Off Topic Who's in multiple bands?

[Aussie Mark]

I'm in two bands and also do sub work for other bands whenever I can. The two things that makes it work are communication and being organised. As soon as you get a confirmed booking with one band, let the other band know that you are unavailable on that date, so they can book their dates taking that into account. Band members are unavailable from time to time due to family/personal/work commitments, so the fact you have a gig with another band every now and then should not be treated any differently, as long as you give the other band plenty of advance notice.

The guys in my Stones tribute band all play in 1 or 2 other bands as well, and it hasn't been an issue for any of us yet (we've been together for almost 18 months now)

 

[Bloodfist]

If you have the time, I say do it. I've played in multiple bands several times, and it helps you become more diverse as a musician. You'll also find that it will open more doors of opportunity for you for more potential gigs. I currently only play in one band right now because of time constraints between this band and night school, but I do fill in work for other bands when they need a bass player.

 

[Manfloozy]

Anyone have experience with this kind of situation?

Only in my head.....

So what do you have to loose?

Sleep.... But that has varying value depending on the situation.

Andy, I'd at least check it out... If it hives, great.... If it doesn't no sweat.

 

[R Upsomegrub]

I currently play in 1 cover band and work with a local songwriter in 2 different projects. I also take the occasional sub gig. And yet, I still don't work/play every weekend.

 

[MSilvers]

I'm still in high school so my situation is different than many. I've been playing in my main rock band for almost 4 years (has played some serious venues to over 1000 people and a bunch of not so great venues to less than 10), though recently that band has been doing very little. I've been playing upright in a bluegrass band with my dad (he plays Banjo) for a few years (we mainly do bar gigs). Recently I've been working on a project with the same drummer form my rock band and our friend who plays guitar and sings. We've finished recording two songs and once we get the third done we're planning on releasing everything online and eventually booking some shows. I guess that's three, though I also play in a local youth jazz ensemble and stuff for school.

 

[DTG]

2 kids 3 bands and 3 - 5 gigs a week
It's all about wanting to do it and working your time out so you can do it. when I met my wife I was a working musician so there has never been a problem there.

It is important to talk to your main band and tell them.

 

[cellkirk74]

I'd say do it.

I play in 2 bands at the moment with one having a forced break since some weeks because of an issue with the drummers arm. I think about an acoustic project with one of the singers too.

Before I had kids and a full time job I was playing in 2 gigging bands and usually one or two side projects. It has never been a problem, but mostly fun.

Try to plan gigs as early as possible, but since your singer is involved, overlaps will not be a real problem. As Matt said, try it.

 

[Mr.Mow]

2 or 3.. Or 4?!

One which is a cover band, great cos there is no rehearsal, we all know our stuff, turn up, do show, get paid.. No real 'extra' work required, does involve interstate travel from time to time.

One originals, but they have turned into a 'let's jam once a week, drink beer and do 3 gigs a year' band.. So they may be done.

An originals acoustic thing I did some studio stuff with, on a bit of a break until they figure out what they are doing.

2 auditions next week. None of it's clashed yet.. But I'm sure it might!

General rule for me is, paid gigs get priority.. Simple as that.

 

[ptg]

So, Mr. A. Douglas, what did you decide?

 

[danny-79]

So, Mr. A. Douglas, what did you decide?

I was just thinking the same thing !

An hoping that the outcome is that you are going to go for it with the blessing of your main band members

 

[drTStingray]

what did you decide adouglas? Im hoping you said yes cos i think youd have great fun playing a bongo fretless in rockabilly.
I play in one main band and 2 or 3 others. I think it may be difficult if you have to rehearse regularly with each one. Im lucky that one band is a tightly rehearsed outfit and the other two are looser almost jamming bands. Its cool IMOand if you have time - she who must be obeyed may not be cool with it though. IMO its essential youre up front with everyone. Then at least if you get clashing gigs you can offer to provide a dep. This may seem unbelievable but i know at least 3 people who play in multiple bands and arent up front with their band mates in fact they deliberately mis lead them and even ask others cover up for them. Hearing the latest excuses for missing gigs and seeing people walk into venues and finding their band mate playing etc etc is quite entertaining but it is v obviously the surest way to lose friends and reputation.