Motives

I’m currently working my 5th episode, which I’m kinda psyched about. This podcast was something of an experiment—the scratching of a creative itch—and I wasn’t sure I was going to make it this far. Therefore, I’d like to say a quick and sincere thanks to all the bands who’ve been cool with me spinning their jams. That said, I’m not sure how much longer I’m gonna continue. Naturally, I want to keep this going as long as I can, but believe it or not, finding 7 songs to play isn’t always easy. We’ll, finding the songs is easy, but getting the permission to play them isn’t. 

I wonder why. I can’t be sure, of course, but I get the feeling some are skeptical of my motives. I find this a little weird (and somewhat sad) because my motives are pure. Nevertheless, should anyone out there need me to say it, then let me be clear: I simply want to help spread the word about the good, cool, awesome (pick your adjective) bands I discover online. I make no money from the podcast — in fact each episode costs me about $10, so I loose a bit of money. All I get out of this podcast is the pleasure that comes from doing something creative and from introducing people to cool new jams. 

In a way, I suppose I understand the skepticism. The emphasis on doing things “yourself” in DIY culture, coupled with the understated yet ever-present mythology of the rugged individualist lurking in our collective socioeconomic background, has made us all a little wary of anyone trying to help someone else without asking for anything in return. I mean, they must be up to something, right? 

Still, I’d argue its more punk rock to support one another than look out for number one, which the dominant culture wants us, indeed needs us, to do. Providing that support is precisely what I’m up to here. 

Of course, I don’t have a bazillion followers, so how much support can I really provide? Fair question, but even if I introduce your band to a scant 10 people, isn’t that worth it given that the time and cost to you, the musician, is zero? Isn’t your goal to get your music heard? This is the service and support I aim to provide, and I don’t ask for a dime (and I never will). 

So, major props to everyone who’s down with that and willing play along. I really couldn’t do it without you.