Want More Paying gigs Do Originals

I own a company that sells touch screen systems to restaurants and bars. And this is what I hear for the owners. BMI is freeken killing us... For you musicans that don't know who BMI is They are one of larger organizations that represents bands to supposably makes sure the band gets it's royalties. SO when you play say a Clapton tune at a bar or night club the money some how through thier calculations gets to Clapton. AS of the moment bars and night club pays the fee and it can be quite expensive. For instance one of my friends owns an 18,000 square foot restaurant and function hall was told by BMI they had to pay $13,000 a year if he wanted cover bands to play there. Plus on top of that fee they have to pay $350.00 an night for a cop to be there. So they opted not to do bands, and Kereoke.

However if they have bands that do originals, They can tell BMI where to go..

BMI kills the little guy, bars and bands, If bars doesn't pay you can't play..

There are roomers out there that BMI and organizationslike that are not only going to go after the clubs, but the bands thast play covers.. So screw em Do Originals..

that's a helpfull lit bit of info there. want more gigs, dont charge the bar, do original songs.

Ha, to do a U2 song, do you have to sponsor a child?

Some larger venues (clubs or bars) actually make bands pay to play... just for that reason.

Originally Posted by: ericthecableguyHa, to do a U2 song, do you have to sponsor a child?

Yes, but if you want to play 2 or more of their songs you have to donate all of your earnings of that gig to charity. :D

I prefer original bands. If i want to hear Clapton i'll listen to Clapton. Make your own songs!

Actually when you think about it. The artist and record companies should be paying you for advertising their song.... How people forget the payola that used to happen with radio stations. Why does the artist want more people to hear their song. Because they will sell more CD's. So I look at the industry as shooting theself in the foot.... Over greed........... Only about .5% if that of musicains make the big time... In the mean time the rest can't even get work becuase of thier greed. Stop doing thier songs.. Do your own.......... As you can tell this really ticks me off.....

Don't know about the BMI thing, but in this little state, cover bands (the big ones) are pulling in $6,000+ a night, where as a band that plays originals is just lucky to get a non-paying gig. Can't stand cover bands... Use it as a vehicle to play there couple originals in a big venue, but all that their 'fans' want to hear is the covers. sad...

Originally Posted by: Blues_ManYes, but if you want to play 2 or more of their songs you have to donate all of your earnings of that gig to charity. :D

Ya, and for every 10 songs, you've got to kick every world leader in the cojones!

Originally Posted by: ericthecableguyYa, and for every 10 songs, you've got to kick every world leader in the cojones!

Exactly! :D

If you really want to do covers and have a connection or two, try and contact the artist or who ever owns the music and get their permission. I used to be friends with a few "pros" that would gladly let anyone do covers of their music for free if they asked unless it was going onto an album. Then you could let the bar/resturaunt know their is no need to pay BMI anything.

Granted I have never played in a band so I never had that problem but if you could arrange it it then there should be no problem.

MSF