Book Review—Gigging: Everything You Need To Know About Playing Gigs . . .
Review by Tim Wenger
David Barber lays it down like it should be in his book “Gigging: Everything You Need To Know About Playing Gigs (Except how to play your axe)”. This informative work covers everything from the basics that beginning musicians should learn before playing out, to how to handle it when a club screws over your band, and why your girlfriend should never go on tour with you.
The book takes readers through various situations that all musicians will encounter, if they spend enough time in the scene, and gives instruction and advice on what musicians should do; providing real-life examples of mistakes that the author has heard about or watched bands make over the years.
As a musician myself, the fact that Barber has spent years working in music clubs is what makes this book a must read. A good chunk of his advice is from the viewpoint of a club employee, promoter or sound guy, and he says what needs to be said; covering everything from what will royally piss off your sound guy, to collecting payment from shady promoters at the end of the night. I can’t tell you how many times these situations present themselves at shows, and the only thing my band ever wants is an outside opinion on how to handle it.
The writing itself is at times repetitive, if only to reinforce his points. It is, however, presented in a way that any musician can comprehend. This book should undoubtedly be put in the hands of every musician aspiring to not only play great gigs, but to be viewed professionally in this whirlwind of an industry. Cheers, David.
Pick up a copy here:
http://www.rockoncolorado.com/the-music-biz/180-Gigging-The-Book
Category: A-Sides
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