John Lennon Sang "Out" AND "In..."

I'm a peacenik by nature, though competitive through and through. I also believe in the fraternity of musicians. What I mean is, when you look at the total population of the world, then take out the group that plays music, then take out the group that plays music well, then take out the group that plays music well for money - that's a pretty small percentage. So, my feeling is we need to stick together, vibe off and learn from one another and support each other.

I know a lot of musicians, and most of them are unbelievably cool and generous with themselves and what they can do on a stage. Knowing a range of musicians keeps what I'm able to do in perspective. Confidence leads to a good show and keeps the band tight. Arrogance leads to fewer gigs, fewer friends and a wide range of problems. So, I enjoy chilling with great musicians who are great people, because I can learn from them, and vice versa. Also - you don't need to strut around with your pelvis acting like a divining rod when you work hard. The music and performance do all the talking.

Having said that, I'll say this: it ain't cool when a band "stares down" or tries to intimidate another band. You do your thing, we do ours - why not leave it at that? We're not rock stars - none of us. We're working musicians. Why not just celebrate that? Take comfort in the fraternity of musicians, and leave the posturing at home. It's stupid and makes you and your band look like a bunch of wannabes who couldn't make the cut - and now stand outside the gate and mock everybody else who did. If you're unhappy that you didn't get the work, or the gig, do something about it. Get better. Do some homework - see what songs work and what songs don't. Ask the booking agents and club owners which bands are getting work, and why. Rehearse more. Quit blaming other bands. Stop thinking like you're entitled because you figured out three chords.

Stan Lee, Marvel Comics' mastermind, once wrote: "Whoever you are, there's always somebody better." Which brings this to mind:

"...and as the song trailed out, I noticed a zebra. It had a broken leg, and was trying to stay up with the rest of the herd. You would think an incapacitated zebra would run for cover...to hide, perhaps. But no - this zebra turned and stared at the lions, daring them to attack. The lions watched the crippled zebra with an almost bemused detachment. Suddenly, the natural order of life burned hot. Guitar growling, sticks clicking, and 'Right Here, Right Now' tore through the jungle - cutting the zebra's head clean off.

"The moral of THIS story? Don't f^@% with the food chain.

"Sincerely, Marlon Perkins."