Many artists who did not 'make' it in the recording industry went on to perform for many years as club acts.

The music business isn't an easy one. It is a long and difficult road filled with disappointments and compromises. As for most of today's top artists, they are manufactured by super media hype. Many don't have enough talent and ability to have performed in the local tavern on a Saturday night in the days gone by.

When I look for talent these days I invaribly turn to Country music where there still exist some real musical talent. After all, Country has picked up the beat and some of the style of old rock.

For every one that made it in the recording biz, there are at least a 1000 who did not. There are probably a 1000 reasons why they did not. The main reason is the music buyer. If it sold then it was a hit. If it didn't then it was never heard again and the artist was looking for another job.

I've had many jobs but I never completely stopped performing except for a few years in the early seventies.
I recorded more than fifty tracks for various labels but never had a big hit. Did I make it in the recoding biz? No, I don't think I did. Did I make it as a performer,an entertainer? Fifty years in the business indicates I may have done that.

So, in closing, allow me to say, if you like an artist, buy their product and they will be around to continue entertaining you.

• RE: A ? For Jimmy Dee - Joe Marjancik 07/05/2008 09:42:14 EDT (1)