Posts
Its a beautiful morning in Seoul! Got a pretty good night's rest. Rusty said I kept chuckling in my sleep throughout the night. Wonder what I was dreaming about?
This morning we pick up our PA gear for our shows in Korea, then head for Kunsan Air Force Base, which is about a 4 hr. drive. After tonight's show we'll pack up, get a few hours' sleep at Kunsan Lodge and in the morning head for Chinhae Air Force Base, which is a 4.5 hour drive. Shirley, our liaison said that of all of the Pacific AFE tours, the Korea tour is the most physically demanding. Ah well, that figures, eh? We're up for it. Time to sign off for now. Looking forward to the day ahead of us.
Thanks for following along!
Sep 2, 2009
Safe and Sound in Seoul
We all arrived in Korea and I'm writing from my hotel room at the Kaya Hotel in Seoul. In Michigan it's 12:25 p.m.on Sept 2nd but it's 1:25 a.m. Sept 3rd here here in Korea.
Here's how things are so far.
We all piled into our touring van at about 6:30a.m. on Tuesday Sept 1st. We were all too geeked to sleep and I'm sure no one got more than a couple of hours the night before but we were all in very high spirits and didn't mind the crush of 7 people and their luggage and musical instruments all crammed into a custom van.
We arrived at Detroit Metro about 7:45a.m. and made our way to the counter to get boarding passes and check our extra baggage. The ladies at the Northwest booth were very helpful, especially when we told them it was our first tour for Armed Forces Entertainment. They got us checked in in record time. When I tried to use our baggage voucher to cover the checked bags the lady in charge said, "Oh, no you don't need that. We're owned by Delta so they are allowing 2 checked bags with no fee per person, plus two carry on bags." COOL! That shaved an hour off. With that all taken care of we had time to grab breakfast before the 10:25 flight to Chicago O'Hare. On the road "FOOD IS SLEEP." If you can't get sleep, make sure you can get a good meal to keep your energy up.
We left for O'Hare on time and made Chicago in 44 minutes. Once there we had a 2-hour layover before leaving on a 747 direct to Incheon, South Korea. Our Korean Air flight left O'Hare at 12:35 p.m. We had a 13-hour non stop flight and I've gotta say the Korean Air folks really did a good job of taking care of us. The courtesy and level of attention to our needs was excellent.
We landed in Incheon at 3:35pm on Sept 2nd. We had to pass through a health department inspection and fill out paperwork. They're very uptight about the swine flu thing that's developing in America so we all had to get a cursory look over before we could move on to customs. After more lines and more paperwork we were all finally in the country and made our way to baggage. My first (and hopefully only) major bummer on the tour awaited me there.
I'm always leery of checking my guitars but most airlines have changed their rules regarding carrying them on board with you. All our instruments arrived and as we looked over them everything seemed fine until I got to the case holding my American Standard Fender Stratocaster. The handle was ripped off on one side - I mean the metal hinge was ripped in two, not the plastic handle. The entire front quarter by the head stock was cracked and broken. This is a hard shell case and the outer shell has been compressed so hard that it popped out of the metal molding that runs all the way around the case. Something extremely heavy was dropped on my guitar!
I threw the case open and expected to find a broken neck but the molded interior held! Thank God.
I don't know if the Detroit guys did this or if the Korean Air guys did but after weighing the time and hassle of trying to file a claim and NOBODY speaking english and me not knowing Korean I sealed it up and stacked it on the dolly cart. *Sigh* I will be buying steel flight cases before we go to Europe next year.
We met our POC (Point of Contact) she was a very friendly lady named Shirley and she motioned for us with a sign saying Armed Forces Entertainment welcomes the Rusty Wright Band. We all made our way outside and began loading our gear and luggage into the back of a small travel bus. It's a 10-seater with a large bay in the back for gear. After a few "short bus" jokes we all settled into the plush seats. The air conditioning was a relief since it was 81 degrees when we arrived and they expect sun and high temps for the whole week. Shirley introduced us to Mr. Yi who will be our bus driver for our tour in Korea. We also have another driver who we meet tomorrow when we pick up the equipment truck and head to Kunsan airbase.
By the time we reached the hotel we were ALL pretty crispy. We had plans of going out to get dinner but once everyone got into their rooms they all just posted a few things on Facebook and fell down and have been sleeping since. Laurie & I managed to get cleaned up and headed out to see what was available for dinner.
Seoul is one of the largest cities in the world so it reminds me of New York City - except the streets are lined with small shops and restaurants with their wares all on display right on the sidewalk. The smells of all these places was incredible. We settled on the Korean version of a steak house and had a Singapore sling and a screwdriver with our dinner to unwind, and then headed back to get some sleep.
Tomorrow or today rather, will be our first show day so we are doing our best to revamp the body clock to be on Korean time.
Time to catch a few more Zzzz's.
Next stop: Kunsan Air Force base.
Rusty
Here's how things are so far.
We all piled into our touring van at about 6:30a.m. on Tuesday Sept 1st. We were all too geeked to sleep and I'm sure no one got more than a couple of hours the night before but we were all in very high spirits and didn't mind the crush of 7 people and their luggage and musical instruments all crammed into a custom van.
We arrived at Detroit Metro about 7:45a.m. and made our way to the counter to get boarding passes and check our extra baggage. The ladies at the Northwest booth were very helpful, especially when we told them it was our first tour for Armed Forces Entertainment. They got us checked in in record time. When I tried to use our baggage voucher to cover the checked bags the lady in charge said, "Oh, no you don't need that. We're owned by Delta so they are allowing 2 checked bags with no fee per person, plus two carry on bags." COOL! That shaved an hour off. With that all taken care of we had time to grab breakfast before the 10:25 flight to Chicago O'Hare. On the road "FOOD IS SLEEP." If you can't get sleep, make sure you can get a good meal to keep your energy up.
We left for O'Hare on time and made Chicago in 44 minutes. Once there we had a 2-hour layover before leaving on a 747 direct to Incheon, South Korea. Our Korean Air flight left O'Hare at 12:35 p.m. We had a 13-hour non stop flight and I've gotta say the Korean Air folks really did a good job of taking care of us. The courtesy and level of attention to our needs was excellent.
We landed in Incheon at 3:35pm on Sept 2nd. We had to pass through a health department inspection and fill out paperwork. They're very uptight about the swine flu thing that's developing in America so we all had to get a cursory look over before we could move on to customs. After more lines and more paperwork we were all finally in the country and made our way to baggage. My first (and hopefully only) major bummer on the tour awaited me there.
I'm always leery of checking my guitars but most airlines have changed their rules regarding carrying them on board with you. All our instruments arrived and as we looked over them everything seemed fine until I got to the case holding my American Standard Fender Stratocaster. The handle was ripped off on one side - I mean the metal hinge was ripped in two, not the plastic handle. The entire front quarter by the head stock was cracked and broken. This is a hard shell case and the outer shell has been compressed so hard that it popped out of the metal molding that runs all the way around the case. Something extremely heavy was dropped on my guitar!
I threw the case open and expected to find a broken neck but the molded interior held! Thank God.
I don't know if the Detroit guys did this or if the Korean Air guys did but after weighing the time and hassle of trying to file a claim and NOBODY speaking english and me not knowing Korean I sealed it up and stacked it on the dolly cart. *Sigh* I will be buying steel flight cases before we go to Europe next year.
We met our POC (Point of Contact) she was a very friendly lady named Shirley and she motioned for us with a sign saying Armed Forces Entertainment welcomes the Rusty Wright Band. We all made our way outside and began loading our gear and luggage into the back of a small travel bus. It's a 10-seater with a large bay in the back for gear. After a few "short bus" jokes we all settled into the plush seats. The air conditioning was a relief since it was 81 degrees when we arrived and they expect sun and high temps for the whole week. Shirley introduced us to Mr. Yi who will be our bus driver for our tour in Korea. We also have another driver who we meet tomorrow when we pick up the equipment truck and head to Kunsan airbase.
By the time we reached the hotel we were ALL pretty crispy. We had plans of going out to get dinner but once everyone got into their rooms they all just posted a few things on Facebook and fell down and have been sleeping since. Laurie & I managed to get cleaned up and headed out to see what was available for dinner.
Seoul is one of the largest cities in the world so it reminds me of New York City - except the streets are lined with small shops and restaurants with their wares all on display right on the sidewalk. The smells of all these places was incredible. We settled on the Korean version of a steak house and had a Singapore sling and a screwdriver with our dinner to unwind, and then headed back to get some sleep.
Tomorrow or today rather, will be our first show day so we are doing our best to revamp the body clock to be on Korean time.
Time to catch a few more Zzzz's.
Next stop: Kunsan Air Force base.
Rusty
Sep 1, 2009
THIS IS IT!!!
It's 5:30am and I'm waiting on Dave and Justin to head to the airport so I thought I'd drop a quick note on the blog.
Our sunday send off party was a big success. We saw a lot of folks who came out to support us and had a great time playing for them. Mike Jablonski, owner of the Brick Street Bar & Grill MC'd the event and provided a great atmosphere for a fine evening of food & music.
Dave & Justin arrived and BOY are we gonna be stuffed. 7 people in a conversion van and luggage for all. LOL! we are gonna make a sardine can look spacious!
Ah well, "Hi-diddle-dee-dee, A Road Dawgs life for me".
Gotta run, next stop, Incheon South Korea!
Rusty
Our sunday send off party was a big success. We saw a lot of folks who came out to support us and had a great time playing for them. Mike Jablonski, owner of the Brick Street Bar & Grill MC'd the event and provided a great atmosphere for a fine evening of food & music.
Dave & Justin arrived and BOY are we gonna be stuffed. 7 people in a conversion van and luggage for all. LOL! we are gonna make a sardine can look spacious!
Ah well, "Hi-diddle-dee-dee, A Road Dawgs life for me".
Gotta run, next stop, Incheon South Korea!
Rusty
Aug 30, 2009
Sunday Send Off
It's Sunday the 30th. Just 2 days from our departure to Korea.
Laurie & I had a duo gig at Beale St. Saturday night so we're a little tired buta quick shower and we will be bright eyed and bushy tailed for the send off party at Brick Street in Grand Blanc.
Mike Jablonski, owner of the place was kind enough to offer to do this as a Bon Voyage and fund raiser for our families.
Armed Forces Entertainment is a volunteer organization and although they cover all travel expenses and accomodations they don't pay a lot. ($75 a day)
All of us are self employed so basically 2 weeks on tour means two weeks without income at home to help pay the bills and feed the family.
Brick Street is a marvelous Club/Restaurant and with good weather we will be playing outside on the patio in the rock garden.
I'll put up some pics and video tomorrow.
Not much else to say at the moment. I must admit the excitement and the "nerves" are building up. 2 days till lift off.
I better hit the showers.
Talk to ya'll soon,
Rusty
Laurie & I had a duo gig at Beale St. Saturday night so we're a little tired buta quick shower and we will be bright eyed and bushy tailed for the send off party at Brick Street in Grand Blanc.
Mike Jablonski, owner of the place was kind enough to offer to do this as a Bon Voyage and fund raiser for our families.
Armed Forces Entertainment is a volunteer organization and although they cover all travel expenses and accomodations they don't pay a lot. ($75 a day)
All of us are self employed so basically 2 weeks on tour means two weeks without income at home to help pay the bills and feed the family.
Brick Street is a marvelous Club/Restaurant and with good weather we will be playing outside on the patio in the rock garden.
I'll put up some pics and video tomorrow.
Not much else to say at the moment. I must admit the excitement and the "nerves" are building up. 2 days till lift off.
I better hit the showers.
Talk to ya'll soon,
Rusty
Aug 27, 2009
The Europeans get it!!!
Just got this review yesterday from BLUES MATTERS. They are the biggest Blues style music magazine in Western Europe. Here's what they had to say...
YEA BUDDY! That really put a smile on my face. I've always thought the Europeans were far more open minded about music. In the late 70s and early 80s they were the first to go nuts for Metal and have been strong lovers of American style music since the early Jazz days.
I guess the old saying "You're never a hero in your home town" is true for the whole country at least in the eyes of the press. We've gotten little love from the American Magazines and been downright snubbed by a lot of the "Blues Snob" crowd. But that's their loss. The people who come to see us and hear the music have become fans and they're the only folks that matter. I and the rest of the band make no apologies for our talent and our desire to fuse blues based music with other genres or to experiment. That's just our way of adding our own soul into the mix. I think it was Muddy Waters who said. Take the blues where you find it and then take it a little farther. I think he was trying to say don't let this music, this expression of the soul stagnate and die.
To be honest I fear that many folks in an effort to "preserve the past" have unknowingly stifled the musical future of the music. They get so intent on the authenticity of the sound that they lose sight of the emotion it should carry. But of course that's not everybody. There are still folks who can see the broad musical spectrum and are cool with it.
I guess we need to go play for the Europeans next. It looks like they and our fan base here really get it.
6 Days till Korea!
Rusty
RUSTY WRIGHT BAND
Playin’ With Fire
Sadson Music
Rarely does one give an unequivocal recommendation on first listening, but I have no hesitation in giving this the “just buy it” seal of approval.
From the start, this brilliant album exhibits all that is great about US blues/rock. From the wonderful guitar solos and smooth vocals of Michigan-based band leader Rusty Wright, through the harmonies and vocals of his wife Laurie LaCross Wright, classic keyboard accompaniment to rock solid rhythms and occasional horns parts, this is simply marvellous. In all styles, whether it is southern rock (‘World Upside Down’), Blues ballads (‘Messin’ Round’ and ‘Make A Liar Out Of Me’), blistering Aerosmith-type rock (‘Last Days Of Whitey Malone’), done-me-wrong Blues (‘You Ain’t Thinkin’ ‘Bout Me’) or the sensational energy of ‘What A Ride’, this band has all the chops.
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s influence is plain to see in a ‘A Change In The Weather’, so much so, I half expected to hear Van Zant’s vocals! The blistering rave-up conclusion is the title track of the album. This truly is powerful stuff!
BLUES MATTERSYEA BUDDY! That really put a smile on my face. I've always thought the Europeans were far more open minded about music. In the late 70s and early 80s they were the first to go nuts for Metal and have been strong lovers of American style music since the early Jazz days.
I guess the old saying "You're never a hero in your home town" is true for the whole country at least in the eyes of the press. We've gotten little love from the American Magazines and been downright snubbed by a lot of the "Blues Snob" crowd. But that's their loss. The people who come to see us and hear the music have become fans and they're the only folks that matter. I and the rest of the band make no apologies for our talent and our desire to fuse blues based music with other genres or to experiment. That's just our way of adding our own soul into the mix. I think it was Muddy Waters who said. Take the blues where you find it and then take it a little farther. I think he was trying to say don't let this music, this expression of the soul stagnate and die.
To be honest I fear that many folks in an effort to "preserve the past" have unknowingly stifled the musical future of the music. They get so intent on the authenticity of the sound that they lose sight of the emotion it should carry. But of course that's not everybody. There are still folks who can see the broad musical spectrum and are cool with it.
I guess we need to go play for the Europeans next. It looks like they and our fan base here really get it.
6 Days till Korea!
Rusty
Aug 25, 2009
7 Days and Counting
It's Tuesday and we're 7 days out from the Armed Forces Tour of South Korea and Japan.
Our preparations are going ok so far but there's still work to do. We are still waiting for a few last minute items we ordered for the tour. Such as memory cards for the video cams and small stuff.
The Bluzapalooza folks sent us all beautiful military grade Tour Jackets with the Bluzapalooza Logo on back. We also got T-shirts and hats as well as these cool minted coins that say Bluzapalooza IV on them. We're going to be giving those out to all the service folks we meet on tour. It's a tradition among the military to give a custom coin to people who distinguish themselves in their duty or as a sign of high regard. Well we hold all the servicemen and women in VERY high regard so we got 500 coins to pass out. LOL! We got a lot a hands to shake.
On a new note, Laurie & I will be doing a radio interview with the online station flinttalkradio.com
The interview is at 1pm today but I think they edit and broadcast it later. I'll let you know when it airs. Check out their website. It's pretty interesting and lots of different subjects and shows on there. If you like Talk Radio you may get a kick out of it.
Quick note, Laurie & I will be at Brick St. on Friday Aug 28 from 6-10 and at Beale St. Smokehouse on Sat. Aug. 29 from 7-10 (BTW Congrats to Beale St. for taking 1st Place in the Chicken BBQ and 2nd in Ribs at the Genesee County Fair last Sat.)
Your last chance to see the FULL RWB will be this Sunday Aug. 30th at Brick St. on Grand Blanc Rd.
We are having a send off party there from 4-9pm Sunday Aug. 30th. The band will play on the patio desk (weather permitting) from 5-8. Come on out and have Dinner & Drinks. The place is awesome.
A donation box will be on site and donations to assist the band are appreciated but not mandatory. Just come on out and say "HEY".
Talk to ya,
Rusty
Our preparations are going ok so far but there's still work to do. We are still waiting for a few last minute items we ordered for the tour. Such as memory cards for the video cams and small stuff.
The Bluzapalooza folks sent us all beautiful military grade Tour Jackets with the Bluzapalooza Logo on back. We also got T-shirts and hats as well as these cool minted coins that say Bluzapalooza IV on them. We're going to be giving those out to all the service folks we meet on tour. It's a tradition among the military to give a custom coin to people who distinguish themselves in their duty or as a sign of high regard. Well we hold all the servicemen and women in VERY high regard so we got 500 coins to pass out. LOL! We got a lot a hands to shake.
On a new note, Laurie & I will be doing a radio interview with the online station flinttalkradio.com
The interview is at 1pm today but I think they edit and broadcast it later. I'll let you know when it airs. Check out their website. It's pretty interesting and lots of different subjects and shows on there. If you like Talk Radio you may get a kick out of it.
Quick note, Laurie & I will be at Brick St. on Friday Aug 28 from 6-10 and at Beale St. Smokehouse on Sat. Aug. 29 from 7-10 (BTW Congrats to Beale St. for taking 1st Place in the Chicken BBQ and 2nd in Ribs at the Genesee County Fair last Sat.)
Your last chance to see the FULL RWB will be this Sunday Aug. 30th at Brick St. on Grand Blanc Rd.
We are having a send off party there from 4-9pm Sunday Aug. 30th. The band will play on the patio desk (weather permitting) from 5-8. Come on out and have Dinner & Drinks. The place is awesome.
A donation box will be on site and donations to assist the band are appreciated but not mandatory. Just come on out and say "HEY".
Talk to ya,
Rusty
Aug 24, 2009
8 Days & counting
Only 8 days until we leave for Incheon South Korea as part of our 14 day Armed Forces Entertainment Tour. Everyone is extremely "stoked" about going and we've been getting emails from service men at some of the stops telling us how much they are looking forward to us playing. Looks like many have been listening to us online and watching our youtube videos.
One man even asked if he could sit in at the concert at Chinhae. Well, heck yea you can.
If he's going to put his life in service to our country then the very least I can do is play some music with him. I think it will be a lot of fun.
We played the Genesee County Fair last Saturday and had a smokin set. It's the show we plan on using at the festivals in Korea and Japan and it was a great chance to gauge the impact it will have on the audience. Well if the folks at GCF are willing to give a standing O in a beer tent then the men and women in Korea and Japan are gonna lose their FRIGGIN MINDS!!! LOL!
We were told by several podcasters that they were getting requests for a wild guitar instrumental we do called Hell On My Heels. One Marine company in Fellujia made it their song to ramp up to as they headed out on patrol outside the Green Zone.
Can you imagine? RWB blasting at full volume through the trucks and humvees as these guys going roaring out of the gates. WOW, It's like something out of Apocalypse Now! LOL!
I can't wait to play it live especially at Fujifest in Japan. Evidently the Marines (several thousand of them) Don't have facilities for entertainment and such at the base in Okinawa so they ferry them over to Fuji Japan for the special events. Those "Jarheads" as they are called will just LOVE our kind of in your face, guitar driven music.
This is not only a great honor but the adventure of a lifetime for a group of musicians from Michigan. I can't wait to "spread the love".
Stay tuned to the RWB Blog for info, daily reports from the field and pics and video of our travels.
8 days and counting...
Rusty
One man even asked if he could sit in at the concert at Chinhae. Well, heck yea you can.
If he's going to put his life in service to our country then the very least I can do is play some music with him. I think it will be a lot of fun.
We played the Genesee County Fair last Saturday and had a smokin set. It's the show we plan on using at the festivals in Korea and Japan and it was a great chance to gauge the impact it will have on the audience. Well if the folks at GCF are willing to give a standing O in a beer tent then the men and women in Korea and Japan are gonna lose their FRIGGIN MINDS!!! LOL!
We were told by several podcasters that they were getting requests for a wild guitar instrumental we do called Hell On My Heels. One Marine company in Fellujia made it their song to ramp up to as they headed out on patrol outside the Green Zone.
Can you imagine? RWB blasting at full volume through the trucks and humvees as these guys going roaring out of the gates. WOW, It's like something out of Apocalypse Now! LOL!
I can't wait to play it live especially at Fujifest in Japan. Evidently the Marines (several thousand of them) Don't have facilities for entertainment and such at the base in Okinawa so they ferry them over to Fuji Japan for the special events. Those "Jarheads" as they are called will just LOVE our kind of in your face, guitar driven music.
This is not only a great honor but the adventure of a lifetime for a group of musicians from Michigan. I can't wait to "spread the love".
Stay tuned to the RWB Blog for info, daily reports from the field and pics and video of our travels.
8 days and counting...
Rusty
Aug 15, 2009
After the Bricks
Up early this morning updating some client sites. Yes, I have clients who I do Web design and monthly maintenance for. It pays the bills and for the most part I enjoy it.
Music is starting to be a close second in the income department but I'm still a long way from quitting the "day job". But the great thing about my occupation is that they let me work from anywhere there is an internet connection. No 9-5, no office to go to and as long as I make my deadlines no boss to chew my ear off. It's definitely the best way to work for someone in my position. I'll be working even when we are in Korea and Japan. At least I will be working when there is a break in the day.
The tour itinerary came in yesterday and WOW are we gonna be BUSY.
Photo Ops, Meet n Greets with CO's and local politicians and radio interviews, dinners with the troops, autograph sessions and miles and miles of travel by day. This is a full blown well orchestrated machine and we will be on the go 10-12 hours a day.
I STILL can't wait! :-) 17 days and counting.
But back to the point of this blog. We played the Back to the Bricks Event in our hometown of Flint, MI last night. It's a Car show with music and food and Hundreds of incredible cars. Flint's downtown has been doing a slow metamorphosis into a nice and viable area.
It's great to see all the people and new businesses such as Raspberries and Blackstones coming into the area.
My only regret is that most of the acts which play for the people all day do so for free. I guess it's a growing pain thing. This event started small and so didn't have a lot of money to pay the bands. I can understand that. But now there are 10,000 or more folks down there and everybody on the strip is taking in a good return... except the bands. We were fortunate enough to be sponsored by a company which sells parts and has a large booth at the event as well as some beautiful cars so we were compensated very well for our concert but we were one of the few.
I know it takes time for an event that started from the ground up to get all the details worked out but I hope they remember the musicians when all is said and done. Everybody who works hard should get paid is my philosophy.
I take care of my people even if it means it comes out of my own pocket because they are trusting me to be the boss and to look out for them. They don't have to do that. They can just as easily do there own thing so I view it as my obligation to live up to that trust by guaranteeing them a certain minimum amount for every show.
It's just the right thing to do and in return I have a hard working group of the finest players in the country. Come see us live if you doubt me.
Being a professional musician is HARD work. Preparing the show, rehearsing for hours and hours a week, marketing the event, then packing the vehicles, moving heavy gear, playing your heart out for 90 minutes in the blazing sun or under hot lights at night then running to the booth to meet with fans and friends then packing it all up and driving to the next show to do it again.
We always joke with promoters that "we get paid to move the gear, the music is free". but that IS a joke. Good music is hard work and those who work hard should be taken care of in my opinion.
Later,
Rusty
Music is starting to be a close second in the income department but I'm still a long way from quitting the "day job". But the great thing about my occupation is that they let me work from anywhere there is an internet connection. No 9-5, no office to go to and as long as I make my deadlines no boss to chew my ear off. It's definitely the best way to work for someone in my position. I'll be working even when we are in Korea and Japan. At least I will be working when there is a break in the day.
The tour itinerary came in yesterday and WOW are we gonna be BUSY.
Photo Ops, Meet n Greets with CO's and local politicians and radio interviews, dinners with the troops, autograph sessions and miles and miles of travel by day. This is a full blown well orchestrated machine and we will be on the go 10-12 hours a day.
I STILL can't wait! :-) 17 days and counting.
But back to the point of this blog. We played the Back to the Bricks Event in our hometown of Flint, MI last night. It's a Car show with music and food and Hundreds of incredible cars. Flint's downtown has been doing a slow metamorphosis into a nice and viable area.
It's great to see all the people and new businesses such as Raspberries and Blackstones coming into the area.
My only regret is that most of the acts which play for the people all day do so for free. I guess it's a growing pain thing. This event started small and so didn't have a lot of money to pay the bands. I can understand that. But now there are 10,000 or more folks down there and everybody on the strip is taking in a good return... except the bands. We were fortunate enough to be sponsored by a company which sells parts and has a large booth at the event as well as some beautiful cars so we were compensated very well for our concert but we were one of the few.
I know it takes time for an event that started from the ground up to get all the details worked out but I hope they remember the musicians when all is said and done. Everybody who works hard should get paid is my philosophy.
I take care of my people even if it means it comes out of my own pocket because they are trusting me to be the boss and to look out for them. They don't have to do that. They can just as easily do there own thing so I view it as my obligation to live up to that trust by guaranteeing them a certain minimum amount for every show.
It's just the right thing to do and in return I have a hard working group of the finest players in the country. Come see us live if you doubt me.
Being a professional musician is HARD work. Preparing the show, rehearsing for hours and hours a week, marketing the event, then packing the vehicles, moving heavy gear, playing your heart out for 90 minutes in the blazing sun or under hot lights at night then running to the booth to meet with fans and friends then packing it all up and driving to the next show to do it again.
We always joke with promoters that "we get paid to move the gear, the music is free". but that IS a joke. Good music is hard work and those who work hard should be taken care of in my opinion.
Later,
Rusty
Aug 10, 2009
RWB To Tour The Pacific in September!
We were pretty proud to be accepted by Armed Forces Entertainment to entertain the Troops and families overseas but we never dreamed we'd get a tour so fast.
We've accepted a 14 day tour of South Korea and Japan September 1 through the 14th.
We'll do 6 shows in 6 cities in South Korea then fly to Tokyo Japan for 3 shows ending with the "Fujifest" at Camp Fuji in front of thousands of Marines from Okinawa!
But then on top of that we were offered the endorsement of the BLUZAPALOOZA folks so we are officially listed as BLUZAPALOOZA IV! LOL!
It's an incredible honor to play for the folks who put their lives on the line and it's also an honor to be associated with the Bluzapalooza organization.
We intend on taking lots of pics, video and blogging daily through the Bluzapalooza site and our own.
Sign up for our email list as well to get all the info on our big adventure. We can't wait!
Rusty
We've accepted a 14 day tour of South Korea and Japan September 1 through the 14th.
We'll do 6 shows in 6 cities in South Korea then fly to Tokyo Japan for 3 shows ending with the "Fujifest" at Camp Fuji in front of thousands of Marines from Okinawa!
But then on top of that we were offered the endorsement of the BLUZAPALOOZA folks so we are officially listed as BLUZAPALOOZA IV! LOL!
It's an incredible honor to play for the folks who put their lives on the line and it's also an honor to be associated with the Bluzapalooza organization.
We intend on taking lots of pics, video and blogging daily through the Bluzapalooza site and our own.
Sign up for our email list as well to get all the info on our big adventure. We can't wait!
Rusty
Jul 22, 2009
Summer Season
Wow, our summer season is well under way and so far it's been a blast as always. Some of the coolest festivals so far have been St. Louis Bluesfest and The Bluesfest Internationale in Windsor, Canada. We played with Devon Allman and Johnny Winter to about 10,000 people and man what a rush!
I met Devon briefly backstage. He seems a pretty decent sort. He watched our set from side stage and came up later and remarked that he thought we were "kickin some ass up there". LOL! Yea, well it's kinda what we do. ;-)
Honeytribe came on and after a slow start due to the rain that started they really ramped things up. They are more a Rock/Jamband than blues but still a very cool act. The Bass player uses a lot of effects to do interesting space sound stuff while Devon sings and plays guitar.
Johnny Winter is 71 years old and still can play like a SOB! He IS the original Guitar Hero, even pre dating Hendrix by a couple years.
He made his way out on his own to a chair at center stage where he sat down and strapped on his guitar to a thunderous round of applause. He then counted off the 1...2..., 1234 and proceeded to just KILL the place. I learned a lot of licks from JW records and it was really cool to see him still able to throw down at that age. I hope I get to live that long and still be playing the big stage.
We stayed till the end with a bus load of friends and fans who came with us. It was our first "Blues Bus" trip and it definitley won't be the last. Everybody was so cool and had such a good time.
Jim, a friend and fan from way back brought a huge bottle of Nassau Royale which is a tasty carmel flavored Rum.
He passed it around the bus watching as people took a shot and were surprised to find how smooth and tasty it was. These were a really cool group of folks and we got em VIP tickets so they could be right down front as we did our thing.
Next few days we started seeing the buzz of people from our performance. Lots of pics and reviews that said we really ripped it up. We made a big impression and I gotta admit the band was having some fun.
Keyboard man Dave was especially impressive on some of the tunes. We like to throw back an forth on a few songs to just see what happens and I gotta admit he was especially hot at Windsor and the crowd about lost their minds. Yea Dave!
But my favorite review was from a gent they call "Lippo". He was down front all through the show taking pics and came up to us afterwards and said hi. Next day I get a message that he's posted pics and wrote a small blurb about the show on his Flickr page so I go to look and check out the pics when I came across this in his review...
"It's Sunday night at Bluesfest and Rusty Wright was probably the smokin'-est guitar player there this night. Devon Allman and Johnny Winter were pretty cool too.... "
I about fell out a my chair and shot coffee out my nose, LOL!
The nicest compliment you can get as a musician is when a complete stranger is impressed enough with your performance that they would say something like that and post it to the world.
I would never presume to say it but it's nice that he felt that way and all I can say is "Thanks, I'm honored".
I'll keep doing my best to keep making that kind of impression, not for the sake of ego but for the sake of the music and the love I have for it. All I ever wanted from life was a chance to show folks that I got a lot of musical love and I want to give it to them...and I ain't stoppin now.
Talk to ya,
Rusty
I met Devon briefly backstage. He seems a pretty decent sort. He watched our set from side stage and came up later and remarked that he thought we were "kickin some ass up there". LOL! Yea, well it's kinda what we do. ;-)
Honeytribe came on and after a slow start due to the rain that started they really ramped things up. They are more a Rock/Jamband than blues but still a very cool act. The Bass player uses a lot of effects to do interesting space sound stuff while Devon sings and plays guitar.
Johnny Winter is 71 years old and still can play like a SOB! He IS the original Guitar Hero, even pre dating Hendrix by a couple years.
He made his way out on his own to a chair at center stage where he sat down and strapped on his guitar to a thunderous round of applause. He then counted off the 1...2..., 1234 and proceeded to just KILL the place. I learned a lot of licks from JW records and it was really cool to see him still able to throw down at that age. I hope I get to live that long and still be playing the big stage.
We stayed till the end with a bus load of friends and fans who came with us. It was our first "Blues Bus" trip and it definitley won't be the last. Everybody was so cool and had such a good time.
Jim, a friend and fan from way back brought a huge bottle of Nassau Royale which is a tasty carmel flavored Rum.
He passed it around the bus watching as people took a shot and were surprised to find how smooth and tasty it was. These were a really cool group of folks and we got em VIP tickets so they could be right down front as we did our thing.
Next few days we started seeing the buzz of people from our performance. Lots of pics and reviews that said we really ripped it up. We made a big impression and I gotta admit the band was having some fun.
Keyboard man Dave was especially impressive on some of the tunes. We like to throw back an forth on a few songs to just see what happens and I gotta admit he was especially hot at Windsor and the crowd about lost their minds. Yea Dave!
But my favorite review was from a gent they call "Lippo". He was down front all through the show taking pics and came up to us afterwards and said hi. Next day I get a message that he's posted pics and wrote a small blurb about the show on his Flickr page so I go to look and check out the pics when I came across this in his review...
"It's Sunday night at Bluesfest and Rusty Wright was probably the smokin'-est guitar player there this night. Devon Allman and Johnny Winter were pretty cool too.... "
I about fell out a my chair and shot coffee out my nose, LOL!
The nicest compliment you can get as a musician is when a complete stranger is impressed enough with your performance that they would say something like that and post it to the world.
I would never presume to say it but it's nice that he felt that way and all I can say is "Thanks, I'm honored".
I'll keep doing my best to keep making that kind of impression, not for the sake of ego but for the sake of the music and the love I have for it. All I ever wanted from life was a chance to show folks that I got a lot of musical love and I want to give it to them...and I ain't stoppin now.
Talk to ya,
Rusty
May 20, 2009
Bluestage Review
We had the very great pleasure of playing the Bluestage Club in Napolean, MI last Sat.
Napolean is a small town outside of Jackson, MI. TC Delisle is the owner and a musician who started this marvelous venue as a desire to put together a club that was laid out from the perspective of the artists and the patrons and he succeeded!
The venue is attached to his other business, TC's Garage. Yup, he's a mechanic who works on everything from cars to commercial vehicles like heavy trucks, diesels etc.
The Bluestage is setup with a full stage, with flown sound and lighting. They have padded and acoustically modeled the room so it sounds great in there. Front bass fills and overhead monitors make it really comfortable for a player to hear on stage but since the boxes are in the air the sight lines are totally unobstructed.
On top of that they have multi-level seating so you can see well everywhere in the house and not many venues offer lounge chairs and couches in them!
We played to a sold out house and did 2 long concert sets with an intermission so people could order food and enjoy the vibe. The crowd was from various parts of the state but there were even some folks from Indianapolis who drove up for the show. They had seen us at the St. John Bluesfest in the Virgin Islands and had joined the mailing list.
The crowd was great and danced and cheered all night, even granting us an encore at the end.
If you get the chance to see a show there you will really be glad you did. Here's a link for more info
www.bluestageclub.com
Here's a few live shots taken by Joe Oliver. He has a site where he shoots all manner of shows. You can see more pics HERE
Next Show the GEM THEATER in St. Louis, MI Sat. May 30th, 2009. Check the calendar for details.
Rusty
Napolean is a small town outside of Jackson, MI. TC Delisle is the owner and a musician who started this marvelous venue as a desire to put together a club that was laid out from the perspective of the artists and the patrons and he succeeded!
The venue is attached to his other business, TC's Garage. Yup, he's a mechanic who works on everything from cars to commercial vehicles like heavy trucks, diesels etc.
The Bluestage is setup with a full stage, with flown sound and lighting. They have padded and acoustically modeled the room so it sounds great in there. Front bass fills and overhead monitors make it really comfortable for a player to hear on stage but since the boxes are in the air the sight lines are totally unobstructed.
On top of that they have multi-level seating so you can see well everywhere in the house and not many venues offer lounge chairs and couches in them!
We played to a sold out house and did 2 long concert sets with an intermission so people could order food and enjoy the vibe. The crowd was from various parts of the state but there were even some folks from Indianapolis who drove up for the show. They had seen us at the St. John Bluesfest in the Virgin Islands and had joined the mailing list.
The crowd was great and danced and cheered all night, even granting us an encore at the end.
If you get the chance to see a show there you will really be glad you did. Here's a link for more info
www.bluestageclub.com
Here's a few live shots taken by Joe Oliver. He has a site where he shoots all manner of shows. You can see more pics HERE
Next Show the GEM THEATER in St. Louis, MI Sat. May 30th, 2009. Check the calendar for details.
Rusty
Rusty & Laurie live at the Bluestage
Dave Brahce live at the Bluestage
Mar 10, 2009
Radio Kudos
I can't believe how long since I last posted. Just not enough hours in a day.
Well, as you may or may not know the CD "Playin' with Fire" was released Jan. 30th at our Cabin Fever Musicfest with us and Nick Moss. The show was a rousing success with approximately 500 people showing up to party and support the bands.
We sold so well in that initial push that the CD made the local soundscan charts for the mid-michigan area. There we were at #10 right on the same chart with Bruce Sprindsteen, Taylor Swift and Pink! I laughed hard at that. Ok, so it only means that in Genesee county we sold as well as the majors so I'm not buying a tux for the Grammy's or anything but it did show that we have the right idea and the public will get fired up about what we do.
So after that we began the long arduous job of radio promotion. Laurie & I have spent almost 2 years researching and compiling data on radio stations all over the world to figure out how the big guys get "air" for their artists. Most radio promoters who can do a national campaign are very expensive. 2500 to as much as 20,000 to do major commercial rock stations so we knew as an indie label it was pretty much up to us to figure it out and pull it off.
We got our list to 278 blues friendly stations around the world. We had to research each station through websites, online directories and of course emailing and phone calling the stations to ask questions.
Then the mail out. 278 CDs with product sheets describing us and our music and cover letters to each Music Director and Show host. You can imagine how much that cost...ugh.
Then 278 emails and phone calls asking if they got it and, "what do you think", "will you play it?", "can you send me a playlist when it airs?"
Then the knuckle biting and worry as we waited for the first radio chart we had targeted to come out and......POW! We debuted on Roots Music Reports national blues radio chart at #34!
We were elated. Sure, it's not #1 but we're just starting this campaign and we broke into the top 50 blues CDs being spun in the country. We're on the same chart with Shemekia Copeland who was recently on David Letterman and Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks etc. so we are elated at the chance to be in such good company.
There are other charts to make yet and hopefully wer can move up a bit as the weeks progress. We'll see.
But the biggest pleasure is all the people from around the country and all over the world who are hearing our stuff and coming to our website to sign up for the mailing list or drop us a message.
One of the coolest messages came from a radio DJ in Spokane, WA. He wrote us to say...
"Please let me set the scene: I went in to KPBX studios here in Spokane WA to pre-record my weekly show, "Down Home Blues", and, just like every week, there were 4 or 5 CD's in my mailbox for airplay consideration.
I looked at this one with great artwork, and saw that it was a cd by the Rusty Wright Band.
Now I have been doing radio for many years, and hear a lot of cd's by artists I haven't heard of before, and truthfully, A LOT OF THEM SUCK! Well, I put on the RWB cd and was immediately blown away! What a great sounding band-I knew right away that this band was going to be one of my new "push" bands. I like to turn people on to great music that doesn't get played regularly in our area, and I plan to play the hell out of this band on my show!
On the website I watched the live videos, and I am truly impressed! Hopefully someday the band will make it up here to the Spokane/Coeur d'Alene area. I will be playing music from the CD "Playin' With Fire" on my show for some time to come!"
Now that's the reason to make music. If you can put a fire in a complete strangers heart then you know it's what you're meant to do. All the other stuff is nice but the fire is the real reason to do it. That fire is passion, love, joy... and if you can spread it to others it's the best feeling in the world.
Wish us luck and help us spread the love by contacting your favorite radio station and saying "HEY" play some fire from the Rusty Wright Band!
See ya soon,
Rusty
Well, as you may or may not know the CD "Playin' with Fire" was released Jan. 30th at our Cabin Fever Musicfest with us and Nick Moss. The show was a rousing success with approximately 500 people showing up to party and support the bands.
We sold so well in that initial push that the CD made the local soundscan charts for the mid-michigan area. There we were at #10 right on the same chart with Bruce Sprindsteen, Taylor Swift and Pink! I laughed hard at that. Ok, so it only means that in Genesee county we sold as well as the majors so I'm not buying a tux for the Grammy's or anything but it did show that we have the right idea and the public will get fired up about what we do.
So after that we began the long arduous job of radio promotion. Laurie & I have spent almost 2 years researching and compiling data on radio stations all over the world to figure out how the big guys get "air" for their artists. Most radio promoters who can do a national campaign are very expensive. 2500 to as much as 20,000 to do major commercial rock stations so we knew as an indie label it was pretty much up to us to figure it out and pull it off.
We got our list to 278 blues friendly stations around the world. We had to research each station through websites, online directories and of course emailing and phone calling the stations to ask questions.
Then the mail out. 278 CDs with product sheets describing us and our music and cover letters to each Music Director and Show host. You can imagine how much that cost...ugh.
Then 278 emails and phone calls asking if they got it and, "what do you think", "will you play it?", "can you send me a playlist when it airs?"
Then the knuckle biting and worry as we waited for the first radio chart we had targeted to come out and......POW! We debuted on Roots Music Reports national blues radio chart at #34!
We were elated. Sure, it's not #1 but we're just starting this campaign and we broke into the top 50 blues CDs being spun in the country. We're on the same chart with Shemekia Copeland who was recently on David Letterman and Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks etc. so we are elated at the chance to be in such good company.
There are other charts to make yet and hopefully wer can move up a bit as the weeks progress. We'll see.
But the biggest pleasure is all the people from around the country and all over the world who are hearing our stuff and coming to our website to sign up for the mailing list or drop us a message.
One of the coolest messages came from a radio DJ in Spokane, WA. He wrote us to say...
"Please let me set the scene: I went in to KPBX studios here in Spokane WA to pre-record my weekly show, "Down Home Blues", and, just like every week, there were 4 or 5 CD's in my mailbox for airplay consideration.
I looked at this one with great artwork, and saw that it was a cd by the Rusty Wright Band.
Now I have been doing radio for many years, and hear a lot of cd's by artists I haven't heard of before, and truthfully, A LOT OF THEM SUCK! Well, I put on the RWB cd and was immediately blown away! What a great sounding band-I knew right away that this band was going to be one of my new "push" bands. I like to turn people on to great music that doesn't get played regularly in our area, and I plan to play the hell out of this band on my show!
On the website I watched the live videos, and I am truly impressed! Hopefully someday the band will make it up here to the Spokane/Coeur d'Alene area. I will be playing music from the CD "Playin' With Fire" on my show for some time to come!"
Now that's the reason to make music. If you can put a fire in a complete strangers heart then you know it's what you're meant to do. All the other stuff is nice but the fire is the real reason to do it. That fire is passion, love, joy... and if you can spread it to others it's the best feeling in the world.
Wish us luck and help us spread the love by contacting your favorite radio station and saying "HEY" play some fire from the Rusty Wright Band!
See ya soon,
Rusty
Jan 28, 2009
Blue Monday Monthly review of "Playin' with Fire"
The Rusty Wright Band'Playin' With Fire'This is simply scorchin' southern rockin' blues from the heart of the rust belt, Flint Michigan. Folks, this CD can be very useful as a test to see if there is any life left in yer bones. If it don't get you up and dancing; call the morgue 'cause you MUST be dead! It is a rockin' tour d'force from beginning to end.
World Upside Down features a great duet between Rusty and Laurie.
Pretty Little Lies features stellar blend of sax/ piano/ guitar for real good time.
Lost Souls is as powerful as a steamroller.
Messin 'Round Laurie's beautiful vocals weaves this cautionary tale around your heart; Rusty's guitar tightens that ribbon.
Make A Liar Out of Me A beautiful ballad that captures your soul with sweet melody and haunting lyrics.
Last Days of Whitey Malone A Molly Hatchet-esque start on steroids with full, rich and textured ambiance with dead on stops and flourishes that drive this heavy bottom smoker.
You Ain't Thinkin' 'Bout Me A Born on the Bad side beat with slice and dice B-3 and dizzying change ups.
A Change In The Weather Infectious southern tinged Lynyrd Skynyrd-ish romp that will inspire you to get up and dance.
What A Ride WOW it ended way to quickly, I was into it!
Playin' With Fire I was leaning into this one and it will hold you up! Powerful runner!
The band consists of Rusty Wright (lead guitar/vocals); Laurie Wright (guitar/vocals); Dave Brahce (keyboards); Andy Barancik ( bass); Pete Haist (drums ); and Eddie Lester ( Sax).
As I listen closely it has elements that remind me of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet,Pat Travers and The Allman Bros., only with much more texture and depth to the melodies. Rusty's guitar work is impeccable demonstrating a style that is honed by years and years of 'playin' his dues' while still embodying the exuberance and playfulness of a fearless youngster. Rusty's voice is as smooth as molten molasses as he weaves his way thru the heartfelt stories of life on this offering. Laurie's vocals are angel sweet and dead on. They complement each other in beautiful harmonic perfection. But it ain't just about the front side of this band. The boys 'in the back' are tighter than a tutu on a sumo. The hooks and embellishments they thread throughout this project will cause yer jaw to drop and spread a ten inch smile 'cross yer eight inch face. I didn't realize I was leanin' into it until I pitched forward after the last note. For you Bluesers that are closet Rockers, this is one CD that will SATISFY!I guar-on-tee! You can pick this up directly from Rusty and Laurie at rustywrightband.com
~ Review by 'Blueshammer' of Blue Monday Monthly
World Upside Down features a great duet between Rusty and Laurie.
Pretty Little Lies features stellar blend of sax/ piano/ guitar for real good time.
Lost Souls is as powerful as a steamroller.
Messin 'Round Laurie's beautiful vocals weaves this cautionary tale around your heart; Rusty's guitar tightens that ribbon.
Make A Liar Out of Me A beautiful ballad that captures your soul with sweet melody and haunting lyrics.
Last Days of Whitey Malone A Molly Hatchet-esque start on steroids with full, rich and textured ambiance with dead on stops and flourishes that drive this heavy bottom smoker.
You Ain't Thinkin' 'Bout Me A Born on the Bad side beat with slice and dice B-3 and dizzying change ups.
A Change In The Weather Infectious southern tinged Lynyrd Skynyrd-ish romp that will inspire you to get up and dance.
What A Ride WOW it ended way to quickly, I was into it!
Playin' With Fire I was leaning into this one and it will hold you up! Powerful runner!
The band consists of Rusty Wright (lead guitar/vocals); Laurie Wright (guitar/vocals); Dave Brahce (keyboards); Andy Barancik ( bass); Pete Haist (drums ); and Eddie Lester ( Sax).
As I listen closely it has elements that remind me of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet,Pat Travers and The Allman Bros., only with much more texture and depth to the melodies. Rusty's guitar work is impeccable demonstrating a style that is honed by years and years of 'playin' his dues' while still embodying the exuberance and playfulness of a fearless youngster. Rusty's voice is as smooth as molten molasses as he weaves his way thru the heartfelt stories of life on this offering. Laurie's vocals are angel sweet and dead on. They complement each other in beautiful harmonic perfection. But it ain't just about the front side of this band. The boys 'in the back' are tighter than a tutu on a sumo. The hooks and embellishments they thread throughout this project will cause yer jaw to drop and spread a ten inch smile 'cross yer eight inch face. I didn't realize I was leanin' into it until I pitched forward after the last note. For you Bluesers that are closet Rockers, this is one CD that will SATISFY!I guar-on-tee! You can pick this up directly from Rusty and Laurie at rustywrightband.com
~ Review by 'Blueshammer' of Blue Monday Monthly
Jan 24, 2009
Jan 22, 2009
Climb the mountain
It's 5;45am and I'm preparing to start another day of work which normally doesn't thrill me. I think most people dislike the routine of a day job but we've all been conditioned to think that's just the way it is.
I'm lucky in many respects but there are times when this musical journey is not entirely a bunch of fun. To be honest there's an immense amount of tedious work in the background between each opportunity to play live.
Rehearsals, recording sessions, graphics to design, packages to be made up and mailed out (hundreds of them) then emails and phone calls to follow up. Then the same tired conversation when trying to break into a new area.
"Who? oh, yea I got the press kit. No, I haven't looked at it yet, call me in a week."
And what the heck is it about being from the same state as a festival that makes a promoter suddenly think you're of less value than some guy from 500 miles away?
I've been told by a few people who book events "Oh you're from Michigan, well locals play for free to do my festival" what?!
Our act can keep up with any national out there, which I think our videos show quite well but because I live within driving distance I'm suddenly supposed to grovel for a slot.
Of course to be fair I have to make clear that all the festivals we have done in MI have been extremely good to us but if you ever wonder why you haven't seen us on the bill for some of the others it's a good bet that the "locals are cheap" mentality plays a part.
It's a perception problem I guess.
Our radio promotion starts in Feb. right after the Cabin Fever Musicfest We will be shipping product to 278 stations in the US, Europe and Australia. Then spend the next 8 weeks emailing and calling the Music Directors to see if they've added the disc to rotation or a specialty show. If our efforts go well and they like the disc then those stations will report the plays to various radio charts like Roots Music Report, Living Blues, CMJ etc.
If we chart well then I can take those charts and put them under the nose of the promoters and say "We ain't local, we're WORLDWIDE!" LOL! ...at least that's my hope and hope is what I have as I face this huge mountain of opposition and indifference.
I have hope and faith that my efforts will come to fruition and tomorrow will be just a little better than today and the next month will be a little better than the one before and so on. I plan on working hard and I hope it will be a positive year.
The inauguration was a source of inspiration.
I wish the new President all the luck and goodwill in the world. He's got an even greater mountain of trouble and indifference to combat but I honestly feel that he's up to it and I think the majority of the people in the US are ready to pitch in and help out.
It will be a tough job and will probably be much harder than we think but as long as there's hope for a better tomorrow I think we can all persevere.
That's what I do with my music. I persevere, because as long as I see people in that audience smile and take pleasure from what we do I know I have something that needs to be heard.
I always loved this Jim Croce lyric.
"I got a song, I got a song, an I carry it with me and I sing it loud. If it gets me nowhere, I'll go there proud."
yea...
Everyday I climb a little farther up the mountain.
I'm lucky in many respects but there are times when this musical journey is not entirely a bunch of fun. To be honest there's an immense amount of tedious work in the background between each opportunity to play live.
Rehearsals, recording sessions, graphics to design, packages to be made up and mailed out (hundreds of them) then emails and phone calls to follow up. Then the same tired conversation when trying to break into a new area.
"Who? oh, yea I got the press kit. No, I haven't looked at it yet, call me in a week."
And what the heck is it about being from the same state as a festival that makes a promoter suddenly think you're of less value than some guy from 500 miles away?
I've been told by a few people who book events "Oh you're from Michigan, well locals play for free to do my festival" what?!
Our act can keep up with any national out there, which I think our videos show quite well but because I live within driving distance I'm suddenly supposed to grovel for a slot.
Of course to be fair I have to make clear that all the festivals we have done in MI have been extremely good to us but if you ever wonder why you haven't seen us on the bill for some of the others it's a good bet that the "locals are cheap" mentality plays a part.
It's a perception problem I guess.
Our radio promotion starts in Feb. right after the Cabin Fever Musicfest We will be shipping product to 278 stations in the US, Europe and Australia. Then spend the next 8 weeks emailing and calling the Music Directors to see if they've added the disc to rotation or a specialty show. If our efforts go well and they like the disc then those stations will report the plays to various radio charts like Roots Music Report, Living Blues, CMJ etc.
If we chart well then I can take those charts and put them under the nose of the promoters and say "We ain't local, we're WORLDWIDE!" LOL! ...at least that's my hope and hope is what I have as I face this huge mountain of opposition and indifference.
I have hope and faith that my efforts will come to fruition and tomorrow will be just a little better than today and the next month will be a little better than the one before and so on. I plan on working hard and I hope it will be a positive year.
The inauguration was a source of inspiration.
I wish the new President all the luck and goodwill in the world. He's got an even greater mountain of trouble and indifference to combat but I honestly feel that he's up to it and I think the majority of the people in the US are ready to pitch in and help out.
It will be a tough job and will probably be much harder than we think but as long as there's hope for a better tomorrow I think we can all persevere.
That's what I do with my music. I persevere, because as long as I see people in that audience smile and take pleasure from what we do I know I have something that needs to be heard.
I always loved this Jim Croce lyric.
"I got a song, I got a song, an I carry it with me and I sing it loud. If it gets me nowhere, I'll go there proud."
yea...
Everyday I climb a little farther up the mountain.
Jan 18, 2009
Thankfulness and gratitude
At the start of each year I look back over the previous one and realize how much we have to be thankful for. For more than four years now we've been pouring every ounce of energy and every penny we have into developing the band and our Sadson Music record label. We are thankful for the opportunities that have come our way and are very grateful to the many people and organizations who have helped us make it a little further down the road. Listing everyone individually would take days - but if you're reading this and you have attended one of our shows, sent a kindly-worded email, shared advice and expertise, worked with us, offered to forward promotional materials or helped us out in some other way, please know your support, generosity and many acts of kindness both large and small are much appreciated.
We're pleased with the progress we've made and are optimistic that 2009 will be a banner year for the Rusty Wright Band. We are really, really geeked about our new CD and we can't wait to hear your feedback on the new songs. We originally hoped to complete the album last March but, as the saying goes, "sh$% happens." It was a year of transition for both the band and for us personally. It seemed like a roller coaster ride at times, but it definitely was never boring. We're learning to accept that everything happens for a reason and that having things turn out differently than we had hoped is often better in the long run.
An update for those of you who braved the nasty, nasty weather to participate in the filming of our concert back in September - the concert dvd is still being edited since mixing and mastering the new cd took precedence over the video project, but it will get done. Video clips from the show have been posted to YouTube and our website, and now that the cd is done hopefully we can work on getting the dvd finished too.
I don't think anyone remains unaffected by the financial crisis our nation is facing. Particularly here in Michigan. Not a week goes by where we don't hear from someone we know telling us about a job loss. It's heartbreaking. We are also hearing whispers that some long-established music festivals may not be back in 2009. I hope these events find a way to forge ahead. I think people are going to need to healing power of music more than ever.
Financially, Rusty and I have always walked a bit of a tightrope. Probably always will. It kind of comes with the territory when you choose to immerse yourself in the music business, but I don't think either of us would trade the life we've chosen for guaranteed financial security if it meant we couldn't continue making music. I'm grateful for what we have, and what we have is... enough. We have enough work to keep a modest roof over our heads, enough to eat and usually enough to share - but not so much that we take any of it for granted. We have enough good humor to balance our perspective when things don't go right, and misfortune and sadness touches our lives just often enough to remind us to appreciate any good fortune that comes our way, and to cherish the good people who are part of our lives.
May you also have... enough.
We're pleased with the progress we've made and are optimistic that 2009 will be a banner year for the Rusty Wright Band. We are really, really geeked about our new CD and we can't wait to hear your feedback on the new songs. We originally hoped to complete the album last March but, as the saying goes, "sh$% happens." It was a year of transition for both the band and for us personally. It seemed like a roller coaster ride at times, but it definitely was never boring. We're learning to accept that everything happens for a reason and that having things turn out differently than we had hoped is often better in the long run.
An update for those of you who braved the nasty, nasty weather to participate in the filming of our concert back in September - the concert dvd is still being edited since mixing and mastering the new cd took precedence over the video project, but it will get done. Video clips from the show have been posted to YouTube and our website, and now that the cd is done hopefully we can work on getting the dvd finished too.
I don't think anyone remains unaffected by the financial crisis our nation is facing. Particularly here in Michigan. Not a week goes by where we don't hear from someone we know telling us about a job loss. It's heartbreaking. We are also hearing whispers that some long-established music festivals may not be back in 2009. I hope these events find a way to forge ahead. I think people are going to need to healing power of music more than ever.
Financially, Rusty and I have always walked a bit of a tightrope. Probably always will. It kind of comes with the territory when you choose to immerse yourself in the music business, but I don't think either of us would trade the life we've chosen for guaranteed financial security if it meant we couldn't continue making music. I'm grateful for what we have, and what we have is... enough. We have enough work to keep a modest roof over our heads, enough to eat and usually enough to share - but not so much that we take any of it for granted. We have enough good humor to balance our perspective when things don't go right, and misfortune and sadness touches our lives just often enough to remind us to appreciate any good fortune that comes our way, and to cherish the good people who are part of our lives.
May you also have... enough.
Jan 8, 2009
A day at the office
Yesterday was off to a good start. I finished the full page ad for the IBC booklet. That's the International Blues Challenge in Memphis Tennessee. It's a yearly competition sponsored by the Blues Foundation.
Blues bands from all over the world compete in local competitions sponsored by area Blues Societies (There are hundreds of them) then the winner from each local competition sponsored by their society goes to Memphis to spend 3 days cuttin' heads until they get down to the final winner.
It's a fantastic time and Laurie & I have been down twice. We competed the first time and were judges the second time.
This year our agent will be there pitching and schmoozing for the band. Every promoter and blues genre radio and press guy in the world will be there. It's really a great time to network and connect with people in the business.
I'm hoping the full page ad in the IBC program will be another seed in their minds as we start pushing the "Playin' with Fire" CD. The booklet is given out to thousands of people during the event and it really makes a big impact.
Today will be spent on the phone pitching the act to our Michigan festival and Theater promoters then rehearsal with the band tonight in preperation for the Jan. 30th show.
Ah the glamorous life of a musician! LOL Ah well, as long as it gets me on the stage to play for you it's fine by me. Have a good one!
Rusty
Blues bands from all over the world compete in local competitions sponsored by area Blues Societies (There are hundreds of them) then the winner from each local competition sponsored by their society goes to Memphis to spend 3 days cuttin' heads until they get down to the final winner.
It's a fantastic time and Laurie & I have been down twice. We competed the first time and were judges the second time.
This year our agent will be there pitching and schmoozing for the band. Every promoter and blues genre radio and press guy in the world will be there. It's really a great time to network and connect with people in the business.
I'm hoping the full page ad in the IBC program will be another seed in their minds as we start pushing the "Playin' with Fire" CD. The booklet is given out to thousands of people during the event and it really makes a big impact.
Today will be spent on the phone pitching the act to our Michigan festival and Theater promoters then rehearsal with the band tonight in preperation for the Jan. 30th show.
Ah the glamorous life of a musician! LOL Ah well, as long as it gets me on the stage to play for you it's fine by me. Have a good one!
Rusty
Jan 7, 2009
FEAR Attracts
Rusty couldn't be more right when it comes to the "Doom and Gloom" media prophets and their "Fear Gospel." News is judged according to ratings and bad news will get the highest. Keep that in mind when you are watching any news station. How many stories of success and good do you hear versus the stories of failure and evil! I for one have chosen to not participate in the FEAR and BAD ECONOMY hype. Using wisdom in your financial expenditures is one thing, but living in an atmosphere of worry and anxiety will bring chaos, emotional decision making and ultimately bad results in your life. FEAR only attracts bad mojo! Don't get caught up in the fear machine!!!
Jan 6, 2009
Stress is
Tuesday morning and I've been at it since 5am. I don't sleep a lot anyway but with the new CD coming out and the preparations for the radio and press push plus the Cabin Fever Musicfest show with Nick Moss and booking the summer tour season I'm not sleeping much at all.
Working on a summer tour to support the new CD but the economy has started to creep into the equation in a way that I find weird.
All the tv and print news as well as the online guys are talking about the world coming to an end because a bunch of Bankers on Wall Street are not making OBSCENE PROFITS so of course that means you and I must prepare for the worst. Sometimes I wonder if the "fear" of bad times doesn't actually "cause" them?
I mean these promoters are telling me "we may not get as big a crowd due to the economy so everybody has to play for less or even free". But they don't know they won't get the crowd and if they do as well or better than the year before do you think they'll suddenly hand out the extra money? Not likely.
So the big corporations watch the news and they say "Oh no, the bankers won't give out credit and the public will stop spending soon so we better cut costs by laying off 50% of our employees now BEFORE it happens!" HUH!?!?
Meanwhile the public didn't stop spending squat yet but they see the news that this big corporation just laid off 20,000 people and all their competitors start doing the same because they don't want to have higher costs than the other guy and suddenly John Q Public says, "I might lose my job and end up on a bread line if we don't cut back!" and POW! everybody stops spending because of the fear of what MIGHT happen. Not what actually IS happening. It's some kind of self fulfilling prophecy and it just seems weird to me.
It sounds oversimplified but I can't help but wonder if the news guys shouldn't just shut up about some things.
I've believed that prices for stuff have been WAY out of control for a long time but nobody is lowering their prices and profit margins yet they expect everyone to take a pay cut while working harder?
I say if you want people to work for 1960's wages then how about cutting our mortgage and gas and food prices to those same levels?
Once the labor unions get whacked and all the new hires are working for 8-10 an hour will GM start making $2000-$3000 cars again? I'd really like to see that.
"sigh" I'm hoping calmer heads will prevail but it sure will be a tough time booking with promoters expecting the worst. But all you can do is ride it out and hope the attitudes swing to the positive.
I guess that's just the blues :-)
Working on a summer tour to support the new CD but the economy has started to creep into the equation in a way that I find weird.
All the tv and print news as well as the online guys are talking about the world coming to an end because a bunch of Bankers on Wall Street are not making OBSCENE PROFITS so of course that means you and I must prepare for the worst. Sometimes I wonder if the "fear" of bad times doesn't actually "cause" them?
I mean these promoters are telling me "we may not get as big a crowd due to the economy so everybody has to play for less or even free". But they don't know they won't get the crowd and if they do as well or better than the year before do you think they'll suddenly hand out the extra money? Not likely.
So the big corporations watch the news and they say "Oh no, the bankers won't give out credit and the public will stop spending soon so we better cut costs by laying off 50% of our employees now BEFORE it happens!" HUH!?!?
Meanwhile the public didn't stop spending squat yet but they see the news that this big corporation just laid off 20,000 people and all their competitors start doing the same because they don't want to have higher costs than the other guy and suddenly John Q Public says, "I might lose my job and end up on a bread line if we don't cut back!" and POW! everybody stops spending because of the fear of what MIGHT happen. Not what actually IS happening. It's some kind of self fulfilling prophecy and it just seems weird to me.
It sounds oversimplified but I can't help but wonder if the news guys shouldn't just shut up about some things.
I've believed that prices for stuff have been WAY out of control for a long time but nobody is lowering their prices and profit margins yet they expect everyone to take a pay cut while working harder?
I say if you want people to work for 1960's wages then how about cutting our mortgage and gas and food prices to those same levels?
Once the labor unions get whacked and all the new hires are working for 8-10 an hour will GM start making $2000-$3000 cars again? I'd really like to see that.
"sigh" I'm hoping calmer heads will prevail but it sure will be a tough time booking with promoters expecting the worst. But all you can do is ride it out and hope the attitudes swing to the positive.
I guess that's just the blues :-)
Jan 5, 2009
A new year and a new vibe
The new Rusty Wright Band website is officially up and running. Well ok, it's about 90% up. Still got a few more things to add but the cool stuff is up. I'm real proud of all the stuff on there. From the graphics and coding to all the text that Laurie wrote and the video stuff that Andy edited and our friend Jim Dudek shot to all the music that everybody has worked so hard on I think it's a MAJOR upgrade from the previous site.
It should be a lot of fun to visit and watch video or check out info about the band or listen to the tunes. I'm working on a page of freebies for people to download like wallpaper and screensavers with RWB blues themes. If you join the email list you can be notified when those are up.
That's all for the moment. We'll be blogging way more regularly now so keep an eye on us in 2009.
It should be a lot of fun to visit and watch video or check out info about the band or listen to the tunes. I'm working on a page of freebies for people to download like wallpaper and screensavers with RWB blues themes. If you join the email list you can be notified when those are up.
That's all for the moment. We'll be blogging way more regularly now so keep an eye on us in 2009.
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