I just spent an hour or three at the Guitar Emporium in Melbourne. There is something unexplainable to all but the freakiest of guitar freaks about why this is worth talking about. Just being amongst all of these dusty old relics makes me dizzy with a mixture of nostalgia and desire. I love old guitars. They are full of stories, music and life. Unlike the new variety, all shiny, pristine, unloved and with no voice. I have decided that what I want to do when I grow up is have a vintage guitar shop. Now that’s my idea of heaven.
January 18th, 2012
Ageism still alive and well in the music business
Once again I am astounded at the low level of interest shown by commercial radio and TV in music by anyone over the age of 30 in this country. Sure, I know about the small population and the size of niche markets etc, so I don’t expect our more mature local artists to get the same level of reverence as those in the US or Europe, but the doors shouldn’t be slammed shut. My own experience of trying to get airplay on commercial radio and television confirms my suspicion that ageism is very much alive and well. Now, I’m not saying my music is better than anyone else’s, but I do have a track record that is of some interest, I do have a professionally shot video clip that looks pretty damn smart, my songs are all self-written and mostly locally themed, the good reviews suggest the standard is pretty high all round. So who’s interested? No one in commercial radio or TV that’s for sure. Most won’t even reply to emails. National Radio has been kind to me but is that all we can do? I love Brooke Fraser, the Naked and Famous are great, let’s have more Avalanche City and Phoenix Foundation. But let’s also hear it for the older guys, let’s make some space for seasoned artists who still have something to say. The local music business might be better for it.