BLUES N'AT

They come from near and far, from different walks of life and different regions of the tri-state area. They represent many different types of music, blues, classic rock, country, bluegrass, etc. They are the many fine men and women who perform at your local club or tavern. Sometimes, they play for a packed house and make enough to help pay their bills. Sometimes, they play for a scant few and make next to nothing. Have you ever went to a local bar and saw a band and thought "They're better than Miley Cyrus or Justin Bieber. Why can't they get signed?" Some of these acts pay their dues in hopes of one day catching lightning in a bottle. Some do it just for the love of the music and to see the joy on people's faces when they're out on the dance floor. These days, it's hard to find the funds to make the trek all the way to Pittsburgh and have a good night out enjoying some local sounds. If we don't support local music, it will become more and more difficult to find a nearby establishment that hosts live music. There are  places in the area that feature excellent performers for a cost of next to nothing. The Kopper Kettle and the Handle Bar are two spots that Mrs. Black-N-Gold and the Big Bossman frequent. Others in the Washington County area are the Trio Lounge, the Friendship Lounge and Rinky Dinks, to name a few. All these musicians ask is that you sit back and enjoy the show. If you really like what you hear, show your appreciation by throwing a few dollars in their "gas" jar or picking up a CD or t-shirt. If we don't embrace the local music community by taking our business to these establishments, they may not continue to bring us this fine entertainment. The opportunity to hear some artists such as Local, Shannon and the Merger, and the Jades will increase when the weather breaks. It's always a good time to go Pike Days, the Monangahela Aquatorium and the Whiskey Rebillion Festival and hear performances by these super-talented acts. I've barely scratched the surface with names of bands and businesses that support them. Even if you don't live in Western Pennsylvania or the tri-state area, I'm sure they are lounges and clubs in your area that encourage area musicians by hosting bands. Support these businesses by frequenting them when they host live music. You'll be doing the proprietor, the performers and yourselves a favor. Support Local Music!