No Money, No Music

[plumtreeblossom.livejournal.com]

Did anyone else notice the non-busking busker at the Davis T this morning? I guess he decided to employ a new business model, because the sign in his guitar case said NO MONEY, NO MUSIC. Sure enough, his case was empty, and he was pacing and grumbling "f*ck, man, f*ck" and reading a newspaper, not playing at all. I saw him lash out his arm at an elderly person who stepped too close to his case.

I busked for a year with a folk trio, and I have to say, that's just not how it works. We sang and had a great time, and people gave us money if they enjoyed the music. Sometimes candy or T tokens too. Most Boston buskers do it in their spare time and don't attempt to make a full living at it, and it's more about getting exposure for their music or their CDs, and making a few bucks for sharing music.

All I can say is I hope this guy isn't planning to take up regular residence in that busking spot. Coming down the stairs I noticed the unusual absence of music, then this surly, swearing guy taking up a spot that another busker could have been using.

Comments

[tahnan.livejournal.com]

You know, I suddenly have this strong desire to get together a small group of people and stand around with a sign saying "Give us 25 cents or we'll just stand here looking sullen." With no intention of singing; just of standing around looking sullen.

[oakenguy.livejournal.com]

Oh, I would totally give you a quarter for that!

[hammercock.livejournal.com]

You should stand next to the sullen guitar guy when you do that. :)