Isolated Nation

View Original

5 Reasons to Befriend A Musician

Music is the language that everyone understands- it links us all together no matter who we are or where we come from. Now music would be nothing without those incredible; albeit scruffy folk who actually create it and as such I have made a list of the reasons you should befriend the nearest busker. This article is filled with my experiences which could possibly be yours- see if you recognise any of the crazy events that went on because you could potentially have been involved!

1. They're probably hungry

So turns out music doesn't always pay well. Who'd have thought? So basically what we end up with is a whole bunch of really talented, charismatic, hungry people who could probably really do with a friend and a hot dinner. And in return they can probably write you a really great song and call it the 'Stomach-Gyrating Blues'. Think of it as character building and being charitable. I didn't say these were good reasons, okay? ;)

2. They will always surprise you

So you can never call a musician predictable and whether they are bringing over a new amp they found on the side of the road, rocking up late to something you planned weeks in advance or even forgetting about your meeting entirely- there will absolutely never be a dull moment. Now most of my friends are musicians and honestly I love surrounding myself with them because mostly musicians are fun, genuine people who are just a free spirit and that's the kind of company I love to have.

3. Think of all the Adventures!

Whether it's visiting some dodgy ass pub in the middle of the outback or trying to load up a car with a drum kit while a B- List local celebrity tries in vain to get out of the carpark you've blocked*- you're literally guaranteed an adventure if you decide to accompany musicians. I've run from angry jewellers, heard a song where the only lyrics were 'catch a badger by the tail', watched someone fall through a chair, twice (different times, different people), and watched someone jump off a flight of stairs and almost break their ankle. I've hung out with a Persian nightclub owner, seen a female drummer with a male appendage, been roped into preforming onstage, won a title for Sexiest Dancer (and yes- I'm going to plug the shit out of that title! It was a legit achievement!), come out dressed for clubbing and ended up in a dingy music lounge drinking vintage boutique beer (better known as Carlton Draught), worn twenty different peoples hats over the course of one night and I've even managed to lose my wallet, passport and keys all in one night.**It's crazy- but I wouldn't have it any other way. Adventures are the absolute best! Go have some!

*This actually happened. Poor Basil Zempilas just wanted to get home! Sucker.
** All those adventures happened over a few year period. I am not a crazy party girl who has super awesome nights that look like a Hangover movie script. But I want to hang out with you if that sounds like your average Friday- so call me!

4. It's an excuse to drink mid-week

A lot of my favourite open mic nights and bands happen to be playing during the mid week. So you get to go watch your musician buddy play! This pretty much is the best excuse you could ask for to get hammered on a school night- the fact you're already in a bar. I told you these weren't great reasons. Still! A beer is a beer, and two beers is also a beer, and five beers means I'm probably drunk. I hate beer.

Seriously, go to a venue after work and just watch people play music! It's when all the hidden treasures come out and there's always fewer people which makes for a more intimate and laid back performance which is sometimes better anyway! Go ask your muso friend when their next mid week gig is and decide for yourself what you like best.

5. EP and Album launches are awesome

I've seen some wicked launches in the last few years and they've usually been mates of mine who have done them. A particular one that stood out was 'Day of Kings' launch of their 'Ouroboros' record. The guys came out wearing hoods and carrying candles to a track made  by one of the members of the band and it was legitimately one of the scariest and coolest things I've seen in forever. The Midnight Mules launched their video 'Pop Coc' at one of the most fun party nights of the year and The Big Old Bears album launch at Mojos was a really great rocking time as well. My CD shelves are crammed with local artists, and it's great because it is people I know and it makes it that much more special. Some of these launch events are incredibly awesome, and it totally makes you seem mysterious and Indy if you are constantly out at obscure launches. Everyone knows girls love dudes that are mysterious and indie. ;)

I want to hear about your adventures and misgivings! Tell me about your favourite musician friend! Leave a comment or tweet me: @perthsoundchic or @isolatednation

I love you guys! Until next time!

Emma Bradstock


See this content in the original post