Los Angeles. Although I grew up here and have lived in New York, SF, Philly and Chicago, LA is a unique entertainment city, and some including myself, would call it the entertainment capital of the world. In the years I have been involved in entertainment, getting recognized in LA has always been key, whether we are talking English or Spanish. And the first thing you learn if you are at all connected is ask to be on the guest list. Having come from that environment, I have no hesitancy in asking to be placed on a guest list. When I booked the Westchester, I had a policy that if you were in a band and could show a band business card, you could get in free to support other bands. I felt we would make the money at the bar from what you guys ordered. It worked. But I only did it because with LA being an industry town so many expect guest list privileges, and this could push our attendance. New York is not like this, nor Chicago nor any other market I am aware of. People in most markets are willing to pay for entertainment, even band members. I worn bands from other cities touring that it will not be easy to get a paid gig in LA, as opposed to other cities. Yet a couple promoters took this even farther--allowing EVERYONE free entrance with them taking their cut from the bar (but not paying any of the bands with the exception of maybe the headliner out of that remuneration). This worked for a while, but kind of spoiled LA alternativo audiences to not pay to see anyone. And so now we have few promoters willing to back alternativo shows in LA. I can honestly tell you right now there is little if any money to be made. But if you have the passion to do so for the love of music, you will establish yourself as someone who has created the next wave. We need you if you are even considering it. Go do it. It can be re-built over time.
Posted on: Thu, 07 Nov 2013 07:01:57 +0000
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