Where do you draw the line?

[LWhittemore]

Hi Folks,

I'm an unsigned artist, I play regular gigs as a solo acoustic songwriter, Some are paid, Some... not so much.
Most of the paid gigs I play are small pubs/restaurants and I play mostly covers. The relatively lower paid shows are support slots for bands/artists I want to support on tour. Where I play mostly Original material.

I'll cut to the chase, I know most steel players on here are considered pro musicians and can pretty much state their wage to play.
I'm finding it hard to find a steel player who is up for playing a handful of these support slot style shows (and Paid cover gigs). I can't promise a good amount of pay (as most of it will probably come out of my own pocket) but it would be petrol covered, some drinks and a helluva good time!

For some gigs, I'm wanting to add Pedal steel to play shows as either a duo or a trio (When the Electric guitarist is with me).

Now, I consider myself an amateur when it comes to the steel, i can hold a tune and get myself through a set.. And I'll jump at the chance to cut my teeth playing along with other people!
There must be others out there the same as me??! Being as I can't Play the steel and acoustic..and sing all at once, I want someone to join me.

I'm currently booking solo gigs but in particular i have a couple of support slots in May, in which I want the 3 piece to join me and play.
If any of you pros out there have any budding students or you're up for some sh**s and giggles and my spare change in your pocket then, please do let me know.

Luckily I have a good Friend in Keith Buck on steel, who's helping me out and sitting in on recording sessions out of the kindness of his heart but unfortunately has other priorities when it comes to playing live shows.
Anyway, I'm rambling on!

Come and join me, Love, The woes of a struggling musician.

[Jim Pritchard]

Hi My friend, Mr. Whittlemore
Sorry I don't know your first name

Would be happy to help you out, anywhere South of the Borders !!

Questions :- Where are you located ? Where are the area/s you cover
It can be difficult for anyone reading your post to know 'where' you play.
Send me a PM please. or put the details in you response, Cheers.

An unemployed, but 'happy steelie' with over 40 years experience...

[JohnDavisStringsHere]

I too would be up for some of that..... I am used to working for nothing

[Will C]

Well guys, what do you say to this:

most steel players on here are considered pro musicians and can pretty much state their wage to play..

Really? Could have fooled me. The future of this instrument lies with the many of us on here who are not pro musicians, but would jump at the chance to work with others, because the experience is what we are really trying to build up. And I think that many of the members here - the silent majority perhaps - fit into that category.

Don't be shy Luke, tell us a bit more about yourself, there's nothing on your profile. Give us an idea where you are ("the Midlands" is a big area!), and where you want to team up with a steelie to do some work in that area: it may not be your normal base of operations. I would be very surprised if you drew a blank. All we need is a chance to get out there and work with other musicians, petrol money (or pay even!) would be a bonus!

Best, Will

[LWhittemore]

Hey fellas, thanks for the response.
Sorry, of course! In my haste, I forgot to mention. I'm based in Nottinghamshire. Where most of my paid gigs are based. I do tend to keep around the midlands/South Yorkshire area.. Long gone are my days of travelling down to London and South for gigs.

That's good to hear that there are people willing to take the time.

[LWhittemore]

If any of you would like to meet up for a bit of a Jam.
I have original stuff to send and a list of covers I play.
PM me if you want some more details. There's also plenty of times I will be needing players for recording sessions! It would be good to have a list of folks I can call on!