WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO QUIT MUSIC?

Hey Guys!
When is the right time to quit music?
I would love to know your thoughts below!
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Hey! I'm Damian Keyes and I've worked with musicians every day of my life for the past 20 years. When I was 18, I was signed to a major label and at 23 I founded the world's largest set of music colleges, currently valued at $100m.
As a bassist, I've played on stage for artists such as Eric Clapton, Alanis Morrisette and Billy Cobham. I also own a management company and live agency, undertaking over 10,000 gigs a year.
On a fun side note, I've also previously broken two Guinness World Records (whilst at BIMM), one for the highest number of guitar pedals used in a sound and one for the largest guitar rig ever built!
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[@eerokkitube]

Age of 27🤣 lol Im 37 and we started this band a year ago, im not gonna stop, I love this

[@woabeatz9717]

I make guitar catchy licks......

[@crowdkillproductions.]

Im also 37 and still playing lol

[@AVEAband]

Don't let the flame die out!

[@therevolution91]

Nicholas Rhamey I am 36. And I still play with myself, Nicholas. 😂

[@DodaGarcia]

I played music on and off for ten years and only now at 34 I was able to fully focus and things started happening.

[@drmvlv]

I once played in a Battle of the Bands competition with literally 0 people in the audience. :')

[@drmvlv]

@Spanish Moustache Well that's a perfect way to turn it around! How nice!

[@therevolution91]

I guess we also played in Battle of the Bands. You must be a pro or a genius to win there.

[@drmvlv]

@@therevolution91 Yea I honestly thought it was very weird to compete in music !

[@AtticusStount]

That's a natural episode in gigging we all experience

[@theneonchimpchannel9095]

You can quit a band, you can quit on a contract, but you can not quit music. If music is inside you, you need to keep making music or else you will be miserable. Even if you just play around the house, you can never fully give it up completely. Also, 10 years is nothing, 27 is still young. I'll be 36 next week and I've been playing music for over 20 years. I may not have money, I may not have many fans, but this is who I am. I can't not do this. There's time when I don't do it as much or as often, but it's always there. The more I go off and do other things, the more I find myself thinking about music and wanting to work on music. My band is about to release our 4th album but I've already got the next 2 planned out in my head, not in great detail, I've not written the songs yet, but I have an idea of what the albums will be like. As for funny stories from my music career, I was actually just telling this one elsewhere. It was the day that I realized that it probably wasn't going to work out with another band member. He'd spent all this money having this rehearsal room built in his backyard, sound proofed and everything. It was really cool. So I thought that this meant he was committed to his music. About 2 or 3 rehearsal sessions in to working at this new place, his football team happened to have a match on the same night. We were rehearsing and then he said "I'm just going to check the scores", so the rest of us carried on without him for a while. We didn't see him again for 3 hours. He got distracted, sat and watched the entire football match with a few drinks (and possibly some other substances). That version of the band fell apart soon after.

[@hadleymanmusic]

Haters block and make it highly miserable

[@AnthonySforza]

Ohhhh no shit. Had a friend of mine who was in another band when I lived in the same city as him. I moved back to where I was from and he eventually left the band. Then he and I got to talking and did the whole "We should be in a band" thing. I moved all the way back across the country to do this. He had a studio setup in his house and he'd been playing since he was a little kid, so I thought he was serious. Ho-ly SHIT was I wrong. Dude was like a wheelbarrow, I'd have to pick him up to try to move him forward in any way, yet when I'd think he finally had momentum, he'd just drop down and dig his heels in. Due to us having been friends, I gave him WAY more time than I should have. I'm pretty sure whatever anyone reading this is thinking, it was at least double that. We never even put two notes together. Let alone jamming or anything else beyond that. I only saw him 8 times the entire time I was back in that city... Two of the times were back to back, not sure if that makes it better or worse, though. There was a point that despite being THAT guy in any circle of people who was always dating and going out with girls and such... I locked myself in my apartment for three months to focus on writing songs and such. This guy however, had zero time for any of that (Despite working the standard 40 hours a week) yet was always hitting me up about his dating woes. Like one time, I was in between jobs for a couple weeks and he actually dropped on me "I feel like you're not understanding the time issue because you don't have a job." Fucking kidding me? Yea, let's totally ignore that when I had a job which was 9hrs/6 days a week AND going to school full time, I was STILL on his ass about it. Basically, there are guys who would rather SAY they're in a band than to actually be in one, regardless of how much they have. One should just do their best to not get sucked up in their jerkoffery.

[@robofjohnson3953]

Love this!! Am 31 and in the same mind frame, great advice, you can't quit music, I tried 😂😂 this year I said no music and still ended up gigging, writing and networking 😂😂 but during the process of actively "quiting" music i completely changed my expectations and now can't wait to get back on it 🎵🎶🚀💜💜

[@robofjohnson3953]

Good luck with the next couple albums matey and pop a link in here if you wana share your stuff 💜

[@peterpumpkineaterrr]

Drop a link let me hear what u got

[@xxnonstopdancingxx]

I think it is telling that the person asking the question is 27 years old. This period in life is tough for people with dreams. As you approach 30 it is pretty normal to feel that you need to grow up and do what everyone else does. Get a career, save for a house, pay into a pension, don’t die. Those that got on with it at 20 years old are ahead of the curve compared to you and they are everywhere. I was around that age when I realised that I wasn’t going to play football at a higher level than I’d already played. It was tough. I decided to give it up and not play again. I was at work one Monday morning not long after and speaking to a carpenter who was a bit older than me. He he asked what else I did and I told him that used to play football and blah blah blah. His response changed my view and I started playing again that weekend. He told me that this was my trade. It was me. It was what I had spent my life working on. Why would I throw that away. Why wouldn’t I now relax and enjoy what I had learned and go back to playing without limits. Which is what I did. And I still play to this day 17 years later... And like all the England players since that day, I too have never won a World Cup.

[@eddykohlmann471]

A lot of famous musicians died at 27

[@MikeConde]

Force yourself to quit for a month. If it sticks and you enjoy not being in it anymore it wont feel like you quit. But if it keeps showing itself to you again and again youll know. Live honestly, write boldly and accept gracefully.

[@Davidov1967]

My story is only just beginning. Never ever ever ever ever give up your dreams. It will tear you apart. Take a break and come back fighting. 😎❤️

[@alanlazcano1935]

Once, while we’re playing an intoxicating homeless grabs the mic and starts singing Clint Eastwood, I didn’t knew what to do so I started playing the song and my band mates followed. We played like a minute until the security from the gig take him out the stage. The funniest thing is that he knew the all rap part and the crowd kinda like it.

[@JuanRamirez-di9bl]

Was like the 5th gig 15 yrs ago, drove for about 2 hours in a van to play in a bar close to the beach, we were the first band to play and the place was crowded! Like 30 people ha! Started playing, everyone banging heads, then pum! A broken string! I was so nervous I could not finish the set, so we skipped until the end to keep playing, everyone was gone, a couple of guys came by at the end to cheer us up. We were hungry, no money, but like 3 pieces of cheese in an empty freezer, drove back and the van broke up 😆 the alternator stoped working, we were in the middle of nowhere in the night, no lights, well actually! Dimmed lights, we were driving very slow, a family vehicle passed us by, they had mallets on the top, so we followed them cause their back lights were the only source of light we had that night. We could barely see them far away stoping, we were driving like at 15 miles per hour and could barely see a meter away, did not noticed when suddenly a big mallet laying on the ground! We stepped over it and a bunch of clothes went flying around! The family vehicle was backing up to pick their stuff up, so we decided to drove even slower to help them, but then our van definitely broke down!! We had to park under a bridge for the rest of the night, the family vehicle passed by but did not stop to help us, and we ended up eating american cheese for dinner until help arrived in the morning! It was fun 😆!

[@user-xu6wd5cl4s]

That sound like a night to remember! I would do anything to have another gig

[@Featherfallmusic]

Music Producer here. I don't really work a lot with different people but about a year ago, I got a bit more serious about music. While searching through some Instagram posts to look for good hashtags, I randomly came over the #collab. I liked the video and because of that hashtag I just randomly asked if the person wanted to collab with me. Was incredibly nice and I got closer to her through that. Turns out she was suicidal and I basically "saved" her from killing herself about 5 weeks after we first wrote with each other. We made a ton of different stuff together, barely put out anything but we both greatly improved (especially I improved because she's been making that for like 6 years longer than me). I was able to help her a lot, she's basically my mentor by now and though she is still depressed due to a ton of facts that I don't all wanna write down here, I was able to help her a lot with life in general. Sorry not too funny or so but there isn't too much funny stuff I had whilst creating music. Production always feels super great though, it's not comparable to anything else.

[@mh6734]

Amazing!!!

[@ruiseartalcorn]

I started in the music industry when I popped out of my piano playing mother's womb in 1958 whilst my drummer father was panicking, as all fathers do ;) On my first birthday, my father gave me a drum and a pair of sticks, in the hope that I would become a drummer (I kind of did). At age 4 my grandmother tried to teach me the piano (as she'd forced my mother to learn) but I could never get past the basics. A couple of years later my grandparents took a holiday in Spain and came back with a Spanish acoustic guitar which changed my life! At age 12 I joined my first band and at 14 I had my first professional gig! That was it! I was on my way to fame and fortune!!! ;) Then... more gigs... and more years... and more gigs.. and more years... etc! Hmmm... At some point (I think in my late 20s) I wondered if I was ever going to "make it"! I kept going, and going, and going, and somewhere in my 40s I realised something... I AM successful! I'm writing songs and playing music and getting better at it every day! This IS my life!!! I''m now 60! Should I quit because "blah, blah, blah,"??? I've been doing this stuff ALL my life and will NEVER stop! Time for me to quit? FUCK OFF!!!

[@VicesquadCoUk]

Ruiseart Alcorn FUCKING AWESOME..... respect ✊😊 x

[@eerokkitube]

I read: you came out of piano, playing our mothers womb🤣

[@ruiseartalcorn]

@@eerokkitube Errr... no, not really ;)

[@pseudosun]

agree with poster below , 27?! ha ha. Not old enough to write a blues song. Damian, I found out long ago that the only way to enjoy music is to NOT have the financial pressure, even though i would love nothing more than waking up, staying home, making music and digging through old tapes. I do it in increments, and try to create more time for it. It may not be the same for everyone.

[@russellburnham298]

The placement of that jazz bass is making me tense.

[@JulesFox]

Sir Blue Footed Booby completely agree.

[@sophiegibsonmusic]

Once at a performance I went to sit down and missed the chair completely, ended up falling over and swearing really loudly into the microphone right when there was a moment of silence.. that was a yikes. Another time I totally forgot to bring my microphone to a gig and 10 minutes before I had to start I went to a friends house to borrow hers. I wasn’t late and it worked out in the end 😅 love those little memories

[@narcoticstate2127]

When I was 30 I was in a similar position, I'd pushed myself to record an album and worked on it for a few years, when things didn't take off I was left wondering whether that was it for me with music, but I took a break from it and discovered that even though I was no longer fixated on making a career out of it I couldn't let go of music because it was my primary creative outlet and without somewhere to put my creativity I turned that energy inward and became self-destructive... long story short I now make music as my hobby - I have no expectations at all from it and I'm enjoying it more than ever before, and that was down to doing it purely as a form of self-expression, experimentation and creativity and not as a potential source of income.

[@user-fn6hk2wx7d]

Everyone, who really makes music cannot do otherwise. Point is, to survive while you go on. And that mean,- in order to continue making music one should become independent from income from music-making. Fame or money can come , or not. Moral satisfaction is best achievement .

[@TheFeelButton]

Before I was a musician I was a pitchman working Costco and I would sing between pitches for passers bys. Once in a while someone would say "don't quit your day job!" I'd smile and say "this is my day job!!" 🕺😃 Cheers Damo! 🐒

[@ryanreach3710]

I'm a hip hop artist and rap/produce/mix my own stuff in my apartment. Did my first open mic at a place that was supposedly catering to rap for a night. It was a small hipster hole in the wall. In the audience I saw clients from my professional job, ironic because I wanted to keep my music career on the DL. I did a few songs, 808s shaking this small venue. On top of that I'm in a foreign country and no one really understood the bars I was laying down. The energy felt so unrecipricated as I sweated and sacrificed my local reputation to people staring at me blank faced. After, some guy got up and spoke dirty poetry about his past love. It was surreal but fun. Funny when I look back on it. Thanks Damian, I've been releasing stuff for the past couple of years and been a bit frustrated, I think focusing on the journey and celebrating these moments not only brings us back to why we're doing it, but it also brings out our rawest forms to live our crazy dream just a little bit bitter and make better music and not gaf expectations from ourselves or others.

[@sody2000]

If you are passionate about music then keep doing it. If you are not passionate, or if your interests have changed then quit. It does not have to be permanent either. Quit music for one year and see if you miss it. 27 is very young. Sheryl Crowe broke with "All You Wanna Do" when she was 32 years old.

[@jocquezs.turner6508]

Man! To the guy who wrote that: I was at a crossroads in college after landing on academic probation about whether to dropout and pursue music or put it on the back-burner and finish school. I chose to finish school & I’ve got the debt to show for it. It was a challenge dragging myself out of bed everyday for something I wasn’t passionate about. But at some point, I met some cool ppl. Developed my identity outside of just being a musician and made some priceless memories, experiences & relationship. I never stopped making music altogether. I just wasn’t pressed about pursuing a career. I was able to grow as a musician w/o the pressure of “making it”. Became better at producing & mixing (I started out just rapping). Once I graduated I realized I had the skillset to make my own music and when I dig deep, I knew my passion for making art that moves ppl was powerful enough to pull me thru any obstacles I might face along the way. I’m in the phase that’s supposed to be “not-so glamorous” but I tell you those relationships & memories I made carry me thru. Those ppl support me & think back to the times we had. That on top of my talent draws ppl in & allows me to effect in ways others can’t. I challenge you to enjoy the journey bc honestly, it’s all we’ve got! And there will always be one. I’m 26 btw! So I understand that approaching 30 pressure. Enjoy the process. Think of ways to build a personal brand around your personality and let the music be the cherry on top. If ppl like you, if u make them feel valuable. If u journey thru life with them, they’ll support most anything positive u do with your life. Much love, I hope it helps!

[@jocquezs.turner6508]

Spanish Moustache that’s real too. Time management & manageable goals

[@aarongoldstein7648]

Every time I see one of my students drinking la croix I tell this story: My band invited a solo artist on our second tour. We were touring in my 2014 ford focus and the tour was only a weekender so we decided to pack light. Each member of my band brought a bag and an instrument (I literally only brought a snare,) and a tiny mech bin. We pulled up to a solo artist's house and they come out with their instrument, a GIANT pedal board and merch bin, two full backpacks, a bunch of bananas, a box of cliff bars, and a whole case of COCONUT LA CROIX. It was very cramped and miserable and the solo artist didn't shut up whenever we were in the car and bitched about every show we played. I am glad that I got to share this trainwreck of a tour with my two best friends and hope that I never tour with anyone like that again. Thanks for this video Damo. It helps a lot of us out.

[@Eleni_Be]

Haha, that Poland journey got me. Based in Austria we used to record in London, so i drove my Landrover from Vienna to London and back twice a year for 3 ys, loaded with guitars and amps and little pills to be able to drive that way non-stop. When we finally got a headline gig at the marquee club, our singer got jailed at the border the day before and then on stage two vintage tube amps went up in smoke. That was '87. I'm 58 now and never got rich but will only stop making music when death gets me.

[@chrysandmomo2078]

Our band just formed a year and a half ago and we are 24-27! As for our story, we played our first festival last summer thinking it was going to be a proper stage. It was a tiny little platform behind some bushes, and the main area was on the other side. It was 35C that day and flies and mosquitoes were landing all over our arms and faces. We were also in a rush to get there so our guitarist was eating hot toast with peanut butter on the way. The peanut butter melted and dripped all over his light blue pants 😂 Such an awful day but we played so well and had lots of fun.

[@TenHandsHigh]

Thanks for featuring our song New York Skyline in this vid Damo, much love x

[@AliJr_MetalGames_MetalGuitar]

Nice logo

[@EricSchultheiss]

On point Damien... Thanks ! I "quit" 20+ years ago to have and raise a family. It was the most painful decision to make, but I don't regret it at all as I have years of beatiful memories with my wife, 4 kids. Now that the kids are starting their independent lives I've been able to press play again, and have realized that "quitting" was an amazing thing, for now at the age of 50 I have so much more to bring to my music, and I know this go around, the dream of creating music and making a living will be happening. Thanks Sir!

[@Myles995]

My story is almost identical to yours! Now I am in 3 bands

[@puravida365travel]

I tried 2 to “make it” with two different bands between 18-28 years of age. Towards the end of that phase I was burnt out, so I went to school and got a degree in computer science. While in school I started playing in a Latin cover band. That led to paid gigs at weddings and such. Started loving playing music again. I am now 37 and recently joined a band that plays folk and rock. They have their s@&t together. A studio, RV for traveling. We play mostly original songs and some covers. Things are looking really good. My university degree has also paid off and I’m no longer strapped for cash. Now I’m able to do music again because I love it. I’m even starting o dream of “making it” big again, lol. My advice is “never quit” but change your approach instead if it doesn’t feel right. As long as you continue playing you will continue to get better as a musician and opportunities will continue to knock at your door. Thanks for the videos btw, very much appreciate the content.

[@lucygilbertson3746]

Hi mate, I am about to turn 31 and i'm in virtually the same position. Been playing since the age of 7.. Since turning 30 I have suddenly got this panicky feeling like (it actually might not happen the way i imagined). I write and produce my own songs and am at the stage where i am the best Ive ever been. However I have literally put my whole life into this and I have not got much to show for it other than some savings, some musical talent and a few followers. I have friends who are now on 6 figures and are giants in the corporate ladder and I'm still just plodding along with no experience in the (work world). So as I result I have just applied for a Data Science masters. I have not decided whether or not to do it yet as I keep zigzagging between what I should do (classic heart vs head). Literally never felt so lost. Did you ever regret moving into that job world? And did you enjoy it?

[@DrUmSensitive]

I've started when I was 12. I've had a gig or two, all unexpectedly acclaimed and people talk about them to this day, but... Usually after THAT gig, I guess because of all the hard work and accumulated negativity, every band would just split up. Then I've started buying equipment to build a studio, my lifelong dream. My partner quit with a bang after his brother killed himself, I got a brain tumor and went to work abroad. I have been kicked out of every place my studio was in. I never got to record one complete song in these 29 years of trying. I am sick as hell, now, working in a shitty hotel in the Alps just to survive, while my equipment lies in storage. Who knows how long I still have to live. Everybody, and I mean EVERYBODY tells me to quit already and sell everything. I will NEVER quit!!!! Born to lose, lived to win, died to discover!!!

[@bittercup410]

Thought I had a bit of flu the morning of a gig we were supposed to play in a city 6 hours away. Refused to cancel it because I'm super insecure about being percieved as a flaky musician avoiding a real job. Played my set almost falling over between songs and sleept during the headliner's set. The next morning I was delerious in hospital with septic shock. Got pretty harrowing at the time but now it's my manager's go-to story to flex about my dedication. stoked as.

[@TommyCullen]

Played a tiny basement gig a couple years back. It was all solo acoustic acts, then my four-piece band came on. They gave our drummer a little toy kit and the kick drum kept bashing the back of my leg, had to twist my body at an insane angle to sing as the mic was feeding back in pretty much any other position. No sound engineer either!

[@BorderRebels]

A story from many years ago. 5-piece rock’n’roll band called The SABREJETS. Arrive at working men’s club in the North East of England, go onstage. The concert chairman announces, “Ladiesangemmun! Put your hands together for a crackin’ band - THE SUFFRAGETTES!” I was about 29 when that happened. I’m 73 next month, still gigging & recording, still loving it & still learning; these videos are an inspiration...

[@ShiftyAlien]

I played a friends birthday party once. By the end of the gig, the only thing I was wearing was my guitar. I also did not know that the drummer was live streaming. Good times

[@robofjohnson3953]

😂👊👊😂😂

[@ronjcharity]

experience taught me that the people you surround yourself with, expectations and timing have a major impact on your attitude and plans. example negative non supportive types, lockdowns and closed venues and realizing the scene is different than it was 20-30 years ago.

[@arpeggiomeister]

To the young man (or woman) considering giving up. I will turn 46 in another 2 months. I don't want to say that I have been where you are, but I have been through lows where I wanted to give up altogether. It is so demoralizing to put in endless hours of practice, work, blood, sweat, and tears only to watch the whole thing fall apart... ...especially if the circumstances are completely out of your control. This has happened several times to me. Then there is the advice from friends and family. The worst is if your significant other is the one telling you should give up music and do something sensible with your life. If she tries to give me an ultimatum such as "it's either me or the guitar" my response is "my guitar doesn't have legs so I guess you should start walking". I have tried to give this up before but I can't do it. It is a part of me. Even during these times I was still playing my guitar at least 2 to 3 times a week. In my eyes that is abysmal, but for other people that is taking the instrument seriously. This video hit the nail on the head. Every time I have wanted to give up music it is because I feel like I have never received the pay off for all the hours I have put into this instrument. I have not reached my financial goals, never had fame and fortune, never got signed to record deal, etc. These are high expectations and I have fallen short at every turn. Whenever I reflect on that it makes me miserable. It is hard to find the balance. You don't want to put in all this effort for nothing. You want to be rewarded for your efforts. If you don't get those rewards it makes you miserable. You need to really think about what you expect to get out of this. Is there a feasible path to your goals? Are you willing to put in the work?

[@mxiii4980]

arpeggiomeister I’m 21 and Im freakin out. thank you for your words, man. they really hit

[@danielculeabin1043]

there return on investment of being a musician is pretty horrible - that's why most musicians have a day job which pays

[@customfittedinc]

Good words

[@RMoocher]

Well said. I'm 37, and am heading down your road. I've also had a real hard time with bands myself to the point it depresses me to look back on. Imo, just play in bands for fun. Don't take it seriously and try to really take it anywhere, because if you do, you'll only feel more disappointed.

[@avery3613]

This is exactly how it feels. Thank you. Still trying to find motivation

[@chardyworld5211]

I was at a cross road about this same subject. My band broke up back in February after our final 3 day tour. I recently joined a cover band but decided to walk away because I lost the fun from my previous band. So I decided to take a couple of months off from music only to some how have the courage to try again and try again I have so now I’m starting over in a new band which has uplifted me from this rut I was in a couple of months ago. No matter how many times I tried to move past music I need it in my life. This vid actually really helped

[@sondorp]

I ve released 2 singles this year as a 47 year old male. They don t make me any money and i don t expect them to. Back in the days when i was 27-35 i was eager on getting my band on the road. But bands are often very unstable units and the ones you see succeed are often just made up of 2 musical geniuses carrying the rest along. Think about it. Not even big bands can really have ' success' . Every one of their songs and albums is just a temporary high and all of them are afraid to ..fail. Just like any ' start-up musician' aiming for succes. So yes, enjoy the journey . Coz it s all yours.

[@hinaggik4095]

At 33, reflecting upon my “journey,” I observe that pursuing music has been less a fruitful artistic endeavor bringing humane engagement, and more a relentless quest for perfection. Every note and melody I’ve created, has been scrutinized with expectations of being ‘flawless’ - completely understandable, satisfactory, and acceptable to the listeners. Whatever songs I wrote, musical performances I gave, or activities I engaged in, they went unheard and unappreciated. Any deviation from perfection, any hint of the unconventional in music, is not just overlooked but actively scorned. This relentless pursuit of musical perfection has left me questioning the very essence of my creative expression. I’ve felt an increasing sense of isolation, not solely from engaging in music but from an unexplainable drift in my social connections. And the judgment surrounding any of my musical creations that dared to step outside the bounds of conventional perfection often made me feel as though I was the one at fault. It’s as though the music I create reflects a deeper flaw within myself. The dissonance between my love for music and the crushing weight of societal expectations has been a source of deep disillusionment. I began to question if music was ever the right path for me in this context. It felt like navigating a minefield where each step was fraught with the risk of rejection and disdain, a constant battle against the tide of cultural norms that dictate what music should be. Throughout this journey, I’ve continued to play and create out of my love for music, yet with a heart increasingly burdened by questions and doubts.

[@SeanMuirMusic]

I’ve seen hundreds of your videos Damo and this is my favourite! This did feel very considered and thoughtful. Your top three factors that hold most musicians back are pretty much my top three as well! I love my journey although it’s not always plain sailing. Over the last three years since I decided to go for it I’ve achieved a lot in my opinion especially as I don’t do it for a living. I think I’ve changed my expectations now. My goal is to be a full time musician which I still think would be incredible. I’ll keep pushing my music as much as I can but I’ve learned a lot along the way in terms of what is realistic with no budget. Ok, a funny story...I played a gig (paid) on the same night as an England match. The landlord wasn’t a football fan but put the game on the big screens above the stage I was on! Nobody was listening to me, it was really awkward but I still got paid and England won 😆⚽️

[@AaronCarrington]

When I was 18-21 I was in a band with some friends of mine called Hotel Zulu. There were 5 of us spread over three cars. On the way to a gig at The Pavillion in Leicester, I was the drummer's passenger behind our bass player's car. Our bass player in his wisdom turned into a car park that he shouldn't have but instead of going around the car park to carry on in the direction of the venue, he found his own very special shortcut. Only he underestimated the difference in height of concrete below him and completely bottomed out! He then continued to scrape the entire bottom of his car along the pavement. Many of his cables came loose and also got an oil leak for which we had to call the RAC half way through the gig. To this day, it's possibly the funniest thing anyone has ever done in their car that I've seen! 😂😂😂

[@AliJr_MetalGames_MetalGuitar]

As an antisocial 17 year old, the best show I ever put up was at a classroom during a potluck for the end of the school year. Any other time I played, no one cared except for my friends. This time, everyone was having a blast and many girls snapchatted it. The teacher asked me to play for her other classes too.

[@stubmandrel]

I never made more money than enough to cover my expenses, but I loved gigging. Then I got a demanding job, met a new partner, settled down had a daughter, bought a house. 23 years without playing a gig. In April I played live again and it was amazing.

[@lucascavalotto1258]

Well hi everyone! I love this man damian! You are a light for me. I'm one of those man that knows success! I'm not rich, or even known in my town. But i know im succesfull becouse i can have my guitar and create music that i like. I had bands and gigs and now i'm alone. I have luky if my friend(she's a mom, and married whith a friend of mine) jump in the drums and make some noise, but i'll never think in quit music, becouse like damian said that whould be a great story for me to tell. Thanks a lot for the video! And don't quit! World need musicans! 😊

[@faithamongfew]

At a BIMM ;) sheperds bush performance, Trying to climb over the barrier with guitar in hand , instead, ended up swivelling on the barrier and falling ass first to the metal flooring of said barrier, and no choice but to get on and moooove eeeet and keep that performance going!

[@pseudosun]

Someone who knew our trio had an aunt who owned a gymnastics place called "tumble time" in the 90's. We played our music, and people went over and started playing on the gym equipment, running, jumping, tumbling, swinging, and occasionally looking over at us and bobbing their head.

[@niltomega2978]

I used to LOVE playing music. Gigged for 12 years. Afterward I tried to get back, but I just don't feel it anymore. It is what it is.

[@dr.jekyllproject7172]

I was part of a 70 person orchestra and it was fun sometimes but we waited alot after other instrument sections because they were fixing stuff. So my friends and I would make jokes and have a good time even though we were waiting. I look back at those memories and think that we were disturbing but it doesn't matter now.

[@gavstar21]

I still chuckle to myself occasionally about a time on tour where the drummer from another band was spiking his mohawk backstage using a portable electric heater instead of a hair dryer, and his singer walked into the dressing room and says, "Hey man, be careful with that or you'll end up with a no-hawk!"

[@AltoKeyMusic]

Great video Damian. One story for me is recording my first EP using a bed mattress as sound proofing. I was renting in a 2 bed house so used to drag this heavy mattress from one bedroom to the other, prop it up vertically and pray that it didn't fall on me lol. It's only a little thing, but needless to say, I don't use a bed mattress any more for recording! I think part of the problem is social and online media means there's so much visibility of other people's successes. Naturally as musicians, we all want that success, so we set that as our end goal. But then it's easy to forget how hard they have worked to get to that position so get grumpy when we're not achieving those goals in a short amount of time. For me, I've found comfort in genuinely enjoying what I do, choosing to not do things I don't want to and being myself throughout the process :)

[@kennethdietz8529]

I used to be in a local contemporary jazz fusion hip hop band and we were playing at this beautiful local location out doors with the view of the river and the city behind us and we started playing just as the sun past the horizon so we had beautiful sunset lighting and mood lighting all around the area and we were playing a piece we wrote that was inspired by the tv show Hey Arnold and whenever we’d really just feel it vibe we just all kinda get in a world where we all have our stank faces on......that is until I played The Office theme and everyone broke laughing, then our guitarist turned his solo into the national anthem and our jazz concert became a patriotic moment for a second 😂

[@Lovelifeplease]

Really loving your advice in your videos. Thank you 🙏🏾

[@VincentDagenais]

Montreal Quebecer around 23-24 years old, i joint a band to play bass guitar. called 4Nocs. A year before, my heavy metal rock band (wich i've started ) kick me out because i was too deep in my studies, and not enought on my guitar... Yeah, with college they were right. But switching to this pop rock ballad band lit a spark in my head, to play music live. At that point, i was happy being a bass player in a original band, but i needed more! I didnt want to spent hours and hours polishing song on a computer every night and jams, i had the urge to play live shows! So i quit the band i was now playing bass in... a couple of month later, i unrolled in a TV series, guest what they needed bass player so much. And this started a journey identifying myself as a musician but a composer as well. Me and 3 other dudes won the Tv show, even if we didnt knew each other. the band is called Delta20, check it out. Then we decided to get an appartment and live together. And 2 years later we release our first album, and being signed with a label in 2011. I was 27 at that time... Now i'm writing songs, and i'm polishing them in front of a computer because i'm a dad now ;) Its funny how things change in time. But this journey help me forged who I am today. Maybe someday i'll play with other dudes or dudettes new songs. Who knows ;)

[@PedroAffonso8]

Two years ago, I was 16 and mas a drummer for a metal band. My first (and only until now) gig was at a bar in a near town, whose owner was somehow close to our vocalist. I asked about the condition of the drums and they said they had everything there, so didn't bother to bring my stuff (except sticks). But when I got there, the drum kit was SO screwed. I wont mention much about the quality of the equipment, but what surprised me is that they managed to use the stool as the support for the snare, and where I actually sat on the gig was in a bar stool that didin't helped at all in my drum techniques. And since it we where playing metal, it was so hard to keep the music going on. BUT INCREDIBLY THIS ISN'T THE END. We also had no return, so I couldn't hear a damn thing that my bandmates were playing. When we were playing the first song (which was Battery from Metallica) a guard showed and ordered to stop the show (and I am thankfull for that, since I didn't even knew what we were playing lol). We stopped for like, 20 minutes, and our vocalist discovered that the bar actually had two owners who had argued, and one of them was trying to boicot the event. Once we got to play, the owner of the equipment had to leave. Who saved us was my mom, who discussed a lot with the dude and we got to play one of our own songs, which was called Weekend. Fortunately there where some drunk old guys moshing that kinda lifted our spirits. Anyway, I remember of this thay as a good thing. It is kinda fun to complain about that drum kit hahaha

[@skarniofficial]

Enjoy your channel! My story: A single father, I set aside my dreams to be a musician for a couple decades. In my mid-forties, I said it's now or never and went all in. Now 9 years later, I've played over 2000 shows across Canada. I merged my two paths, as a musician, and my former career, a manager in the retirement industry, now Canada's busiest care home entertainer. I perform for the seniors as 'Jimmy's Old Time Radio Show' while working my original material as 'Skarni'. Just released my 4th studio record, 3 or originals now, 1 of classic covers. The care homes have embraced me, so my focus is there, 300 + shows a year. Not getting rich, but getting enriched. Wrote a book about entertaining seniors, awaiting a publisher. Applied to do a Ted Talk. Have several more records material to record. More material than time or money. At 53, without a retirement plan, I question myself, go back to the 'real world'? Again, it's now or never. I'm getting by, I'm surviving, but on the edge. Working, working, working, always new content, relentless networking, every day, 24/7, focused. Start my 8th major tour in two weeks, 35 shows across the Maritimes, all care homes but for one. What to do? I'd appreciate your thoughts. Search Skarni and Jimmy's Old Time Radio Show on Facebook and KZbin to learn more. Cheers.

[@keepthefaith2950]

I’ve been pondering this question for a while. I’m so glad that you’ve made a video on this subject.

[@JulesFox]

One of the best videos I've seen from you. Every word, solid. Top marks fella.

Amazing video, cheers from Portugal 🇵🇹

[@tidalwave_music]

Loved it, really needed that today.

[@nkshooter4960]

U sure know what ur talking about u can tell ur lived and experienced it, much love man needed to hear this so wise

[@thedizzyparker]

Man there’s no way you can know how much I appreciate this video. I have been very destination-obsessed for years and it’s very hard for me to have fun because chasing it has taken over my whole existence. I love every second of it but I’m not able to enjoy much in life if I’m not working on a project or doing some part of my plan to “get there.” It’s a rough life and I’m still seeking a way to relax a little along the way.

[@MarkBennett007]

Okay Grasshoppers....... I’m 70 moving on to 71 and done many things outside of music......but the music has always been there in one form or another.....and you can’t escape it.....so you could say don’t try to. Other experiences enrich you in one way or another and that’s a good thing......and yes as a young guy you need to earn a living but think of it as a game. You may look for fame an fortune but that can bring a lot of grief very often Return to what you love and just keep baking cakes till you find a good recipe you like. An untamed or unwise Ego is a killer and ruined many a potential good band. Musical manners are very important and a number of players don’t have them. Don’t let your ego let you down.,. Mature over time like a fine wine ...... it will bring deep satisfaction. Here I am starting to write and record in GarageBand and it’s just great to be able to do something on your own with out all the niggles. A good way to assemble material and then if inclined get players together. Don’t waste time with the naysayers. I still go out and have a chant with a live band from time to time. Be independent which leads to strength. If you need a break take one and meditate. Amusing story... the roady had loaded up the van but we couldn’t go cause he couldn’t find the keys..... We looked everywhere... in the end we unpacked all the gear again and there were the keys...... I’ll leave the rest to your imagination.

[@VicesquadCoUk]

It can take decades to become a truly great musician... it isn't something you pack in... you are either the real deal or not... the cream rises to the top eventually! Oh, and as for stories, of which we have three decades of absolutely killer ones... they are for our book... ✌️😂 x

[@playamaqui]

impeccable advice!

[@florianm.l.koller5167]

Hey damian, thank you so much for all your knowledge, I love your channel!!! I see myself in your videos and it totally clicks with me. Good work man! It took me 20 years to realize that I was wrong with my approach and it didn't worked out as I thought it would. But after another disappointing band split, I think it was the 6th or 7th time, I was giving up on my believes and knew that I needed to find another way of making music, my own path. I needed stop depending on the other band members so much (I'm a singer without playing an instrument) and get rid off this high expectations and lower the pressure on myself. Oh, and I also needed to learn to get my ego in check...ego problems are the main band problems in my opinion. I started to work with a vocal coach via skype and started to focus more on my instrument and my skills. By the way, it really took 20years to find the right teacher for me, but I was not ready for someone before. That I know for sure. That also was the point were I started to walk again, started to fall in love with the path and stoped dreaming of an uncertain future. This dream of being a touring musician is still in my heart but for now I just want to get better, really good and keep building my music career but without so much stress in my head. I know I will sing till the end of my days...anyway. I'm not complaining. I know what I'm doing wrong but thanks to you and others I know now how to make it better...even right. :) keep up the good work, we need you! much love from the alps, flo ps: looking forward to your new book! :)

[@EdgarBurciaga]

Great video. Thanks for sharing this, Damian. “Damian” like the Herman Hesse’s character that was looking for his destiny, for himself.

[@gideoncrowmusic2335]

Thanks for this Damian

[@time_371]

Thanks damian!

[@CloneOfDannyTV]

I’m in a pop punk band : We were playing a show at a venue and we decided to play a cover of a Jonas brothers song. And before we got to the chorus the whole venue cleared out. - we didn’t sound bad- but I was playing bass and stand on the drum riser and when I turned around it was empty. Looking back we all laugh now. I found this video because I’ve thought about hanging it up and I like the advice you’ve given. Thank you.

[@russkendrickmartin7257]

This is such valuable advice Damian! Most of us would be so much happier if we lived for the Journey instead of the Destination. The truth is the Destination is the end of the line. We're all headed for the same end. We might as well enjoy the work and the walk. I had an experience on tour a while back in a small town in Tennessee. I booked the gig well in advance. When I got there the bar owner had completely forgotten that he booked me. But he honored the agreement. As I was setting up my equipment a police officer walked in and began talking to me--Mostly small talk--weather, music & such. When the officer left, the owner accused of being a spy for the police. I assured him it was a coincidence. I began to wonder what the guy was worried about hiding from the police. I was under scrutiny from a rough-looking crowd from the start--I was convinced there was some kind of illegal activity happening there. No worries, I cut my teeth performing in some of the roughest clubs. I had dealt with tough crowds before. The best bet is to engage them right away. A little bit of humor goes along way. I had no problem pointing out how rough these people looked. They seemed happy that I noticed. Before long I had them eating out of my hand. It turned out to be a great night, and I have an open invite to play there whenever I'm back in town. It was touch and go from the beginning, but it turned out ok--and it's a good memory for me now.

[@fmarquezmusic8962]

Hey Damo! Great advice, its refreshing to watch someone who could have used this question to make a shallow pep talk video! I am 29 and started doing my own music this year after my previous band broke up. Never even considered to quit, I think that the fact that I didn´t is the answer to the question itself. GReetings from Argentina! Keep those videos coming!

[@fcardenas184]

Once our kickdrum pedal broke down mid gig... and who the hell carries a spare for a kickdrum pedal?! We were a dance act so the kick was sort of a big issue, at the end I ended up trying to slap the kick pattern on my hollowbody bass for the rest of the gig, while singing. That is the day I found out I absolutely suck at improvised multitasking.

[@judasgoat4230]

Sincere video, well played Damo, good content isn't easy to make 10/10

[@unitedstatesofpostamerica7559]

This is a great video, it reall resonates with me.

[@MB-ef6gs]

Cheers for all the video's Damo, they give us a much need wisdom and sight into a sometimes confusing industry..... Anyways i thought i would share a memory. Back in my Early 20's i was in a touring band called The Swamp Stompers over in Australia. We where on this tour in Western Australia, after a big night in which we where court via surprise from the sunrise, rather tattered drunk so we where. We showered we assembled over bacon and eggs, staring upon 3 straws shadowed via one van one imminent lunch time show. That show having followed a 4 hours of blistering sun with no air con, van trip stacked along the front like a pack of smokes.... Rough day was had but a great story and experience gained, wouldnt change it for the world.

[@harveygonzalez5827]

Thanks man, this just made my day

[@beaumcdermott8742]

Worst moment of my music career. I step onstage at The Gingerman in Dallas, Texas. It’s Blues night. The whole bar is shoulder to shoulder packed with the best blues players in all of Dallas. -I’m alright, but they call me up yo play with these guys from Brazil. “Bb minor,” one calls out. At something like 180bpm they count down, “1 2 3 ...” and begin shredding blues scales like Malmsteen was listening or something. -I take deep breaths and focus on finding the tonic as a blizzard tunnel collapses across my vision. I wake up with a circle of faces hovering over me. “How much did he have to drink?” The host asks my best friend, Luke. Luke shrugs, “He hasn’t had anything yet.” A year later my friend Luke confides, “I’ve gone and played so many stages and open mics this past year.” “That’s great, man, what changed?” He laughs, “After seeing you pass out at The Gingerman, I felt inspired.” “Really?” “Yeah. I thought, what’s the worst that can happen? Can’t be worse than you, Beau. You’ve literally done it, and you’re fucking fine!” Thanks Damian.

[@KrisCadwell]

I thought about the question, 'Where does the pressure come from?' I think some of the pressure for me comes from people like you saying that I need to market differently, create lots of non-music content, sell a brand or a community instead of the music, etc. It is when I think about and attempt those tasks that I lose the joy of making music. One book made the point that recorded music is just an advertisement for the live show, which is where the actual money is made. I've always preferred recorded music to live shows, that's what I fall in love with, and that's what I aspire to do well. I spent quite a lot of time changing my process to be live show oriented and it burned me out bad. I get the impression that I have to change my creative focus entirely in order to gain an audience and build a career. That is what depresses me. I don't mean any of this as an insult to you because you do seem to know what you are talking about. It's really me who is too limited to act on these insights, to give the audience what they want.

[@CharlieNorth]

Kris Cadwell I don’t have any answers for you, but I just wanted to say that I feel completely the same way sometimes. I guess the answer is do the bits you love. As for marketing; I heard a great quote about making content “don’t create, document”. Think more like a documentary filmmaker rather than a content creator. Anyway, just wanted to say that I agree, and it was cool to read that I wasn’t the only one who felt that way. All the best, CN

[@Yet_another_placeholder]

Despite having played guitar for almost 7 years as of a few days ago (although August 1st marks the 7th anniversary of me buying my first guitar. I borrowed one for two weeks to try it out before buying one), I have actually not played in a band as such yet. The closest things I've gotten is auditioning for some bands a few times, last time being in 2015, after which I decided to just focus my attention on being a solo-artist for now, and at some point join some of my favorite artists' bands as a touring guitarist for those. The most exciting story I have to tell, though, would have to be a month ago, when I went to see a Dark Country band that I really like (even though I currently play rock/metal covers, and write instrumental music heavily inspired by styles as diverse as Classical, 80's Rock, Japanese Pop and Traditional Japanese Folk music), I was the only person standing closer to the stage than the sound guy was. For reference, the sound-guy was about 30 meters from the stage, I was standing right in front of it, and everyone else was sitting on the grass further away. Kind of disappointing audience, but hey, I enjoyed it. At the end of the concert, they played their typical show-stopper, which also happens to be one of my favorite songs, and as always when they do that, I stood there, playing along to the song on air guitar. Because why not? So during the last part of the song, their lead-singer/rhythm guitarist took his guitar off his shoulders and handed it to me, so I could actually get to play along to the song on an actual wooden guitar. I actually thought I would have been more nervous than I was, though, but it was awesome to get to join one of my favorite bands on one of my favorite songs. There's a picture of me playing that song over on my grossly underutilized instagram-page (or right here: instagram.com/p/BzF1mMrHoRY/ ) for proof. I'm sure that at some point, I'll have more interesting stories to tell, as I get to the point where I have enough original music down and start playing gigs, but for now, this is about as exciting as it gets from me.

[@robertlanemusic]

Hi Damian, thanks for this video, very thought provoking. I’m certainly guilty of focusing on a goal rather than enjoying the journey, even though I know contentment comes from being present in the moment and enjoying the journey. A gig story I think about a lot is playing at a slightly rough pub in Walsall. The usual band line up had a violin player added for that night. As an opening act and for a bit of a change we arranged for the violin player to do a duo set with the drummer (on guitar and singing) but just as they were about to start a stag do came into the pub. They were pretty full on so we had a quick change of plan and played all the loudest full band songs we had instead. At various points cued by some secret code word all the stags would fall on the floor and roll about with their legs in the air. Luckily just as we were running out of heavy songs they bid us farewell and moved on to another pub. For a while it felt like we were gonna have a disaster but getting that group of stags to enjoy our stuff felt like a big achievement and whenever a gig is shaping up to be a challenge I remember that.

[@kaynek00l]

i'm 24 ive been playing music (guitar,bass,drums) since i was 10, i absolutely live for music,i've been in and out of bands over the past few years and ive had alot of ups and downs but i somehow get up and keep trucking. the demo-graph of people change i found the older i got and more people began to just do it for a hobby. I think if you just keep your head up and stay focused,it'll come in time. BTW check out my band Cain alley!!! hahaha

[@robofjohnson3953]

Nicely done dude, checked out a few tracks, sounding good! Like the riff in bridges, you guys have like a 90s grungey vibe with some fresh feels, keep it up! 💜

[@drainerthebro2617]

I started recording music about a year ago and found my passion in it, I love experimenting with vocals and experimenting with new sounds etc.. me and my friend released a tape and put it out on Spotify and took it down after 8 months just because we enjoyed it for that 8 month period, anyways we’re both working on music at the moment and we love it... as exhausting as it gets at times we still love it and will always keep on going with creating music regardless of the outcome... having 1+ person listen to our music and genuinely enjoy is a blessing and that’s all we ever ask for.. just wanted to share this! Loved the video :)

[@pierreandrewt1347]

We stayed at one of our vocalist's parents' house for a super chill weekend and recorded an EP, great vegan food and singing at a fireplace inclusive. It was truly a wonderul experience. Your video is spot on for me. I've been thinking about taking a break because I've started less to enjoy the journey, putting too much pressure on myself and thinking about the goal, at the same time having to work very long hours for my job. It might be time for a break.

[@CarlaConradMusic]

A few of my muso friends and myself were asked to play at a new "music festival" up the coast, when we arrived it was a farm barn and Noone pitched up so we played for each other for 3 days 😂. We went back the next year believing that this had potential 🤣🤣 and still advertised how we're opening acts at this festival... This was 9 years ago 🧓🏻 I always believed something wonderful was going to happen... I hope to cultivate some of that innocence again and combine it with a little wisdom now going forward on this journey xxx

[@emperornerofuentes539]

Hey my brother thank you so much for all the wonderful advice im greatfull keep going i bealive in you amigos I wish you Peace love and harmony always amigos

[@shaunoconnor7315]

Hey Damian. Thank you for posting this video. My story is a little atypical then maybe what you’re used to getting as far as advice or questions go. I’m a very young at heart 42 year old Drummer who has played the original music game and is now in the cover band scene in the Philadelphia area where cover bands dominate. I’m signed to a major management company and they have us play amazing venues. Unfortunately, I feel that I’ve gotten lost when it comes to music being a priority or passion and it kind of feels like a job instead of bringing me joy and I’m having a hard time trying to figure out why that is. I do have to tell you that I have a full time job that pays my bills so I do not rely on music for money. I’m seriously contemplating quitting music in which I’ve played for over 30 years. Very upset about this and am looking for some help. Keep Up the great work. Love your channel - you rock dude 🤘🏻

[@JonnyMaxxx]

After years of being *scared* of forming a band in case it was shit/I was shit/it didn't work out, at 26 I decided to finally do it. After about 18 months, I was in my first band, playing songs that I had mostly hoarded over the years. Last December, we entered a local Battle Of The Bands competition for experience. We won it. They were our first three gigs. The end.

[@SamSteiner]

We were just rehearsing in the cellar for years and didn't have much goals. Then, we organized a small gig in a restaurant, invited our friends and got some great feedback. That encouraged us to record some songs (3) and two are now on Spotify, the third coming soon and we are in a much better situation to now get some gigs (still having trouble with that). Much more motivation in the band now!

[@shobud71]

Damn, you nailed it brother

[@cosmicgregg]

Once again a great message to consider. I don't really have a chuckling story, but I find it funny, over the last six months any time I said I was quitting, I wrote a new song lol. It really is about the journey. I love to write so that's what I do. I think most musicians aspire to be famous, not a bad thing, but what is famous? Play, write, follow your heart the destination may not be exactly what was thought up...🍻😀 cheers bud

[@Harjawaldar]

I remember watching the Anvil documentary, where those 50-year-old men still try to make it and record heavy metal albums, and thinking that's exactly what I want to be doing at that age - whether I "make it" or not, I do enjoy the journey and the music that much. My goal at this point is to just some recognition for my music (like, more than my friends and their friends). Plugging my band: Eluvian.

[@johantt2591]

This makes so much sense. I think it is somewhat related to age or maturity. As teenagers/young adults we are dreaming about the goal - being rockstars or whatever else - but at later stage (how much later is obviously individual) we understand that it is not about the distant dream, but creating life as we live it. Being in the moment. I had a short lived band when I was about 18. We rehearsed for a couple of months and had one gig in front of like 20 persons. At the time I saw it as a failure. Because we split up and the songs we wrote were crap. But now I really like thinking about that band because that one gig was probably the most fun gig I have played. We improvised, we switched instruments, we were playing around without giving a crap that the output was horrible. We enjoyed it. We were laughing before, during and after. This video got me thinking about that speach Jim Carey gave about doing what you love. It was something along the lines of that you might fail at doing what you hate, so why not fail doing something you love instead...

[@PittsburghRecordingStudio]

Everyone just wants to know how soon till fame cause to them that’s the illusion of musics stability when the stability is has and will always be in the mindset. Great video. Thanks.

[@MrDogonjon]

I quit music school at 25 vowing to never attempt to perform in public again. I wrote many songs recording them at home just for fun. When I was 30 I was recruited into a band we only played for free beer (that was the bands name Freebeer) since then I have quit music many times only to be recruited again and again to join bands that quickly fell apart so I returned to solo guitar and song writing to bid my time keep fingers and mind in the game.

[@ellastephen444]

Awesome video bae! The shark is looking on point 😜

[@AirDrawnDagger]

We once played a Sunday night in Burnley on Memorial Day. The bar was empty as we started playing, then 8 old veterans stumbled in & thought it would be hilarious to get naked and streak around the venue... This story descends further into madness involving Sinéad O'connor and a prostetic leg but we will save that for another time...

[@spikewulfenden706]

Hi Damo. Thanks for this video, I feel like this atm. Every time, in the past seven years, I've been in a band that started to get somewhere it all falls apart n it's really frustrating and annoying... I'm feeling a bit lost, but I keep getting presented with potential opportunities and not being able to get a drummer to commit, or singer frustrates the crap out of me.

[@robby_evadeescape]

Played London the other month, was having a blast on stage but my bass monitoring seemed a bit off but it was definitely somewhere in the PA mix. Checked all my cables and my wireless, ended the gig and discovered I hadn't plugged my head into my cab, but the head was D.I'd out the front. I was totally convinced I'd plugged it in but the band have never let me live down making such a rookie error 😂 #liveandlearn

[@CharlieNorth]

Thank you. Another video helping me sort out my headspace. 27, blimey... That feels like a long time ago for me. :)

[@RockWeller]

Looking great

[@neilcollinsrecording]

Many moons ago I was in a band. We drove all the way from Bournemouth to Coventry to play in front of the support band and 2 of them went home! Not only that the car overheated on the way up. We always recall this gig but at the time totally soul destroying, it's all about the stories

[@NavinBagga]

Beautifully put together Damian. I would add that sometimes going away and learning a new skill will help with this phase. E.g. If you’re a guitar wielding rocker, try Spanish style or learning piano for a while. Self improvement can fill such phases I guess. :)

[@kman21rulz]

I remember my band being the underdogs at this national battle of the bands. We won that night and went on to the world finals in Norway, along with a bunch of friends and family! It was so awesome meeting all.the bands from the different countries, discussing cultures, sharing food and getting drunk, while at the same time fighting the cold of Oslo😂

[@EarthtonesCymbals]

Met these guys after they responded to my "drummer seeking bandmates" ad online. They sent me 3 of their demos and I practiced putting my drumming into the mix. We got together, went through the songs and they invited me to join them. We started weekly rehearsals together and soon added a fourth member to play bass. We have been together just over a year and have recorded an album, made a music video and played three shows together. Last week the lead singer/guitarist told us he had to catch up on student loans and upgrade his vehicle and would need to take time off from the band because he is going to take on a second job and won't have the time to commit to the band. That's where I am at. I told the other guys that we need to keep meeting and working on our music but so far, they haven't even responded to my messages. It seemed to be going really well but now I just don't know what to think or do. Any advice?