Remembering the Good Ole Days

Is Austin Live Music in a slump? This photographer doesn’t think it is but does have an idea of what is needed

“When you think of the good old days, think one word: dentistry.” – P.J. O’Rourke

We often reflect on certain aspects of the past and identify them as the ‘Good Ole Days’. The reference we identify may have a following of others, but it is highly likely that the reasons espoused differ. Regardless, there is an agreement that a decline has occurred, and the field of interest being referred to may never relive the heights of previous glory unless immediate action is taken. The remedy is delayed because of disagreement as to the how, amongst those who have identified the issue to resolve. Maybe the problem is too big for one or a few to solve but I firmly believe if everyone concentrates on overcoming their obstacles then, collectively, the overall problem will be lessened and then resolved. Live Music in Austin is the topic on my mind.

I have lived in the Austin area since 2006 but, due to travel, have only participated in the viewing of live music scene since September 2020. It is a lame excuse; but I am sticking with it. The microscope of a psychologist would probably tell me that I never prioritized live music to be a part of my life during those years. I cannot disagree because every time I disembarked from the plane in Austin, there was a sign that stated: “Welcome to Austin, Live Music Capital of the World.” In short, I have only myself to blame but I intend to make amends.

In this brief time of my exposure, I have repeatedly heard that the live music scene of today is not what it was in the 80’s to 90’s. I have no reference. Though I lived in Round Rock, Texas from 1989 – 1994, the live music scene of Austin was not part of my weekly activity. I cannot blame travel because I did not travel during that time frame. My exposure to live music were past concerts attended. Yes, I am naïve on this subject, but I have the curiosity of a child and I will use this strength to ask the question, why?

My readings of Great Men and Women has given me these truths, they all had to overcome obstacles and they did not let the circumstances of the present stop the future they had determined to achieve. In the world of music, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles overcame blindness, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley overcame poverty, JayZ overcame record label rejection by creating his own label, Roc-A-Fella Records. If the live music scene of Austin is in a slump, then it can be revived to a glory that will, most likely, be greater than the perceived past. How? I am not a musician. I am a photographer. But I dare say that what I want for my photographs mirrors what the audience wants. Remember, I too can hear.  

I start with the following question:

What is it about the music scene of today that would stimulate someone to turn off Netflix, get out of their chair, drive to a venue, pay to park, pay to get into the venue, and pay to have drinks?

The answer, an experience that they will regret missing.

I, being a photographer, am driven by the following quote from Jay Maisel:

If you are out there shooting, things will happen for you.

If you’re not out there, you’ll only hear about it.

The days I miss due to weariness or sickness are remedied by getting out as soon as possible. The angst of knowing that I can only be in one place at a time is alleviated by knowing that the Providential hand of God has placed me where I should be at any given second. The limitations of venue lighting are being overcome by constantly challenging myself to find a solution and thus venture back into those venues I previously criticized. My photography has improved.

The world is awash in photos because everyone has a smart phone. Mine must be better so that when one sees a photo I took, they will want to see another. I am constantly telling myself that I must give my viewer a reason to look at mine. I need to create an experience that is different than the multitude. This is my challenge.

This brings me back to the world of Austin live music.

Are you giving your audience an experience?

It has been stated many times that there is a multitude of means to listen to music, but there is only one way a person can truly experience live music, to be there. You and your other band members are making a presentation to an audience. Your goal is not to play for them but to create a unique experience for them that makes them want to see you again. Let me repeat:

Your goal is not to play for them but to create a unique experience

for them that makes them want to see you again.

The experience you create is impacted by two things, your look, and the gaps between the songs. Remember, I can hear music anywhere; I can only experience it by being at the location you are at. If people eat with their eyes, then I dare say that they also listen to music with their eyes. Does the clothing you wear make a statement? Does your band have a look that is identifiable, different from everyone else? If they saw a picture of your band, would they know who you are without viewing the caption. In short, how are you making yourself unique to not get lost in the multitude.

The gaps between the songs are another way to create an experience. Some musicians tell stories of past or recent experiences. Others vigorously interact with the audience. Both are creating unique moments that can only be experienced by being there.

So why are the 80’s and 90’s looked upon with such reverence. It is because an experience was created that is being longed for again. No experience of the past can ever be duplicated, and no one should ever try. What is needed are new experiences to compliment those of old.

Remember, I can hear music anywhere; I can only experience by being….

— Michael Wright (Seven Pillars Photography)