Member who is drastically younger/older?

[Rockford]

I think it's more of a function of musicality and personality than age. If everyone likes the style and looks the part, relative to their age, it can work. Image problems seem to start when people try to be something other than what they are. Coming from a place of honesty and integrity in your performance always goes over well. I'd give him a shot. Just let him be his own age in the style of the music and general appearance of the band.

 

[fishtx]

I'm 54, and have a side project where I'm working with two Guitar players who are 17 and 18 (both are amazing Guitarists for their ages). The drummer in the project is 47. Myself and the drummer feel it's a cool situation for all of us as we get to "mentor" these two guitar players and sort of teach them how to play in an ensemble. We have also been able to help them understand their role in the band...I've seen vast improvement in both of these kids over the past couple of months.

 

[sunfighter]

Im 41 and currently play in a blues power trio. My guitarist is 22 and the drummer...19. We are a pretty heavy band and i am enjoying the hell out of it! I couldnt find players my age who wanted to play this heavy. These guys are great not only are they talented but we bounce some pretty obscure 70's bands around and have a good time sitting around listening to music and joking. I also feel that im playing some of the best stuff ive done in my 26 years of playing. We gel for sure. I really dont see music having an age requirement. PW Long from Mule toured with is 16 year nephew on drums and i liked it better than his regular drummer. Just go for it and if it all works then its a total non issue.

 

[Art Araya]

I lead my church band and we've had members from 14 to nearly 60. It can work great. Each age comes with its own issues that a BL needs to be aware of.