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This is a show with a client of mine, The 5th Dimension. They are nice people and I've work with them since the mid 80's. We did 2 shows in four days. The first show was outside of Chicago, IL. and the second in Tampa, Fl. The shows were the weekend of July 1st thru the 4th. The shows were both outside and hot, humid and sticky. Great shows, but this entry deals with airlines and airline security. I started flying around the world doing gigs in the late 70's. That makes me both old:-) and wise to the ways of travel. I now know how to pack a week worth of clothes in one carry on bag. I also know what not to carry thru security checks. I never thought someone would write a bill that prevents me from carrying my bass on the plane. A screwdriver yes, a lighter yes. What can I do with my bass? I can't even make noise without an amp. But that is what happened. But not until I was already in Chicago in the middle of my trip did TSA decide to enforce this rule. So, here I am with my bass in a soft case arguing with a airline manager, gate agent and security check point person about my bass. I am usually very easygoing, but not when it comes to my instruments. After being accused of giving them a hard time, the 3 airline hardasses agreed to let me on the plane with the bass (a small victory for the little man). I was so relieved.. Here is my dilemma, and the dilemma for every bassist and most musicians that I know. When did the professional musician become a threat to world security? I appreciate the government protecting me when I fly but, please don't make our jobs harder.. These are some of the things that make doing my job so hard. Having said that, I want to let everyone know that I love what I do. This week I am doing a job with my favorite artist, Bruce Hornsby. The band is back as a whole with Sonny on drums and I am looking forward to this gig. Although I am not looking forward to flying back to Florida (5 hours ) Ouch!!! I will write about the gig next week. Until then take care.
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