Dj magic d
Senior Member
I gig on a regular basis in bars and clubs, and I'm always approached by patrons or "fans" looking for drumsticks as show souvenirs. For some reason, people believe they are entitled to one of my sticks(or both) just because they are in attendance. And by attending I mean showing up to a bar with no cover charge. After years of doing this, I find this incredibly irritating and one of the major annoyances of playing in bars, clubs, or venues where alcohol is served. Some of my friends who are drummers in other bands have shared similar experiences and been labelled as rude, arrogant, or general a**holes just because they didn't offer this token item. I don't wish to reflect bad on the artist I perform with, but at the same time, he isn't providing me with drumsticks to give away either. Its funny how quick people are to point out on social media how unfavorable a drummer is...just because he didn't immediately give in and may have said "no". I'm curious how any of you approach this, and very much interested in your feedback.
As of late, I've been getting the cheapest sticks possible, using them for a few songs(so they show wear), and then setting them aside. At the end of the night, I have a stash of "burners". If I'm approached, and depending on their attitude, I'll use these. I also have to hide my sticks in between sets, since I've seen people come up and attempt to take one out of my stick bag which is around the floor tom or ones resting on the snare. Oddly enough, this practice seems to be of little concern to bar staff, especially if said patron is an attractive young female.
Are there any other suggestions you road veterans might offer?
As of late, I've been getting the cheapest sticks possible, using them for a few songs(so they show wear), and then setting them aside. At the end of the night, I have a stash of "burners". If I'm approached, and depending on their attitude, I'll use these. I also have to hide my sticks in between sets, since I've seen people come up and attempt to take one out of my stick bag which is around the floor tom or ones resting on the snare. Oddly enough, this practice seems to be of little concern to bar staff, especially if said patron is an attractive young female.
Are there any other suggestions you road veterans might offer?