THE SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC STANDS UP 2 CANCER --FRIDAY 9/4/2014

     

 WELCOME TO SECOND LIFE
STANDING  UP 2 CANCER

On September 4-7th 23 different live music venues and OVER 150 DIFFERENT PERFORMERS will all be holding a fund raiser 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 fund raiser 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 LINE UP September 5, 2014

Join us as we Stand Up 2 Cancer in conjunction with the RL event.  100% of your donations go directly to research.

 FRIDAY, 9/5/2014

BS'S "BRING A FRIEND & STAY AWHILE"  THE SHORE          9/5/2014                    Performers                                      

4:00 PM    Open   
5:00 PM    ELiz Watanabe                                        
6:00 PM    Maurice Mistwallow                                    
7:00 PM    Tristyn Homewood                                  
8:00 PM    AM Forte                                                       
9:00 PM     Christopher135 Quan                                   

********************************************************************
            
   CE SOIR      
9/5/2014                    Performers                                      
2:00 PM    Jerry Sinclair                          
3:00 PM    Miha Shamen            
4:00 PM    Mavenn                                 
5:00 PM    Jade Berry                             
6:00 PM    XaraTeransula                       

*****************************************************************
     
    GUTHRIES
9/5/2014                    Performers                                       
12:00 PM    Russell Eponym                                          
1:00 PM    Dango                                                        
2:00 PM    Dilah Halostar                                                
3:00 PM    Kevin Thomas                                               
4:00 PM   Quinton Whitman                                                            
5:00 PM    CelticMaidenWarrior                                       
6:00 PM    Marqs DeSade                                                

******************************************************************
 
  HOTEL CHELSEA             

  9/5/2014                    Performers                                   
  5:00 PM    Zelator Baphomet                              
  6:00 PM    Lazarus Dognouse                             
    ************************************************************

KICKEN 
 9/5/2014
2PM  KEVIN THOMAS CARPOOL

STAND UP 2 CANCER AT LC LIVE 
  9/5/2014                    Performers                                       
                                   2:00 PM    Maxx Sabretooth                           
3:00 PM    Phil Setner                   
4:00 PM    TerryToon                     
5:00 PM     Clarice Karu                 
6:00 PM     Automatic Quandry       
7:00 PM    CaptainObeY Arson                          
8:00 PM    JC Farstrider - Live Sax                     
9:00 PM    Acoustic Rhapsody                             
*****************************************************************

Party Beach Kurhaus Scheveningen                 Scheveningen

9/5/2014                    Performers                                        
12:00 PM    ManuAurell                                                       
                                                      

*****************************************************************

PINK DUCK                         

9/5/2014                    Performers                                       
9:00 AM     Glenn Bunjie                     
10:00 AM    Theresa Nayar                  
11:00 AM     Jade Berry                        
12:00 PM   Mike Chek                           
  1:00 PM   TerryLynn Melody            
  2:00 PM    Atsrik Zuta                        
  3:00 PM    Dallas Winslet                  
  4:00 PM    RockyTooCool                   
  5:00 PM    tobykip Lionheart           
  6:00 PM    Liam Defoe                       
  7:00 PM    Travis Overland    
  *****************************************************************
 
SEASIDE LOUNGE  

9/5/2014                    Performers                                     
3:00 PM    Clarice Karu                                              
4:00 PM    Rara Destiny                                            
5:00 PM    pAUL kNOWLES                                       
6:00 PM    essence                                                 
7:00 PM    Donn Devore                                          
8:00 PM    Mavenn                                                   
9:00 PM    Tristyn Homewood                                   
                                                   
*********************************************************************

SMOKIN ACES                   

9/5/2014                    Performers                                  
1:00 PM    Freddy Mergatroid                                
2:00 PM    starkz.voom                                             
3:00 PM    LuvofMusic                                                     
4:00 PM    BELINDA (belinda.portland)                             
5:00 PM    Satin & Erin                                                      
6:00 PM    Krisie Snowdrop                                                   
7:00 PM     Hogan Baily                                                       
8:00 PM    Gandalf Mornington                                             
*************************************************************************

SURFSIDE HIDEAWAY                     

9/5/2014                    Performers                                   

2:00 PM    Mamaa Saiz                     
3:00 PM    Beth Odets                         
4:00 PM    Bat Masters                        
5:00 PM    Senjata Witt                     
*************************************************************************

THE DIRTY GRIND                                       

9/5/2014                    Performers                                   

5:00 PM    Doc Warziders                                 
6:00 PM    Taunter Goodnight                          
7:00 PM    tobykip Lionheart                                 
8:00 PM    Liz Aday                                      
9:00 PM    Xara Fiasco                                    
10:00 PM  Larree Quixote

ADDITIONAL LINKS

                        
TEAM SITE:     DONATE DIRECTLY HERE
LL lab promo : 
MODEM WORLD
sl enquirer:
Facebook 
CE SOIR

STAND UP 2 CANCER KICKS OFF IN THE SECOND LIFE LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY--THURSDAY 9/4/2014

 WELCOME TO SECOND LIFE

                  STANDING  UP 2 CANCER

On September 4-7th 23 different live music venues and OVER 150 DIFFERENT PERFORMERS will all be holding a fund raiser 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 fund raiser 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 LINE UP September 4, 2014

Join us as we Stand Up 2 Cancer in conjunction with the RL event.  100% of your donations go directly to research.

KICKIN               http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kickin/171/184/23             

9/4/2014                                                    Performers   

                                    

2:00 PM                                              RhesaAderyn & ML                                               

3:00 PM                                                Mihaere Shamen                                                   

4:00 PM                                         ProfessorShowbiz Resident                                 

5:00 PM                                                      Mavenn                                                     

6:00 PM                                                Todd Rumsford      

ELITE SOUNDS OF JAZZ  

          http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Mont%20Fleuri%20Isle/49/93/23   

9/4/2014                                               Performers 

                                     

4:00 PM                                               Ricky Denarro  

5:00 PM                                                   Open                               

6:00 PM                                             Hammerfla Magic     

For a complete listing of all line-ups and events vist The Shore and touch the large Stand Up Cancer white sign   

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Shore/177/45/44                                    

                                    

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.