are perfectly healthy. The same perfectly health guys should be able to care a 75-100 lb bass cab too if they have too.
 
I'm a grown-a$$-man. I can dress myself however I please. Most of the time I'm barefoot by the end of the gig too. So There :spit:.
I've been thru the suit and tie gigs, cowboy boots and hat gigs and baggy pants and Rebook gigs. I didn't play any better, or get paid more or get laid more when wearing those monkey suits. So NO MORE!
(Unless the gig has a dress code).
Like an acting coach once told me regarding stage costumes, " if the audience is checking out your wardrobe, you aint doing something right".

B.
 
I don't understand this thread and the discussion...

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Maybe we can find a compromise that makes everyone happy?

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Reactions: Clark Dark
Hi drumwagon :)


shut it down

No shorts for me! Never ever!

No! :D



No! :D These "young girls" don 't wear them so why should I! :laugh:





No! :D Never!



:thumbsup: My dress code never included "shorts or jeans"



The best lightweight for metal…..



Denim & Leather and Marshall cabs! :laugh: Lotsa Marshall cabs!!!! :hyper::hyper::hyper:

Imagine the metal god in shorts…. wearing a baseball cap not singing…

It works because he looks the way!!!!!!!!!!!!



may the bass be with you

Wise(b)ass


may the bass be with you

Wise(b)ass
 
I’m in a cover band that plays a fair number of outdoor gigs in southern PA: first Fridays festivals, etc. The band rule is we never-ever wear shorts to gigs, I’m usually all in with that dress code.

But, we have an afternoon gig coming up at a tennis/swim club, as much as you can plan for weather, figure 90 degree at gig time, standard 3 hr gig, next to a pool-picnic area. We are bringing a tent so there will be limited shade.

I’m of the opinion that we should make an exception for this gig regarding the ‘no shorts rule’. IMHO nice shorts, collared shirts, and Sandals or dock shoes, would be just fine for this venue.

Help me build my case, or shut it down?

Wear a dress. Something classy not trashy.
Shorts will be permitted shortly.
 
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Reactions: Mike Whitfield
Wear shorts. Honestly, I'll never understand the disdain for shorts on TB. It's the same as why everyone hates Nickelback.. just because everyone else does.

Now if you are playing a wedding or something with an actual dress code then that is totally different.

Yep, yep, follow a dress code when needed otherwise shorts are a great choice.
 
If you can do a classy outfit with dress shorts, shirt and shoes, then go for it. The golf pant/hig-tech slacks is also a really good option. Paid gigs require professional respect for self, venue and audience, and, IMHO, the band shouldn't look like they took a break from mowing the yard to pop up on stage and do a set. No one will ever tell you that you look ridiculous. They'll think it, but they won't say it. To each is own.
 
My theory is always health before look....what I'm saying if you are playing outside without protection from the sun (stage roof) at 1 in the afternoon in a cloudless sky and blistering heat, shorts (and a hat) can be worn, and I have. Typically, I am not a shorts and hat guy. If you have a roof and a fan, tough it in pants, but the lightest knit you can find.