41 years as a musician........

Sorry. Wrong section. Feel free to move to Coffee House.

(My brain's addled already after one day of no music making)

Sounds like all you got left is SEX and DRUGS.

But both of those are gonna suck without music.

Don't do it, Jeff! I tried it once and nearly died. Literally.

skullsession


Sounds like all you got left is SEX and DRUGS.

But both of those are gonna suck without music.

... well the band got dropped and that ain't funny, we're all hooked on drugs but we're out of money... 
     - Todd Snider

the burning question is...why?

Somehow it's just not doing it for me anymore.

Just take a vacation from it.  It will let you know when it's time to return.

Musical talent is a gift from God, no refunds, no returns.

Oil-painting, like VanGogh ... perhaps.

I switched to music from my 25 year oil-painting addiction and (currently) still have my ears.

Happened to me once. I took up a different instrument.

Jeff, I did this once.

Sold my guitars, amps, pedals, the lot.

BIGGEST MISTAKE I EVER MADE!!!!!

It's your choice ultimately mate, but at the very least, just take a break for a month or 2 before selling your gear.

Even then think long & hard before you do it.

Just my 0.02

My last show was 13 years ago. Due to being self employed and having no time to spare, I just kind of migrated away from music. However, like I said in another post, I saw a terrible dj get paid $550 to do a job at our local hall. He sucked and I got inspired. I played in bands for years and now just do a one man act. Looking at the advancements in electronics since 13 years ago has just blown me away and I'm excited about getting going again.

A year and a half ago, I moved to rural Saskatchewan and started farming. I also own a lucrative business so I can afford to farm...hehe. People are great here but there's a huge shortage of affordable entertainers so once I get my chops back, I'm sure to be busy.

So, I guess I agree with most everyone and simply advise to 'never say never'.

stu

Jeff, I also, can relate. I think it's something every musician goes through at some point or another in their lives.

If you remember Steve Morris, the guitar player ...uhhhhh guitar virtuoso  from the band Dixie Dregs... even went so far as to train to be a flight engineer for the airlines with plans to switch careers. I don't recall if he was burned out or wise, knowing bands are temporary things at best.....

I myself, have been in several different  bands full time, gigging at times weeks without a single night off. It became a chore and a job to play. After the bands broke up I took time off and didn't even pick up the guitar.... sometimes it stayed in it's case for weeks and months. I'd get it out from time to time and play it but nothing seriously.

When the last house band broke up after 2.5 years of playing the same room to the same people every week.... I sold much of my stage gear. Now... it's over 20 years gone by.... I really don't want the hassle of playing in a band..... but I now play music on MY terms. WHEN I WANT TO, and what I want to play, and with whom I choose. I have the forum folks and musicians worldwide that I can collaborate and play with..... but long story short...


Music is fun again for me. And that's how it's supposed to be. An outlet for the soul, that we, as musicians are blessed, among people to have. Nothing compares to writing a song that expresses a feeling or an idea that I had, and took the time to write it for others to share.

If you need to take time off, hey do that.. it's part of the recharging of the soul and the musical muse. Don't sell your basic gear.....put it in the closet if you need to, but keep it.  At some point, when the soul is recharged, the muse will grab you again and then you will jump back in ready to go.