Video Poker Or Slots: Our Anniversary Showdown At The Santa Fe Station Casino Las Vegas!

 

Last night, my wife and I celebrated our wedding anniversary the only way two Las Vegans know how: dinner at one of our favorite spots, then straight to a casino (Santa Fe Station) to donate a little money back to the local economy. She settled into her beloved video poker, and I made a beeline for my old flame, Dragon Link. I hit a sweet $$$$ bonus almost immediately, which meant I spent the rest of the night doing what every married man eventually learns to do: watch my wife play while pretending I’m not itching to chase another bonus!

But here’s the question players always ask: which machine is better for walking away a winner, video poker or slots? Which one delivers more fun, more control, more adrenaline? And are we really just choosing based on our personalities? The strategist versus the dreamer. The math‑mind versus the “let’s see what happens” gambler. The player who wants to grind out an edge versus the one who wants fireworks and a chance at a monster jackpot.

Vegas wants you to believe it’s all random. Players know better. They (we) want answers!

Video Poker: The Thinker’s Game

Video poker is the machine for players who like to feel in the driver’s seat. It rewards patience, discipline, and a little bit of math‑nerd swagger. You make decisions every hand—hold this, dump that, chase the draw, lock in the sure thing. The pay tables are right there in your face, and if you know what you’re looking at, you can actually spot the good machines from the bad ones. That’s why so many grinders swear by it: the volatility is lower, the bankroll lasts longer, and the wins, while not always explosive, come with a sense of earned satisfaction. It’s the closest thing to “skill” you’ll find on a casino floor without sitting at a blackjack table.

Slots: The Pure Entertainment Machine

Slots, on the other hand, are the neon‑lit roller coaster of the casino world. No decisions, no strategy, no math, just pure anticipation and adrenaline. You’re not playing the machine so much as you’re riding it. The bonuses, the sound effects, the mini‑games, the chance at a life‑changing jackpot… It’s all engineered for maximum dopamine. Slots are for the dreamers, the escapists, the players who want to be surprised. They’re also for the folks who don’t want to think, they want to feel. And when a slot hits, it hits with fireworks!

{My Take}

So Why Do I Play What I Play?

Me? I’m a Dragon Link guy. I like the spectacle, the bonus rounds, the hold‑and‑spin drama, the feeling that the next orb might be the one that lights up the whole screen. I know the math isn’t in my favor. I know video poker is the smarter long‑term play. But gambling isn’t always about being smart—it’s about being alive in the moment.

My wife plays video poker because she likes control. I play slots because I like chaos. And honestly, that’s the beauty of a casino floor: every machine matches a personality, even mine!

In the end, both games can treat you right or break your heart. The trick is knowing who you are when you sit down! Video Poker or Slots?

What an awesome way to celebrate!

Gary England

The Rustic Lounge Jam Experience Weekend Kickoff Jams: Every 2nd & 4th Thursday With The Bad Man Of Rock Les Warner

 Today, my wife and I are celebrating our 9th Wedding Anniversary, and I thought it would be nice to catch some music tonight! But after checking out events and social media, the local music scene is taking the night off! 

Las Vegas loves its crown: The Entertainment Capital of the World. It’s printed on billboards, shouted in commercials, and baked into the city’s identity. But lately, that title feels like it comes with an asterisk, one that reads: Valid Friday through Sunday only.

Weekends are a guaranteed explosion of sound. Tribute bands, touring acts, casino lounges, local showcases, EDM residencies, cover bands, metal nights, indie nights, all stacked on top of each other like a musical buffet. If you’re a band, a fan, or a venue, the weekend is where the action is!

But then Monday hits. And Tuesday. And Wednesday. And Thursday.

Suddenly, the “Entertainment Capital” starts to feel more like the “See‑You‑Next‑Weekend Capital.”

{My Take}

If we’re going to call this city the Entertainment Capital of the World, then let’s make it a seven‑day reality, not just a weekend slogan. If you know about live music happening Monday through Thursday, the hidden gems, the under‑the‑radar rooms, the bands keeping the early‑week heartbeat alive, drop their event flyer here. (Or email the flyer to me at garyenglandemail@gmail.com). I’ll make sure it gets pushed out across Las Vegas and beyond, because the scene only grows when we grow it together!

I’ll kick things off. If you want a killer jump‑start to your weekend, check out what’s happening on every other Thursday night (2nd & 4th Thursdays) at The Rustic Lounge. Starting this Thursday, June 11th, my good friend Les Warner (From The Cult) and his circle of rock‑and‑roll heavy hitters are bringing their signature jam sessions to Henderson! The kind of raw, BaDDA$$ musicianship only they can deliver. Swing by every other Thursday for live music, good friends, adult beverages that’ll make your body RAWK, and for a vibe that hits you just right. That covers every other Thursday… now let’s fill in those Mondays through Wednesdays and keep this city’s heartbeat going all week long!

Gary England

Vegas Survival School: The Comedy of How I Ended Up Teaching Tourists And Gambling Newbie's How Not to Go Broke!

 Years ago—back when the old Hilton Sportsbook still had that “vintage Vegas” aroma of cigar smoke, cheap cologne, and crushed parlay tickets—I ran a YouTube gambling show. Every week I’d sit there predicting sports scores like I had a crystal ball (I didn’t) and interviewing professional bettors who made me look like I was still learning how to shuffle a deck of cards!

Shockingly, the show did well. After a few seasons in, a major U.S. publication hired me to ghostwrite gambling content. That’s right—someone actually said, “Let’s pay this guy to talk about betting.” And I said, “Absolutely, before you change your mind.”

Fast‑forward to early 2024. I wandered back into writing about travel and casinos, mostly because I enjoy casino games a little too much. Slots, table games, poker—you name it, I’ll play it. At this point, I’m basically a gamble‑holic writer who loves the action, the stories, and the occasional miracle win that keeps you believing that the universe might actually like you!

I’d post pictures of my slot machine adventures—some wins, some losses, and a few “don’t ask” moments. My publisher saw the photos and said:

“Gary, it’s time you spilled the real secrets. Tourists need help. Beginners need help. Honestly, the casinos need help too.”

And they weren’t wrong.

After decades in Vegas, I’ve collected more insider tips, pit‑boss wisdom, and “you didn’t hear this from me” stories than any sane person should have. I’ve learned how the games work, how the players think, and how the casinos smile politely while taking your money.

So, I struck a deal with a publisher: I’m writing a weekly—or bi‑weekly if I’m not too busy losing at slot machines, 21, or poker—column called "A Gamble-Holic Writer's Guide To Casino Gambling 101." It’s for beginners, tourists, and anyone who wants to walk into a casino and walk out with at least some of their bankroll still alive.

Because at the end of the day, I’m just a guy who loves casino games, loves writing, and loves helping newbies avoid the classic “I lost my rent money, but the buffet was good” disaster.

If my advice helps you win a few chips—or at least lose them slower—then hey, I’ve taught you a thing or two! Maybe!

{My Take}

At the end of the day, I’m just a casino‑loving, slot‑spinning, card‑slinging gamble‑holic writer trying to help the newbies to gambling, and the rookies in Vegas keep their wallets intact. If I can teach even one tourist not to chase a slot machine like it owes them money or convince one beginner that blackjack isn’t played with “vibes,” then I’ve done my job. Stick with me, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll walk out of the casino with more money than you walked in with. Or at least with a good "should a' would a' could a' been a' win story!

Good Luck!

Gary England

Guarding Your Brand: What Every Tribute Band Should Do When A Name Conflict Hits!

{This blog article is based on a real-life situation}

Imagine spending years building your tribute band, perfecting the look, the sound, the stage presence, the branding. You’ve poured countless hours into marketing, promoting shows, and carving out your identity in a crowded scene. Then one day, a brand‑new group pops up using the exact same band name you’ve worked so hard to establish.

Is it an honest mistake… or is someone trying to ride the wave you created? Either way, it puts you in a tough spot. So, the real question becomes: What should your band do to protect their name, their reputation, and the work they’ve invested so much time in?

So, I checked with my friends in legal, and this is what they said:

Check your trademark status — If you’ve trademarked the name, you’re already in the strongest position. If you haven’t, you may still have rights through usage, especially if you’ve been active and visible for years.

Document your history — Gather proof of how long you’ve used the name: flyers, posters, social media posts, show listings, contracts, press mentions. This becomes your evidence if things escalate.

Reach out professionally — Sometimes it is an honest mistake. A polite, direct message explaining the conflict can resolve it quickly without drama.

Offer alternatives — If the other band is reasonable, they may be open to modifying their name (adding a location, era, or descriptor) to avoid confusion.

Secure your digital footprint — Lock down your website domain, social handles, and Google Business listing. The stronger your online presence, the harder it is for anyone to overshadow you.

Consult an entertainment attorney — If the other band refuses to change their name and it’s hurting your bookings or reputation, a lawyer can send a formal cease‑and‑desist letter.

Communicate with venues — Let your regular venues know about the situation so they don’t accidentally book or promote the wrong band under your name.

Strengthen your branding — Double down on your visuals, logo, tagline, and online consistency. The more recognizable you are, the less confusion

Stay professional — Avoid public drama. Fans and venues respect bands that handle business with maturity and confidence.

{My Take}

In the end, your band’s name isn’t just a label — it’s your identity, your brand, and the legacy you’ve built one show at a time. When another group steps into your lane, intentionally or not, you have every right to protect what you’ve earned. Handle it professionally, document everything, and take the steps that keep your reputation solid and your momentum moving forward. The tribute scene thrives on respect, authenticity, and hard work — and no one should be allowed to rewrite the story you’ve already written.

Gary England

Eyes In The Crowd: A Great White Night At Count’s Vamp’d LV

A full year later, Count's Vamp’d still finds its way into nearly every music conversation in this town. 

In your mind, what was it about Count's Vamp'd that made it unforgettable?

What were your memories of the club?

To get the ball rolling, I’ll kick things off with one of my favorite memories from Count’s place. This one happened right after catching a Great White concert at the Westgate Showroom.

When the show wrapped, a group of us made the natural migration, straight to Vamp’d. When I arrived, the place was packed wall‑to‑wall. I was standing in that sweet spot between the backstage door to the green room and the VIP area, soaking in the music that was happening onstage, when I suddenly felt that unmistakable sensation… like someone had eyes on me.

I scanned the crowd, checking to see if a friend was trying to wave me down. Then I slowly turned toward the VIP section, and there he was. Brett Carlisle, lead singer of Great White, just a few feet away, grinning. We both lit up. I asked if he wanted to check out the historic green room backstage, and to talk about his life as a rock star. We made our way backstage. Brett remembered the article I wrote about his debut with Great White the year before at the Cannery in North Las Vegas. Brett took his time absorbing every bit of nostalgia on the historic walls! We talked about his whirlwind year with the band, snapped a few photos, and then headed back out—him to enjoy the music, me to get back behind the lens. One of those moments you don’t forget.

Pretty cool memory.

What’s one of your best memories of Vamp’d?

I know you’ve got plenty.

(Comments Welcomed)

Gary England

Count's Vamp'd

Brett Carlisle

Great White Band

Count’s Vamp’d Memories One Year Later: Celebrating The Legacy That Meant So Much to Las Vegas

 June 28th, 2025

On June 29th of last year, I wrote an article for National News Media, Worldwide Entertainment, and for a group of newspapers, magazines, and entertainment sites across the web, an article I never imagined I’d have to write. You can read that article by clicking on the link below.

“The Night That Count’s Lights Went Dim.”

The night before, June 28th, felt like the world stood still. For so many of us, it was more than a venue closing; it was the end of a chapter in Las Vegas music history. Since then, fans have found comfort in seeing local venues book the bands we’ve always considered family. A handful of bands still perform around Las Vegas. Some bands now tour. Some split time between Vegas, Arizona, and California. Some have moved on.

What I’m proposing now is simple: let’s celebrate the legacy Count’s Vamp’d left us. I’m calling on the fans, the musicians, and the Las Vegas venues that have always supported our scene to step up and host an open‑mic celebration, a night dedicated to the many memories that Vamp'd left us!

{My Thoughts}

Wouldn’t it be incredible to bring our Count’s Vamp’d family back together again for a reunion right here in Las Vegas? Imagine an open‑mic night where the bands and musicians who once owned that stage can step up, plug in, and relive the magic, a full‑circle celebration sometime during the weekend of the 28th (Sunday) this month. A night of memories, music, and the community that made Vamp’d unforgettable. I think it would be absolutely awesome.

Comments and suggestions welcome.

Gary England

Mind Over Matter: The Mindset Behind Real Music Success

 To all musicians out there.

Question,

Where do you see your success landing in the years ahead? 

Hard work and discipline always leave a mark, but only you can decide whether the level you’ve reached in the music world truly satisfies you. Are you proud of where you stand today, or is there still a fire pushing you higher? And when the pressure hits, can your mindset be the force that carries you all the way to the bright lights of real music stardom?

Let’s talk about “Mind Over Matter” in the music industry. Does it truly exist, and if so, how much power does it really hold? For rising musicians and bands, mindset can be the fuel that drives them forward or the weight that drags them down. Does mental discipline help an artist climb toward the top, or can the wrong mindset quietly sabotage a promising career before it ever reaches its peak?

Your mindset is one of the most powerful — and most underrated — tools in the music industry. Talent matters, hustle matters, connections matter, but your headspace is the engine that keeps all of it moving. When your mind is sharp, disciplined, and aligned with your goals, you move differently. You rehearse with intention. You promote with confidence. You walk into venues like you belong there. That mental edge is what separates the artists who try from the artists who break through.

But here’s the truth most artists don’t want to admit: your mindset is either building your career or quietly breaking it.

A weak mindset shows up in the excuses — “We’ll promote next week,” “We’ll rehearse when everyone’s free,” “We’ll post after the gig,” “We’ll get serious when the timing’s right.”

A strong mindset shows up in the habits — the daily grind, the consistency, the willingness to do the unglamorous work when nobody’s watching. That’s the difference between a band that stays local forever and a band that becomes a name people talk about across the city, across the region, across the industry.

Mind over matter isn’t some motivational poster. It’s a survival skill in a business built on rejection, pressure, competition, and constant reinvention. The artists who rise aren’t always the most talented — they’re the ones who refuse to fold. They’re the ones who treat every rehearsal like a headline show, every social post like a handshake with a future fan, every gig like an audition for the next level.

And here’s the part most musicians overlook: Your mindset shapes your reputation long before your music does.

Venues notice the bands who show up early, promote hard, stay professional, and treat every stage with respect. Fans notice the artists who stay visible, stay grateful, and stay connected. Industry people notice the musicians who carry themselves like pros even when they’re still climbing.

Your mindset is your brand. Your discipline is your leverage. Your consistency is your currency.

So ask yourself — not as a dreamer, but as a working musician: Are you mentally built for the level of success you say you want? Are you training your mind with the same intensity you train your voice, your instrument, your stage presence? Are you preparing for the opportunities you haven’t even received yet?

Because the truth is simple: Success doesn’t just land on musicians. It lands on musicians who are ready.

If you want to rise in this industry — in Vegas or anywhere else — your mindset has to be stronger than your doubts, louder than your excuses, and more consistent than your circumstances.

Your future fans are out there. Your future stages are out there. Your future success is out there.

The question now is whether your mindset is ready to meet it!

Gary England

The Long Road To Rock Stardom Why Some Artists Rise While Others Fade!

 Talking music & entertainment talent: 

I’ve been a music, entertainment, and sportswriter (and ghostwriter) since 1968. In that time, I’ve watched an unbelievable number of bands and musicians with real, undeniable talent. Some climbed all the way to the big stages and bright lights. Others, just as gifted, never made it past the local circuit.

It wasn’t a question of talent. Many of them had the chops, the charisma, and the skill set to rise to full‑blown rock stardom. So why did some break through while others stalled out?

Instead of relying only on my own opinion, I reached out to people (longtime friends) across the industry, promoters, producers, touring musicians, agents, venue managers, and long‑time insiders to get their take on why certain artists make it, and others don’t. Here's what they said:

Some acts rise, and others fade because the music business rewards far more than raw talent; it rewards work ethic, branding, timing, networking, and that unpredictable, lightning‑in‑a‑bottle magic that no one can fully explain. The artists who make it usually out‑hustle, out‑promote, and out‑connect the ones who don’t. They show up early, stay late, treat every gig like an audition, and build a brand that fans can instantly recognize. Timing plays a huge role, being in the right city, with the right sound, at the exact moment the industry is hungry for it. And yes, luck absolutely plays a part. One chance meeting, one canceled headliner, one viral clip, one industry insider in the room on the right night can change everything. But even luck needs something to land on. That’s where the “It Factor” comes in, that unteachable mix of presence, charisma, authenticity, and emotional electricity that makes an audience lean forward before the first chorus hits. It’s not just talent; it’s magnetism. It’s the difference between someone who performs music and someone who becomes the music the moment they step onstage.

{My Take}

Since relocating to the Entertainment Capital of the World in 1999, I’ve seen countless bands that had everything they needed to break out — talent, drive, stage presence, and the kind of chemistry you can’t fake. But the biggest reason many local acts never make it past the Vegas scene is simple: a handful of them do everything right at first, then lose steam too quickly. They push hard, build momentum, start getting noticed… and then stop just short of the finish line. Maybe they burned out, maybe life got in the way, or maybe they didn’t give their talent enough time to be discovered by the world beyond Las Vegas. In just the last couple of years, I’ve watched several bands with real potential stall out right when the door was starting to crack open — a reminder that in this business, consistency and endurance matter just as much as talent!

In this business, even the biggest names didn’t rocket to fame overnight. Aerosmith spent years grinding through tiny clubs before anyone outside Boston cared. Bon Jovi played every Jersey bar that would have them long before “Runaway” finally cracked the radio. KISS hauled their own gear, slept in vans, and got rejected by every major label before the makeup, the fire, and the spectacle finally caught on. Even Journey didn’t explode until years into their career when the right voice and the right song collided at the right moment. The truth is, discovery takes time — sometimes a long time — and the artists who make it are the ones who refuse to stop showing up. 

Remember: the moment that you quit trying, or slow down your efforts, might be the moment right before the bright lights hit you!

Gary England

The Gospel According To Classic Rock ’n’ Roll: Freeman Brady Barnes And McKee Bring Their Message To Their Fans At The Tuscany Suites Copa Room On Sunday

 Sunday, May 31st, 2026

With a rare Sunday off from writing, I finally made my way back to the Rock ’n’ Roll Church at the Copa Room inside the Tuscany Suites Casino. I hadn’t seen it live in months, only through the firestorm of clips on social media, but trust me, this show still hits like a freight train of pure rock energy.

Click on the pic to enlarge

Andrew Freeman was out front preaching the gospel on vocals, with Christian Brady shredding on lead guitar, Barry Barnes holding down the low end, and Shon McKee driving the whole thing from behind the kit. For two straight hours, they delivered soul‑shaking rock, stories, laughs, and those little bits of rock‑star wisdom that only come from musicians who’ve lived it.

And the setting? Only the Copa Room can pull off that church‑meets‑concert vibe. Spirits flowing, brunch just steps away, and a room full of people ready to lift their hands, their voices, and maybe their Bloody Marys.

It’s the perfect Sunday hang with great friends, killer classic rock, good laughs, good food, and a little adult refreshment to round it out. If you’re looking for a way to recharge your body and soul, get yourself to the next Rock ’n’ Roll Church. You’ll walk out feeling way better than when you walked in!

Gary England

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