Being still relatively new to Austin, Texas has its advantages. For example, it excuses me when I'm late for a meeting or an appointment ("Sorry I'm late, I got lost, u know I'm new to Austin.... and by the way, this traffic SUCKS!"). It also has its perks with my music friends here. I explain that I spent the last 20+ years in Minneapolis and knew "everybody who is anybody" in the music scene there, and that coming here is like starting ALL over to make professional connection. So when trying to get into an EXCLUSIVE party, concert, VIP situation, it usually garners a "I feel ya, Jake.... come on with me, I gotcha..."
With SXSW just around the corner, I am somewhat anxious. I could pay $700-$900 for a Gold Music Badge that allows "All Access" (although it does NOT guarantee admission to the "coolest of the cool" parties, concerts, and events). But u still gotta stand in line with the rest of the folks, that ALSO have Gold Music Badges, for hours upon hours, upon hours....
At last year's SXSW, I REALLY wanted to attend The BET Music Matters showcase at "Kiss N Fly" (meeting Marsha Ambrosiuos, with that lovely face and voice, was high on my priority list during SXSW), but I had no Music Badge, RSVP was full, and had very little chance of getting in. But I went to the venue early in the afternoon, the day of the event, and just walked right into the club like I owned it. I asked a guy on the other side of the bar if there was someone I could talk to about the guest list for tonight's performance. He informed me it was FULL... NO EXCEPTIONS! As I looked around, I saw a guy walking in the door who was carrying in some boxes. I helped hold the door open for him and I introduced myself. I asked if he worked here. He said, "Yes, I'm the doorman. Why, what's up?". I informed him of my predicament and my desire to attend that evening's event and asked him what he suggested I do. "Well what time will u be here tonight?" he asked. "Well, I'm not gonna come down here if I can't get in..." I assured him. "Here, take my name and number and call me 30 minutes before u get down here and I'll get u in..." I called his number right then and there, he locked me in his phone. I thanked him and just to seal the deal, I cupped a $50 bill in the handshake.
I called him that night, while I was on the way down, he got me in.
Needless to say, I saw/met Marsha and J Cole that night and had a GREAT time! But I'm sure for every "success" story like this, there are 100's that are not so lucky. But I consider myself to be VERY resourceful, can scope out a scene and plan my strategy very quickly/efficiently.
So with SXSW approaching, I kinda like the "anxious" feeling of not knowing how it will all turn out, especially with the high profile shows this year that I plan on attending (50cent/Eminem, Jay Z, Bruce Springsteen). But I will do what I do best; network, sell, and close the deal!!
Here's to cool music, warm nights and GREAT BOOZE, CHEERS!
Jake B Nimble
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