I love picking up new hobbies and one I started this past year is promoting concerts. It has been a lot of fun and is something I hope to do wherever I live. I have been asked many times why I promote. Do I do it for the money? That’s a big fat no! Although I wish it brought in the green, it definitely doesn’t. Actually, all I shoot for is breaking even and a good time. Since I don’t do it for money, why on earth would I put a lot of time and money on mediocre bands? Here’s a list of 5 reasons I book concerts.
1. I like music.
Music has always been an important part of my life. Although the only instrument I can play is the thumb cymbal and I can’t even clap and sing at the same time, music has still done a lot for me. Many of my friends are in bands and some of my greatest memories are at concerts. It has been a great privilege being on the back end of shows. I have so much fun planning, setting up, and running the concerts.
2. I want St. Louis to have good concerts.
The music scene in St. Louis is lame unless you’re into ghetto rap or untalented hardcore music. There really is nothing else. Think about it, when you try to think of big name musicians from St. Louis, the only person that comes to mind is Nelly. That’s just sad. Many bands actually skip over St. Louis when they are on tour. It’s kind of selfish, but booking shows allows me to make sure I see some of the bands I want to see. On top of that, it gives me a shot to introduce good music to St. Louis. 
My Old Apt (The Green Spot)
3. It gives local bands a chance to feel important.
I have had local bands from St. Louis kick off the night at all my concerts. I do this for a couple reasons. To be honest, they are cheap, great time fillers, and happy to do anything as long as it gets them on a stage. Many times they will play for free. They are still at the “I love music so much that all I want to do is play” stage. Whereas the touring bands are at the “I’ll only play if I get X amount of money” stage. The other reason I have local bands open is St. Louis actually has some talent and this gives some of them a chance to show it.
4. Concerts can develop positive community.
This is the main reason I promote concerts. It provides a place for people to hangout, have a good time, and meet new people. I know I met many of my friends at concerts and I still meet new people every time I go. People at a show automatically have something in common, they like the bands that are there. This gives them something to talk about and gives them the chance to meet new people. You’ll even see the same people from show to show.
5. I get to hang out with the bands.
Now this isn’t a plus because I think it makes me look cool. Actually, it couldn’t be further from the truth. I don’t ask for autographs or tell them I am a huge fan. No person is important enough to give someone else their autograph. I’m close and would be willing to send you one for $25, but I still don’t think that even I am worth it. I think it is a bonus to hang out with these guys because I get to hear their story. Everyone has a story: you, me, your dead grandma, even the mailman has a story. I love to hear about people’s experiences and thoughts on life and I love to share mine. That is why I started this site, so I could share my story with whoever is bored enough to listen.
Band members are normal people. They aren’t any more special than anyone else. After the shows, some of the bands stay at my apartment. While we’re there, it is great to see them without an instrument in their hands and hear them open up and just talk real life. Many of them have interesting stories and great outlooks on life. I have learned a lot from them and I hope that they get something from me too.
I will post a couple more articles about concerts over the next couple days. Check back and let me know what you think. In the mean time, share your story and listen to others’!
