WOW I LOVE THE SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY

This is a community that is absolutely amazing!!!! On August 5th the Stand Up 2 Cancer was a vision.....Right now it is at 28 different live music venues, a snail race, a clothing auction, and over 120 different performers, with more lineups on the way.

We have attracted other groups of communities that have inquired what they can do. And every time I turn around there is another venue or performer asking what they can do.....

The compassion, the dedication of the Second Life Live Music Community there are not enough words to describe it. 

I did have to put the article on the back burner for now while I am focusing on organizing the fund raiser.  I will get to putting the final touches on it and adding pictures to it to submit it, a couple of days after the fundraiser is done.  (I need the time to re-coop for a day or two afterwards) There is a central landing spot to get the schedules and line ups as well as the landmarks.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/181/43/42

I will also be listing the lineups and slurls on this blog as well.

There is a way to donate directly:  http://do.eifoundation.org/goto/SLMusic

Watch the blog for updates.



 

On September 5-7th 26 different live music venues will all be holding a fundraiser to raise donations for Stand Up 2 Cancer.  Stand Up 2 Cancer is under the Entertainment Industry Foundation and one of the most highly rated non-profit organizations.  They have taken a unique approach towards  finding the cure for cancer.  They have formed "dream teams" of doctors, some of the best in their fields.  They did this in the US and internationally.  The one thing that is reassuring is that 100% of your donations go toward research.  Also on September 5, 2014 Stand Up 2 Cancer will be holding a fundraiser that is being carried by 31 major and cable television stations in the USA and major stations n Canada, as well as streaming live on Hula and Yahoo.....all being done simultaneously.  The press release talking a bit more about the real life event can be found at:  http://www.standup2cancer.org/press_release/view/hollywood_stars_align_for_su2c_telecast_new_were_calling_you_campaign

The live music community is coming together the same weekend to raise funds for this worthy cause.  Venues that are participating are as follows:  Acoustic Cave, Broken Heart Cafe, BS's "Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile, Cameo Music Park, Ce Soir, Elite Sounds of Jazz, Guthries, Hotel Chelsea, Kickin, Lost Coconuts, Lokki's Gardens, Mountain Cave Club, Party Beach Kurhaus Scheveningen, Pink Duck, Place of Grace, Seaside Lounge, Smokin Aces, Surfside Hideaway, Solana's Place, The Dirty Grind, The Keys, Titanic, Tranquil Cafe, Vincents, & White Tiger Islands.  

There are a few other things going on as well, Snail Racing, and there will be a silent Auction of Clothing designed by a clothing designer that lost her battle to cancer.

A central location that will have all the lines ups and landmarks for all events.  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/177/45/41

Receipts can be received for lindens donated, or you can donate anonomously with a credit card by visiting:    http://do.eifoundation.org/goto/SLMusic

Every penny helps.  As Stand Up 2 Cancer says "This is where the end of cancer begins."

Watch this blog for updates.

CALLING ALL SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC VENUES AND PERFORMERS

Calling all Live Music Venues and Performers,

If you are interested in working on a very special fund raising event the weekend of September 5, 6, and 7 to help raise money for cancer research.  This is a disease that has touched each and every one of us. This is a good way to make a difference.

On September 5th every major television station and about 30 cable channels in the USA, and also in Canada, are all simultaneously conducting a fund raiser for Stand Up 2 Cancer.

 As Stand Up 2 Cancer says "This is where the end of cancer begins"

http://www.standup2cancer.org/

Stand Up 2 Cancer is a non-profit organization under the Entertainment Industry Foundation.  The have taken a unique approach to working to find an end to cancer.  A disease that has affected each of us in some way.  SU2C uses the donated dollars to fund research teams of drs to work on specific forms of cancer.....Every single dollar donated goes directly to research and not a CEO salary as many of them do.  The teams and are transparent so that you may see what they are working on and also give updates.

On August 5th I received approval from SU2C to put together a  fund raising event for the weekend of September 5th.

Venues:  You could participate  by using your venue September 5th, 6th, and 7th.  You could designate one day, two days or all three days.  There are 20 venues participating already.

Performers:  You could participate by giving one of your amazing shows to this event.  Currently I have list of performers that is constantly growing waiting for venues to get their time slots together. 

If you are interested please let me know or im Still Braveheart inworld.


Team Page URL:  http://do.eifoundation.org/goto/SLMusic

 Thank you in advance for all your support.

 Still Braveheart

THINGS SL PERFORMERS SHOULD NOT DO TO LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Wow it has been a heck of a day.

Friday, August 1, 2014 I had the other week lineup going.  It had been going well I had a performer that I love who had been appearing and doing great...then this Friday he was a no call no show.  I left a message on his fb etc...I know things happen....One never knows when RL will come up....But here it is on Sunday and I get a notice that he is performing somewhere.  I suppose I would have understood it better if either he or his manager had bothered to take the time and let me know what happened.  Especially since there had been people showing up and to see him and waiting then leaving.  We even saw them come back, giving this performer a chance to get there.

So with that a note to performers, the venue owners plan their schedules around you, give them the common courtesy of cancelling if you need to.  If something happens in rl and you are unable to let them know, at least take the time to apologize when you do return to sl.  As performers you would not want to be treated that way by venue owners, don't treat them rudely.  You run the risk of losing a booking and ruining your reputation because believe me.....venue owners do talk.

I ran into the same sort of thing that Sunday with a performer from Scotland.  She at least sent me a notecard, but in the notecard stated that she was cancelling because she had accidentally booked another venue.  Now on that note, I had to ask why she was cancelling her regular performance and knocking the venue that was paying her weekly for a one time appearance somewhere else.  At which point she told me that she cancelled that too.  So after I had seen her in events for the other performance, I went over to see if it was truly cancelled.  Lo and behold there she was performing.  I have to admit my anger boiled over and I did im her and state that she lied to me.  Most of you know me and know how much value I place on honesty.

Both of these performers will no longer be appearing at BS's.

So with that another note to performers, venues that pay you to perform week after week, deserve the consideration to be honest with them. 

I did not put these performers name in here because I was not after publicly humiliating them.  Though if there is anyone that would like to know, you can always im me inworld or pm me in Facebook. 

There are other things that though not as major every performer should do before getting a stage.  Know the name of the venue you at, If you are not sure of how to say it, ask the venue owner.  But never promote another venue in place of the one you are at.  You should also make sure your managers and hosts know the name of the venue as well.

Know where the venue tip jar is at.

Venue owners are paying for the land you perform on and many times for your performance.  In my opinion, it is only right that you be considerate of them and their venue.

GREAT NEWS IN THE SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY

Though I am working on a couple of other blogs that I need to finish....This news excited me so much that I had to share.

FROM STAND UP 2 CANCER FOR OUR EVENTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

watch for information as I can get it out to you.  For now, any venue owner or performer that would like to participate please let me know.  Those of you that have told me you were interested in this event the weekend of September 5....I have your names on a list.  Let me find out how many venues want to be included and together we can all work on schedules.

Just to refresh everyone's memory.....Stand Up 2 Cancer and Stand Up 2 Cancer/Canada are the organizations that every single dollar donated goes into research and not a six figure CEO salary.....or vague representations of where it goes.  Take a look at the sites and see for yourself....You can see where it goes and even get updates.

http://www.standup2cancer.org/


http://www.standup2cancer.ca/press_release


Hugs, I have missed you all soooo much,

A SPEICAL REQUEST FOR THE SL LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY

Hi,

Recently, I have been asked to do an article or series of articles about the SL live music community.  I have thought a great deal about this...where to start, what to include etc...

Then I realized the this community is much more than my thoughts, so I am asking for yours, it is all of ours for that is what makes us a community. 

Please keep in mind that I am not asking for information on a particular performer, or a particular venue, or a manager, etc....but the community as whole.  What better place to start when writing about a community that with the community.

I am asking you to send me a notecard, im, email...about the sl music community means to you. How has it affected you, any favorite venues or performers.

I can not guarantee that every person's input will be used but I will try to use as many as possible.

Please get these back to me asap as I have already started writing. 

Also if you have pictures of events or causes that have played a large part in this world, please send them.  We will also use as many pics as possible to show the community.  Also there are venues that are tributes to rl things....pictures of them would also be great with a brief line about what they are in tribute to.

Chuckles another words I am looking for all kinds of stuff.  But to write about the community, I can only do that with your help....we are all a part of this wonderful community.

Hugs to each of you,

Still Braveheart

AN APOLOGY TO SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY

Many of you know that I apologized the end of last year for not doing my job correctly as a captain and leader of the team SL MUSIC RACES FOR A CURE, when it came to not doing my homework thoroughly and leading the team into into something that I felt was misleading.  I still feel that same way.  My apology comes because as a team you were a community that made a difference.  Bringing in over $13,000 USD one year and over $14,000 USD the second year.  Besides making a difference the SL grid knew a bit more about SL Live Music and what a wonderful community it was.

My apology comes because I feel as though as I let you down.  Because I had stepped back from RFL of SL, I did not ask anyone to step back with me, but rather follow your hearts.  I suggested that someone else step up to lead the team if they would like.  Unfortunately ....others decided to form a team on their own and change the word Races to Rawks.  This possibly would have been good if they had the ability to talk to to me and get the team that was strong or changed the name completely so they would not be mistaken for the same team.  Unfortunately one of those captains chose to im me and attack me.  Needless to say I have muted her.  The downside is that the team itself had made such an impression on the RFL of SL community that I have received a number of im's over the past few months asking what happened to the music community and did it just fall apart as they only raised less than $700 USD (as of this writing) and did not have a real presence this year not even having a compsite.  Ultimately this is a huge disservice to the live music community as a whole, for I know what huge hearts you have and how proud you were of the team you were on.

Though RFL of SL is not about me nor about any of us individually, as a team you were amazing and I feel that one person in her quest to carry on and not be able to give the her all into it has diminsished what all of you have built together as a team.

My personal feelings toward RFL of SL have not changed....lol and I have a stage 4 cancer yet still do not believe in them and what was their misleading ways (they have since tried to clean some of it up, its wonders what someone being loud can cause). As the captain of this team though and the highest regard I hold for this team and for the music community as a whole, I am determined to help change this situation, though I would not do it through RFL of SL.  I have taken a year off dealing with transplant clinics and oncologists and the emotional roller coaster it can take you on.  Now I feel as if I have come to terms with my own issues and more determined than ever to give back to the music community all they have given me over the years.

On this note, I do ask that you ask a couple of things....before anyone asks  I have a stage 4 lymphoma (it is a slow growing cancer) but unable to have it treated due to the organ failure.  The organ transplant is completely off the table because of the cancer.  I have had to come to terms with all of this and realize that it will never get better only worse....Chuckles, me the fighter, that was a very bitter pill to swallow.  The two things I ask is that:  One, you do not feel bad for me as there millions that are much worse off, and two, please do not im me with with sympathy and sad im's.  Instead make the most of every single day.

Soooo make the most of each day ... oh and mark your calendars for September 5  it is the day that both Canada and the US will have tons of television stations and stars raising money for Stand Up 2 Cancer.  The US link:  http://www.standup2cancer.org/the_show   And the Canadian link:  http://www.standup2cancer.ca/press_release

Remember this is the nonprofit organization that every dollar you donate goes to research and not some six figure CEO salary.  Their dream teams of doctors and research is nothing short of phenomenal.

LIVE MUSIC IN SECOND LIFE ON SATURDAY NIGHTS

I pulled up events and found a venue and a performer that I have never heard before or visited.  What a fun venue Shit Kickers.  If you like to have fun, it is the place to go and the performer....one of those WOW's  Geoffrey Steuart.  Look out those that love country singers....this is a man that is amazing.  I was able to meet the owner as well or one of them, Fayte Stuart.  What a sweet person.  I am so glad I stopped there.  After we chatted for a bit, I went on to the next venue.

Elite Sounds of Jazz and listened to an old friend HammerFla Magic.  This man never fails to disappoint....he is extremely talented and a joy to listen to. In talking with owner of Elite, Foxhaven2000 Hecht, another wonderful person, I learned that she not only built a to die for venue with both inside and outdoor pavilion but that she is also on sail-able water leading out to the Black Sea.  I know of no other venue can say that......can you imagine arriving for a special out night out of wonderful performers and dancing yet arriving in your yacht or boat.

After taking a break and doing that one thing we all hate doing, housework, I came back to visit The Music Makers "The Dreamers of Dreams", and hear Annette Sernade.  an extremely pretty ballroom and a performer with a really nice voice.

On to one of my favorite venues...Windows on the World.  Some of you may remember when I talked about this venue before and all it stands for commemorating September 11th.  Joyful Finesmith and Wallace Locke have this venue...it is truly gorgeous yet never lets us forget.  Thank you so much Joyful and Wallace for this venue.  I am listening to Lynnie Michigan in the piano portion of her show.  Such talent.

It brings to mind something I thought about a great deal last night.  There has always been the dispute between musicians and track.  Unfortunately lately, I have noticed a difference between pianists and guitarists.  There are such wonderful pianists in sl, many with lovely voices and those that hear them can not help but be mesmerized by both the music and the voice.  I do not see the recognition they deserve though, that is so sad.  They are not track but amazingly talented musicians.  I could only hope that many of you take the time to go see a pianist just as you would a guitarist.

SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Last week I decided to bring the Live Music Venue Directory up to date, there have been quite a few new admissions lately, and I knew that it needed some updating.  I tp'd to each and every venue in the directory.  It was actually pretty sad.  I had to remove quite a few because they were no longer there, and in trying to reach the owners, I was told that many had closed.  That was the sad part.  The uplifting part is that as some close others open.  Each with their own uniqueness.  Some of the new ones have truly impressed me.  Music in the Mist...that one I just can not say enough about.

With all this said, though it makes me reflect on what owning a venue truly means.  I believe that many close because of the cost of running a venue.  This is something that every person thinking of opening a venue needs to truly consider.  I know I have given my formula a ways back and just maybe with new readers I should repeat it.  I choose to be a paying venue.  No one plays for tips only at my venue.  Nor do my hostess work for tips only....she also is paid hourly.  This is the way that I choose to do business...it does not mean it is the right way for everyone.  I do know it has worked successfully for me for 5 years.  As far as being able to afford the venue.  I have a formula that I use in finding the performers that appear.  I look for 4 things.  First being talent, Second being following.  The third and many of you have heard me preach this...is promotion of the venue.  Fourth and last are the rates.  If all 4 come together well, then hopefully we can work together to find times that are good for both of us.  No it is not foolproof, and I have made my share of mistakes.  But once I hire a performer, I try to keep them for at least 4 weeks....During that time. I keep on a spreadsheet...how much I spend to hire them, how much in venue tips comes in and an average.  It takes at least 4 weeks as everyone has good and bad weeks.  I expect my performers to be at 40% of ROI (Return on Investment).  I once had someone that heard that say I am foolish that I expect a profit....that came from a performer that I had to let go.  It was a silly statement on his part because 40% is a long way from profit.  I also do not like to hire performers that also do tips only venues.  I am trying to figure out why they think they should charge others to perform.  My best recommendation for any new performers is to not allow yourself to start at tips only...it is one of the hardest ruts to pull yourself out of.  Though I would also say that should not attempt to get going at 4k-5k a show.  No matter what your rl background may be or how talented....this is sl and until you can draw a following and make yourself valuable to venues here, you are not worth the 4k-5k.  Start out low and build.  As you build so will your rates.

I am going to elaborate a bit more on promotion of venue.  This does not mean showing up for your showing up for performance and reminding people to tip the venue.  It shows to your audience and to the venue that it is an afterthought.  It does mean taking the time to know the venue owner and the venue.  LOL it takes all of a few minutes to visit a new venue and explore it a bit.  Know what they have to offer, build a rapport with the venue owner.  Besides finding new things and building a friendship, you are also able to talk about the venue and the owner while you are performing.  There is a sincerity in your voice in then when you discuss it the venue during your performance and why your audience should support it.  Though it may sound silly, the venue owners will love you for taking a personal approach.I stopped giving out notecards talking a bit about the venue the day I heard a performer read it verbatim.  There is no personalization in that. Oh and on a another note....always wear your venue tag. 

I have asked my performers to also have their streams running before they take the stage.  It keeps the dead time down and keeps the audience involved.  It may be just music but it still avoids the dead time.

I do have a few pet peeves.  I guess some of this can be chalked up to individual likes and dislikes....but once your show is done, unless you are doing a back to back, hang around for a bit and give the performer that has taken the stage your support as well.  I, myself, have let at least one performer go because even after I asked him to hang around he left as soon as his show was done each and every time.  Remember those same performers come early and support you, the least you can do is hang around and do the same for them.

OK I am getting off my soap box.

I have to admit RL has been rough the past few days.....but I am getting better...if anyone wonders why I have been so quiet, or worse yet, messed up the venue calendar.  I apologize now for any inconveniences that has given anyone.  I thank the friends I do have that have given me support and held me up when I was ready to crumble.  You know who you are.  You have cried with me...made me laugh, and even more so given me hope, checking on me daily....I love each of you.

ON A LIVE MUSIC ROLL IN SECOND LIFE!!!

Well I am on a roll!!!!  Actually I started going out to each of the venues in the Live Music Directory to ensure that it was accurate.....Now sometimes I just do not stop and think!!!  I should know better then to bounce around the grid on reset Tuesdays.

So what is the next best thing to do------LIVE MUSIC OF COURSE!!!!.  Checking events I headed over to Tricksters and listened to my buddy Steely Decosta.  Talked with Lokki for a bit and listened Steely....always fun to do.

Hit events after that and saw a name that I had heard of but not listened to before...to top it all off, my favorite group Flashdancers were there....soooo off I went to Low's bar & Playboat "Naughty Wishes. A new performer and a new venue for me and both were absolutely amazing!  Listening to NonahReeves.....and she is a performer that will truly WOW you.  Talking with her manager, my friend,  Impress Allen, I wished I had an opening....unfortunately well fortunately...I am completely booked.If any venue is looking for an amazing performer and is open for European hours, I would sooo highly recommend this very talented woman.  The venue is also a wonderful venue....I fell in love with they made their dance floor.....unique creative and beautiful.

Speaking of....The live Music Venue Directory is growing, though some may be outdated....I will bounce around on a day that is not reset Tuesdays to make sure they are all updated.  It is a wonderful resource for people looking for a venue to visit, managers looking for venues to book their performers and performers looking for new places.   slmusicvenues.wordpress.com

There is one thing that Second Life has given us....that is a neighbor with tons of talent and friends.....Happy Canada Day to all of my Canadian friends.  With that I went to Canada Day at Key West and listened to one of my favorite Canadians....Max Kleene.  I never get tired of listening to Max.  I was also able to see many friends....it was a great time.

Last night I did a giant WOOHOO!  The line up for 5th anniversary of BS's is done.  Now you all know that I am so technically challenged, so all I am waiting for is the texture and I will be sending out invitations.  9 straight hours of amazing music by some of the best performers in SL.  Thank goodness I have the best hostess in the world, Tasha is truly a gem.  Giggles when was the last time you had a hostess tell you did not need to pay them that they did extremely well in tips.  Of course I ignore that....But wow what a sweetheart she is.  I am soooo very lucky.  The next couple of days will be busy so I probably will not get back to this until later next week.  But I am trying hard to not fall so far behind.

REALLY CATCHING UP

Yes it has been a few days since I wrote that last post, I kept meaning to add to it but figured it would better to start a new one, that one was long enough.

Tonight I started out at Whiskey Go Round and saw an old friend Buffalo Mike.  Looking forward to seeing him again at the Twin Cities jam.  Then had to go visit a grand opening and see my very good friend Max Kleene.  Wow this place is packed.  Music in the Mist is a wonderful new venue.  The owners Ryan and Jaiden have truly out done themselves.  This is a beautiful venue.  The owners are also such lovely people, offering their help in any way possible.  In this absolutely beautiful venue is a tip jar that quickly became dear to me.  Everyone knows BS's by the giant Hippo tip jar, well Music in the Mist has a Panda.  I love it!!!!

I stopped in Sunday on the 4th anniversary of B&B's......Bundy has run an amazing venue and had some absolutely brilliant people there for 4 years.  We did a little reminiscing ...thinking about how quickly time flies.  That reminded me....On July 4th, BS's celebrates 5 years as a venue.  The line up is huge with many of the performers that started with me and some of the other amazing talent I have met along the way.  I will be sending out invitations later this week.  But mark your calendars,  Starting at 1pm through 11pm we have some of the very best performers in sl making an appearance!

 Monday I started my day at Guthries, a wonderful place to begin a new week listening to Joe Paravane.  This is truly a wonderful way to start a day......got my smoothie....in a relaxed mellow location surrounded by friends with the so smooth voice of Joe Parvane and talking with one of my oldest friends, CelticMaidenWarrior Lancaster.  It has been a while since I have had the opportunity to hear Celtic, but ooohhhh what an amazing voice.  If you have not heard her, I highly recommend watching events and catching her.  Staying to hear the oh so lovely voice of Celtic.

I can't close out this month without telling you that I also have had the sheer pleasure of attending the venue of two very  very good friends and though I am not regaling her with stories of getting my hair done while I am blogging...lol... Mireille Jenvieve and Aeon Woodford owners of Ce Soir to hear the amazing Russell Eponym.  Ce Soir is such a beautiful venue and does so very much besides live music.  I would tell you to check out this venue even if I did not love the owners as much as I do.

As I am getting ready to close my books for the month of June, I am looking back on this month.  What a month it has been.  Some really highs and dome devastating lows.  Many of you im me quite often to wonder how I am doing.  When the month started I was hoping to be able to use a living donor for a transplant.  This would allow me to take on the treatments to battle the lymphoma....To me that was really positive, then the appointment with the oncologist and told that I was a stage 4 lymphoma.  it has killed the living donor option and the thought of any treatment to battle it.  I have learned what being between a rock a rock and a hard place really is.  After being sorry for myself for a bit in there and trying to crawl under rock (thank you to those very good friends that did not allow that) I am more upbeat and accepting thing as they are.....A couple of major decisions have been made,  first....get out of Illinois....no more winters like this last one.  Thinking the Carolinas or Virginia...keeping the seasons yet also having my love of the coast.  My granddaughter turned two, and I had the sheer pleasure of sending her a Disney princess drum set (call it revenge on her mom for those teen years) I have found that I have absolutely the very best friends in the world, and would be lost without them.  I also have some of the most amazing performers at the venue.  So though the month has had its lows....I believe the highs far out weigh them.

WOW IT HAS BEEN A WHILE AND SOOO MUCH HAS GONE ON IN SECOND LIFE MUSIC

I started out today at Cafe Casablanca listening to Mitch Trellis.  A beautiful venue....Mitch was really pleasant to listen to and I was in a long conversation with his manager/partner who also owns two other venues.  Now looking at events and seeing where to head to next.

On to Tricksters,  lucky me I got there at the end of Caasi Ansar's show.  That girl has a beautiful voice....and I adore her Scottish accent.  I never heard anyone say the word butt before and actually make it sound cute.  Caasi does.  I had been invited here today to listen to a newer performer.....Ashton Andretti.  Acoustic and great.  Just starting out so he does not have a huge following, I would say give it time.  and he is great with talking to the audience.  I truly wish I had openings right now....but I would recommend him to any venue owner that has an open spot.  Chuckles but I am trying.....

Well I stayed at Lokkie's place for the entire hour, I was enjoying the show so much.  Took a break for rl for a while and when I got back headed over to Club Enchanted Diner to see an old friend that I missed a great deal.  Never able to catch her in performances and never see when she logs in just as she is logging out....darn....But today I saw both her log in and this wonderful performance at Club Enchanted.  It is none other then my very good friend Katarina Malaspina.  Not only a wonderful person...but what an amazing voice.

After spending some time talking my old friend and updating the venues information in the directory...I headed over to Mystic Cove to listen to outstanding Wayne Davis.  Giggles sooner or later people will not be gray here ......I stuck around for a while ....Wayne Davis is sooo talented.  From there I went on to Pink Ducks Emporium....a venue I had never been to to listen to a performer that I had not heard before tobykip Lionheart.  Unfortunately, while there I had the benefit of having to listen to someone that seems to create drama everywhere .....thank goodness Toby's sweet voice kept me somewhat sane before I finally got tired of it.

LIVE MUSICE VENUE HOPPING IN SECOND LIFE CONTINUED

The gray is gone and the soap opera is done....so I am back.  Starting out at My friend Sasinq's place Cameo Music Park.  Listening the wonderful paradorn Ansar.  A wonderful acoustic performer.  Something truly puzzles me about music community lately.  Where is the following to so many of these so talented performers.  Every now and then you hear the most awesome talent that is amazing, yet I have to wonder why the following is not there.  I feel that way listening to Paradorn.....amazing talent.  So what are we doing wrong as a community to not see the exposure that so many of these performers deserve.

Many of you know that I also explore sl.  Quite often I do that and meet new people, it always amazes me when they are not aware that live music exists in sl.  Though it was not done for this reason, but it did make many realize that live music is alive well and kickin butt in sl....The two years we were a team in RFL of SL, though I have apologized to the team for leading them down that path....I have to admit that due to the hard work of the team and the many events we did, it made many much more aware of live music in Second Life.  It may be time that we think about other ways to get out and let so many others know about live music.

I have seen some performers that comment they will go to newbie sims and promote themselves there.  As a community lets start thinking outside the box.  All too often we get stuck in our own little corner of the world and forget there is a whole big grid out there and so many different communities.  Those of us that have venues, maybe we should be getting out more and promoting ourselves beyond the music community where the same people see the same things over and over.  I challenge each of us to think outside of the box, think of an idea and follow thru on it.  To many of us it means stepping out of our comfort zones....but if it benefits the performers and the venues then please tell me what is wrong with it.

On to LA Club to listen to Chip Takacs for a bit...LA club is an awesome venue.  Always holding a good line up.

But there is another performer that I have not heard before so I am not staying at LA Club and instead went on to AerRock Beach and WOW what a voice.  AerRock Beach always seems to find some awesome talent....they have out done themselves on this one.  Caasi Ansar is truly a performer that needs to be heard.  If you have not heard her, I can not recommend this woman enough.  She is from Scotland so usually only performs during earlier SL times, so if you work during the week on US time, make it a point to hear her on the weekends.  I am done today....well at least for awhile as I run errands in rl.

TWO DAYS VENUE HOPPING IN SECOND LIFE

Wow, can you believe two days in a row venue hopping....starting at The Luna-Tiki Lounge.  Getting to listen to Chicago Sax.  I have to admit that the sax is one of my absolute favorite instruments to listen to....and wow can this this man play.  Listening to him....no words are needed.  So I snuck a look at his profile.  His background is impressive and he says he still plays around the Chicago area, this is one that I would go out of my way to see.  I may have to find out when and where, grab a rl friend and go see him.  It would be soooo worth it!!!!

I stayed to the end and moved on to Vincents Blues and Jazz Club.  This is a performer that I had not heard before and wow what a strong good voice,  Another Chicagian smiles I love it when good ones from what I call home!  This is LuvofMusic and her name truly fits her.

Hanging my head....ok I admit I was lazy, I put this down and am just now getting back to it.  On that note I am didcating this to my good friend Mire.  She got such a laugh the last time I did my hair  and blogged  while venue hopping at the same time.  this time I saw arrrrggghhhh the hated gray strands.  I am the kind if you see them one day, they will be gone the next.  So today I am getting rid of the gray.  Men you are so lucky, gray hair looks good on you.  Giggles especially salt and pepper.  But many of us women struggle to keep it away.  Myself, I am not the type to grow old gracefully, they will have to drag me kicking and screaming all the way.  So once this is done I will be off to the salon for layering and a small trim.....get my bangs to where I can see again without pushing them off to the side.

Starting today at Kickin  where I am listening to sooooo lovely voice of Jen Waddington, a performer from the UK.  But when she ends it is time for my daily addiction of General Hospital and starting this hair of mine.

Oh before I forget I wanted to bring up Some Enchanted Evening Prom 2014.  There will be a photographer on the premises to take pictures of couples and individuals as they arrive.  The crowning will take place roughly about mid way through the Prom with the Queen and King both receiving Lindens, gifts and crowns.  Many of you know how fussy I am clothing wise, so I had a lot of fun finding the perfect crowns but I do believe the Queen and King will be pleased.  There will be an after Prom party immediately following.  The after party will take place at BS's  Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile.  Now how do you enter the running for the Queen and King?  That is easy.  You take this slurl to

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/57/217/28

click on the board with the pink top for the Queen and the the one in blue for the King.  Enter and then touch your voting box again to enter a picture.  Either a profile pic or another.   Then let your friends know to come vote for you.  Each person can only vote once for Queen and once for King.  There are already performers running, venue owners, fans and others.  This is no cost to anyone, it is about having fun. 

The lineups for the prom and after prom are being finalized.  As soon as they are complete they will be released.

Off to hair and my addiction.  To be continued ........

SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC VENUE HOPPING ON FRIDAY AND PROM INFO

I have not been doing this so much lately, but in my defense, I have been working on a special event in May.  Guess what it is ready!!!!  One night I was talking with a friend and we got to talking about how much fun a Prom would be, you know me...I get an idea and run with it.  Wanting to make this as much as a Prom as can be, there is a ballroom with a place for dinner, and of course since we are all above age, drinking!!! The theme of this Prom is SOME ENCHANTED EVENING.  There are voting boards set up for both a Prom Queen and a Prom King.  There is not cost to enter nor is there a cost to vote.  Each avi can only vote once for each.  Many of you know that I despise those contests that cost to vote or that someone can vote every day.  The actual prom is being held May 17 5-8PM.  Here is the slurl to enter and to vote:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/57/217/28

Back to venue hopping, starting at Kickin always a favorite to hear people I have not heard before.  Today I am listening to Bandit Eddingham, nice voice, acoustic and some of the old country.....a great change of pace.  His bio reads like a who's who of Nashville. Truly a talented man.

On to another wonderful friend's venue, AerRock  beach where I am listening to Agusto.  As much as I have seen this man's name I have not had a chance to hear him.  Mind you I am a bit over dressed today in a gown, but that is simply because of the genre at my venue this evening.  Agusto is also an acoustic performer doing a great deal of older country.  A different sound that Bandit, but also a great voice!

On to Vincent's Blues and Jazz Bar, a nice place.  I had the opportunity to listen to Rico Dee.  Wow a nice voice!

Now something is truly puzzling me.  Venues are dependent on tips, it costs to put these wonderful performers on the stage, unless you are a tips only venue.  Yet I have been to venues that neither the owner (quite often not even there) or host never even says hello, yet the all have greeters that ask you to join their group and give out a lm.  My question is, how can you expect tips if 1., you are not present, and 2 nothing is done to make your guests welcome.  I am a huge believer that venue tips increase when it comes from a sincere performer....but if you want the performer to truly be sincere, shouldn't you be there making them feel that way? Each of us plays off the other.  Myself, I will not go venue hopping if I can not tip both the venue and the performer.  I have found myself not tipping venues that do not bother to pay attention to their guests.  So lets see now.... I am just one person, I wonder how many others you may be missing.  Then later complain that you venue is not getting tips.  When you do receive a tip, then maybe we could all have the common courtesy of saying thank you beyond a tip jar saying a generic thank you.  There is not one avi that has to tip, so whether it be one linden or 1 million linden (ok I dream) they do it out of their goodness of their heart and we should all recognize and appreciate it. 

Time to take a break......hangs head I would imagine there is a 12 step program for this, but I am addicted to a soap area....and it is time for General Hospital and heading into sweeps month.  They say that admitting it is the hardest part.

On to Franks Elite, always crowded....but I fit in better with my gown......lol.  Listening to Lauren Ilo. such a sweet voice.  Then on to Sweet Escapes Country where I listened to the absolutely Samm Qendra.  Since the first time I heard this woman, her voice has always amazed me she is truly one of the most angelic voices in Second Life.  This venue is cool and there quite a few people here, but I also noticed that in a gown I am dancing in the dirt, hoe the sl dry cleaner is open.

I think this is enough for today as I am feeling a need for a nap.

A PEACEFUL SUNDAY IN SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC

After a couple of full days....and emotional ones, my youngest child graduated college yesterday.  Sooo proud but remembering the day I brought her home for the first time and wondering how the heck time flew by sooo fast.

Home now and relaxing....What a perfect way to spend way to spend a lazy Sunday morning....coffee and Russell Eponym at Guthries.  Entering events for today's line up, just relaxing....Russell has that wonderful peaceful effect.

Today I need to get to work on putting together a special event for around mid May...no fundraiser no anything like that  chuckles until I find an organization worth supporting in sl I will not be doing any fundraisers.  I am still working with Stand Up 2 Cancer trying to get things worked out and set up correctly.  I also have to admit, that due to another Facebook thread, today I looked much closer at Feed A Smile.  Pretty impressive and it seems that 100% of the donations go to Kenya where they are truly making a difference.

Now if there are any performers that may be interested in one very special hush hush event please contact me....and yes it is paid for not volunteer, also dj's.  I am hoping that once promotional material is ready, I see so many of you there.  It should prove to be just a lot of fun, something we all deserve.

Lately I have been following a thread on FaceBook started by a friend of mine wondering about notices, spamming etc.  I will admit I entered into the thread thinking one thing and saw quite few viewpoints.  I believe (not to say that this necessarily the right way, but it is just my opinion.)  Many of us hit all different groups and pages as well as other virtual means to promote our events....Here is my take on it.  I will continue to promote in as many places as possible....even going back to slprofiles and moolto.  I will use the Venue's Face Book page, still's page, all the different pages on FB and Face Book Events.  I will also continue to use my artizan mailbox (I got tired of paying Subscribo for having so many members and switched to Artizan it allows me to send out 3000 people at once and only cost me 650L.   as well as inworld groups and Second Life Events.  I have a theory about that, actually dating back to working in an advertising agency for 15 years.

There used to be a saying that went something like this  A man woke up knowing he was closing his business that day.  got up from sleeping on a advertised mattress, ate an advertised brand of cereal for breakfast, showered and shaved with well advertised products, put on a suit from an advertised clothing store, got in his advertised make and model car, to drive to his office and close his unadvertised business.  Now that is not exactly how it went, but you should get the general idea.  It is no different with promoting someone someone or something, yes soo much of it is the same people.....that is no different than rl....many of us could do jingles in our heads of things advertised and we have heard them sooo very much.  But when one new person listens to that performer or tries that product, you have expanded the exposure.

I also have to add....just sayin....that I miss so many of the performers that have left sl.

SEEMS LIKE SOMETHING IS BROKEN IN THE SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY

I have seen a lot on Facebook lately, even unfriended people because of it.  It seems like something is broken in the live music community. In so many ways it seems that the very community that I loved so very much over the years is turning on itself.

I* have seen performers publicly discuss their views on some of the venues, not only voicing opinions but doing it in language that I personally find disgusting.  Performers have always turned on each other between acoustic and track,  That is nothing new.  Hosts and managers turning on venue owners.  Venue owners turning on each other.  Venue owners turning on performers.

So lets seriously take a look at this because ultimately we are all in this together.

1.  Performers should appreciate any venue that offers them a place to perform, I mean seriously, if you are all here solely for the love of music as you claim....does the amount of lindens really matter?

2.  If a venue is a paying venue and is willing you to perform, you should appreciate that venue even more, sincerely promoting it while you are performing.  I have often heard the excuse that I forget.   Hmmmm here is someone willing to pay you to perform, is it right to tell them you you forgot them.  Why not take an extra 10 minutes out of your day and check out the venue so you know what you are talking about when you are on their stage.

3.  Performers should not be saturating the market so much that attendance at their shows is falling.  Think about that one for a second.  If you are performing so much, whether it be for paid or tips only, why should anyone make the effort to see you at one show when you have 3 others that you are also in.  and you do this all the time?  It is actually very true.  I know of one performer personally that realized this.  One of the oldest in Second Life.  We were talking about attendance and he told me he realized this, cut back a lot on his performances and noticed a huge jump in attendance.  People that liked him, truly had to make an effort to go see him.

4.  Venue owners and performers need to build a rapport....with more than just a manager.  I have noticed the most sincere performers when it comes to promoting a venue are the ones that I have formed a bond with of some sort.  I do not like working with a manager alone without the rapport between myself and performer already in place.  Mind you I am not knocking the managers, they do an extremely wonderful job of promoting their performers.  So if you are a performer that your manager has booked for you, take the time and reach our to the venue owner.  I know that myself, I just cancelled a booking because I did not have that rapport so rather than commit to spending those lindens every week, I cancelled it completely.  It was not the manager's fault in any way shape or form.  She had done a fantastic job of promoting him to me. I had said yes.....but then never heard another word from the performer themselves.

I did do this with two other performers and both of them reached out and we chatted, renewing a bond.  One of them has already started in their booking and I was so happy to have her.  I did not care about the amount of lindens ....she did a wonderful job of promoting the venue and sincerely believed in the venue as I am sure she does for every venue she plays at.

There is another reason to build that rapport, too many times I have seen managers change.  without that rapport, you could be losing a booking with the change of a manager.

5.  This is one I have preached about since I started in sl music.  Acoustic versus track.  I will never understand the disharmony there.....someone plays a guitar well that is their instrument....I have noticed that even best guitarists there are some that do not sing as well...Where as I seen track performers use their voice as their instrument.  For those who dispute that one is a performer and one is just karaoke....here is a rather large example.....when was the last time that you say Celion Dion holing a guitar so she could perform? 

Managers and hosts, rather than slamming a venue on Face book, appreciate the fact that someone took the time to hire you, and it is their venue and you should be agreeing with them, no matter how you used to run your own venues.  That was your old venue, this is theirs and they their sl, they should be allowed to run it anyway they please, especially since it is their money that is footing the bill for it.  If you disagree that strongly with then things, then find a venue you are happy at.

I will be honest here, seeing the bullying of venue owners and sometimes performers, well that gets old really fast,  everyone needs to get over themselves and remember that we are in this together.  All of us do this because we love music and there is a camaraderie there.  Yes things have changed, yes tips have dropped off.  Much of that we can look at within in our ranks and see that we have lost some really good people.  The other part is that of the economy as a whole, everyone is feeling it in some way  (an even larger reason to appreciate the venues that are still in operation and paying performers).  I have also noticed a much younger generation of sl'ers.  That in turn means maybe becoming more flexible with the music being performed. 

Please keep in mind that these are just my opinions and not the answer to everything.  But I really wish I would see less complaining, especially publicly since that can ruin things for the community as a whole in making everyone look bad.

WOW SECOND LIFE MUSIC HAS CHANGED

Most of you know that I have been building a line up.  I have tried to get out there and visit many of the newer performers.  I have always liked finding different people and missing them in with some of the awesome performers that Second life has.  Lately I have something seen that is very different in the Second Life Live Music c\Community  Now I know I have been out of the loop for a while but this is something I never expected find.  I have seen similar type topics in FaceBook as well.

I am finding newer performs have been much ruder.  I have thought often why that is.  My suggestion to newer performers is to realize that even though you may be an amazing performer, that you realize SL is full of amazing performers.  Take the time and get out there venue hop, get to know the community you belong to.  The competitiveness between performer and yes even venues hurts what has always been a wonderful community belong to.

This is a community that bands together in so many ways.  The most giving and compassionate community that I know of in SL.  The reason I reopened the venue is simply that I have missed this community.

Wow, I am seeing the same in venue owners and I have just do not understand it.  Yes times are hard and venues are a drain on all of our wallets, but no matter what each of us is in the same boat.  Yes the economy is hard and rl takes is taking its toll on each of us.  SL is our escape from that.  Lets get back to doing what we do best......getting along and working together to listen to the one thing that we all share...our love for music.  Performers take the time to visit those that have been around for a long time and those that are "seasoned" reach out to the newer performers.  Who knows, you may find someone that is awesome to dual with with.  At the very least you would make a new friend and help them to feel this awesome community that we all belong to. 

Lets get back to building it up and not tearing it down.

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT HAS BEEN ALMOST A MONTH LIVE MUSIC IN SECOND LIFE

It sure does not seem like it has been almost a month since my last blog.  To my own credit though, I have been busy.  Well busy and also waiting for winter to end.  I am starting to wonder if it ever will.

This has been a month of building for me.  The amusement park is open and has more roller coasters than any other park i have seen in Second Life.  Smiles, some very rare ones.  Max Kleene opened BS's "Bring a Friend & Stay Awhile" and we opened with a bank.

Today I am back to venue hopping.  I started The Celler listening to Scarlett Roux then onto a favorite Kickin to listen to someone I have not heard in a long time,  REALLYMAD Morpork.  He has a wonderful voice.  Now Many do not realize it but there is a difference between performing and entertaining.Some people get on the stage and perform and do so beautifully, where as others get on that stage and entertain.  There is a rapport with the audience, keeping the audience's attention and quite often brings a good chuckle interacting with them.  REALLYMAD Morpork while an awesome performer is also a great entertainer!!!!

Giggles. I do believe I hit the jackpot.  Ladies take note!!!!!  All of us get hit on all the time.  So when those random requests come to dance or goofy things just respond with no thank you I am also working on a blog.  You will receive an apology for bothering you.  IT WORKS!!!!!

After ReallyMad Morph, I hung around for a bit and listened to Bill473 but then I was off to do things in rl and also my downfall to check out 60 linden weekends.  The nice thing about that is they give the pictures of all of the items participating, so I only have to visit the stores I that I saw something that held my interest.  Though Saturday proved to provide some drama.  Last week after asking a manager for help of which they do not do.....go figure, she blocked me.  and her block message was not nice.  This amazed me as she represents the owner.  So I had promptly sent the owner a notecard.  Mind you this is an owner that I have been of her group for many years and I have spent quite a bit of money with her over those years.  She was back in the 60L sale so I went back there and this time the owner was online.  Laughs we go all the way back to when she was partnered and her partner was a dj, and I had helped promote him.  So I nicesly asked if she had received the notecard as I had not heard anything.  She pretty much read me the riot act and then promptly blocked me with a blocked message that was filled with cussing.  This has just amazed me as she owns a business, and the cornerstone of any business is good customer service.  At that point I promptly removed myself from her group and refuse to shop there anymore.  Though I have not stated her name or business in here, if anyone would care to know, just im me privately.  It is just me, but after many years in advertising/promotion/marketing I am strong believer in the make someone happy and 5 people hear of it.  Have an upset customer and 20 people hear of it theory.

Now on that note, I have to admit, there are soooo many other businesses out there that have amazed me with the good customer service they give.  My favorites are all in my groups. as well as so many others that groups just does not allow room for.  I always try to do something on the venue as well for the businesses that I truly believe in and the owners are amazing people. Many of whom have become the best of friends over the years.  So if you are ever needing something and looking, again just im me privately and I will give you my opinion of the best places to visit.

I also did something out of the unusual for me ....I joined the Flashdancers.  Now this is an amazing group of people, visiting all over the grid at live music events.  They are also the most welcoming group of people I have had the pleasure of joining.  i would recommend to anyone involved in the live music community of second life to clear out a group space and join this group.

Finished the day listening to the amazing Samm Qendra at the Music Machine.  

Now that the venue is open along with everything else, I can go back to venue hopping....Yahoo!!

THE SEND HALF OF TODAY IN SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC VENUE HOPPING

Well the decison has been made.  After I listened to Joe Parvance at Guthries today, it is a definite.  BS's goes under construction today to reopen!!!!!! 

So it has started.....the venue is almost back to being completely together, the amusement Park is going back up.  and I am taking a break after destroying my sim at first.....by accident.  I am such a clutz.  I think I parcel part of it to flatten and end up flattening the whole thing.....giggles my house which used on top of a small mountain is in mid air.  Well not anymore.  I have been working on it most of this week and decided it was time to do some venue hopping and give myself a break....pulls up events....not that much going on at 9 AM.  Off to Kickin I go to see Ghostie Wildmist. 

Hmmmm back to the amusement Park to work some more.....then naptime and what a nap, 6 hours,,,,,even I did not know I was that tired,  Came back into world and headed over Rhi's after dark.  Got there just a few minutes before ReggieSunset Rookswood finished....such a wonderfully smooth voice!!!!!  I stayed to hear Puddy Quan. Now this is truly a versatile performer covering many different genres.

Rhi's Poem/After Dark  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Mai%20Tai/30/96/1500

On to another favorite...Sherie's Gaslight to see an old friend Tristyn Homewood.  I got there early and got to hear Paul Knowles.  I have been listening to Paul since I first opened the venue and something I noticed is just how versatile this perform has become over the overs...he has become an a fantastic performer and not one to be missed.

While at Sherie's, I was chatting with a friend and we talking about how much SL is changing. That traditionally acoustic venues were now having track performers there.  This is SUCH A GOOD CHANGE!!!!  Many of you know me well enough to know that I have always been the person that said a track performer does play an instrument --it is their voice.  I have also seen some amazing musicians that though I could listen to their music for hours....they do not always have the ability to sing as well.  I have always believed that true collaboration is when a track performer and a musician can dual stream.

Tristyn, as always, but on an amazing show.  I was thinking I was going to log off after Tristyn but then my favorite Electric Brit took the stage--Grif Bamaisin.  Grif puts on an amazing show and always a ton of fun!!!!  What an AWESOME light show!!!!  So much for a 6 hour nap.....my pillow is calling.

Sweet dreams everyone!

SECOND LIFE REAL LIFE LAG

There is no other excuse for being so behind in posts. Thank you for tolerating me.

I am back on track....Starting the day at -- of course my favorite venue for coffee -- Guthries.  Rico Dee was performing and the first time I have heard him....another wow.....this guy is amazing!  So very relaxing with such a smooth voice.

Guthries :  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Gigli%20Live/6/162/24

While I am sitting here enjoying him, I am going to copy and paste something I put on my Face Book page.  It impressed me so much that I wanted to share it:

Yesterday I was still recouping from the long day before, but I have to share this ..... Many of you are aware of how much I support Stand Up 2 Cancer. I support them because of the complete transparency as well as the fact that I am assured that every single dollar I donate goes directly into research and not CEO salaries, or mailings, or the many other excuses that other organizations give as to why all donated money does not go to actually solving the problem. With that being said, SU2C, I am sure has overhead but it may be handled with partnerships as there are some rather large partnerships behind them.... On the note of partnerships, I saw something the other day as I actually parked the car and took the subway (L) (Metra) downtown. In the Chicago land area we have a rather large chain of banks...Fifth Third Bank. I do not know how widespread this chain is, I do know it covers most of Chicago land and suburbs. Fifth Third Bank has a campaign for SU2C....Open a checking account and they will give you $150 to open it (a common practice with banks) but they will also give Stand Up 2 Cancer $150 for each new checking account. What impressed me the most on this is the partnership, but also the fact that every train in and out of Chicago was literally covered with these signs. I saw them and all I could say was WOW. 

For those of you interested in learning more about this amazing organization and the work they are doing, I am including the link...I am also including a link for Charity Navigator....a nonprofit watchdog of sorts so that you can see where this and any other non profit that you are thinking about is rated.

http://www.standup2cancer.org/

http://www.charitynavigator.org/


Okay now I am rolling from laughter.  Another mailing from The American Cancer Society.  This time a letter apologizing for the frustration I have gone through trying to opt out of mailings and thanking me for contacting the Better Business Bureau regarding it and to please now give them my feedback.  So there we have it!!!  The real way to opt out of receiving things from The American Cancer Society......using the Better Business Bureau when they refuse to honor wishes.  Hoping this is the last mailing.  But I am leery, my daughter's sorority and the Greek community at her school has formed a team and I wanted to donate for my daughter....hmmmm does this put me back in the cross hairs of their mailings.  I may call and see.  

Back to great things like Second Life Music, which allows us to forget organizations with poor business practices.

Joe Parvane is performing now.  Joe is great to listen to!!  Awesome blues!!!!

I have to give this woman a ton of credit.  Many of you know Twinky Waffle.  Twinky is a wonderful friend and also a hostess at Guthries.  Twinky did something I have never seen before.  It is brilliant.  I watched her greet people and one time she welcomed someone to Guthries and asked for their ticket, then kept going with something to the effect of.....wait you don't have one because this sl and music is free in SL so remember to support the venues that bring this music.  Now that is not her exact words.  Hers were sooo much better, but you get the general jist.  

I love listening to Joe Parvane........!!!!  If you haven't heard him, you need to.  The guy is great.  He has some absolutely amazing originals.  

Chuckles just looked, this is getting to be another one of those long blogs.  So I will end it now and come back when I visit the next venue.   But not moving from this spot until Joe is done!!!!
 

NEW WEEK IN SECOND LIFE VENUE HOPPING!!!

I am hoping you all had a great weekend.  Here it was a blamy 13 degrees at times....but you know those warm spells this year seem to lead right into toms more snow.  What started as 1-3 inches, has turned into 4-8.  Then everyone wonders why I have a snowman with knives sticking out of it and the words Doe Winter Die as my profile pick on my FaceBook page.  Chuckles, I swear I am not normally a violent person.

My first stop today is Runaround Sue's.  It is strange but I have never been here and WOW what a cool venue!  This place is made to have fun .  Here is the slurl:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Five%20Sisters/38/197/21

Today Balladeer is here.  This is my second time hearing him.  He is completely awesome.  If you want a great time, watch for him in events, every second is soooo worth it!!!

I have decided that since I can not seem to upload pictures on to my blog (you know I am technically challenged) that I can at least give you the slurl of the venues I visit.

On to The G spot for the block party....and Wayne Davis.  This is truly becoming a FUN afternoon.  Wayne Davis is a definite must see in SL.  Got me turning my speaker up and out of this chair and dancing!!!!

The G spot slurl:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Grand%20Strand/216/58/22

There is most definitely a downside to this venue hopping.  Many of you know that I am getting close to really missing the venue so very much.  Here is the downside, my venue has always been and will continue to be a paying venue.  I have always prided myself on having the best in sl there...but now I am finding that list is growing so much.....and wondering how much my wallet can absorb.  For I thought I knew of all the best, but I am finding more and more of them.

This is such a fun venue that I am going to hang here for the next performer......the one and only Gangjo Mokeev.  Wow it has been so long since I heard him.  I thinl the last time I heard him, I was so impressed, that I tried to book him for BS's....unfortunately out schedules did not mesh.  Giggles see how easy it is for this list of performers that I would want at BS's to just grow longer and longer. 

Oh no I just realized I have to go back to Runaround Sues'....forgot to tip the venue.  Chuckles as you can tell, this is my own reminder.  You know that age and blonde roots....it is such a dangerous combination.  Though I think that I have been using that excuse for years.  Even back when I was still working, if I walked through the building, I would get hit with questions, and would give that excuse then so that they would email me their questions.  It worked, and allowed me to stay focused on what I was doing at that point.

Tonight I was at home....and gasp...not watching the Olympics....so I thought I would do some venue hopping.....Headed over to Smoken Aces and saw my very dear friend Taunter Goodnight.  This woman has a voice that will completely blow you away, and also one of the nicest performers I know.  She is one of the first performers I ever got to know, enjoyed a couple of months as her manager, and got to meet her at the Nashville jam.  Taunter is such a wonderful person.

While at Smokin Aces I also was able to see old friends.  I have stayed to myself for so long that it does this old heart good to get out and see friends again.  Gandalf was up next. so I stayed and listened to him.....soooo laid back.

On to a new venue for me....Zippers Hangout.  I have never been here before,,,,but Bill473 is singing.....I know you have heard me talk about him before.  Ladies, I am telling you his voice is like our candy......you need to hear him.

I stayed to hear James Carden a newer performer to sl, and a ton of variety.

Off to another favorite Sherie's Gaslight Live.  SherieAnn has had this venue for as long as I can remember, and one of the first venues I had visited when BS's was just an idea forming.  Sherie/s is always packed and one of the venues that gave me some of the guidelines I had about starting a venue.  Sherie always has the best performers in sl....it is a great deal of what has led to her success and keeping her venue packed.  Tonight I am listening to Paul Knowles, another long time performer in sl and right after him comes the one and only Trysten Homewood.

Okay, I confess I took a couple of days of but I'm back venue hopping.  I spent some time cleaning out landmarks and will finish later....First stop Guthries....

Today I went to a venue I had never been to,,,, NorthCliffe Coyotes to see my old but very good friend Max Kleene.  As always, the place was packed and of course the sim crashed.....Hey its a Max show....its understandable.  This is the performer that leaves no question as to why he won so many Avi Choice Awards.  Max is probably the most liked performer in Second Life.  I adore him and I know so many others do as well.

Cool Jamz On Clouds, another new venue...and wow I loved it.  Trixie Breguet was performing she is another performer that I have not heard before. 

LIVE MUSIC IN SECOND LIFE -- WHAT FUN!

Just when I was thinking time for some venue hopping, as I looked through events I noticed that there were a great deal of events at formal venues.....now that means a trip home to change.  Most of you know I am soooo fussy about clothing, so after I finally decided on a gown, and hair, jewelry and shoes (about 30 minutes late) I headed off to Smooth, I had not heard Mavenn.  Again blown away by a voice.  It is amazing when one takes the time to think about how much talent is in Second Life.  It is good to also see my friend Maebh Jewel, the owner of Smooth.  This is a venue that has been around for at least as long as I have.  My suggestion....if you love hearing wonderful voices that have that angelic sound.....If you see Mavenn on events, make it a point to go see her, you won't be disappointed.

Got the speakers on....chuckles time for hair.  Actually got to get it done tonight, tomorrow getting together with cousins, so no procrastination this time.  Terrytoon is up next with Blonde.  I will stay here for half the show and then change to another venue.  Terry and Blonde are a great couple, and I love listening to them.

I went on to The Gilded Lily at the Aloha Beach Community to listen to another completely awesome voice....my friend Jean Monroe.  Jean is also a sl jammer, if you have not gone to one you should at least get to one.  You will find the people are even more amazing when you meet them!!!

Ohhhh staying to hear another friend....Becca Baxton!!!!  This is a night of listening to some very amazing women.  On to Music Machine "Live" to see another absolutely amazing performer and another that I have not heard in so long....HammerFla Magic.  Hammer is a great performer and entertainer.  The venue is beautiful.

I realized something while I was talking to Slider, the owner of the Music Machine; that I miss not having the venue directory.  This thought has crosed my mind a number of times.  I have been visiting many new venues and some wonderful old ones as well, there has always been that need for one central place just for venues.  I think when I return tomorrow...or sometime between then and Thursday, I will put one back together.  If your venue was included in the old one, I will contact you to ensure that everything is updated.  Lets see--thae memorial is back up, Stillwaters Meditation is back up, the venue directory looks like it will be on its way.  It will only be so long and I will miss them both so much that the venue will be back and the amusement park.

Unfortunately on Thursday I will be back down at Northwestern.  Going back to when I lost my hearing in the one ear last July, after they had done, the headaches that I had been plagued with for years stopped.  Earlier this past week, they were back.  Off to the dr again.  This time though, I refuse to allow them to find one more thing wrong.  I do believe the lymphoma is enough.  They are no longer alowed to find anything else.  Ignorance truly is bliss!

I have heard from many of you about the Charity Navigator link I gave out in one of the last couple of blogs, I am so glad you have found that site to be helpful.  I depend on it before I do anything for a non-profit now.  I will never again lead you or ask you to do something that is not fully transparent and accountable.  Many of you have come to me and told me it was not my fault, there you are wrong, it was.  It was my responsibility, just as it is the responsibility of anyone that leads people to be open and honest and to be as knowledgeable as possible.

Giggles, for those that like hearing my exploits of getting things done while I am venue hopping, you will be glad to know that I got my hair done, blown dry and everything.  To be honest I love the feedback in emails and im's that I get from you.  Though for the person that told me they were so busy reading the blog that they were late to work.....chuckles, I promise it is not going anywhere and will be here when you get done working.

Until next time...hugs to each of you.

FINALLY FOUND THE FINANCIAL RECORDS OF AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AS WELL AS MANY OTHER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZAITONS

First thank you to those that I have im'd with your support and your comments of being proud of me for finally having the courage to say what others have long thought.

Yesterday I was able to have many of my questions answered.  Though I am not a tax preparer or CPA, I have held the position of treasurer in rl for other non-profits, so I am so well aware of how important transparency and accountability is.  That is something we do not see in Relay For Life of Second Life.  On that note, if anyone has questions as to any one's ratings by the Charity Navigator you should take the time to look for yourselves.  Here is the link: http://www.charitynavigator.org/

This is where I learned that due to financial....American Cancer Society only has 2 stars out of 4, and a score of 46.75 out of 70.  The organization that I admire so much actually falls under the Entertainment Industry Foundation because as a foundation they do so much more than just Stand Up 2 Cancer; their scores are 4 stars out of 4 stars and 61.34 out of 70.  If this is something you are truly interested in, their methodology for their ratings is in there.  If you are like me, you can become a member (it is free) to access even even more information.  That is where you can find the actual tax filings of each organization.  I kind of chuckled as I went over the tax records and realized why the grant that each organization gave to the lung cancer dream team of Stand Up 2 Cancer, made so much news.  At no point in the tax records of 2012, did I see that the American Cancer Society gave that much to any one program.  For a change I could finally see where the money we raised goes.

I would suggest that each of you, no matter what organization your passions lie, check out this site.  As with all of us, we all want our money to go exactly what we donate it to.  This is one way of ensuring that the organization you are thinking about is doing just that.  If you find that it isn't, there are many many other organization that are truly using their fundraising dollars exactly where they are telling you. 

I am off to look up Child Advocacy Centers as that is the organization I started a grassroots organization for, and where my passions truly lie.

LIVE MUSIC VENUES, PERFORMERS AND AN OBSERVATION

It has been a while since I posted a blog that really got people to thinking, I hope this does.

I was just invited to join another group set up for live music venue owners.  In this one it is more in the way of changing the ways that venue do things so they are hmmm whats a better word....I can't think of one so lets go with cover charge.

In FB I saw a thread that talks about all performers and venues uniting for one universal calendar versus events.

I am part owner of a group that is set up strictly for venue owners and sharing of information.  Though I have noticed that most of that is all about griefers names.  I have seen many other groups set up to do the same thing.

I have been involved in the live music community for almost 5 years....yes I was in sl for a few months before I became involved.  In this time I have attended meetings with both performers and venue owners.  Sometimes to promote one person's personal agenda and others because they truly have the best for the community as a whole in their hearts.  Either way I stand back and look at it and think to myself to myself....what is the definition of insanity.  Does doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results sound familiar?

Ultimately that is what I see happening.  Every one's group is so important because they offer information....giggles the same information as the next group that believes their group is the best.  Until ALL venue owners and ALL performers can come together in agreement, it will never happen and we will continue to run a vicious circle.  So why are we doing it?  Really all we need is a central location for griefer's names to be entered.  Then it is up to the venue owners to stay informed.

The reason that everyone will never all come together is simple.  This is sl, venues and performers come and go.  That and every one thinks they know the answer, when really none of us do.

This is an observation!

Now on that note, if people would like a central location for griefers names I can do that.  It is easy and I do not work.  Just let me know.

SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC VENUE HOPPING

On Friday night I started out at P4 listening to Sam Soundful.  Sam was dualing with Abriyanna Slade.  Wow she has an absolutely wonderful voice......  Then I went on to VEGAS NIGHTS LIVE MUSIC, JAZZ & COUNTRY VENUE  and listened to a double dose of awesome male performers.  Hazie Moonwall followed by Gary Jonstone.  The venue was packed with wonderful old friends.  After having a wonderful time I had to head for rl for a while.

Saturday evening.....I changed into a gown and headed to WOW...Windows On The World Ballroom.  This was my first time here.  It is a beautiful ballroom, but then I snuck a look at the about land and was both touched and inspired by what this ballroom stands for.  The best way for me to describe is just to copy and paste the description. "Windows on the World was a venue on the top floor of the World Trade Center. When destroyed in the attacks of 9/11, the staff was serving breakfast. All 72 staff members  perished. This venue pays tribute to these individuals and all the others who died."  I also want to head back there as on the land there is a memorial to 9/11 as well.While there I also heard a performer I had never heard before Lynne Michigan,  a wonderful voice and extremely talented pianist!!!   I will look forward to seeing her again.  Here is the slurl:   http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Moonwind%20III/21/70/103


I was gong to move on after Lynne but then Kiran and Ang showed up.  Ang is following Lynne,  It has been way too long since I have heard him.  It was an absolutely wonderful performance.  So very beautiful and sooooo much fun.  I was able to see people I have not seen in so long.  What a wonderful time it was.

Sunday morning....before football festivities start, I headed over to B & B's and saw my old friend bundy.  Bundy is such a very special woman to me, sooooo strong.  I was also able to see another performer that I consider a good friend.  Laidback Celt.  The one thing that being captain of such a great group of people has given me is the opportunity to leave the small group of performers that performed at my own venue and spread my wings to meet and get to know such a wonderful community.

I would have left B & B's but the next performers , well one was new and the other I have not seen in years.  Bara Johnson.  Such talent!!!!  I don't know if rumor is always true, but one rumor that I have heard over the years is that Bara is one performer that did get an rl recording contract out of Second Life.  Now he is in world on a limited basis with one of his rl band performers...Free Balen....she has such a strong voice.  It was truly a treat to see Bara and Free!

This past year has been an extremely sad one within the music community as we have lost so many of our own.  Many if you are aware of the memorial that is housed on The Shore.  This is for loved ones lost to cancer as well others surviving and/or battling it.  Bundy did give me Shan's photo to include in the memorial today.  Though one of the saddest days was when I had to take a pic that was given to me of a relative that was battling cancer and had to move the picture to the viewer of those lost to cancer.


Now GAME TIME!!!!   GO BRONCOS!!!!

BACK TO VENUE HOPPING IN SECOND LIFE WITH LIVE MUSIC

Last night I was able to get the Gold Mine and see both Johnny Paramour and a woman that I truly adore Chillee Hernandez.

Chuckling, those that know me, know that naturally I have very curly hair....if you are friends with me on fb and take a look at my oldest child's curls....well she got them from me.  About every 6 months I straighten it and that is a time consuming process.....so I turn on the speakers and off I go to a venue to hear a performer while I am doing this.  Today's first stop is Frank's Elite.  Always a beautiful venue and their hosts are some of the nicest....  I have been in other venues with dress codes and seen the hosts eject someone for not adhering to the dress code....before that happens here, the host explains in local and then offers a suit or gown which ever the case may be.  Today I am listening to TheBalladeer for the first time.  Amazed he is doing songs I have not heard in years.....and along with the smiles he is giving me comes a flood of memories from much younger days and out dancing in rl.  Wishing him the very best of luck as he auditions for America's Got Talent.  I checked out his website as well.....besides what he was doing in Franks, he blew me away with his country style on his site.  I am always amazed when I see a performer master a few genres.  He has!!!

http://balladeerchristensen.wix.com/theballadeer **A special note---he made it through the first three rounds today and will keep us updated as to the next step.


On to the Titanic......my buddy BubbaC John is performing.  His shows are always so much fun.....makes it hard to leave the monitor to take care of hair.  I got to see my very good friend Mara Menges......I have to say that she does have the most beautiful sim ,,,,I love  completely love The Titanic.  And Bubba....hmmmm...someone that reads my blogs and notecards...today it was so apparent as he brought tears to my eyes....but then chose to humiliate me by getting me back on the stage and having me dance to quite a medley of songs.......  SL would not be the same if Bubba ever left.  It would truly be a giant loss to SL.

I headed home after Bubba and just chilled so I could get things done in rl.

Good morning....Bright and early I grabbed my coffee and headed over to Guthries to hear my old friend Gandalph Mornington with his set dedicated to a Pete Seegar, truly a lost icon to the music world.....though his music will live on.   Bring on the memories!!!  Accompanied by wonderful Pete Seeger stories.  I have always said that Guthries is truly the best place on the grid to have that coffee in the morning and start your day out right!!!!

Tonight I headed over to Acoustic Cave.....what a great crowd  It should come as no surprise though, two of the best in sl were performing.  Hazie Moonwall followed by Hogan Baily.  Both shows are so energizing.  Both men so very talented.  I don't seem to get to many venues in the evening, but I am so glad that I did tonight. 


I would like to thank so many of the team.  The im's, emails, and notecards that you have sent me lately.  (True no one has stepped up to lead for an RFL team this year)....but the support, the backing, you have given me has been so overwhelming.  Those that have expressed thanks for being able to do what others only felt in standing up to RFL.  Your faith in following me,,,,wow all I can say is that I am truly touched.

I have also been given some ideas by other venue owners that have preferences as far as non-profits so I will talk with them and see if there is a way that we can make a difference with them.

WOW REALLY GETTING CAUGHT UP oh and this makes it 5 posts

The Cancer Memorial is back up at:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/211/33/24

Stillwaters Meditation is also back up at

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/214/33/24

SL MUSIC RACES TEAM UPDATE FOR RFL OF SL

Hi Everyone,

First an update,  Many of you have sent note cards and or im's to see how I am doing, I thank each of you for taking the time to think of me.  Here are the results to date.....I have a stage 2 lymphoma with it found in 4 spots, but just small spots.  It is a non aggressive and slow growing cancer so we are in a wait and see mode.  Either way, I am not a candidate for any type of chemo due to the advanced liver disease already taking such a toll on my system and blood counts, my body would not be able to stand up to chemo. 

Now enough about me.....lets talk about you and what an amazing team you are. 

RFL registration is fast approaching.  Most of you if you have read the things I sent you in the past, know that I myself refuse to lead a team into RFL of SL based on my own opinions about it.  Many of you have also contacted me and asked if we were doing RFL again, and if so you would want off of the team.  By the same token, many of you go into RFL embracing it with all your heart.  So I have put a great deal of thought into this.

If there is someone that would like to represent SL Music as a team captain with RFL of SL, please let me know..  I, in turn will meet with you and give you all the information I have about RFL of SL and past events etc.  I will also take the time to talk with each member of the team to see if they would like to continue with RFL of SL and if I have their permission to pass on their information to you.  Once I do, I will give you their names and you can register them, etc...

For those that have wondered if I have just given up the battle against cancer, rest assured I have not.  I have submitted all of the paperwork to Stand Up 2 Cancer and I am awaiting a response.  Needless to say there will be different things to iron out and go over with them.  I tend to prefer them because I am assured that each dollar donated goes 100% to research....the research and updates are very visible.  The privacy policy to opt out of other things is also very visible.  So overall their transparency and work impress me.  I invite each of you to take the time and check out their site: 

http://www.standup2cancer.org/

This morning while searching for something in SL I also found another organization, that is by far one of the most global I have seen....I have looked at their site and where their money goes to in research grants.  I do not see anything that is affiliated with RFL and/or ACS....but due to the lack of financial transparency on their site, it is something I would look into a bit deeper.

As your captain, I never want to make the same mistakes I made with RFL of SL and go into it blindly not knowing all the facts or having misleading facts,....Chuckles, you know the saying...if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is....and that was the trap I fell into without doing my own homework.  I owed it to you to dig deeper, you take me at my word, the least I can do is to make sure those words ring true.

If there is anyone of that is willing to lead parts of this team into RFL of SL this year, please contact me through notecard, fb, email, skype.

I adore each and every one of you,

Still Braveheart