It beats the cost of therapy.
To make a living at it. I don't have to be rich, but being able to keep a steady level of income wouldn't suck.
That's like asking me to eat only one chip out of a chocolate chip cookie! If I had to choose one, it would be John Williams's "Imperial March" from the soundtrack of the original STAR WARS. I grew up listening to movie soundtracks as a kid. That was my classical music before I knew what classical music was.
KISS, Journey, Prince, Metallica, T-Ride, Winger, George Benson, Steely Dan... if they're playing live instruments, I'll listen to just about anything.
Good times, bad times... you know I've had my share.
You aren't alone and it could be a lot worse. Could be better, sure, but hey...
Glad they showed up. It's not easy building up a fanbase playing the style that I play.
It's still an uphill battle but labels (mostly) aren't interested in building artists. They seem to want to take the ones who've done the groundwork and offer distribution and packaging. For a high rate of return, of course.
Apathy. Apathy from fans and apathy from fellow musicians who flake out.
Just showing up helps. It's a chance to network as well as be seen out supporting other acts. If an act is playing someplace where I know people, I'll be sure to repost their event on Fb so they'll see it on my feed. It's a pittance, I know, but it's something.
Tenacity and patience.
Bombay Black, Third Degree (out of Little Rock, AR)