Tell us about your upcoming NYE gig(s)...2018 is almost here!

I guess I've done close to 40 NYE gigs and only liked a few of them. Last one I did was two years ago and it ended at 11. Just basically a dinner gig and it seems everyone wants a TV on at 12 anyway. To answer the question, nothing this year and I really don't care. Very few places doing parties here. Different kind of night and before anyone else says it "Amateur Night" Its changed a lot over the years and I don't think its nearly as big a deal as it used to be. Way fewer people going out and paying stupid prices to party.
In all they years I was coming home from those gigs in NJ I never saw a Cop or DWI checkpoint. Just packed diners. The cops really have people psyched out over that night.

And remember, as soon as that clock strikes 12, your car depreciates $3000. Enjoy !

Bill...I feel you...my First time home also in 45+ years....Gonna enjoy family and friends this year.

Played 25 out of 26 years with the band in NY - missed one year while in the US Army ... played a few more since moving to RI, including the year the world was supposed to stand still, Y2K ... Have gone to restaurants, clubs, etc. that had live music a number of times, otherwise, some house parties ... Surprisingly, the bands would often finish right after midnight, not at all like in NY where we would play until 2 or 3 AM ...
This year, a small gathering at our house ... I'll play and sing a bit, but yes, the TV will be on just to watch the ball drop - NOT to watch the 'entertainment' ...
Wishing all a healthy, happy, 2018 ...

I really expect two celebrations, Saturday and Sunday, at my regular venue. I agree that it isn't like it used to be. Last year most everyone had left by midnight.
There are six casinos here and they all have extravagant NY celebrations, lots of free goodies and excellent entertainment, so a lot of competition for a relatively small area.
Plus two of the most "famous" and successful bands from the area are having a joint party at the Elk's. They limited attendance to 400 and have been sold out for a month.
Having said all this, we expect a full house, with entertainment not only in the Club Room (me), but also in the Veranda Room, adjacent to the Main Dining Room. Most likely most of the action will be early though.
The place overlooks the city and fireworks display at midnight can be seen from the parking lot and the Veranda Room. It's a great location. I'm played here most NY Eve's for MANY years.
Weather report says freezing for Sunday night and that's extremely unusual here. If we get ANY precipitation, it will have a big impact.

Gonna see an old schoolmate who lives a couple miles from here. Spend the night eating fattening stuff and drink some Jim Beam Honey Bourbon, but not much because the alcohol displaces oxygen, which is currently in short supply in my bloodstream. Probably come home about 1 a.m., read a dozen pages of my newest Pat McManus mystery novel, and fall asleep. No more NYE, or any other gigs for this old codger.

Happy New Year, Everyone,

Gary

New 5 piece group, with me playing vibes, SK-1, piano and variety of stringed instruments. Will play the local VA.

Then, at the club. I will play in the dining room on mostly keys, but alternate in the lounge on guitar. I'll move the keys into the bar at about 10:00 PM and add a drummer, bass player and flugel horn. A guitar player friend (student, actually) might stop by. If so, I'll be able to platy melodica and more vibes, plus electric upright.

Really like the chance to do group work. I'll actually make less money than doing a single.

Be well, everyone!

R.

Bittersweet for me ... most likely my last job with my current 4 pc band. Local club that we've done many years, and a monthly dance, as well. I get to be a guitar player one last time in a real band! lol
Next year is booked as a solo at my new 4 day haunt ... such a great job, that I'm moving to be closer to it. (and my son's family, too!)
Prime rib dinner - 3 dance sets, then home to pack for my move! Who moves over New Years ??????? (yikes)

Uncle Dave ... Best of luck on your new 'gig' ...
What happened with the 4 piece band?

This year I am doing a triple

9:30 am church service then 3 to 5 pm a big Assisted Living in Rancho Cucamonga then off to the Mission inn in Riverside Ca

9 to 1 am

maybe I will fit a meal in there sometime.

RJ