Jeff, RocketMan Tex or Anyone Else That Plays Out...

This late in the game, it might be tough to book New Year's. I know most places book that in October or early November.

 

We've had New Years booked since June.

Actually, you might be surprised. A lot of clubs/parties will book early. Then the band they book will get a higher paying gig and cancel, so you might be able to sneak your guys into a spot that way. I would call as many people as you can and let them know you are available if their band cancels. This is the time of year when that happens.

 

The only way you can get a New Years Eve gig this late is if some act already booked cancels out on the club. If I were you, I would consider looking at private parties for this New Years Eve.

I don't particularly care for playing New Year's Eve gigs myself. The last one I did was New Year's Eve 1989-1990. My band was playing a club on the Sunset Strip that used to be called the Central...it's now known as the Viper Room. I lived two blocks away and the band came to my apartment for a pre-party. They wanted me to make "real Texas chili" so I did (put lots of spice in it) and everybody ate and drank. We then went to the club to play our set, and as we hit the stage, my bass player told me "man I really have to take a dump". I looked at him, said "too late", and counted four into the first number. As soon as we were done, the bass player jumped offstage and ran to the bathroom at the back of the club. Funny shizznit....but not to him! That was the last time they ever asked me to make "real Texas chili"!

 

You and me both. The last one I did was 1997-98 at this little place for a party. After the gig, I drove back to the rehersal room downtown to drop off a bunch of gear. As I'm heading down I-10 at about 3am, I realize that cars are going by me like I'm standing still. One guy is weaving across three lanes. I began to think that there were an awful lot of cars on the road at 3am.

I got to the room with about 1000lbs worth of gear tucked in the bed of my truck right behind my head - perfect for decapitating me in case of an accident - and dumped everything. I headed home on many a back and side street to avoid the traffic. That was it for me.

 

Aw, I love playing New Years. New Years is the best time to triple your fee. Plus, if you're single like me, you don't have to worry about finding a date!

Last year, we played at a private party on Lake Houston. Driving home down 59 at 2am New Years Eve was not fun. I just set the cruise control for 55 and stayed in the right hand lane the whole way home. We're playing at the same place this year, so I imagine I'll do the same thing this time.

 

New Years shows were creepy, out of control in the bad out-of-control way. Not like I have played one in seven years, but I was never a fan.

 

We won't do them unless the money is sick. Since 2K, there aren't nearly as many "sick" money shows in town.

 

I've always wanted to be in a band.

No I don't play anything.


I just want to say, yeah I am in this band, and I play this instrument, and we have a gig coming up, so show up.

 

Last time I played a New Year's gig.... someone spilled beer in one of the f-holes of my upright bass... Never again.