I am amazed how fast 2009 is passing and that the first decade of the new Century is within sight. How could we survive Y2K and be living 10 years into the new millennium? I am stunned to be here and to be struggling to survive with the totally destroyed California economy thanks to irresponsible physical spending and management. <but I digress>

 

Oh well - Not where any of us thought we might be at this point in history, but we are survivors and moving forward the best we can!!

 

So the big news is not really great news because I think there has been a record amount of lost and last minute canceled gigs this month. I had at least 2 thousand dollars walk off my calendar for November, so far, and at least half that amount last month. As I talk with musicians around the country, it is all the same news - cut backs and layoffs - canceled gigs and tours - sessions pulling budgets and releases way back - pay going down and the greedy feeling good about it - calling it recouping recent losses. Some places have seen upswings and it will be a longtime for a musician to see any share of that. If a recovery is coming, it will be the next year or 2 after it "Arrives" that any of my world will experience it.

 

So, lots of playing and recording with friends as none of us make any money - the music is still amazing! The players are still killing! I am just noticing it is all happening more underground these days where the public will never see. I believe this too will change in time, but it is very odd.

 

Enough ramblings from the saxboy!

 

I have had sessions coming in thru the net and been recording more this last 2 weeks which is very good! I have also been taking a few more web projects on than usual to fill in the financial gap - both design, updates and SEO. I'm glad I have that to fall back on but always wish I was doing site stuff for me and not others while I am there, doing it.

 

Yamaha was a great day of gear, music and players last Monday (see last post). Jim's Music for Fender night was another amazing night that I found my lust focused on electronic toys rather than brass toys! If Musicians had cash, the economy would look fine! To bad we can't follow the example of our leadership and just print a pile and spend,Spend,SPEND!!!

 

Off to sip an Ice Tea and ponder that fantasy...

 

Blessings and strength thru tough times......

 

 SAXBOY ~ Greg Vail