Racism in metal, venue merch cuts & more | Tank The Tech interview | The Punk Rock MBA Podcast

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

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[@slashismyhommie8182]

I'm waiting for your OF to subscribe to that

[@r.mshadow9713]

You goin to the cradle of filth and devildriver concert on Tuesday ?

[@erikedgerton1669]

How do you not know Red! You always promote music I don't listen to. Yet a band that was very famous on the Christian scene you never heard of.

[@slashismyhommie8182]

@@erikedgerton1669 cause Finn needs to know every obscure band in existence

[@erikedgerton1669]

That's what he claims! Red was just as big as fireflight. Both Christian bands crossed over in to the mainstream. From Christian metal POV it was a big deal. They came to Columbus Ohio and played a 14,000 seat Arena. A Christian band! Many mainstream bands couldn't do that.

[@TankTheTech]

Thank you for having me on, Finn!

[@nickm.3836]

This a nice convo... More please 🙏

[@pitpride1220]

This was great brother. Love your channel

[@wellersonpfc]

We need more of this!!

[@darkiee69]

Tank, your health thing can be part of "new dad syndrome". You want to be there for as long as possible for your girl. And you hear a lot of stories about guys about your age getting sick or dying and it gets in your head.

[@dadrock]

Well done gentlemen. This was a great discussion. Love both your content. I really appreciate the frank discussion on mental health. Life is hard. We are all dealing with the suck daily. I’m old enough to remember the days where guys were expected to push any feelings deep down inside. Suck it up. Rub some dirt on it and get back in the game. That approach is so damaging. Thank you for both being so open about mental health issues.

[@FIDEL_CASHFLOW_]

This is my personal favorite guest that you've had. It was really fascinating to hear about the underbelly of the music industry instead of somebody who is on stage every night. He was also a great guest which really helped, he was articulate, had good stories, and didn't ramble on and overstay is welcome on some of his thoughts.

[@CoachJasonCurtis]

Agreed

[@parisite99]

How you got so good at interviewing ppl is beyond me. You are a natural at this. You actually let the guest finish their thoughts, and you don’t ask the cliche questions most ask. They always seem like a genuine conversation between friends, and I’m here for it!!

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Thank you! I’ve done hundreds of interviews, it’s just practice.

[@TankTheTech]

He really is ridiculously good. I finished recording this with him and told my wife "Finn is a way better podcast host than me". 😂😂

[@joeylo3543]

Totally agree. I think Finn is the GOAT. I love how mature and respectful he is with his takes. I literally don't agree with half the stuff he says (especially regarding melodeath) but his points and whole unbiased character is absolutely what we need in this community. Its all subjective nonetheless! 🐐

[@elcheekoful]

I agree. Finn let's them talk. He's a very good interviewer.

[@Caring570]

Finn, Alex Hefner and Elizabeth from The Charismatic Voice are the best interviewers in my opinion

[@jsalvatori]

As a venue operator, I agree with all of this. If you're selling yourself at a table, I don't expect anything from that. If you want my staff to sell, use my credit / debit machine, etc. then I'm taking a percentage to pay for my staff and my fees.

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Totally fair!

[@SpaghettiWithMeatSauce]

Sounds pretty reasonable to me

[@TankTheTech]

More than reasonable, and I feel like this is how it should be at every single venue.

[@ghost_to_a_ghost]

@@TankTheTech absolutely! and for smaller punk bands like the one I was in back in '96-'01, making merch is not cheap. Our whole merch table consisted of a badly recorded EP ($4). stickers were free with a purchase of our demo and on certain nights, we had the stickers for 100% free. We also sold cloth patches 4x6" ($3), and pins ($1). We did the pins on our own with a pin press. ahhhh now I am just reminiscing. such fun times back then! we would play a show and after the show, we would skateboard (poorly) with the fans and just hung out with everyone who came to the show afterward. Smoked brickweed with em. All that fun shit. when we were the opening act, we would get right in to the moshpit for the headliner with all the fans after our set. Always a good time. 👍 DAMN. I miss it.

[@JohnnyGingy]

That’s definitely reasonable that should be the only time the venue gets the cut.

[@severalsedrack]

I'm a Metalhead but I don't identify at all with the community

[@myoptik3x103]

As far as I’m concerned yours is the truest metal attitude.

[@minimichiko]

As an accountant I found it super fascinating to hear about the merch fees and venue contracts and the power dynamics that go into that sort of thing.

[@twwells]

I'll never forget the first time I saw Killswitch Engage in 2004 Adam D gets on the mic and says "this next song is about the first time Howard went ice skating. This is When Darkness Falls"

[@untiltomorrow809]

I heard him start the song once saying it was about Howard slipping in the shower, lol.

[@dalenewberry4610]

Man I absolutely love hearing about how things work behind the scenes in the industry.

[@carlevins1302]

I worked theatres and clubs and concert festivals for 10 years and a lot of what goes into productions is interesting and amazing, a lot of it is outright disgusting and appauling like the amount of food waste and cutthroat wages for many employees, and people's attitudes.

[@guyincognito320]

Too bad these guys are pushing dumb leftist values. These values guarantee that metal/rock will die, and left wants it to die because it's white. I will laugh when they both eventually get canceled anyway, which all people will no matter how well they behave 99% of the time. Thanks for your contributions in ruining white music, guys..

[@PalmelaHanderson]

I went into this thinking I was just going to skip around and see if you guys talked about anything I found interesting, next thing I knew the whole hour went by. Great interview.

[@timsunderland5153]

How you described the metal community is exactly what the hippy community is like. Claim to be kind and accepting but are actually the most judgmental! Off subject but just throwing it out there. 😎

[@Shirumoon]

Literally every subculture ever. I just go where the least drama is at this point.

[@chesterfield9682]

I really love Tank, I think he brings so much nice guy energy to "music KZbin", he's knowledgeable and honest and has a great beard. Wonderful interview, as always, Finn.

[@pitpride1220]

I'll get in here with a compliment for you before you get bombarded with "not racist" actually very racist comments. "Why does it always have to be about race? Black people are racist too. They are the reason there aren't more black people in metal. They don't buy their own black metal artists records. They shun black metal listeners in their own communities. (Which isn't true btw) Maybe if they picked up more instruments instead of guns? Blah blah blah."(gradual descent into even more overt racism) You two are my favorite music adjacent youtubers. Love your stuff, it was great to see you talking together. I genuinely hope you link up again in the future. I would love to see it!

[@pnuemam3330]

Please don’t ever let the idiocy that occurs on social media affect your happiness. Especially Reddit. Dear lord that place is toxic. I love your work. It provides relaxation and enjoyment of music after getting my ass kicked all week at work. You also seem like a decent and kind human being. We all have our issues, even those who blindly judge others through anonymous online posts. Nobody is perfect. Keep on keeping on man ❤️🤘

[@scummymulisha]

Brah I swear ppl make a problem out of nothing. Holding a magnifying glass over it and zoom in. Making a problem seem bigger then it actually is. Never have I ever experienced "racism" or bigotry" at a show. Women in metal? lmao some of the best musicians are women in Bands. Oathbreaker, Chelsea Wolfe, Brutus, and King Woman. You have to put in the work and pay your dues to hang at those heights as your contemporaries do. The keys aint just gonna be handed to you because of X. Respect is earned not given. In the end its about the music that matters.

[@JustinProper]

You've done a lot of great interviews, Finn, but this was one of my favorite conversations I've seen you have with any other creator! Keep doing these! They're so much fun to watch!

[@sinisterminister3322]

Thanks for being so up front about your struggles with anxiety. I’ve suffered from anxiety a few times in my life, and it is nearly always because I’m pushing myself too hard. You two seem to me to be the kinds of persons who would do that too.

[@TheMikeLyons]

You guys are two of my favorite KZbinrs, and seeing you have this conversation (and the content OF the conversation) absolutely made my day. Love both of you guys! Take care of your mental (and physical) health.

[@TheMikeLyons]

If you guys wanted to do a weekly "just sit around and chat" thing, I would 100% watch it every week.

[@gregbestever]

This was a great convo. Tank, so sorry to hear about the panic and anxiety. I’ve had this for years due to trauma/suicide loss. I wish access to mental health pros was easier. Hope you can get all the help you need bro! 🖤🙏

[@ghost_to_a_ghost]

I was in a punk band back in the mid-late 90's and we never had to give the venues we played at anything from our merch sales (which was how we made our money, mostly). I didn't even know that this was a thing until i heard Finn talking about it. Another great podcast 😎

[@andydotorg]

Same here. When I was touring in a small hardcore band, even in our larger shows with bigger bands, venues did not touch the merch money. But this was also 20 years ago 😅

[@ghost_to_a_ghost]

@@andydotorg TRUE. i'm fixin to turn 40, myself. 😂

[@neilyoumans6319]

This isn’t something that happened in the hardcore scene. If these bands vowed to go back down to much smaller venues for awhile this is something that would end .

[@neilyoumans6319]

Me and friend booked shows for a couple yrs the venue never took a cut .

[@ralphtarr5931]

Great interview! Being a 57 yr old drummer I've played with Punk bands, metal,pop ,hip hop,neo soul , drum and bass, country ECT. Thankfully I'm not famous and can just play what I want and feel without being called " TRENDY OR SELLING OUT". I love music from The COMMODORES to Cannibal Corpse . If it moves me I will give it props. And if I'm sitting behind my kit making music from the heart with whoever, I'm living the most beautiful pure moments you can't understand unless you... fuckin know. Peace and love y'all

[@bb-gc2tx]

since your a drummer would you say the late obby chouinard is one of the most underrated drummers in rock history?

[@The_Bass_Stunters]

I’ve listened to this twice now. Amazing conversation. Thanks for all you do Finn!

[@therealmccoyruf]

The way that certain metal people get so defensive and downplay that there is any racism in metal is kinda the reason it persists. It gives it more room to breathe. People just can’t be honest because they are taking it personally. If you’re not racist then you shouldn’t feel the need to be defensive or take it personally, but maybe there is some lack of introspection there.

[@Regent192]

I remember when that singer/guitarist from machine head called out Phil Anselmo’s racism, and then people were calling him a SJW. That was embarrassing made me ashamed of being part of this community

[@slashismyhommie8182]

Ya, it's weird the you see a band and there's a black guy, like why is that the first thing you go to? My much older brother sold out, turned mormon and what not. I shared a Turnstile live performance with him. His first response was "the bass player gives them street cred." Like gag and cringe to say the least. Who cares what skin color, sex, or even identity of the band members on stage. If they're good musicians and kill it in stage, what does any of that matter? I do have my biases myself. Like if the singers doing salutes WW2 era Germans did, it would probably turn me off and not be so stoked to be there.

[@SpiralDream]

There's racist people in every scene though. There isn't any more racism in metal than there is in hip hop, for example.

[@therealmccoyruf]

@@SpiralDream I mean that is some people’s first instinct, to go “but what about this other thing?” You can talk about Hitler and they’ll go “but what about Stalin?” Again, a little introspection can go a long way. People could take a sec to ask themselves Why when x subject is brought up, their knee jerk reaction is deflect, downplay, and get defensive?

[@therealmccoyruf]

@@slashismyhommie8182 yeah their bass player is a person not a novelty

[@BNA_Est.1988]

“We can’t be racist because Sevendust exists!” 😩😩😩😩😩😩AYYYOOOOOOO😂😂😂😂😂

[@rebekahcarter8120]

The insane drinking on country tours doesn't surprise me at all, coming from a rural background myself. Plus from the country shows I've been to I can say the attendees have often been way more drunk & generally wild than all the rock/metal shows I've been to... So cool to see y'all together. Also, I totally agree that too many people, especially in metal, base their entire personality/identity around that. And it's not healthy or cool. And the comments on racism/tolerance in metal are so damn true, sadly.... Great chat!!

[@Waderader]

My 2 favorite KZbinrs are talking to each other. Don't know how I missed this video 9 months ago, but I'm glad I just watched it. Thanks guys!

[@aimeeaztec4601]

Great interview Finn. I appreciate your frankness as ever on racism. Awareness of the sad truths that exist can hopefully be a step towards changing things. Your positive stance against it gives me hope, though I often despair of the human race.

[@stevestevestevesteve6466]

WRT the whole separate the art from the artist thing, as a Jewish metal fan I feel like thats such a cop-out. There are too many times that I've wanted to get into a band only to read a headline about how so-and-so from the band is friends with a guy who wants me and everyone like me dead. It's always easy for the people who aren't targets of the bigotry in certain metal scenes to scoff at it and just ignore the crazies but it's so uncomfortable and alienating for people who are targeted by it.

[@jaredhicks1370]

37:51 Preach! If Jesse Leach from Killswitch Engage feels compelled to say, "Howard Jones wasn't just 'the black guy' and that's my friend" or something like that after hearing his fans diss Howard for taking over after he left the band in '00 and came back that's huge to me. Metal fans pretend racism isn't a problem and I hate it.

[@JohnnyGingy]

Jesse used to be married to a black women so I bet it is extra annoying when assholes say crap like that to him.

[@MrsBoogie002]

1st time listener here. Thank you so much for touching on these topics! I think they're swept under the rug all too often. I'm a female who has been in this industry for almost a decade and a half, doing management and merch, etc. In the last 5 years I've also been on the performance side of things. I've worked with, seen and played genres ranging from metal to classic rock and everywhere in between. I appreciate that ya'll brought up and spoke to the lack of female representation in the music industry as a whole. I know you mentioned pop and country female fronted bands as being more "accepted" or basically once you're big enough to hire and fire whoever you want while on tour you can have the luxury of employing an all female band. I just wanted to add that people don't always "like" Ginger just because she's a chick vocalist. As a female singer I can say without a doubt that we NEED more female influences in this industry and specifically within the hard rock and metal Genres. Yes, sure there have been those who paved the path along the way...... but it's important to note that not only are there basically 1 o 2 females to every 100 males to aspire to...... but also the few females within this space tend to face a lot of hate. You brought up Otep...... but this is a great example of a female fronted band within the industry that has a pretty bad reputation. (At least amongst other local and national bands, and some venues and management as well). Is she actually a bitch who treats everyone like she's better than them, has a roster that demands ridiculous things, insists that supporting bands are not allowed to sell any merch, use any green rooms, or park anywhere near their touring busses? Who knows got sure.... it could all be speculation, one off situations, or it could be that she's held to a higher standard. 🤷‍♀️ What I do know is that we women DO have to work harder and be conscious of how we're coming off because there are a LOT of stereotypes that we have to actively try to disprove. When all we really want to do is play music and live our life and our dream just like everyone else around us. We tend to either be shoved into a scene where we present on stage as a 1 person act (AKA, sex object who lip syncs and dances, back up dancing, etc ......basically pop singers) or we resist the and take a risk that we'll never be taken seriously. I could list probably 5-10 pretty current and VERY popular female pop artists who not only write all their own music, but play MULTIPLE instruments, play instruments on their own records, appear on other hit records, and also ghost write and sell their original musical to other artists who subsequently got a hit out of said song. If we're talking pop, I think we all know that Edd Sheeran, Charlie Pueth, and countless full bands write and play their own music. But does the general public know that Lady Gaga doesn't just dance and sing, but writes all her own songs on piano within about a 5 min span each? Do they know that Adele writes her music, can play multiple instruments, and actually plays the drums on at least one of her albums? Do they know that Sia was a pretty silent "pop" artist for years, also can play a few instruments, and has been writing behind the scenes for other artists and still writes for pop stars all the time? Seriously, several songs on the radio the last 10ish years have had her writing influence in them. And if you've listened to her previous work, she was not really pop to begin with. Like many women, she fell into pop because it becomes the easiest thing to do since it's marketable. So more bookers, labels, managers, etc are available for you when you play the thing that's most marketable for them. Anyhow, it's also important to add that female pop artists (although sexualized and still NOT considered musicians in my personal experience) tend to have THE hardest vocals for female singers to emulate. They are recording artists, and typically lip sync or at least have a lot of backing tracks due to the intensity of their live shows. So over the years they vocals just keep getting more and more technical, intricate, and complicated. Way harder to duplicate, even for themselves......lol. On the contrary, rock an metal music doesn't really cater to female vocals. So it's touch to find vocals to strive for within a female range while also challenging oneself vocally. Basically, if us female vocalists want to do metal or hard rock or prog rock/metal covers.... we most likely have to transpose cords into higher tunings, but that kind of defeats the purpose and makes it not really metal. 🤣🤣🤣 So basically, not only do we have to put up with the bull shit of proving our worth in the scene, but if we want in on the actual music and performance part of it all, we have a challenge ahead that has several nuances that you probably wouldn't think of unless you're a female in this space. Not saying there aren't any pioneers at all, or any women to look up to..... just that it's a lot less comparatively. So like you mentioned how you think some people may say they like bands with females or people of color in them just to seem more likeable or "PC"..... it's also totally possible that some of us are just looking for some representation, inspiration, and just down right a sign from above that is even possible, period. 😉 P.S....... if ya'll don't love Spirit Box, you're not my friend!!! 🤣🤣🤣 Easily blew away my expectations live this last year as well. Definitely out did Avatar who headlined on the same stage later that night..... and I'm not the only one to say so. Courtney fucking kills it!!! 🤘🤘🤘

[@winnieblue9626]

Is there really lack of female representation in Music as a whole assuming your talking about artists? For decades many of the most influential singers/artists have been women, from Aretha Franklin to Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson to Mariah Carey right up to Amy Lee, Beyonce, Gaga, Adele etc. You can see this in charting hits & awards, what not. Popular music, in America in particular is governed by whatever the trend is. Social media changed the way music charts & is consumed. Culturally America is just trash to be honest. One thing I will say one of my favorite singers of all time is Floor Jansen, lead singer of Nightwish not because I want to be trendy or it's PC but because she's one of the most incredible singers I've ever heard. Europe is a treasure trove of female fronted metal bands. When of first heard these bands, I was blown away by how they merge classical music, operatic vocals, sometimes dramatic tones in voices to tell stories and weave it into metal, the fact that Epica recorded their entire album live with the Prague Symphony Orchestra, complete male, female & children's live choirs & not a single instrument was electronic is insane, or when I saw Nightwish - Ghost Love Score Live At The Wacken 2013 with Floor delivering a siren esc performance for the ages, I was stunned at my age I had discovered a new style of music because I thought I had just about heard it all. I felt like a teenager again. The only barricades you have are the ones you put up for yourself. Stop giving a shit about what you perceive other people will think about you & make the music you love, aggressively with no regrets. This a common thing now, to almost talk your way out pursuing a dream because of a few critical people who may not get it at first or your own insecurities about how you're perceived. Just be you, work hard, enjoy the music, don't afraid to experiment, sometimes fail & everything will come to you.

[@MrsBoogie002]

@Winnie Blue Very valid points and thank you for your input and feedback! I think you're totally right about not worrying about it and just going out and doing what you love. I do think there are fewer female singers and musicians under the umbrella of Rock and Metal Genres as a whole, but that doesn't mean there aren't great examples and some great representation. Females looking to start out very early on by mimicking their favorite singers may just have to dig harder to find female vocals that sound similar enough to their own vocals that they can reproduce those sounds (or at least know that it's possible). It's out there though, and it's only getting better and better. To clarify my original comment a bit, I should have highlighted the general lack of women within the rock and metal space..... not just the musicians/performers. So band management, stage management, roadies, instrument techs, sound techs, promoters, marketing agencies, bookers, labels, sound and studio engineers, producers, photographers, venue owners, festival owners, show coordinators, bouncers, merchandise art and production, etc etc etc. In my personal experience, most of these people happen to be men. Sometimes that's great, but sometimes it can breed a certain type of hostile environment when you're basically one of or the only woman in the room. Every time. For every event. It can sometimes be an overall atmosphere that ends up being pretty anti woman. It can be more than just not welcoming. I've seen some people be downright exclusive, toxic, rude, even violent. I've had band mates have to stick up for me several times. Could just be drunk patrons getting lippy. Or it may be actual professional/business partners that we end up parting ways with because they can't understand why men would willingly choose to have a woman around working in or for their band. So as much as I'd love to chalk it all up to the fact that there are some female musicians out there to look up to....I just know that they've likely all had to put up with a lot of shit to get where they are. And I'd love to see a day where we ALL have to put up with a ton of shit because it's a hard business, and we are being pushed to be our best, and not because we have a certain anatomy between our legs or are presumed to be incapable based on nothing at all to do with our talent or credentials. Hope that makes sense. 😉 End of the day, it is all what we make it. I just simply appreciate some guys bringing a bit of awareness to things that don't necessarily effect them directly. I think it's cool they're acknowledging that these issues do exist.

[@winnieblue9626]

@@MrsBoogie002 Broadly speaking, I think young girls tend to gravitate towards whatever is popular as fans or artists. The music charts tend to be reflection of there tastes in music. Whereas metal/rock for whatever reason, seems to attract boys both as fans & artists. That's not to say there aren't outliers but for the sake of the conservation it's easier to speak more broadly. The one commonality both genders share is the brutality of the industry as a whole on everyone who is trying to do what they love, whether it's Floor Jansen or Korn. I'm not saying there aren't unique issues for women, I guess I'm saying is you have careful in a sense that you don't become your own worst enemy & start to think It's hopeless because of male fans or just men in general. The current culture kind of builds extra mental barriers that can hinder you. I'm a song-writer who has been looking for a female singer for quite a while, I've briefly worked with a few & I always say to anyone I work with you can have the talent but you also have to have a beast mentally, work hard & practice hard like an athlete, think of Ronaldo who didn't become one of the greatest purely because he was handed his position he trained nonstop & worked his ass off at his craft to be the best against all challengers. Fuck all excuses & imaginary boogie men in your mind. Create what you want with love and passion, it will draw people in your orbit because they will feel it. Of course not long after I say that, they decide they don't want to work with me, lol. Sorry if I'm annoying or preachy. Just keep your head up and do you, make whatever music you want even if you think "it's not popular" who cares? Set yourself apart from everyone else and I believe anything is possible.

[@88_TROUBLE_88]

Cant believe I actually read almost that entire novel.. Holy shit youre verbose, but I aint hatin'.. I, too, suffer from the same affliction in a vast majority of my posts that are littered throughout this medium and therefore Im gonna stay concise here for a change. Cheers!

[@RevStickleback]

Seven months late to this post, but I fully agree. Female rock bands tend to get pigeonholed into feminist/lesbian/rock chick categories, and there are loads in the fandoms who seem deeply concerned that women will 'water down' their scene, or even outright refuse to believe - especially with foreign bands, that women could start bands themselves without being industry plants. In contrast, I get a lot of my contemporary music from East Asia, where female bands in the underground scenes are so common that nobody even gives it a second thought. Part of that, in Japan in particular, is because girls at school are encouraged to play musical instruments, whereas in the west, they tend to only get pushed towards singing and dancing, because being in a touring band isn't seen as something women do. Interestingly, I had a brief online discussion with a female band from England, and they said the women in the scene were even less supportive than the men, as if they want to protect the niche they've carved out for themselves.

[@nosferatati875]

I didn’t know who tank the tech was but this interview was an amazing introduction, one of my favorite interviews yet

[@timothyshater2825]

Came across Finn and Tank 3 months ago and instantly loved both channels content. The first thing I thought after going through both channels was "wow I bet if Finn and Tank did a video together it would have so much good content and make my day" thank you both and thank you KZbin algorithm.

[@Twan-ge5qp]

As a 40 y/o black metal head that played in a crusty punk, hardcore, and metal band for years, I will say the hardcore kids were the closest to genuine and accepting. everyone was pretty cool to me mostly because I was one of the only drummers around, and drummers that can actually play are like a rare commodity lol

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Drummers are a rare treasure!

[@jordanlak4125]

@tankthetech is a good dude. Got to help RED out with merch at a winterjam fest in Ohio, and it was some of the most fun I’ve had. Was only the third, or fourth time I had done merch for bands, but definitely was a high level moment being at a huge venue. Wish I could of got to know Tank more, but from the time I got to spend around him, dudes awesome. He knows his stuff about the industry. This was a great episode. Glad to see Tank still doing the damn thing.

[@alainadavies9184]

I am so ignorant. I had no idea bands pay venues for selling their merch, thank you for enlightening me.

[@therealpsychotrader]

Man, I feel like interviews and podcasting is your calling. You're a natural at speaking to others and providing the right questions to get them to open up. Really loving this channel. It's a nice addition to the Punk Rock MBA. Thanks Finn!

[@Evy-1988]

"The metal community likes to act like it's all loving and inclusive. People need to stop pretending that it's like that, and call it out when it's not" Hear hear!!!

[@ricopaxton]

Aaaaaah - two people that just talk sense! Thx, guys, you're wonderful,

[@Napalm93]

Finn you're a really good interviewer, you seem to manage to get guests to be really open and vulnerable with you so casually by just being nonchalant

[@shadehunter]

I'm a rock and metal musician. I've played with different bands in my region for over a decade. I recently took a country gig for the last couple of months, and I am HERE TO TELL YOU: country artists party WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY harder than any rock or metal musicians ever. He speaks the facts, man.

[@josyk.1214]

I am new to this podcast, I have to admit Idk who Finn and Tank are. However, I could not stop watching, and is so interesting and insightful. On the anxiety attacks part, as I have them myself, Idk who would read this, but I dare to recommend trying looking for online therapists, due to being more affordable and get treated faster. Love people that are open to talk about things that matter! Thank you.

[@baishstop]

I loved him in the Sixth Sense

[@pancakeburglar9361]

Great talk guys, one of my favorite podcasts you’ve done Finn. I really hope the racist and toxic masculinity anti LGBTQ and anti women attitudes in the scene disappear, it really has no place. I remember when Rob Flynn called out Phil Anselmo’s racism and he and his family were getting death threats, shit is fucking embarrassing and reflects bad on the scene.

[@NPK476]

It doesn't reflect the scene at all. When rappers that say anti-sematic reflect the rap scene? Nope. Look at the gay Mayor of College Park that was arrested this week, or the gay NYC couple that was molesting and sex trafficking their adoptive son last week, does that reflect all gay people or just 3 of them?

[@wes4782]

Racism in metal is a thing. It's not a problem. The Internet metal community is not the same in real life

[@MarcusMoji]

Bang on about the metal community - unfortunately I’ve found it very elitist and ego driven. Throw in the rest of the toxicity it does need calling out. I don’t even call myself a metal fan now - I enjoy heavy music. I don’t want to be associated with it.

[@J.G.M.Jr.]

Awesome!!! See ya! 👍👋

[@xuaevorpnitsuj]

People involved in the music business don’t want to bring up the taboo political subject of economics without being ostracized by being called a Marxist. Most people who are part of the music business like musicians and artists like to identify with socially left wing politics, but never associate those same socially left-wing politics with economically left-wing politics. That’s why we all need to become more class conscious as artists and musicians, regardless of the taboo nature of studying Marxism and the capitalist mode of production versus socialist mode of production. Another taboo truth that no one really wants to talk about in music is how so many people involved in the music business are liberals who identify with left-wing politics and promote LGBTQ plus politics, but never want to bring up the economic issues usually because the LGBTQ plus politics are a distraction from the economic issues that we face living in the capitalist mode of production

[@bakedboarder34]

Still some of the most insightful, relevant, and relatable insight on the music industry and scene. There’s an electronic artist “moog” who also runs the yt channel MIGHTY CAR MODS. He’s had some incredibly on point with his insight into musician compensation, a chat with you two live would he fascinating.

[@jkrillz6571]

a Moog X over with Tank and or Finn... I'd lose my mind and it would be such a good chat!

[@7Kithara]

I really appreciate what you do, Finn. I watch all the videos all the way through whether I like the subject matter or not. I thumbs up the videos. Not just for you but all my favorite youtubers. I want to see yall succeed. Which ensures I get to keep enjoying the content. So I don't understand all the hate and constant complaints in the comments. Anyways, thanks Finn.

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Thank you!

[@konik007konik]

Well, to outweight any possible negative comments, I just wanna say that I really enjoy both of you and your channels and this was a great and insightful talk. It kinda boggles me how people act on the internet (and real life) and I have only ever experienced it as a "witness", not someone who was actually being attacked... people are just weird. Best of luck!

[@joegil8955]

The first time ive seen when you have interviewed someone; incredible interview. You actually let the person talk, and asked the right question at the right time and let them fully express their thought. Excellent active listening skills. Well done!

[@scottmcgregor4829]

Honestly, I think that the Japanese hardrock/metal, punk scenes are the most inclusive, much more than the west.

[@fv1005]

Shit got real about racism in metal... Sad but true

[@tazmon122]

working in venues for a while A LOT of what this dude said is what i've been saying and per usual being a rando anonymous youtube commenter who just rants in comments sections not many really listen. there's a lot of stuff i want to comment or expand upon...but it's not really worth it. this was good interview. good job Finn, thanks Tank for being so open and being a great guest.

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Thank you!

[@2LaMort]

I care about what you have to say! I could go on and on myself after almost 20 years in this industry….

[@redrobbo1896]

KITTIE!!!!! First concert ever, the Trocadero in Philly 2004. 11 years old. Kittie had top billing with 36 crazy fists and 12 Tribes. One of my best memories ever. I never even thought to look at Kittie different because they were women. All I knew is their music was killer and they were all smoking hot to a 11 year old boy. Great to hear them mentioned.

[@ShankDrums]

so many great points covered here. absolutely top notch interview.

[@cosmicsea666]

This was fantastic. I actually did merch for Life Of Agony in 94 on the tour they did with Carcass. All venues took a percentage from sales at the end of the night.

[@AdamDee18]

Morning Mr. Finn, It really is unfortunate that you and Mr. Tank get so much negativity on social media. On KZbin. For what it's worth I've always enjoyed your videos, your content, your point of view when it comes to business, music, and life. You've always had a unique perspective on these things and I've always enjoyed hearing your take. I'm sorry you get so much negativity and it messes with you. I still don't remember when I found your channel but I know it's been at least 4 years that I've been watching/listening to your content. I just wanted to send some love to your way to help counter the negative vibes those people keep dishing out to you. Like I've said before you've made a fan in Minnesota for life and I hope some day my band can get some level of success so you and I can have a conversation. Keep up the great work bud, don't listen to those people. You're doing awesome. Whatever direction you want to take your life in you'll have support🤜🤛

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Thank you!

[@AdamDee18]

@@FinnMckentyPRMBA you're welcome

[@31TV_TX]

Finn, you talk about racism and sexism in metal pretty frequently, can you make a video about Racism, Sexism, and Homophobia in rap and hip-hop? I think it's as bad or worse in that genre...

[@FinnMckentyPRMBA]

Why would i do that?

[@31TV_TX]

@Finn Mckenty lol, well you certainly don't have to...

[@shadowrealmentertainment666]

@@31TV_TX he’s biased. He has a personal grudge with metal for some odd reason. 😂

[@31TV_TX]

@@shadowrealmentertainment666 that certainly seems to be the case... lol

[@oopsydaizi3s824]

Oh the classic deflection tactics

[@Nu_C-Jay]

I love Nu Metal for being the most diverse Metal genre that brought in a lot of different type of people. I don't understand why metal heads hate that Nu Metal brought influence from rap and hiphop! I always got to hear comments about it and they call you Wigger and that Metal needs to be pure and always felt some sort of elitism, which I haven't felt too much in Rap that's more receptive.

[@jimlynch5776]

Shame you all have to put up with all the insults and negative comments. Your providing a product/service for our entertainment. When I don't find something in a store that I'm in I don't walk up to the owner and start trashing the owner. Try not let it get you, some people are constantly looking for something to hate on.

[@Daniel-wj7fo]

Thank you both for talking about the mental health toll of producing content. I’m sorry to hear it’s impact on you but I left the newspaper industry after 28 years because the focus on page views and subscription starts related to my stories not only drained the joy from the work but sent me into a high functioning depression. I tried everything to battle it but was living a joyless life. Therapy helped to an extent but ultimately I had to quit and go on an antidepressant to unlock the person I was years ago. I feel for you both and sincerely hope you both find ways to effectively heal the anxiety and mental symptoms.

[@TERMINATOR101-b8j]

I feel your pain, man. MATG is an acronym for my defunct metal webzine. It got too big, too fast, and became a stressful chore than fun. Even talking with my favorite bands became a task.

[@jeffhermes1139]

I think this is a good time to say that there are a lot of people who really appreciate what you guys are doing. You put a smile on the faces of so many people every day. Just remember that :) I love both of you guys' content and although I don't know you guys personally, I wouldn't hesitate inviting you over for a BBQ ;)

[@redfurydubstep]

Duuuude no way! Love that Tank got on the show this is awesome

[@Canuck1000]

I have been listening to metal since about 1981 and we had no problem listening to female fronted band (or all female bands), such as The Plamastics, Schoolgirls, Lee Aaron, Warlock, Acid and Holy Moses. It was all cool. However, I am sure there still bigoted metal heads out there.

[@nikelodeon6852]

Where are these "racist" comments when Tosin abasi Or Tony mcalpine get brought up. Along with sevendust if you're a talented musician and make good music the general fans won't care.

[@blatterslovechild]

Great honest discussion between two of my favourite KZbinrs. All the best to you both, lads

[@Carina_d3a]

I have never heard of Tank the Tech before and I honestly just started watching your videos a couple weeks ago, but I gotta say I love your videos, especially on metal as well as the things you grew up with, because they're the same things I grew up with. It's great to see similar & different pov's & opinions. I don't normally watch these types of channels; Usually just music and game videos.

[@shawnhagerich2559]

I find it funny (now, that is, as I used to be like this myself) that fans of a genre tend to have no room for expansion, but the people that play the music of said genre tend to love all music. Obviously, there are exceptions, but I think back to, like, Cliff Burton looking forward to a new R.E.M. album, or Neil Fallon and the boys getting down on the blues. But then your example of Lizzo and Rammstein. Why can't Lizzo like Rammstein? Makes no sense. Coming up in the 90's, I feel, changed things too, for a while anyway. Bands like Rage Against the Machine and Anthrax with Public Enemy, and albums like the Judgement Night soundtrack built a bridge for the more heavily minded to set foot on foreign lands. Seems things have a way of settling though. Its music, its all music. It is meant to be an expression, to invoke feelings. Just because on particular piece does nothing for one person doesn't mean the same for someone else. And more to the point, there is nothing wrong with that!! Anyway, rant over, haha!

[@SerhiiKorepanov]

Thank you, Finn and Tank, for your dialog! These are very important subjects you’ve been talking about!

[@fircej]

The specific topic on dime at NAMM was something I’ve always wanted to see how others responded. Thank for sharing that Finn, that shit is a real tough pill to swallow.

[@Hector-Rodriguez-Figueroa]

this was an spectacular interview, very deep, very real, I relate with every word you said about the metal community

[@juleslouiset58]

I usually don't like podcast but this discussion was very interesting and entertaining

[@BigBuffalo76]

Also, I’d like to say this video is awesome. It has two of my favorite people in it. Great to see you guys working together.

[@The_Unborn_Soul]

For 15 years, I was a Concessions Manager for major league stadiums & arenas across the US. I was the guy setting alcohol prices in concessions. Fun fact: within one hour of gates being open in an 18,000-person soccer stadium for Motley Crue to play made us over $400k. By the end of the night, Concessions cracked $1.5mil. Unfortunately, most of these arenas are run by NBA & NHL teams (or MLS), so the idea of giving away money instead of just not collecting commission on retail just wouldn’t fly. They’d probably more likely create a policy that forces a markup on merch prices that the arena could take. Awesome interview. 🤘🏻

[@XBaseballBarbieX]

I thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Going back to the discussion about working for artists in other genres, one of my favorite bands to work with was Pop Evil. Their music def not in my q zone, but they were the nicest people, and valued other peoples thoughts and opinions on things. I would hands down work with them again and wish them the best.

[@VictorAlicea]

I was a merch guy for years and have negotiated a lot of contracts. Some bands kept a hundred percent of merch it was non-negotiable and other bands 20 + percent depending on the venue. If you're doing huge tours stadiums etc more than likely you're going to have a merchandising manager through Global.

[@Necropheliac]

In my opinion, instead of selling merch, bands should give $10 gift codes to redeem toward making a purchase on their website, and use that to get people to register their email and the possibility of future marketing potential and messaging for the next time that band is doing something in that persons locale. That would exclude the possibility that Venus could get a piece of their sales, and also put their fans into the marketing pipeline.

[@robowop9354]

Is it just me or does Tank look like Haley Joel Osment?

[@smelltheglove2038]

Well now that you said it….

[@TankTheTech]

Nah, not just you. Been hearing it for a while now. Haha

[@robowop9354]

@@TankTheTech we all look like someone lol 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@loganpeters7543]

Definitely not just you.

[@roywall8169]

Loved the convo.

[@DavidWilkinsDaVo]

The reason merch fees are there in the first place is as a bargaining point. Time and time again when haggling over the guarantee or hospitality budget, dropping the merch fee or having it increased was given by the agent as and option for adjustment of the guarantee or backend split. The other thing is often not considered especially with an independent promoter is that they are taking on all the finical responsibility of the show for maybe 5-10% of the gross or 10-15% of the backend which really isn't much at all. I remember doing sell out shows that didn't hit backend until $8000 and walking out with only $200. That putting up $8000 to make $200. Getting a piece of the merch often means the show breaking even.

[@Caring570]

Red sounds like a band that’s fun to be around because the guys are very talented, they seem very down to earth, they don’t seem like the religious ones that make you hear a quote from the bible despite you not feeling comfortable with it and while somethings can always be awkward but I can’t imagine it getting bad with them

[@jessecovey1778]

Breaks my heart that Dime dropped the N-bomb. Shittt…

[@nikelodeon6852]

Oh no what a calamity... 😢

[@ryanshinermusic]

43:33 Rap is a lot more openly bigoted than any other genre aside from maybe country, especially towards LGBT groups and Asian groups. People tend to get the wrong impression that it’s a “woke” genre just because most people in rap scenes call out police brutality and understand it exists. I had to leave the rap groups I was in on Facebook because I didn’t want to be associated with it. There’s a lot of younger people who surprisingly throw fits about Lil Nas X existing or Kid Cudi wearing clothes or what have you.

[@blackdragon6]

The Asian thing stems from the Latasha Harlins situation. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killing_of_Latasha_Harlins

[@jamesblair5971]

I promoted 700-1000 capacity club depending on configuration back in 2007. We did almost exclusively Texas/Red Dirt Country artists with the occasional classic rock or classic country artist in the mix. We never charged a merchandise percentage. It was not in the contracts either. With a couple of big drawing Texas Country artists we did paid meet and greets with a split and offered a percentage of the bar over a agreed upon amount. It worked depending on the artist. I couldn’t make enough consistent money to stay in promotions but I don’t think a merchandise percentage would have been a difference maker.

[@AndrewJShirley]

I liked Tank's videos before, but this is frigging awesome and I really will be making more of an effort to watch more of his stuff too. Great interview.

[@NonDiegeticYT]

Tank is spot on about how non-inclusive metal fans can be.

[@alexscheuerman8899]

Yall need to do this more often! Both yall have so much insight and knowledge of music its insane. Oh and Finn...if i ever was a prick my bad. Even though i dont agree with everything you say i do love you takes on everything

[@nickmaatjes5611]

fantastic conversation, loved the topics and agree with your perspectives on the several important issues concerning the metal community/subculture . please take good care of yourselves,we need people like you!!!!

[@luke.6952]

Love this one, Tank is a cool guy

[@zekeooo2]

man this a great episode just like the "why I make fun of metalheads" episode, especially when he talked about the musician ship with the country/pop crowd and how versatile they needed to be. I heard a comment about it once but didn't know it was a full blown thing. i've lately been trying to find more non heavy music shows to check out because i've been going to shows for 10 years now and only 1 of those shows was non heavy and that was the devil makes three and that band CRUSHED it! they put on a more energetic show than some metal bands i've seen live and the crowd interaction/ music was so infectious! i'm going to have to check out tank's content as well.

[@3Torts]

You've only listened to metal?

[@zekeooo2]

@@3Torts nope ive always listened to other types of music, just never ended up finding non rock/metal/hardcore shows to check out. Besides the devil makes three that was it. However times change and I've been searching ever since

[@arniella089]

First time I check out one of your interviews and I loved it. The title pulled me in and the conversation kept me hooked. Great job from both of you. Thanks for the content!

[@wilsontang8995]

Great interview with Tank! 👍

[@Nathan_94]

2 of my favorite guys on KZbin.

[@shockt9610]

The live music industry has become so corporate with livenation owning all the venues that it's nearly impossible to get rid of these merch fees now. We need to do all we can to support independent venues. That's the key. Creating a parallel market.

[@bradsmithstudios8881]

This was a fantastic and fascinating interview. You both are top notch creators.

[@SchecterPlyr88]

I like how the overall consensus is that it's okay for artists to get taken advantage of... It's probably now becoming a thing to complain, because more and more artists are realizing they're getting fucked over. The majority of them probably were just happy for the exposure, but then people grow up and learn... It's not okay.

[@alex86devapath]

As someone that started getting anxiety attack out of nowhere where I rushed a few times to ER thinking it was something serious I cannot state how much they sucks! I also used always check my heart rate on my I watch and also checked my BP daily. For me working in healthcare definitely made me a little hypochondriac. But, After a few years I was able to it under control after making some life adjustments .(bigger one was cutting down coffe I take. At one point I was drinking almost 50 oz of coffe daily)

[@therightsideofhell]

in my country we rarely get all ages shows because the venues want to somewhat secure the bar sales. i completely understand it but it was a real pain in the ass growing up :D

[@kode-man23]

Such a good interview. Thank you for doing this guys. Basically everything that you guys talked about was something that the metal community needs to hear. Also, Finn, your call if you want to take this as a compliment or not: I disagree with about 80% of your takes, but you’re great and I am compelled to watch almost everything that you make. The personality and the polish override my own silly opinions.

[@Tamajyn]

The dehumanization of youtubers is such a good point. It's happened to celebrities forever and we've kinda become desensitized to it but it's rough. People can be really fucking cruel and there's a bit of a disconnect online where people feel like it's somehow justified. I'm openly trans and i've had some horrific shit said to me which almost made me wanna quit my short youtube career and has honestly held me back from doing other things like streaming Anyway #NotAnAd lol just nice to hear you guys acknowledge it, it's tough lol