In this episode of "Frequencies," Michael J. Johnson will talk about what it's like to be in a band, why bands break up, and his six "Rules For Being A Good Band-Mate." He will also share some of his many band experiences. Show notes are available at michaeljjohnsonmusic.com/blog.

 

First, some housekeeping:

We’re on iTunes now! 

Website: michaeljjohnsonmusic.com, I will post the show notes in my blog, and you can leave a comment if you want.

Twitter: mikejjohnson

soundcloud.com/michaeljjohnson

Intro music: Soul Magnets

 

Thank you to all of you who listened to the first episode. Please spread the word.

 

I’ve already gotten some responses from possible guests for future episodes, so stay tuned. While I’m not famous, I’m somewhat famous-adjacent, so I might be able to score some decent guests once the word gets out. 

 

I will also be joined sometimes by my wife, the fabulous Ani Johnson. She has voiceover experience, and a very pleasant speaking voice!

 

I’ve been in quite a few bands over the years, both as a frontman and a sideman. So I want to talk about several issues related to being in a band, and the types of challenges as well as rewards that go with it.

 

Band dynamics are very complex. A band is like a family, and it’s not unusual to develop the same type of love/hate relationship with your bandmates that siblings often have. 

 

My early band experiences were marred by:

• ADHD
• Alcoholism
• I hated rehearsing

 

Typical reasons a band breaks up:

• Ego clashes/personality clashes
• Outside influences, either a girlfriend/boyfriend, management, etc.
• Drugs & alcohol
• Jealousy
• Unreasonable expectations or impatience
• No clear power structure

 

Michael J. Johnson’s rules for being a good bandmate

1. Communicate

2. Be on time

3. Remember the band is not all about you

4. There’s a difference between rehearsal and practice

5. Be professional at the gig

6. Be fully committed