I really didn't know what title to put on this thread but oh well. I was driving home last night when I saw a billboard advertising the "beach boys" playing a casino around here on an indian reservation. Really? It kind of got me thinking, it wasn't too long ago when these guys were probably selling out arenas and making millions of dollars. Why have you resorted to playing at casinos in the middle of nowhere? Money? Love of music? I would think some kind of dignity would have to play a part in there somewhere. I also saw Warrant a couple years back too. Same deal - they played a small bar here in town. The lead singer got out of his van with his fat rolls hanging over his leather pants. It was funny as hell to see but got me wondering why they still do this.
Quite simply, money. Musicians, pro athletes, actors, etc are not known for their money management skills.
To expand on what Hooker said... Let's use Warrant as an example. The one or two popular albums they had is their "cherry pie" and they are going to get everything out those albums they can.
Anybody that goes to Summerfest in Milwaukee knows that sooner or later, there are going to be some Moldy Oldies playing at one of the various music stages down there. I'm surprised that some of the bands are able to put their walkers on the side to still get it on !
Casinos pay BIG MONEY for acts like this, they do actually draw people to the Casino and these same people spend money while there! As for the Band playing there....they would be stupid not to.....
I can see where the casinos would pay big to get people to come in and gamble. My curiousity was more for the bands dignity. But then again if you have no money because you blew it all on drugs and hookers then you have to do what you know I guess.
Its not that, some of these bands have PLENTY of money...theres nothing wrong with more money now is there! These shows usually sell out so I don't really see the problem of dignity! These Casinos build pretty nice Theaters and Arenas for them to play in!
Casino pay good money to top acts even if it is during the week you can see some great bands that stop in for what is better known as a fuel gig, I seen robert cray band and he was just eight feet away from me most of the time he opens for clapton at big shows and the ticket in was like $18 dollars and you cant beat that for a big name artist on a Wednesday night Most of these guys i meet at shows dont have a clue what state there even in,kind of sad in a way. I will post some pics from my sons upcoming show in st.louis this memorial day weekend, They just get paid a percentage of the door and food, not much for a unsigned band and $$$$$ of equipment ...mostly my stuff but it's a big thrill seeing him play on stage.
Long live CHEAP TRICK!!!! Check out their last 3 cd's, Special One, Rockford, and The Latest and you tell me if their past the prime as you speak of. :-) Few samples: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeXqkssnYrU from rockford http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgwR2UE4zfo from special one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFLlOW6xikE&feature=related The Latest http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PnYV3od3oA&feature=fvwrel from the latest, reminds me of heaven tonight. Add The Cars new cd to this also: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K_aOz6CVNc Hard for them http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxqxNzlEFM4&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpJQWGA1O8s @Brad........Summerfest rocks bro!!!
