09/13/2024
“My reason for referring to social media as the new ‘snake oil’ is that many people today are being booked based on their follower count, not their actual skill in DJing or music production. The term ‘influencer’ to me is a hollow label—your ‘skill’ becomes just having a personality online. That doesn’t make sense in the context of being a true artist. There are countless artists who have honed their craft for decades, and seeing these influencers take opportunities away feels like a slap in the face.
In particular, I believe Vancouver has a serious problem with how talent is booked, without a proper vetting process. Press kits are like résumés, showcasing an artist’s achievements, yet they seem to be ignored in favor of social media metrics. The scene could learn a lot from venues and organizations like Gorg-O-Mish, Van Tek, and Soma, all of which I have personal relationships with. I feel they’re doing things the right way here in the city.
It’s frustrating for someone like myself, and other artists who have been playing in Vancouver for over a decade, to still be told to perform for free or have our Press kits overlooked. I played a resident gig for free for three years, and I’ve more than paid my dues. At this point in my career, I feel I have the right to choose when and where I play for free not exposure bucks.”
Artist :
📷 : .shots
🎨 : .hotel