Why so many cover bands?

[lazyi]

Well, in this part of the world, Dj's are at the top of the food chain in entertainment venues.

Covers bands are a poor cousin

Originals bands are either hardcore thrash or non-existant.

Go figure.

Same in Hong Kong. There is a surge now for Original bands, but most bars here look for dj's and then Cover bands.

 

[beavrangers]

Just dropping off my opinion. Many of the 'legendary' bands started playing covers in their early days. There were tons 60's British bands who played covers of old blues songs (eg, Cream, Floyd, Zeppelin, The Who, Stones) and look at where all of them have made it now. Im 17 and theres so many people at my high school who expect to write good music when they can barely handle cover songs. In my opinion, its best to start with covers. In a newly formed band, it helps everyone become aquinted(sp) musically. It also helps build interaction and communication between the bandmates. Good music can only come from a solid foundation. And that solid foundation comes from starting with covers.

 

[B-NoteCowboy]

Just dropping off my opinion. Many of the 'legendary' bands started playing covers in their early days. There were tons 60's British bands who played covers of old blues songs (eg, Cream, Floyd, Zeppelin, The Who, Stones) and look at where all of them have made it now. Im 17 and theres so many people at my high school who expect to write good music when they can barely handle cover songs. In my opinion, its best to start with covers. In a newly formed band, it helps everyone become aquinted(sp) musically. It also helps build interaction and communication between the bandmates. Good music can only come from a solid foundation. And that solid foundation comes from starting with covers.

A post wise beyond your years.

This is exactly what I mean when I say I've heard a lot of craptastic "original" tunes that are mercifully forgetable. A love of music means appreciating what other artists do, and to me, that means getting into the song and seeing it from the insideo out.

Going back to your point, the Beatles also had tons of covers on their first few records. They turned into a pretty fair original band later on.

 

[deichman]

In my late teens I did the original thing and felt like a hamster on a wheel. Although it was very rewarding to us in the band musically we never really got anywhere. They were probably the best musicians I've ever played with. Many times, we paid to play, played for free or food.. you name it.

A bit older now and back in the "scene" after a 9 year layoff and college, I only want to have a little fun on weekends and make some money. I don't think it's selling out or anything, just what I want to do right now. Original acts require much work and effort. If you have the time and energy, more power to you - perhaps you'll be rewarded!

Good luck all.

I'm exactly reversed form you. I did the cover thing for years when I was younger. Now that I'm older, and don't play for a living, I enjoy the all original band with all of the hard work, the effort and such. Everyone's different, just do what's inside you. That's what's important.

deichman


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