Cutting Throats Where No Throats Need To Be Cut

A local band recently had an important (small, but important) gig date "replaced" by another band.

Said another way, the venue committed to the local band a spot for a non-paying, but fun, gig. People drove across the state. Gear was hefted about and around. The local band was excited - they've packed the place several times.

At the door, another band was in their slot. No notice to the original band. No notice to any member of anyone... just a "force in" of another band.

Despite the fact that the "forced in" band was not very good, spirits were not lifted for the original, hard-working local band.

So, the point of this post is this: what part of "promote new music and young musicians" is served by venues changing the roster without notice to the band(s) involved?

What part of "promote up-and-coming musicians by encouraging them to play lots of dates" is served by selfish palm-greasing by an establishment which doesn't even PAY the bands that SELL its alcohol?

None.

So, here's my take:

Promote folks who are working hard. Stay with your commitments (venues, managers AND acts). Have honor and real integrity. Promote the future of our music by complaining to management when bands are "forced in" place of other bands (better bands or lesser bands).

Vote with your feet and your pocketbook when venues (large and small) don't promote the cause of live, local, good music.

I'm unhappy for the band that got forced out. I now have a place I won't patronize in Greensboro, not ever again.