Originally Posted by BIG JIM MERRILEES
Most of the above reasons plus a few others too complicated to explain. I also perform covers. Nothing wrong with playing other peoples songs. I would take it as a mark of respect if someone wanted to sing one of my songs. I think that you can retain your identity performing covers especially if you add your own twist or style. Most pro musicians who want to make a living spend more time on covers than on their own material. Few can afford the luxury of playing all original material. Most audiences DEMAND covers unless you are pretty well established big time playing concerts to fans.


Sorry Big Jim, I should have went into detail. I learned to play from other peoples music so I don't hate covers. I found from playing around town that everyone else was playing the same covers that I was even when I did them in my own style. I wanted to be different, and the only way was to write my own music and that's why I started writing. I rarely play live now but if I did, I know that I would have to play covers to please the crowd. I know that guys like you and BC make a decent living playing live and cover tunes are part of the job and I don't have a problem with that at all. It takes a well rounded talent to write and perform others songs at the same time.
I've been out of the loop for so long that I wouldn't know what the audience would expect from me if I played a popular song. At least when I play my own songs, they don't know what to expect. Ben

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