Support Local Music

November 13, 2011
By: Josh Sharrow

The big push in The Great Lakes Bay Region is to "Support Local Music"!

Music has always been an important part of my life.

My Grandmother, Jan Sharrow, is a member of the Michigan Country Music Hall of Fame and has shared the stage with the likes of Loretta Lynn, Little Jimmy Dickens & Dolly Parton.

Musical talent runs deep in my family. Here's a break down of my musical family tree if you will.

My Father - Tom Sharrow was a drummer and guitarist.
My Uncle - Charlie Sharrow can play and repair, most any instrument.
My Aunt - Debbie Sharrow can play several instruments as well.

Josh Sharrow on the other hand . . . is a DJ.

Using the phrase "Support Local Music", is a phrase mostly used by musicians. The phrase is aimed at bar owners and promoters to book local bands.

While I admit to not being a "musician" by any means, I still believe that I am part of the local music scene.

Almost every aspect of my professional career involves music. My business partner Shawn Doyle and I own and operate, Last Choice Country & Impact Sound Entertainment.

Even though I'm not a "musician," over 75% of my income is derived from either promoting music on the air, or by playing music at local events.

I purchase my music, I pay royalties to the artists and I charge a fair market value price for my services.

When people book me to DJ their event, are they supporting local music?

I'm willing to bet 90% of musicians in the area would tell you NO!

I think as a region, Bar Owners, Bands, DJ's, Promoters, and anyone else involved in the local music scene need to work together to truly support "Local Music" in this area.

No Undercutting.
No Trash Talk.
No Sabotage.

Just play music of any sort, and people will learn to respect you, respect your career, and in the end, people will "Support Local Music"!