Should I be Upset?

[victobass]

Like I said in my first post. when we formed this band we all agreed that we weren't doing it just for the money and that we only wanted to play 2 weekends per month. They agreed to work around my schedule. Well the singer booked dates into October and made a mistake and booked a weekend that I have to work. I figured no big deal, that's a ways off. I might be able to swap shifts or take vacation days by then. If not, we could perhaps use a sub because we'll already be somewhat established. The main issue is them taking a last minute gig knowing I had to work.
I can see their side of the issue, but from my side it was a big disappointment. After our gig last weekend I was on such an emotional high from the tremendous response and with my coworkers who came to see us raving about how we were the best local band they've ever seen. Then I have to work all weekend knowing my bandmates are playing without me. It broke my heart!
Anyway, the gig turned out pretty well for them. They had some sound issues with the PA Friday but worked it out Saturday. The sub bass player is an experienced all-around musician who plays guitar and bass and did a great job from what I hear. We do covers but add our own twist to them and he was able to pull it off without too much trouble.
Believe me , I would be there for every gig if I could but I can't give up a good paying job to make $100 a weekend! There's not too many good paying jobs in this area. All of us in this band are in our 30s-40s and have wives, kids, bills,etc. and play as a hobby.
I'd like to thank everyone for their responses. I just had to vent the other night but I feel better now. This episode makes me want to practice harder, play better, and play with more people. Maybe I can sub for some band when our band is off!

 

[LiquidMidnight]

And look at it this way: You are going to be the one who ultimately benefits from this. When a new band hits the scene, it's usually difficult to get your foot in the door at a lot of clubs. The more a new band plays, the more exposure it gets. It's going to be a lot easier to book shows a few months down the road, when the clubs know that your band is established.

Every show is a chance to spread your music and get new fans.

 

[Laserman]

Hi,

I'd be upset too. When Bands start putting silly unimportant gigs ahead of it's own members, trouble is already brewing. I would not Loan my Bass rig, PERIOD. It will get damaged and you know it. A Band who would book a gig that you can't be at already shows that their loyalty to you us suspect. So why would you even entertain the idea that they would load-transport-operate- and return your rig with Loving Care? Start looking for another band or get another job guy. It's a matter of time before you will have to anyway.

Barry

 

[mikarre]

I would be enraged beyond all reason that they would even think of this. BUT....all the bands I've been in were not business oriented. We wanted to play, but we also had the mentality of being together as a unit. We were friends before anything. We played in a band together, but we also went out together, drank together, went to ballgames, etc. So it was always OUR band, and we never would have even thought of having someone sit in for one of us, no matter what. We all succeeded together, or failed together. If this is they kind of band that yours is, then sure I think you ought to be pi$$ed.

I do sorta see the business points people are making. Having never really been in a band like that, I really don't totally get it I guess, but I can suppose that people who see it as a job would not be as hurt if their band found a replacement when nescessary. At my real job, if I took a leave of absense or something, I wouldn't be hurt if my employer brought in a temp or some kind of stand in. I just cant think of bands that way, not bands I've been in anyway.

 

[zombywoof5050]

Oh, I don't know. Jeff Berlin subbed for Chris Squire...

Berlin didn't sub for Squire....he subbed for Tony Levin on the Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, & Howe tour.