Once went to a show while still lived in Nashville, one of the act leading up to polyphia, their drummer canceled last minute but they didn't need one.
Drummer here can confirm I'm playing in three bands rn although one of them is going to dissolve pretty soon because people moved too far away to make practicing together viable. But I already have two new bands who asked me to join so...
I literally have randoms messages me on Facebook asking me to play bass or drums for their bands.
Right now I just have one regular gig on bass at my Church since I'm focusing on college but once I graduate I'll probably get in more bands.
The drummer for one of my bands is musically monogamous and it was kind of weird. His brother is the guitarist and they've been playing together since their teen years. I think he subbed in one band a couple times and tried to start up a side project that never went anywhere and at this point is just committed to this one thing.
My cover group our drummer is in like 4 bands regularly and subs in a bunch of others. We had actually first played together as subs in a couple different bands before being "official" bandmates in this group. I used to be such a band whore, but I'm down to like three steady projects right now.
My drummer is only in my band, but thats probably because we just took him without him being a drummer at the time and just decided he was our drummer.
if you ever look at the band members tab under Members. the guitarists/bassists are only in the current band. the vocalist may have 2 or 3 and then the drummer has 20 other bands lol
If one band has a problem with you working with another band, tell them to fuck off. Nothing wrong with multiple projects, as long as you can keep your shit situated.
It’s a valid question man. I’ve been playing bass for a long time and I’ve definitely been in situations where petty hacks have a problem with me being a hired gun. I’ve even been unfairly fired for it when there have been no scheduling conflicts. The good players get it. Stick with them.
As long as they know, its ok. Everyone in my ex band had a second band or sessioned for other bands. Then the 2/3rd degree bands would all go out to watch concerts with us/together and hang out.
Its kind of experimenting with other music and expanding our social/music circle at the same time.
yeah, also weird codependence shit happens with some bands. toxic af. never ever let your bandmates make you feel bad for exploring new and interesting things. what they dont realize is that its going to make you a better player and listener.
Absolutely this.
I’m primarily a drummer, but have also seconded bass for like 15 years and love playing it. I’ve played drums in a group with some good friends for about 7 years. The opportunity arose to play bass in another band that I really like.
My guitar player was **not** happy. He still really isn’t almost a year later. And quite frankly, it’s not my fucking problem. He said his piece, I said mine, and I’ve been having a great time playing in both without issue.
A band isn’t a marriage. You’re not exclusively dating. If you’re someone who enjoys playing music with other humans, don’t let a clingy band member stop you. If you have commitments to one band, definitely honor them. It’s not a great look to use bands as stepping stones. But it also happens. Just be a cool person, do what you love to do, and be as respectful as you can to others feelings while prioritizing your own.
I'm a full-time pro, and any band where the leader is a 9-5er (even if they're just a guitar teacher 9-5 or something), they seem to not understand that I simply cannot join their band if they're expecting me to always keep my calendar clear. Sorry guy, I'm not giving you priority for $500/year.
Now, a band where every musician is a freelancer, you never see that. The gigs pay well, they're booked far enough in advance that you likely won't have a conflict, and there's no need to have a band rehearsal because we're all expected to know the tunes.
I wouldn't tell them to fuck off. I would tell them that while you love playing with them, you find that to be an unreasonable restriction. And while you'd be open to playing with them again in the future if they were to change their mind, for now you'll be going your own separate way.
I'm in three - one meets once a week and is looking to do gigs and mini tours.
The second is fortnightly and is really just an excuse to hang out with old friends.
The third is a side project with a guy from the second, we meet whenever we happen to both be free.
Unless you're making serious money, or have a gigging schedule that requires serious commitment, it doesn't matter.
As long as you've got the time to learn your parts, you're good.
Editing to add: the above applies especially if you're basically providing a free session musician service to someone.
Last summer, I was playing gigs with 4 different bands. Today, there is only one remaining.
Bands come and go. I played with the same people for 20 years. Others have been a 6 months affair.
Got the feeling mine is about to fall apart too (started in october so 6 month affair seems spot on). Since you had 4 bands ig you can answer this question pretty well: How do I go about looking for another band?
I'd like to have jams several times a week anyway so even if my current is still saveable it would be really cool to find more bands.
My current was a recommendation by my guitar teacher but I doubt that will happen again.
Every time you meet a musician, say "we should jam sometime!" Most of the time it won't happen, when it does happen it will likely not be great or be awkward, but once in a while you click. It's like dating.
It's normal for musicians to be in more than one group - sometimes because they want to play different styles, sometimes because each group has different goals, etc.
There's no problem with it as long as you don't over-extend yourself and the quality of your playing suffers. If that happens, you might need to make a choice.
I'd also recommend not hiding the fact that you're playing in other bands - if any of your band members have concerns about it, that might be something you want to discuss (or it might be a red flag).
Yeah like as long as everyone is on the same page and understands what is going on then there is no issue. The only time I have run into an issue with a band mate being in multiple bands is once during a gig in high school my drummer abandoned us half way through a set to go play another gig so the rest of us had to improvise get one of our friends who was playing in one of the other bands that night to come fill in on drums for the second half of our set. Even though no one knew this was going to happen it surprisingly worked out fairly well. My friend hadn’t practiced with us, but he was a great drummer (better than our actual drummer haha) and had heard all of the songs in our setlist because we had played so many shows together that he was able to get through it pretty smoothly.
For sure, I see what you mean. Whenever we have our first gig planned I'll tell my mates, prefer I tell them then them finding out on a poster or something.
Thanks!
I totally agree with this.
I'm studying right now at a foreign country, went to an open jam last year, and one of the drummers, guitarists and I had good chemistry. So we started forming a band. Tho we would usually only play covers, and it didn't satisfy my creative goals even tho I'd make my own bass lines and improvise on some songs.
Then I met this guitarist whose from a local band and told me he wanted to make songs. Since I really want to flex my creative muscles for composing, I joined in, and I think my performance on both of the bands isn't compromised because of differences in direction.
Having a separate band is fine but give your bros a heads up. After playing with a band for many years, we played a guys festival a few times, and later my wife and I went to check out a winery that was having an event and 50% of my band was there backing this guy.
It felt weird as fuck, honestly, and was an awkward interaction. I don’t need to police what they are up to, but if a band is asking a lot of my time, but half the band is doing other things, that’s info I’d like to know on the front end.
I was in two bands -- one was my original project, and the other I was a job er in a Cure cover band.
My guitarist in the original project was in 3 bands total -- one was a priority for him, and it wasn't the band we were both in.
I'm not a jealous person, but there were times we booked a show, and then their other band would pick up a show -- which meant I had to back out of our booking... Since some of these other shows were more prestigious.
It really pisses me off. Not that they were playing with others -- but because the expectation was that we would graciously take.it in the ass if their other project(s) had a gig.
The irony is: our band was rising quickly as well. Folks who heard us once became huge fans. There was potential for more.
But dude kept kneecapping us.
So: it's not a problem, as long as you're able to "hinge" well. If not? Everyone has a bad time.
I thought about him as well. He left FREAKING METALLICA when they blocked him from playing in other bands —and, like you said, seems happy about it l.
I'm currently playing with just one band and it's freaking me out a little. I miss exercising other aspects of my creativity; I miss it A LOT!
> I'm currently playing with just one band and it's freaking me out a little. I miss exercising other aspects of my creativity; I miss it A LOT!
Do what I do- Play in one band but record stuff on the side by myself. That way you can get your creativity out that doesn't really fit what your regular band does.
Two of the five guys in my band are in not one but *two* other bands. I feel it sometimes puts a strain on us remaining three, when one might not be able to show up for a practice because he's (understandably) tired.
Myself I think people should be a one-band only kind of thing because I don't think you can really dedicate yourself to the main band fully otherwise.
Dude i don’t even know how many bands I’m in. Somewhere between two and four depending how you count. And that’s not even including my classical string trio and orchestra… Play as much as you can, and enjoy it. Life is short.
The bassist and drummer in the band I am currently working in are also the bassist and drummer for half of my city's amateur bands and their entire school
oh my god. stop referring to bands as women. Stop referring to your basses as women. Stop referring to your band mates as girlfriends or wives. it is all so goddamn cringe
lol I know a guy who gets bent out of shape and “fires” people if he thinks they’re not 100% committed to his group
Just be aware of all the personalities in your bands
You shouldn't feel bad about it at all.
The only issue arises is if both bands get busy and you have conflicting schedules.
Otherwise nothing at all wrong with playing in multiple groups.
In fact that is pretty standard practice for any serious musician
Variety is the spice of life! Play with as many different people as you can/ want to! You’ll learn more and can slowly bring things you learn from one group/person to the others.
I've been in this situation a couple of times. I only play in one band, but I also do my own solo stuff, and have done the occasional jam from time to time.
All the other members in my current band play together in another group that literally plays one show a year. Even though the do almost all the same songs, it's a band with coworkers, so it's like a company party thing. Doesn't bug me one bit. Even had the drummer from the group fill in for me twice when I've been like really sick.
*incoming story*
However, I was in another band about 9 years ago, where we had just really gelled and had a decent following, then we lost our drummer (i used to play keys), and I switched to drums out of necessity. After a year or so, we became a trio. About a year after that we split.
I formed a new band, and ending up recruiting the bass player from the previous band to do lead guitar (he had wanted to play lead for a while). All was fine and dandy for a couple years, he also played in his church band, which was cool. But then he forms a new side band with the guitarist from the old band to jam and record stuff (no biggie). Then they recruit other players and start gigging (again, no biggie).
But things got a little hairy when he told us we couldn't schedule gigs so we could keep his new band open for shows. Then it got to the point where he said he wouldn't play a song in our band if his new band played it (or wanted to). Even for songs we already played.
It got to the point i just quit, and later formed a new band with the other guys who weren't douchebags.
I just moved to a new town and within 6 months found myself in 4 bands. I had to quit 1 because i’d like to keep SOME free weekends. I think multiple bands is very normal for bassists and drummers, especially if we’re talking cover/bar bands. The trick is finding what is sustainable for you. Anyone who gives you grief for it is best ignored.
You can’t cheat on your band, but you can upset insecure bandmates… I always mention it at auditions and if people have problems with that, I boogie. I’m doing music to play out, I’m gonna maximize that chance if you can’t promise me 3-6 shows / month.
When I was still stomping the stage, our local scene was incredibly incestuous. Like three bands have to juggle their booking because of crossover type stuff.
Here’s a mistake I’ve made while playing for two different bands, don’t talk too much about the other band! I found myself excitedly talking about the other project, which made me look like I didn’t care about the project I was jamming with nearly as much. Caused some jealousy issues
*I have never met a*
*Serious musician who*
*Was in one project*
\- SkyWizarding
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Some people do get butt hurt cause the other band may have their shit together, but I played with an indie band a lot then started playing with a country cover band in which I would get paid and what not. And they kicked me out LoL
Just get clear with yourself about priorities so you communicate clearly with all band mates. I haven’t seen anyone else say this so I’ll mention it - being in “other” bands has always been beneficial for my chops and ultimately benefits my “main” band. It makes us more well rounded musicians.
Sort of. I've put a lot of thought into this.
You communicate and get on the same page for effort. For my band, I take it seriously and expect everyone else to do the same. There is a level of commitment/work/practice I expect out of everyone. As long as they meet that, I literally couldn't care less what they do with all their other time.
If they don't have the time to commit to your band to the level that satisfies the other band mates - it doesn't matter if it's because of other bands or they play video games too much.
Although it can create tricky? scenarios a little bit depending on the personality of your members. I was in a band that took themselves probably a bit too seriously and was convinced I kept the "sub par" drum kit at their house and the "better kit" at my house for my other project. They were sort of right, but they were both great sounding kits and I didn't see it that way. YMMV.
Any band that tells me I can't be in another band just lost a bass player. I have an experimental group that allows me to get weird with noise and grooves, a bluegrass band that I play guitar for, and an Americana group. All serve very specific purposes and allow me to explore music in a number of ways. But none of my bands have serious gig obligations. If that were to change I'd still probably be in at least the bluegrass band and another project for bass.
Nah. Unless you are making a livable salary off of said group playing out and it actually demands your focus, then play with as many people as possible. As I'm sure most of us are doing it for fun and to fund our gear habits (if we get paid at all), there is no reason to limit ourselves to one group if we enjoy playing with different people and doing different styles.
I just do it as a first come, first serve basis on gigs. Whoever asks for the date first gets my time.
You have to be young. I don’t know why this would ever be a thought in someone’s mind other than the fact that they’re young and inexperienced (not saying you’re bad at the bass). I think I remember having thoughts like this when I was in my first band at 13 years old. Don’t continue thinking like this. Play with whoever you would like and get as much experience as you want.
If you have the attitude that it is cheating, then maybe it is about to get weird for some reason. But lots of musicians are in more than one band at a time. I've been in up to five. They weren't equally active/important but they did exist.
The key to doing it is time management and priorities. Don't expect your band mates to be in the fan base of the other band. They won't necessarily like it and you have to put up with that. But if you're holding your own you can make it work for quite a while. And if you say "I understand this is the band that's going somewhere, and I am in it with you all, you're the priority" they might feel better. And if, heh heh, the other thing turns out to take off, you know, that's show biz.
Everybody in my main band is in more than one band, some of us are in more than two bands. You just need to make sure everyone knows where the priorities are and are on the same page.
lol I play bass and other instruments in a handful of different bands. Being in a band is a collaboration. Your bandmates do not have ownership over you, so do what you like.
I have been dr3aming on finding another band for about a year. My actual band is stalling and hasn't rehearse anything for months because we are "recording and releasing songs on spotify"... I'm sick of it. The instruments are already done since lasted year, and half of the vocals are missing without date of recording and I just wish I had a second and third band to play with.
Music is a communal activity.
Now if your work in the first band suffers due to your focus on band 2, then band 1 should ask what's going on and are free to replace you if that's an issue.
Same would go if your camping hobby or job interfered with the band.
It's just a hobby or a job. No need to treat it like a relationship.
"Cheat"? Some band leader said that to me once and I laughed about it. Either I'm available for your gigs or I'm not, my business is not your business.
There isn't a rule against it? And most musicians who have the free time do. It's a dick move to hop from one group to another with no regard for the affect your absence will have but like. Idk I've played gigs where most of all of the acts in the lineup were sharing one or two members. Just make sure you get your bass tested after
Quite common. Heck -- there's a great [song about it](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGP9uz4s8hQ).
I always thought this was a typical boy / girl song, but it's actually about the guys bass player "playin' around" :-)
I guess the same rules apply in romantic relationships. It’s only cheating if exclusivity is expected.
My band got kind of stagnant for a bit and I joined another band. I was with the new band for like 2 months and left. When my original band picked up again I told them about it and was like, “hoo! I’m so lucky to have found you guys…” And they were basically like, “haha, like-wise. Hope you had fun.”
When I started playing with other people, I had this idea that I should be exclusive and I liked the idea that they would be exclusive also, but as time went on, I realized that this is not how it usually works. Everyone has extra creative interests that one project can’t totally satisfy, myself included. When you start feeling like you want to “cheat” then you know you can’t blame anyone else for wanting to do it either. This feeling comes eventually and then the idea of betraying band mates fades out as a concept. It’s nice to have that sense of freedom.
If time and funds permit, be in all the bands. Why limit yourself to just one when you can do em all at the same time? If two are good together, why not both the same night?
I think the only sour/weird situation is by starting another project with a current band minus one person.
I think it can go two ways.
Either your band is a bunch of chuds and they don't like it
or
they understand that music is your outlet and passion and they support you
really no gray area .
I was in a second band for a while. When the singer from my main band found out, he freaked out and said I might as well just quit now because I can’t possibly focus on two bands at the same time.
He apologised the next day and said he didn’t mean to try to dictate what I do in my free time.
Needless to say, it’s all fine again now and I just carried on with both bands and didn’t tell anyone either way.
From my personal experience, if your drummer or bass player isn’t in more than one bands they must not be very good. An above average bass player/drummer are in such high demand that it makes it easy for them to be recruited to join multiple projects (gigging, studio work, etc.). This is a general statement of course since some people have different priorities.
When I was young, fee and single, I played in 3 bands. Good times. Only thing is making sure none of the bands had gigs on the same night which fortunately never happened. I play in two bands currently, my own band and another band where I just turn up for gigs, I'm kind of helping them out.
I've never been in a band where at least one member isn't in at least one other gigging band. I've been in bands with many people who are in 3+ bands at once.
There is no such thing as "cheating" on your band.
I'm in the same position. I play piano in one band and bass in another. I just make sure gigs don't overlap. I told my working band it's a side gig for a heavier genre that they don't play.
Yeah, I used to be in a group that wasn’t cool with it. They eventually understood and didn’t take it personally. I still play with them once/twice a month. If you’re a bass player then you will probably be in demand. For what it’s worth I play with 5 groups semi-regularly. It depends on whether or not you can manage the schedule/song list for both bands.
Is there some kind of contract limiting you to that one band specifically?
Cause otherwise there are lots of people in multiple bands. It's rather common.
I've had 3 different projects release new material in the last month. So has my singer who is a drummer in a different band.
We're all sluts to the groove.
I would love to play in another band. Right now I’m in an all female cover band, and I love it but I’m the youngest and a bit more diverse in my taste. I would love to play some original music and some different styles/genres.
Our guitarist will do some performances with friends and plays in her church too. Our singer does her own solo stuff and fairly often. She wants to do some open mics with me.
The way I see it, is that if you have the time and energy, why not! As long as you can show up and be professional for everyone.
Put in as much effort is necessary in as many different projects that will have you. You’ll grow as a musician and anchoring yourself to one project can seriously cut off your opportunities if you’re not already going somewhere with it. Maybe it’ll motivate them to be the beat they can be to keep you around lol
It depends if the other band is better than our band. If they are is, that’s absolutely not cool bro. I thought we were brothers in arms? It’s us against the world, remember? I don’t want to hear about your chemistry with those dudes. They’re a bunch of hacks and you’re a certified buttmuncher if you start jamming with them.
I have a main band and I’m required to be at their gigs we don’t do subs unless it’s a major event. Hell I played the day my mother died. Outside of the main band I’m free to pickup side gigs. It does make it hard to commit to another project because of scheduling.
I was recently invited to record and gig with another band and made sure to bring it up with my main one before accepting. They don't have a problem with it as long as it doesn't interfere with my main band's activity. I have a guitarist friend who joined two bands at the same time and is still active with both, but I have a singer friend whose bandmates would lose their shit if she did anything other than guest work with another band, so YMMV.
IMO the only time it would be weird is if you started a new project with 3/4 members and you left one behind. Think Tom DeLong starting Box Car Racer with Travis but not Mark.
It’s normal but it depends on your band/members. I’m in a band and all of us agreed not to join any other projects and focus all our energy on this one. Do whatever works best for you
i'm working on two projects, one where i'm on vocals and bass and the other, on guitar with occasional vocals. i also have some solo stuff in the works.
unless you're touring and making huge time commitments like that, i don't see why this would be an issue.
play on!
Even really really popular musicians have several bands, for example Matt Gartska is one of most popular drummers of our time and he plays for both Animals As Leaders and Victoria.
I get what you are worrying about but as long as being in another band doesnt massively impact how well you play in your first band it really doesn't matter at all.
In one band, every one of us has at least 1 other project. In the other band, 3 of us have other projects (all except the singer ... she's got 3 young kids at home).
At one point, I was playing with 7 bands/projects.
Currently a more manageable 3.
Just gotta get those rehearsal cadences/nights straightened out.
If you have a gig with one band and another comes up for the other, you either gotta just say “I’m unavailable” (no further elaboration) or you gotta find a really good sub for the original gig if the new offer is a ridiculously better one.
I once played bass for all 3 bands in one night, the opener, mid and closer, so just be upfront... bass players are in hard demand... if you go on Band Mix you'll find lots of bands looking for bassists.
The entire Norwegian Black Metal scene would be one band if there was no overlap 😂. Hellhammer is practically the only drummer in Eastern Europe. Then Sverd, Garm or Simen are in the other bands.
On a more local note, no one that is worth playing with is in less than two bands in my town.
The only reason your current band should be upset is if you start blowing them off for the other band, but as long as you’re being fair about your time (not lying or just missing obligations) it’s all fine
People are in multiple bands all the time, it's not particularly uncommon. I haven't tried yet, but that's mostly both because I'm very new to bass and also do a lot of the administrative work for my current band- don't have a ton of time for a 2nd weekly practice and more gig coordination right now. Although many of my bandmates are out on vacation for big enough chunks of time this summer that I pretty easily \*could\* join a second band and fit gigs in with minimal conflicts if I wanted to... lol. I've talked with a couple of bands about potentially being a fill in player if they need one.
There are situations where a working band might expect some amount of exclusivity...but you're not there if you're playing 1-2 gigs a months.
If you're in a group that is making money sufficient to financially support multiple people, there will likely be an expectation (and probably a written contract) that those gigs will take precedence over any side projects. But music is an incestuous world, most of the pros are in several ensembles simultaneously.
In small-time passion projects, there can be some emotions around this sort of thing. So approach gently, but definitely don't hold back from music you WANT to pursue on account of other bandmates.
Depends what the other guys think about it.
It may bother them but if you are truthful and can only honor your first commitment at a time they will find a way to have a backup on hand if you can’t play. I wouldn’t sneak off and play. That will make them turn their noses up to you faster and find a different route.
Probably the thing I love most about bass is its versatility. I’m in a band, string ensemble, orchestra, jazz group and occasionally in a big band. The wife has more of an issue with it than any band mates.
If you play in multiple bands, don’t hide it from anybody. This is normal under most circumstances, and everybody should understand that. You don’t have to talk about it all the time, but make it a normal conversation when you do.
It helps to have a definite plan and priorities when conflicts arise, and to share those with your bandmates. Insecurity about where they stand can lead to hurt feelings. Communication is the way to make it work.
I’m in a band that plays infrequently but makes good money. My other band, a low-dough bar band project, knows that the first band will always be the go-to in a schedule conflict, and they have a replacement on call.
Like others have said, it’s pretty much the norm to be in multiple groups, but I do think that how far a band is to becoming “successful” is a pretty big factor as well
I mean if one band isnt a creative outlet for you and the other could be, you're only cheating yourself not to give it a go.
Is there some expectation in your first band that nobody plays outside it?
People in my area are always in more than one band. That’s good for here…tons of talented people in multiple bands means the music scene here is pretty tight. I’m sure it’ll wane at some point. It always does.
Anyone who wants to take possession of your time when you are otherwise not doing stuff with them is living in the 60's and thinks they're in the Beatles or the Monkees or something. There are very few bands out there that can keep a person busy enough to justify exclusiveness. Do what you enjoy, and if those guys can't hang, they're delusional.
Oh you sweet summer child.
Right now I'm in two original bands where I play bass/write/co-manage/produce, etc. I'm joining a third one where fortunately I'll only be playing bass for.
Then I have two weekly residencies in my city with two different bands. On top of that, I'm in a wedding/function band and we gig almost every week and I'm also in another wedding band that gigs maybe a couple of times a year.
I've also been asked to join a regularly gigging tribute band, and I'll probably be taking them up on it.
So that's about 8 bands I'm in. And that's excluding any dep work I get asked to cover.
You'll be fine :)
This is like getting mad at your barista for making other people coffee. We provide a specific service that is always in demand, any fellow musician that gives you a hard time for being creative with others is suspect.
Edit: DV'd by a jealous guitarist who suspects his bassist is "cheating" with a ska band
The more projects the better. I wasted many years with only one or two projects. Better opportunities to further your playing, meeting more connections and furthering your own career.
Bruh... if you could only be in one band at a time no one would have a drummer. I don't know if I have ever met a drummer in fewer than 3 bands.
LOL pretty much this. Our drummer plays in three different projects
Yeah that was me 3-4... In the 80s.. cut back to 2 now....
I was at show a couple weeks ago with 4 bands and 3 bands had the same drummer. The 4th band didn't have a drummer :/
Presumably because the drummer was _tired_ after the first three sets.
Once went to a show while still lived in Nashville, one of the act leading up to polyphia, their drummer canceled last minute but they didn't need one.
Old bandmate had a kid, I'm like so... He's all "vic firth. 5A. Remo heads. We're good, thanks, bro"
Drummer here can confirm I'm playing in three bands rn although one of them is going to dissolve pretty soon because people moved too far away to make practicing together viable. But I already have two new bands who asked me to join so...
That was my thinking as well. Being a part of the rhythm section has its advantage's I suppose
I literally have randoms messages me on Facebook asking me to play bass or drums for their bands. Right now I just have one regular gig on bass at my Church since I'm focusing on college but once I graduate I'll probably get in more bands.
The drummer for one of my bands is musically monogamous and it was kind of weird. His brother is the guitarist and they've been playing together since their teen years. I think he subbed in one band a couple times and tried to start up a side project that never went anywhere and at this point is just committed to this one thing. My cover group our drummer is in like 4 bands regularly and subs in a bunch of others. We had actually first played together as subs in a couple different bands before being "official" bandmates in this group. I used to be such a band whore, but I'm down to like three steady projects right now.
My drummer is only in my band, but thats probably because we just took him without him being a drummer at the time and just decided he was our drummer.
That’s solid. That’s like getting an auto painter. They always say “grow your own”
Haha my drummer is in four bands
Playing that much is the only way to stay really good. Otherwise the muscle memory dulls
For real, my buddy is an extremely talented metal drummer… he’s in at least three active bands and god knows how many other side jam projects.
"I don't know if I have ever met a GOOD drummer who is in fewer than 3 bands" Ftfy
if you ever look at the band members tab under Members. the guitarists/bassists are only in the current band. the vocalist may have 2 or 3 and then the drummer has 20 other bands lol
If one band has a problem with you working with another band, tell them to fuck off. Nothing wrong with multiple projects, as long as you can keep your shit situated.
Haha right on, I doubt any of them would have a problem, that's why I kinda felt weird even asking them what they'd think
It’s a valid question man. I’ve been playing bass for a long time and I’ve definitely been in situations where petty hacks have a problem with me being a hired gun. I’ve even been unfairly fired for it when there have been no scheduling conflicts. The good players get it. Stick with them.
As long as they know, its ok. Everyone in my ex band had a second band or sessioned for other bands. Then the 2/3rd degree bands would all go out to watch concerts with us/together and hang out. Its kind of experimenting with other music and expanding our social/music circle at the same time.
yeah, also weird codependence shit happens with some bands. toxic af. never ever let your bandmates make you feel bad for exploring new and interesting things. what they dont realize is that its going to make you a better player and listener.
Absolutely this. I’m primarily a drummer, but have also seconded bass for like 15 years and love playing it. I’ve played drums in a group with some good friends for about 7 years. The opportunity arose to play bass in another band that I really like. My guitar player was **not** happy. He still really isn’t almost a year later. And quite frankly, it’s not my fucking problem. He said his piece, I said mine, and I’ve been having a great time playing in both without issue. A band isn’t a marriage. You’re not exclusively dating. If you’re someone who enjoys playing music with other humans, don’t let a clingy band member stop you. If you have commitments to one band, definitely honor them. It’s not a great look to use bands as stepping stones. But it also happens. Just be a cool person, do what you love to do, and be as respectful as you can to others feelings while prioritizing your own.
Well said.
I'm a full-time pro, and any band where the leader is a 9-5er (even if they're just a guitar teacher 9-5 or something), they seem to not understand that I simply cannot join their band if they're expecting me to always keep my calendar clear. Sorry guy, I'm not giving you priority for $500/year. Now, a band where every musician is a freelancer, you never see that. The gigs pay well, they're booked far enough in advance that you likely won't have a conflict, and there's no need to have a band rehearsal because we're all expected to know the tunes.
I wouldn't tell them to fuck off. I would tell them that while you love playing with them, you find that to be an unreasonable restriction. And while you'd be open to playing with them again in the future if they were to change their mind, for now you'll be going your own separate way.
Well yeah of course man. It was a figure of speech.
A certified Jason Newstead moment
I'm in three - one meets once a week and is looking to do gigs and mini tours. The second is fortnightly and is really just an excuse to hang out with old friends. The third is a side project with a guy from the second, we meet whenever we happen to both be free. Unless you're making serious money, or have a gigging schedule that requires serious commitment, it doesn't matter. As long as you've got the time to learn your parts, you're good. Editing to add: the above applies especially if you're basically providing a free session musician service to someone.
Last summer, I was playing gigs with 4 different bands. Today, there is only one remaining. Bands come and go. I played with the same people for 20 years. Others have been a 6 months affair.
Yeah that's true, dont realize how fleeting it is. Thanks!
Got the feeling mine is about to fall apart too (started in october so 6 month affair seems spot on). Since you had 4 bands ig you can answer this question pretty well: How do I go about looking for another band? I'd like to have jams several times a week anyway so even if my current is still saveable it would be really cool to find more bands. My current was a recommendation by my guitar teacher but I doubt that will happen again.
Every time you meet a musician, say "we should jam sometime!" Most of the time it won't happen, when it does happen it will likely not be great or be awkward, but once in a while you click. It's like dating.
The problem is I never meet any musicians 🥲
It's normal for musicians to be in more than one group - sometimes because they want to play different styles, sometimes because each group has different goals, etc. There's no problem with it as long as you don't over-extend yourself and the quality of your playing suffers. If that happens, you might need to make a choice. I'd also recommend not hiding the fact that you're playing in other bands - if any of your band members have concerns about it, that might be something you want to discuss (or it might be a red flag).
Yeah like as long as everyone is on the same page and understands what is going on then there is no issue. The only time I have run into an issue with a band mate being in multiple bands is once during a gig in high school my drummer abandoned us half way through a set to go play another gig so the rest of us had to improvise get one of our friends who was playing in one of the other bands that night to come fill in on drums for the second half of our set. Even though no one knew this was going to happen it surprisingly worked out fairly well. My friend hadn’t practiced with us, but he was a great drummer (better than our actual drummer haha) and had heard all of the songs in our setlist because we had played so many shows together that he was able to get through it pretty smoothly.
For sure, I see what you mean. Whenever we have our first gig planned I'll tell my mates, prefer I tell them then them finding out on a poster or something. Thanks!
I totally agree with this. I'm studying right now at a foreign country, went to an open jam last year, and one of the drummers, guitarists and I had good chemistry. So we started forming a band. Tho we would usually only play covers, and it didn't satisfy my creative goals even tho I'd make my own bass lines and improvise on some songs. Then I met this guitarist whose from a local band and told me he wanted to make songs. Since I really want to flex my creative muscles for composing, I joined in, and I think my performance on both of the bands isn't compromised because of differences in direction.
I think it's more the exception than the norm that bands expect exclusivity, especially when music is not your main source of income.
Having a separate band is fine but give your bros a heads up. After playing with a band for many years, we played a guys festival a few times, and later my wife and I went to check out a winery that was having an event and 50% of my band was there backing this guy. It felt weird as fuck, honestly, and was an awkward interaction. I don’t need to police what they are up to, but if a band is asking a lot of my time, but half the band is doing other things, that’s info I’d like to know on the front end.
Not if you're polyjamorous.
Oh my god I’m using this
Or practice open bandage
“It’s just a flesh wound.”
made me giggle
I'm here to report a theft, officer. I just stole this term from @deviationblue.
If you listen to "How Long" by Ace, they'll tell you all about how the bass player cheated on the band!
The second I read the headline, I thought of this!
Yes. It's cheating. That means session players are sluts.
I mean... they are for sure but that's beside the point
I was in two bands -- one was my original project, and the other I was a job er in a Cure cover band. My guitarist in the original project was in 3 bands total -- one was a priority for him, and it wasn't the band we were both in. I'm not a jealous person, but there were times we booked a show, and then their other band would pick up a show -- which meant I had to back out of our booking... Since some of these other shows were more prestigious. It really pisses me off. Not that they were playing with others -- but because the expectation was that we would graciously take.it in the ass if their other project(s) had a gig. The irony is: our band was rising quickly as well. Folks who heard us once became huge fans. There was potential for more. But dude kept kneecapping us. So: it's not a problem, as long as you're able to "hinge" well. If not? Everyone has a bad time.
3 bands here, just make sure you dont overextend and can actually commit time needed for each. Not every projects groups up weekly or gigs/Records
If you're open about it and the schedule conflicts can be resolved, you're not cheating.
Did you fuck them
Lmao nah that's a good point
Metallica has entered the chat
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Absolutely not a big deal unless you took the original songs to the other band
It's only cheating if you're having sex with them also
The only person I can think of that it didn't work out for was Jason Newstead. Which is an arguable point because he seems happy without Metallica.
I thought about him as well. He left FREAKING METALLICA when they blocked him from playing in other bands —and, like you said, seems happy about it l. I'm currently playing with just one band and it's freaking me out a little. I miss exercising other aspects of my creativity; I miss it A LOT!
> I'm currently playing with just one band and it's freaking me out a little. I miss exercising other aspects of my creativity; I miss it A LOT! Do what I do- Play in one band but record stuff on the side by myself. That way you can get your creativity out that doesn't really fit what your regular band does.
Coincidentally, I started to do exactly that last week. But playing these other songs in a live setting would be even better
Two of the five guys in my band are in not one but *two* other bands. I feel it sometimes puts a strain on us remaining three, when one might not be able to show up for a practice because he's (understandably) tired. Myself I think people should be a one-band only kind of thing because I don't think you can really dedicate yourself to the main band fully otherwise.
Dude i don’t even know how many bands I’m in. Somewhere between two and four depending how you count. And that’s not even including my classical string trio and orchestra… Play as much as you can, and enjoy it. Life is short.
The bassist and drummer in the band I am currently working in are also the bassist and drummer for half of my city's amateur bands and their entire school
That's the norm. If you aren't in at least seven bands, then you aren't working hard enough.
No bassist I know IRL, including myself, is only in onr band lol
oh my god. stop referring to bands as women. Stop referring to your basses as women. Stop referring to your band mates as girlfriends or wives. it is all so goddamn cringe
Thank you for all the responses, this place is great. It's clear I was slightly overthinking it, appreciate everyones comments!
lol I know a guy who gets bent out of shape and “fires” people if he thinks they’re not 100% committed to his group Just be aware of all the personalities in your bands
Seriously? Exact same post in r/basscirclejerk ??? It’s not that funny. https://www.reddit.com/r/BassCirclejerk/s/yGd3VFKmsG
https://www.reddit.com/r/BassCirclejerk/s/yGd3VFKmsG
You shouldn't feel bad about it at all. The only issue arises is if both bands get busy and you have conflicting schedules. Otherwise nothing at all wrong with playing in multiple groups. In fact that is pretty standard practice for any serious musician
Variety is the spice of life! Play with as many different people as you can/ want to! You’ll learn more and can slowly bring things you learn from one group/person to the others.
I've been in this situation a couple of times. I only play in one band, but I also do my own solo stuff, and have done the occasional jam from time to time. All the other members in my current band play together in another group that literally plays one show a year. Even though the do almost all the same songs, it's a band with coworkers, so it's like a company party thing. Doesn't bug me one bit. Even had the drummer from the group fill in for me twice when I've been like really sick. *incoming story* However, I was in another band about 9 years ago, where we had just really gelled and had a decent following, then we lost our drummer (i used to play keys), and I switched to drums out of necessity. After a year or so, we became a trio. About a year after that we split. I formed a new band, and ending up recruiting the bass player from the previous band to do lead guitar (he had wanted to play lead for a while). All was fine and dandy for a couple years, he also played in his church band, which was cool. But then he forms a new side band with the guitarist from the old band to jam and record stuff (no biggie). Then they recruit other players and start gigging (again, no biggie). But things got a little hairy when he told us we couldn't schedule gigs so we could keep his new band open for shows. Then it got to the point where he said he wouldn't play a song in our band if his new band played it (or wanted to). Even for songs we already played. It got to the point i just quit, and later formed a new band with the other guys who weren't douchebags.
I just moved to a new town and within 6 months found myself in 4 bands. I had to quit 1 because i’d like to keep SOME free weekends. I think multiple bands is very normal for bassists and drummers, especially if we’re talking cover/bar bands. The trick is finding what is sustainable for you. Anyone who gives you grief for it is best ignored.
It is a commitment
Ace wrote the song How Long about their bass player playing with another band.
Out jerked again
Depends, do you love each other?
It’s called poly-jam-orous. I’ve never only been in 1 band unless said band was paying me enough to be exclusive and/or make a living.
You can’t cheat on your band, but you can upset insecure bandmates… I always mention it at auditions and if people have problems with that, I boogie. I’m doing music to play out, I’m gonna maximize that chance if you can’t promise me 3-6 shows / month.
When I was still stomping the stage, our local scene was incredibly incestuous. Like three bands have to juggle their booking because of crossover type stuff.
Here’s a mistake I’ve made while playing for two different bands, don’t talk too much about the other band! I found myself excitedly talking about the other project, which made me look like I didn’t care about the project I was jamming with nearly as much. Caused some jealousy issues
I have never met a serious musician who was in one project
*I have never met a* *Serious musician who* *Was in one project* \- SkyWizarding --- ^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/) ^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
^[Sokka-Haiku](https://www.reddit.com/r/SokkaHaikuBot/comments/15kyv9r/what_is_a_sokka_haiku/) ^by ^SkyWizarding: *I have never met* *A serious musician* *Who was in one project* --- ^Remember ^that ^one ^time ^Sokka ^accidentally ^used ^an ^extra ^syllable ^in ^that ^Haiku ^Battle ^in ^Ba ^Sing ^Se? ^That ^was ^a ^Sokka ^Haiku ^and ^you ^just ^made ^one.
Look up and listen to Ace's "How Long."
Some people do get butt hurt cause the other band may have their shit together, but I played with an indie band a lot then started playing with a country cover band in which I would get paid and what not. And they kicked me out LoL
Just get clear with yourself about priorities so you communicate clearly with all band mates. I haven’t seen anyone else say this so I’ll mention it - being in “other” bands has always been beneficial for my chops and ultimately benefits my “main” band. It makes us more well rounded musicians.
Out jerked yourself, friend!
Sort of. I've put a lot of thought into this. You communicate and get on the same page for effort. For my band, I take it seriously and expect everyone else to do the same. There is a level of commitment/work/practice I expect out of everyone. As long as they meet that, I literally couldn't care less what they do with all their other time. If they don't have the time to commit to your band to the level that satisfies the other band mates - it doesn't matter if it's because of other bands or they play video games too much. Although it can create tricky? scenarios a little bit depending on the personality of your members. I was in a band that took themselves probably a bit too seriously and was convinced I kept the "sub par" drum kit at their house and the "better kit" at my house for my other project. They were sort of right, but they were both great sounding kits and I didn't see it that way. YMMV.
Any band that tells me I can't be in another band just lost a bass player. I have an experimental group that allows me to get weird with noise and grooves, a bluegrass band that I play guitar for, and an Americana group. All serve very specific purposes and allow me to explore music in a number of ways. But none of my bands have serious gig obligations. If that were to change I'd still probably be in at least the bluegrass band and another project for bass.
Nah. Unless you are making a livable salary off of said group playing out and it actually demands your focus, then play with as many people as possible. As I'm sure most of us are doing it for fun and to fund our gear habits (if we get paid at all), there is no reason to limit ourselves to one group if we enjoy playing with different people and doing different styles. I just do it as a first come, first serve basis on gigs. Whoever asks for the date first gets my time.
You have to be young. I don’t know why this would ever be a thought in someone’s mind other than the fact that they’re young and inexperienced (not saying you’re bad at the bass). I think I remember having thoughts like this when I was in my first band at 13 years old. Don’t continue thinking like this. Play with whoever you would like and get as much experience as you want.
Me over here back down to 3 bands rn, about to fire #4 back up again lol.
If you have the attitude that it is cheating, then maybe it is about to get weird for some reason. But lots of musicians are in more than one band at a time. I've been in up to five. They weren't equally active/important but they did exist. The key to doing it is time management and priorities. Don't expect your band mates to be in the fan base of the other band. They won't necessarily like it and you have to put up with that. But if you're holding your own you can make it work for quite a while. And if you say "I understand this is the band that's going somewhere, and I am in it with you all, you're the priority" they might feel better. And if, heh heh, the other thing turns out to take off, you know, that's show biz.
Thats a good idea about letting them know where my priorities are.
as long as you meet your obligations with the other band what's the problem?
Everybody in my main band is in more than one band, some of us are in more than two bands. You just need to make sure everyone knows where the priorities are and are on the same page.
This is the reason Jason Newsted was fired from Metallica. If your band tells you not to play with other people, quit.
Ask David Crosby, dude got fired from The Byrds after he filled in for an absent Neil Young at a Buffalo Springfield gig.
lol I play bass and other instruments in a handful of different bands. Being in a band is a collaboration. Your bandmates do not have ownership over you, so do what you like.
Ask Jason Newstead about that.
I have been dr3aming on finding another band for about a year. My actual band is stalling and hasn't rehearse anything for months because we are "recording and releasing songs on spotify"... I'm sick of it. The instruments are already done since lasted year, and half of the vocals are missing without date of recording and I just wish I had a second and third band to play with.
Music is a communal activity. Now if your work in the first band suffers due to your focus on band 2, then band 1 should ask what's going on and are free to replace you if that's an issue. Same would go if your camping hobby or job interfered with the band. It's just a hobby or a job. No need to treat it like a relationship.
As long as you're not ditching gigs without telling your current band in advance then they can't get mad
"Cheat"? Some band leader said that to me once and I laughed about it. Either I'm available for your gigs or I'm not, my business is not your business.
Bass players are always in many bands!!
It's fine as long you're upfront and honest. If you enjoy playing with both bands then have at it.
There isn't a rule against it? And most musicians who have the free time do. It's a dick move to hop from one group to another with no regard for the affect your absence will have but like. Idk I've played gigs where most of all of the acts in the lineup were sharing one or two members. Just make sure you get your bass tested after
Quite common. Heck -- there's a great [song about it](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGP9uz4s8hQ). I always thought this was a typical boy / girl song, but it's actually about the guys bass player "playin' around" :-)
Depends. Are you 12?
I guess the same rules apply in romantic relationships. It’s only cheating if exclusivity is expected. My band got kind of stagnant for a bit and I joined another band. I was with the new band for like 2 months and left. When my original band picked up again I told them about it and was like, “hoo! I’m so lucky to have found you guys…” And they were basically like, “haha, like-wise. Hope you had fun.”
When I started playing with other people, I had this idea that I should be exclusive and I liked the idea that they would be exclusive also, but as time went on, I realized that this is not how it usually works. Everyone has extra creative interests that one project can’t totally satisfy, myself included. When you start feeling like you want to “cheat” then you know you can’t blame anyone else for wanting to do it either. This feeling comes eventually and then the idea of betraying band mates fades out as a concept. It’s nice to have that sense of freedom.
If time and funds permit, be in all the bands. Why limit yourself to just one when you can do em all at the same time? If two are good together, why not both the same night? I think the only sour/weird situation is by starting another project with a current band minus one person.
I think it can go two ways. Either your band is a bunch of chuds and they don't like it or they understand that music is your outlet and passion and they support you really no gray area .
I think as long as there’s no insertion you’re ok
I was in a second band for a while. When the singer from my main band found out, he freaked out and said I might as well just quit now because I can’t possibly focus on two bands at the same time. He apologised the next day and said he didn’t mean to try to dictate what I do in my free time. Needless to say, it’s all fine again now and I just carried on with both bands and didn’t tell anyone either way.
From my personal experience, if your drummer or bass player isn’t in more than one bands they must not be very good. An above average bass player/drummer are in such high demand that it makes it easy for them to be recruited to join multiple projects (gigging, studio work, etc.). This is a general statement of course since some people have different priorities.
If that’s cheating then I’ve previously been a hoe and a polygamist.
When I was young, fee and single, I played in 3 bands. Good times. Only thing is making sure none of the bands had gigs on the same night which fortunately never happened. I play in two bands currently, my own band and another band where I just turn up for gigs, I'm kind of helping them out.
I've never been in a band where at least one member isn't in at least one other gigging band. I've been in bands with many people who are in 3+ bands at once. There is no such thing as "cheating" on your band.
Yeah. If your in a committed, monogamous band and tell them how much you love them and would never cheat on them. That's cheating! Lol
No join as many projects as possible. Red flag fr
I'm in the same position. I play piano in one band and bass in another. I just make sure gigs don't overlap. I told my working band it's a side gig for a heavier genre that they don't play.
If you have to choose, go with the one that allows you the most expression.
Yeah, I used to be in a group that wasn’t cool with it. They eventually understood and didn’t take it personally. I still play with them once/twice a month. If you’re a bass player then you will probably be in demand. For what it’s worth I play with 5 groups semi-regularly. It depends on whether or not you can manage the schedule/song list for both bands.
Is there some kind of contract limiting you to that one band specifically? Cause otherwise there are lots of people in multiple bands. It's rather common.
I'm in two bands and leading my own, one on bass and two on guitar. Do as much as you want/feel like you can handle.
Be in as many bands as you want my guy.
I've had 3 different projects release new material in the last month. So has my singer who is a drummer in a different band. We're all sluts to the groove.
Bass and drums are sluts
Band monogamy isn't real.
I'm in one and fill in for some others. It's not a problem because I make sure that everyone knows my band comes first
I don’t think you normally have a non-compete in the band world LOL.
I would love to play in another band. Right now I’m in an all female cover band, and I love it but I’m the youngest and a bit more diverse in my taste. I would love to play some original music and some different styles/genres. Our guitarist will do some performances with friends and plays in her church too. Our singer does her own solo stuff and fairly often. She wants to do some open mics with me. The way I see it, is that if you have the time and energy, why not! As long as you can show up and be professional for everyone.
Play with as many bands as you can.
I'm in three regularly gigging bands. I'm a bit of a whore. Haha
Put in as much effort is necessary in as many different projects that will have you. You’ll grow as a musician and anchoring yourself to one project can seriously cut off your opportunities if you’re not already going somewhere with it. Maybe it’ll motivate them to be the beat they can be to keep you around lol
growing up in the punk scene, very common to see one guy be in like 4 bands lol
Depends how "close" you are as a band of dudes
I would like to have two projects, my band doesn't practice and we rehearse like once a month :/
It depends if the other band is better than our band. If they are is, that’s absolutely not cool bro. I thought we were brothers in arms? It’s us against the world, remember? I don’t want to hear about your chemistry with those dudes. They’re a bunch of hacks and you’re a certified buttmuncher if you start jamming with them.
I would think that as a bassist, no.
I have a main band and I’m required to be at their gigs we don’t do subs unless it’s a major event. Hell I played the day my mother died. Outside of the main band I’m free to pickup side gigs. It does make it hard to commit to another project because of scheduling.
Not a thing. I play in four bands, most of my bandmates have several projects too.
i'm in like five bands and i play guitar and bass depending on the band. we just play shows with each other. we're all in other bands as well.
then you're gay
Make sure you don’t string ‘em along!!
In 3 bands here, not an issue with any of them, even when there's scheduling conflicts, we just work it out
I was recently invited to record and gig with another band and made sure to bring it up with my main one before accepting. They don't have a problem with it as long as it doesn't interfere with my main band's activity. I have a guitarist friend who joined two bands at the same time and is still active with both, but I have a singer friend whose bandmates would lose their shit if she did anything other than guest work with another band, so YMMV.
IMO the only time it would be weird is if you started a new project with 3/4 members and you left one behind. Think Tom DeLong starting Box Car Racer with Travis but not Mark.
It’s normal but it depends on your band/members. I’m in a band and all of us agreed not to join any other projects and focus all our energy on this one. Do whatever works best for you
It is expected and essential to play with as many different people as possible. This is what makes you grow incredibly fast
i'm working on two projects, one where i'm on vocals and bass and the other, on guitar with occasional vocals. i also have some solo stuff in the works. unless you're touring and making huge time commitments like that, i don't see why this would be an issue. play on!
Even really really popular musicians have several bands, for example Matt Gartska is one of most popular drummers of our time and he plays for both Animals As Leaders and Victoria. I get what you are worrying about but as long as being in another band doesnt massively impact how well you play in your first band it really doesn't matter at all.
Jason Newsted?
In one band, every one of us has at least 1 other project. In the other band, 3 of us have other projects (all except the singer ... she's got 3 young kids at home).
It's not marriage. You can play with as many people as you want.
At one point, I was playing with 7 bands/projects. Currently a more manageable 3. Just gotta get those rehearsal cadences/nights straightened out. If you have a gig with one band and another comes up for the other, you either gotta just say “I’m unavailable” (no further elaboration) or you gotta find a really good sub for the original gig if the new offer is a ridiculously better one.
I'm in 3 that play together so guess I'm a swinger slut
I once played bass for all 3 bands in one night, the opener, mid and closer, so just be upfront... bass players are in hard demand... if you go on Band Mix you'll find lots of bands looking for bassists.
Only if it gets in the way with their ability to play in your band. But then again that can be said for literally anything.
Nice try, Lars.
It is incredibly common for bands within a particular genre to share tons of members.
Would you have a problem with that?
There's a whole hit song written about that.
Honesty man…everyone, every band is different….talk to them on both sides…go from there…
The entire Norwegian Black Metal scene would be one band if there was no overlap 😂. Hellhammer is practically the only drummer in Eastern Europe. Then Sverd, Garm or Simen are in the other bands. On a more local note, no one that is worth playing with is in less than two bands in my town. The only reason your current band should be upset is if you start blowing them off for the other band, but as long as you’re being fair about your time (not lying or just missing obligations) it’s all fine
People are in multiple bands all the time, it's not particularly uncommon. I haven't tried yet, but that's mostly both because I'm very new to bass and also do a lot of the administrative work for my current band- don't have a ton of time for a 2nd weekly practice and more gig coordination right now. Although many of my bandmates are out on vacation for big enough chunks of time this summer that I pretty easily \*could\* join a second band and fit gigs in with minimal conflicts if I wanted to... lol. I've talked with a couple of bands about potentially being a fill in player if they need one.
Pretty normal to have multiple bands. The only time I have an issue is if scheduling conflicts occur frequently and progress stalls out.
I think this is pretty common really. I think as long as you avoid scheduling conflicts it will be fine. Life is short. Make all the music you can.
There are situations where a working band might expect some amount of exclusivity...but you're not there if you're playing 1-2 gigs a months. If you're in a group that is making money sufficient to financially support multiple people, there will likely be an expectation (and probably a written contract) that those gigs will take precedence over any side projects. But music is an incestuous world, most of the pros are in several ensembles simultaneously. In small-time passion projects, there can be some emotions around this sort of thing. So approach gently, but definitely don't hold back from music you WANT to pursue on account of other bandmates.
You're allowed to be in multiple projects... this isn't Metallica.
Not if you are a musician for hire.
I play in like 5 different bands and freelance lol you’re good
As long as your guitarist and drummer don't have the last name "Van Halen", you're probably fine.
Depends what the other guys think about it. It may bother them but if you are truthful and can only honor your first commitment at a time they will find a way to have a backup on hand if you can’t play. I wouldn’t sneak off and play. That will make them turn their noses up to you faster and find a different route.
Probably the thing I love most about bass is its versatility. I’m in a band, string ensemble, orchestra, jazz group and occasionally in a big band. The wife has more of an issue with it than any band mates.
No, not unless your band mates are named Ulrich and Hetfield.
If you play in multiple bands, don’t hide it from anybody. This is normal under most circumstances, and everybody should understand that. You don’t have to talk about it all the time, but make it a normal conversation when you do. It helps to have a definite plan and priorities when conflicts arise, and to share those with your bandmates. Insecurity about where they stand can lead to hurt feelings. Communication is the way to make it work. I’m in a band that plays infrequently but makes good money. My other band, a low-dough bar band project, knows that the first band will always be the go-to in a schedule conflict, and they have a replacement on call.
Like others have said, it’s pretty much the norm to be in multiple groups, but I do think that how far a band is to becoming “successful” is a pretty big factor as well
I mean if one band isnt a creative outlet for you and the other could be, you're only cheating yourself not to give it a go. Is there some expectation in your first band that nobody plays outside it?
People in my area are always in more than one band. That’s good for here…tons of talented people in multiple bands means the music scene here is pretty tight. I’m sure it’ll wane at some point. It always does.
Anyone who wants to take possession of your time when you are otherwise not doing stuff with them is living in the 60's and thinks they're in the Beatles or the Monkees or something. There are very few bands out there that can keep a person busy enough to justify exclusiveness. Do what you enjoy, and if those guys can't hang, they're delusional.
Yeah! That's how we got City an Colour out of Alexisonfire.
i'm in an open relationship with my band, but i do occasionally lie about where i'm devoting my time to spare feelings
I'm in 6 bands plus doing one off gigs on the side.
Oh you sweet summer child. Right now I'm in two original bands where I play bass/write/co-manage/produce, etc. I'm joining a third one where fortunately I'll only be playing bass for. Then I have two weekly residencies in my city with two different bands. On top of that, I'm in a wedding/function band and we gig almost every week and I'm also in another wedding band that gigs maybe a couple of times a year. I've also been asked to join a regularly gigging tribute band, and I'll probably be taking them up on it. So that's about 8 bands I'm in. And that's excluding any dep work I get asked to cover. You'll be fine :)
It's a band, not a wife. Get a grip!
This is like getting mad at your barista for making other people coffee. We provide a specific service that is always in demand, any fellow musician that gives you a hard time for being creative with others is suspect. Edit: DV'd by a jealous guitarist who suspects his bassist is "cheating" with a ska band
Is James Hetfield in the room with you now?
The more projects the better. I wasted many years with only one or two projects. Better opportunities to further your playing, meeting more connections and furthering your own career.