My Shout‑Out To The People Who Keep Local Las Vegas Alive!

 You know, every once in a while, it's nice to receive a "Thank You" for what you do :-)

When I rolled into Las Vegas back in 1999, I already had 31 years in the media biz as a ghost — writing in the shadows, grinding through deadlines, and living the kind of behind‑the‑scenes hustle only lifers understand. "Been there, done that", I thought!

Not long after I hit town, two of Vegas’ top photographers pulled me aside. These were the kings of the pit, the guys who owned every stage in the local music scene. They told me my work was really good… then warned me that might be the very thing that would burn me out. They said the politics, the jealousy, the haters, and the noise would eventually make me lose interest and walk away. Well — decades later, I’m still here, just barely.

And here’s the truth: I never even considered photography as my strong point. Writing is, was, and will always be who I am! Taking pics is just a side gig for me.

Las Vegas used to be packed with local media pros who covered the local music scene because they lived it. Journalists, writers, photographers, and podcasters who knew every dive bar stage, every late‑night jam, every band grinding through the neon haze. They weren’t tourists with press badges — they were locals who showed up because the music mattered, documenting the scene from the inside out.

Today, the roster’s thinned to a couple of magazines, a handful of writers still swinging, a few podcasts fighting the good fight, and a handful of talented photographers keeping the flame alive.

Being a local media member in this town isn’t easy! You deal with armchair experts who swear they know more about media than the people actually doing the work. You deal with people who talk behind your back. You deal with has-beens that never was. You deal with haters who get jealous because your name hits the spotlight and theirs doesn’t. And you deal with people who simply don’t appreciate your grind — the long nights, the hustle, the passion it takes to keep Vegas’ local music story alive.

But the ones still standing? They’re locals. They’re loyal. They love music, and they're proud to show it through their work!. And you know who you are. Good job. Thanks for keeping the music scene alive, and for keeping Las Vegas on the map. I appreciate you!

To all the amateur writers, journalists, photographers, and podcasters, O hell yes, thank you!  You’re the ones in the trenches, the ones hauling cameras into dark bars, scribbling notes under neon lights, hitting “record” in living rooms and garages because nobody else is telling the story. Your work is raw, real, and absolutely vital. You keep the pulse beating when the pros thin out. You keep the scene visible when the big outlets look the other way. And your work? It’s awesome too. Don’t let anyone — the armchair critics, the jealous shadows, the noise — tell you otherwise. Vegas stays on the map because you show up. And I appreciate every damn one of you!!

And lastly — to the two badass photographers who pulled me aside all those years ago, trying to warn me about what was coming… You nailed it. You hit it right on the head! Is it to late to say thank you?

Gary England

Right Time Right Place And Work Your Butt Off: The Road To Discovery In The Music Industry

 

Classic rock and country don’t just lead the tribute & cover‑band world — they rule it like outlaw kings. The crowds crave it, Vegas management eats it up, and every weekend this town turns into a neon‑lit proving ground for musicians who are one lucky break away from the big stage. These players aren’t hobbyists; they’re what I call “Right Time, Right Place” musicians — the kind of artists who, when the right set of eyes and ears lock onto them, they disappear overnight and reappear on a tour bus headed straight for rock stardom! After conversations with some movers & shakers in the music industry, and a few heavy-duty rockers in the biz. Here is what they said.

Vegas doesn’t hand out fame — it tests you, breaks you in, and then dares you to rise above the neon noise. The musicians who make the leap from local legend to rising star are the ones who treat every stage like a launchpad and every crowd like a scouting session. This city is a pressure cooker for talent, and the decision‑makers — the producers, bookers, A&R hunters, festival curators — are always scanning for the next spark loud enough to shake the industry. The fast track isn’t about luck alone; it’s about showing up everywhere, sounding unmistakably like yourself, keeping your digital footprint razor‑sharp, and flooding the world with your music until the right ears finally lock in. Vegas rewards the bold, the relentless, and the artists who play like the spotlight is already theirs!

Local musicians who want to get seen by the power players of the music industry have to attack the Vegas grind like it’s a nightly audition for the rest of their lives. That means playing relentlessly — every bar, lounge, festival, jam night, anywhere a stage and a power outlet exist — because the more you show up, the more chances you create for the right set of eyes to land on you. It means carving out a signature sound that punches through the noise and makes people remember you after one song, not ten. It means keeping your social media sharp and professional, dropping high‑quality recordings that prove you’re the real deal, and getting your music on Spotify and every major platform so industry scouts can find you even when they’re not in the room. It means networking with intent, showing up at showcases and songwriter nights where gatekeepers actually gather, collaborating with other artists to expand your reach, and building a loyal local following that packs rooms and forces people to pay attention. In Vegas, the musicians who rise are the ones who stay loud, stay visible, and stay ready — because the moment opportunity walks through the door, you don’t get a second chance to hit that first note.

{My Take}

At the end of the day, breaking out of the local circuit isn’t magic — it’s momentum. The musicians who rise are the ones who grind harder, play louder, stay visible, and treat every night like the universe might be watching. Rock stardom has always been a cocktail of sweat, timing, and a little cosmic luck — but the legends remind us that luck only shows up for the ones who never stop swinging. As Tom Petty said, “You have to work hard. You have to give it everything.” And Billy Idol nailed it even cleaner: “Luck comes from working your ass off.” Keep pushing, keep playing, keep showing up — because in Vegas, the break comes fast, and the ones who earn it are the ones who never stop chasing the spark.

Gary England

Rustic Lounge Open Mic Night: The Jam That Shook Henderson, Nevada July 9th!

 Thursday night hit like a surprise guitar lick, the kind that snaps your head around and reminds you you’re still living and still plugged into the voltage of this wild Las Vegas (And Henderson) music scene!

Click On The Pic to Enlarge

I rolled into the Rustic Lounge in Henderson, Nevada around 6:45 Thursday night, thinking I’d just catch a casual Thursday night jam. Instead, this old rock writer got schooled. The place was buzzing with players, not weekend warriors, not bar‑band autopilots, but real awesome musicians, the kind who show up with fire in their eyes and riffs in their back pockets! The room was stacked with killers, musicians who don’t just play, they burn down the stage. And the setlist? Forget the usual Vegas bar‑band rotation. These rockers were firing off rarely‑heard gems like “What I Like About You”, “Old Time Rock n’ Roll”, and “Ride Sally Ride” — the kind of tunes that make your heart kick like a Harley at a green light!

Then came the genre‑hopping madness, Vegas and Henderson locals showing the packed bar just what they got! Besides the host of Classic Rock favorites. There were R&B burners that slid across the room like neon smoke. Blues cuts dripping with grit, Country stompers that rattled the floorboards, and Metal blasts that punched the ceiling tiles loose!

Every player — guys, gals, veterans, newcomers — stepped onto that stage for one reason: to feel the music and have a good time doing it. No ego. No posing. Just pure, sweaty, joyful noise!

Thursday night, the Rustic Lounge stage turned into a revolving door of Vegas‑powered firepower!

Special guests? More like a mini rock summit.

Local rock legend Les Warner stormed the stage with that unmistakable thunder he’s carried since his days with The Cult — crisp, loud, and locked‑in like a speeding freight train on grease-soaked rails! Right behind him came Rowan Robertson, the guitar prodigy who joined Dio at 17 and still plays like he’s got lightning wired straight into his fingertips and running through his veins!

Satin Steel out of Arizona took the stage- a crew that doesn’t just play rock; they swing it like a sledgehammer. Their riffs hit the room like a wind-blown desert storm blowing in from the east!

Local rocker Dave Bentz didn’t just take the stage — he commanded it, ripping through guitar lines out front like a man born with a fretboard in his hands. With Dezi Lou, Vegas’ own high‑voltage music promoter, running point beside him, the two kept the entire night tight, on time, and rolling like a runaway rock‑star steam engine. And while the music thundered, Carmen Haynes Warner kept the drinks flowing, fueling the crowd and keeping the Rustic Lounge buzzing at full tilt!

The night finally eased off the throttle, but the energy never dipped — the Rustic Lounge felt like it was still humming, still vibrating from every riff, crash, and howl that tore through it. If Thursday proved anything, it’s that the Vegas (And Henderson) music scene is crazy alive, loud, and absolutely unstoppable! And for all those who showed up, played hard, and kept the whole machine running, consider this your salute — you’re the ones who keep the rock‑and‑roll heartbeat pounding in this town! For that, you're all Rock Stars in my book!

My Take, On a personal note.

Last night hit me right in the soul. Uplifting to see, electrifying to hear, and impossible not to feel. That’s what local music is supposed to be — raw energy, real people, and a room full of musicians locked into pure camaraderie!

The vibe was flawless. The music was alive. The whole night at the Rustic Lounge Jam wasn’t just good… it was the blueprint for what a Vegas (Or Henderson) jam night should be! Five stars? Not even close. Let’s call it TEN STARS and still feel like we’re underselling it.

Last night RAWKED!! HARD!!

I'll Be Back!

~Gary England~

Rustic Lounge

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #MusicEntertainmentSports #LasVegasReviewJournal #USAT #MusicEntertainmentSports #GaryEngland

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

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

Keeping The Beat Alive: Las Vegas Local Musician Dwayne Stiff’s Take On The Local Music Industry

 Earlier this month, I wrote an article titled: 

Is The Las Vegas Local Music Scene Going Down For The Last Time?

In my article, I discussed how the popularity of the local music scene seems to be dwindling around Las Vegas. Let's just say that the article drew many comments on my Facebook page from venue management, fans, and from the entertainers (musicians) themselves, including this well-thought-out In-depth comment (article) from Dwayne Stiff ( Throckmore ). 

I was blown away by his comments and thoughts below about the current situation that the local music industry is facing in Las Vegas. 

I believe that many others in our local music industry have much the same feelings and outlook that Dwayne expressed. After you read Dwayne's article, please feel free to comment below the article.

Dwayne's Article (Comments)

Why local patronage—not nostalgia—will decide its future

Recent conversations around town, sparked by a thoughtful piece from local writer Gary

England and echoed in a discussion I had with a venue owner whose only goal is to bring

live entertainment to his community, have raised a familiar, uncomfortable question: Is

the live music scene in Las Vegas really dying?

After more than two decades of calling Las Vegas home, my answer is this: it’s

complicated. In some ways, the scene is struggling. In others, it’s quietly surviving. What

happens next depends largely on whether locals decide the music scene is worth

supporting.

Big on Spectacle, Small in Reality

When I moved to Las Vegas from the East Coast 20 years ago, one thing became

immediately clear: Vegas is not the sprawling metropolis it appears to be. The Strip creates

an illusion of endless scale—resorts stacked back-to-back, tourists ferried from one

spectacle to the next—but the city itself is relatively compact and geographically isolated.

Compare that to places like Florida’s I-4 corridor, where interconnected cities support a

dense network of venues, musicians, and fans. There, local scenes overlap and reinforce

one another. In Las Vegas, entertainment has always leaned heavily toward high-dollar,

tourist-driven productions rather than grassroots, neighborhood-based culture.

That focus has consequences.

The Dual Reality of Las Vegas Entertainment

Las Vegas earns its title as the Entertainment Capital of the World. Legendary

residencies—from Sinatra and Elvis to Celine Dion—built its reputation. Today, massive

productions like Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, and nonstop A-list tours fill arenas such

as Allegiant Stadium, T-Mobile Arena, and MGM Grand Garden Arena more frequently than

any other city in the world.

Mid-sized venues like House of Blues, Brooklyn Bowl, and Freemont Country Club provide

important bridges between mega-shows and local stages.

But when people talk about a “dying” scene, they aren’t talking about stadiums. They’re

talking about the neighborhood venues—the places that support cover bands, tribute acts, and local original artists trying to make a name for themselves. That’s where the strain is

real.

The Economics No One Wants to Talk About

In most cities, live music survives on a simple formula: modest cover charges or advance

ticket sales that help pay for the bands. Five or ten dollars at the door has long been the

norm in the majority of markets I have been in. There are some exceptions to this rule in

places like New Orleans and Nashville, where there are streets lined with bars for the

multitude of tourists who are there to drink and hop from bar to bar. Or the beach bars

where a guy with his acoustic guitar and a backing track can entertain customers and

tourists with a little "Cheeseburger in Paradise". Both exceptions have a common

theme...they are tourists destinations. But, outside of those tourist driven areas, cover

charges and ticket sales still exist as the norm.

Las Vegas has a deeply ingrained culture of free entertainment. Casinos have spent

decades offering lounge acts at no charge to keep people gambling and drinking. And there

are casinos sprawled across the small city for tourists and locals. However, that mentality

has spilled into the local music scene. Many local patrons actually resist paying cover

charges—even small ones.

Independent local venues can’t survive on that logic.

A bar is a business with serious overhead: rent is higher in Vegas than most other cities not

named New York, Los Angeles or Chicago (one off-Strip venue cited $16,000 a month for

6,000 square feet). Then there are utilities, insurance, maintenance, staffing, and licenses

(just to scratch the surface). Live music adds additional expenses for sound systems,

engineers, repairs, and legally required music licenses on top of those everyday operating

costs.

Yes—licenses. Under U.S. copyright law, venues must obtain permission to publicly

perform copyrighted music (Covers and Tributes). That permission comes through

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and GMR. Most bars

pay for a blanket license so bands can play freely—but those licenses typically cost

between $300 and $1,200 per year.

Just to break even, a bar with a $16,000 rent (plus normal operating costs) must sell

approximately 600 drinks every night just to break even. That is before factoring in paying

bands and those additional costs for entertainment.

Without consistent cover charges or ticket revenue, more and more venues are being

forced to either cut band pay—or shut their doors altogether.

The 2025 closure of Count’s Vamp’d, a beloved rock venue that operated for more than 16

years, is a painful example. High costs, shifting economics, proper bar and restaurant

management knowledge as well as operational challenges eventually made survival

impossible according to a recent interview with former owner Danny "The Count" Koker.

From the Bands’ Side of the Stage

Local musicians generally fall into three groups:

Cover bands, playing familiar hits by other artists

Tribute acts, recreating the illusion of iconic artists

Original artists, creates and performs new music in hopes that everyone else will

eventually play in Cover bands

No matter which one you are in (many musicians are in multiple), bands face their own

expenses—gear, rehearsal space, transportation, recording, promotion, merch, etc.. Yet

pay has stagnated or declined.

Here’s a reality check: in 1992, minimum wage was $3.75 an hour. That same year, I was

making $100 per night per musician playing in a five-piece cover band. That’s $500 paid to

the band per night—33 years ago.

Today? Many bands are still lucky to get $500 for a night’s work. And before I get attacked in

the comments from the "Online Keyboard Warriors" saying "I get paid more than that!" OK,

a few are getting paid more and think it's because you are the best in town and worth it. It's

OK rockstar, we all know how special and great and amazing you all are, get over it! I am

talking about the average pay across the Vegas music scene, not you special ones with

inside ties.

It's not nostalgia—it’s math. Band pay has effectively seen zero growth, sometimes worse,

while nearly everything else has tripled in cost. Minimum wage has risen roughly 300%.

While bands continue to make the same or less than they did 33 years ago.

At the moment, Vegas seems especially drawn towards Tribute acts--what we used to call

"Impersonators". My only guess is Tributes tend to fare better as "sure draws" due to the

lower cost than seeing the real thing, thus boosting attendance, which in turn boosts bar

sales. The House of Blues in Mandalay Bay and my friends at Outlaw Entertainment seem

to have found a great working model. They have been able to consistently pack the house

by offering free tickets to tribute shows while charging premium on-strip prices ($25+) for

drinks. Since it is on the strip, they are drawing in both locals and tourists using a model

that once built Las Vegas, the "Vegas Free Show"! The venue is making money from high drink prices and volume, the bands are making money by drawing in the crowds, and the

crowds are packing the joints. But this model can only work best on the strip where tourists

can contribute to the venues bottom line though high-priced drink sales. Off the Strip, that

approach rarely scales.

One of the most frequent criticisms directed at off-Strip, locally focused venues concerns

drink pricing. Prices typically range from $3 to $15 per beverage—averaging around $10—

depending largely on a venue’s proximity to the Strip or downtown tourist corridors. While

these prices are often compared unfavorably to expectations for “local” establishments,

they remain far below the $25-and-up drink prices commonly found at Strip resorts.

Even accounting for commercial rents that can be two to three times higher in Las Vegas,

beverage pricing at off-Strip venues is largely in line with comparable live-music and local

entertainment spaces in other major markets.

“I Don’t Pay for Drinks—I Gamble for Them”

I recently overheard someone at a bar say, “I don’t pay for drinks—I gamble for them.” That

statement perfectly captures the Vegas mindset.

Here’s the reality: when you put $20 into a bar-top slot machine, you’ll usually play until you

either win or lose that $20. If you lose, congratulations—you just bought yourself a $20

drink instead of a $10 one. If you win, it feels like a victory. But the math doesn’t lie. The

average bar-top slot machine in Vegas pays out about 90%. That means the house keeps 10

cents of every dollar played. Over time, those “free” drinks cost roughly the same as paying

for them outright.

Those machines aren’t there to make you rich—they’re there to keep the lights on. And if

you enjoy live music in that venue, that math matters.

Why Local Patronage Matters Now

The local music scene in Vegas isn’t doomed—but it is fragile. And it won’t survive without

local support.

Here are my personal observations regarding the current state of the local Las Vegas music

scene.

In many cases, the audience at local shows is composed largely of other musicians and

members of local bands—artists supporting one another on nights when they are not

performing themselves. While friends and family do attend, the broader general public

appears increasingly disengaged from live music at neighborhood bars and local venues.

One contributing factor is the instability of these venues; many do not remain open long

enough to cultivate a consistent, loyal customer base. Thus, making it difficult for the

owners to consistently have the income to cover high rents and operating costs.

Compounding this challenge is the pervasive culture of free entertainment fostered by the

casino-driven economy. That expectation that has spilled into the local market, leading

even resident patrons to resist cover charges or ticketed events at independent venues that

do not benefit from tourist-driven revenue. As a result, local music spaces face mounting

difficulty sustaining both attendance and long-term viability.

With tourism dipping in 2025 (down 6-11% in some metrics due to costs and perceptions),

and costs rising across the board, sustaining local culture matters more than ever.

Paying a $10 cover is less than a latte or a even a few spins on a slot machine. Tipping

bands, buying their merch, and showing up to discover new music from original artists all

make a difference. These venues and musicians aren’t faceless corporations—they’re

neighbors taking real risks to create something meaningful.

If we want nights filled with live music, discovery, and community, we have to invest in

them. Otherwise, more venues like Vamp’d will disappear, leaving only the high-priced

mega-spectacles behind.

Las Vegas can have both.

But only if locals (music fans) decide the music scene is worth showing up for!

Spoken like a most knowledgeable, traveled musician of many years!

What an awesome article you wrote Dwayne Stiff ( Throckmore ) 

GE

Why The Right Press Coverage And Social Media Strategy Makes Or Breaks Local Bands

It seems that when I communicate with other music scenes across the US, the question 'How's the music scene in Las Vegas doing?' always gets brought up. My go-to answer is always; time will tell.

 I've been sitting back since early this summer watching the local Las Vegas music scene settle since the closings of two very popular venues (Count's Vamp'd & Club Madrid Sunset Station) that have been local band-friendly for quite a few years.

The closures of these two local music venues left a big hole in the music scene, leaving bands and musicians looking for other venues to perform at.

Even months after the closings, I hear fans and musicians alike saying, It's just not the same without Count's Vamp'd and Club Madrid around! 

Life and music go on, or do they?

Some bands have found work; some bands have not. A few bands have gigs here and there; some bands haven't been seen since early this summer.

A handful of local bands just keep on rolling. Climbing the ladder to music success! So, what do these bands do differently than their counterparts in the music industry?

Being in the media for many years, I've seen bands and musicians come and go. My answer to why some bands have staying power and some bands don't, may be a little bit slanted, but here are my thoughts.

Press and social media are essential because they amplify visibility, build credibility, and create direct fan engagement; together, they help bands break out of local scenes and reach industry recognition.

Three bands that I've recently written about in my blogs (The Far Worst, Heroine Honey, and Cyanide) are perfect examples of how top-shelf bands use the press and social media to their advantage. Not a day passes that I don't see a post on their social media pages. They're entertaining, fan-friendly, and very creative posts that get your attention! 

The Far Worst, Heroine Honey, and Cyanide are awesome!

These three bands are doing everything right!

~Gary England~

The days of posting a band's upcoming gig a time or two a week or two before the event on social media are a thing of the past. Now bands have to stay in front of their fans' eyes each and every day. 

Bands that want to reach the next level in the entertainment industry need both press and social media working in tandem. Press provides the professional validation that industry insiders respect, while social media delivers the grassroots energy that fans crave. Together, they create momentum—press opens doors, social media fills the seats!

GE

Plugged In: Las Vegas Bands Bringing The Heat This Weekend To Sin City And Beyond

Las Vegas is turning up the volume this weekend as a fresh wave of talent hits the stage across the city. From gritty rock riffs to smooth blues grooves, local and touring bands are ready to deliver unforgettable performances in venues big and small. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a night out with live music and good vibes, this weekend’s lineup promises something for everyone. Here's a look at the bands bringing the heat to the Las Vegas music scene.

Friday August 1st

The Hit Squad

Saturday August 2nd

Event
Link & Tickets

West Coast Travelers

Event Link

Event Link

Blue String Theory

Sunday August 3rd

Event Link

Double Banger (2 Nights)

Friday August 1st & Saturday August 2nd

Friction

No matter where you end up this weekend, Las Vegas (Henderson & Goodsprings) is packed with the kind of live music that reminds us why this city never sleeps. From dive bars to iconic stages, these bands are keeping the energy high and the crowds on their feet. So, grab some friends, support our local talent, and make some noise, because in Las Vegas, the weekend isn’t complete without a soundtrack etched in your mind and a deep impression on your memory!

GE

How Local Bands Break Out: The Real Path To Touring Success

 Since moving to Las Vegas in 1999 and focusing my writing on music and entertainment, I've seen many local bands come onto the music scene that had the talent to take their bands to the next level of success. To perform at the regional level, or even to tour with national bands. A few have made it, others have fallen short. It takes a band that's got it together in many ways, both on and off of the stage. To me, these bands start off really strong, and after a few years, or even a few months, they either taper off or become even stronger when they're closer to reaching the next level of success. 

Local bands that break through and become "touring status", meaning they’re able to play regional or national tours regularly and sustainably, tend to share a set of core traits. These go beyond just musical talent. Here are some of the top characteristics that push bands over the top that I've noticed as a fan and as a 50-plus-year music and entertainment journalist & writer. Or as I like to call myself, A Superfan of Music :-)

 Professionalism

They show up on time, load in/out quickly, and treat every gig like a business.

Respect for venue staff, sound engineers, and other bands earns repeat bookings and word-of-mouth.

Relentless Work Ethic

They rehearse often, constantly tighten their set, and never settle.

Treat every show as a chance to level up—not just to play.

Branding and Identity

They have a distinct look, sound, and vibe. Fans remember them.

From logos to stage wear to social media tone, they present a consistent, intentional brand.

Smart Marketing and Promotion

They promote hard before every show, tag venues, engage with fans, and use email/text marketing.

Actively build a mailing list and online presence with a purpose.

Quality content (photos, video, livestreams, behind-the-scenes) is a staple.

Strong Networking

They build and maintain relationships with:

Promoters

Booking agents

Other bands (for support slots or show swaps)

Journalists/bloggers/podcasters (With Me) :-)

They don’t burn bridges, even in rough scenes.

Recorded Music That Competes

They invest in high-quality recording (doesn't mean expensive, but clean, pro-level).

Their tracks sound radio-ready and get playlisted or featured.

They release consistently and strategically, not just dump songs randomly.

Tour-Readiness

They organize and self-book early tours.

Understand how to route efficiently, budget wisely, and handle logistics.

Ready with merch, a solid live set, and the stamina for back-to-back nights.

A Powerful Live Show

They bring energy, charisma, and connection to every stage, big or small.

They don’t play like a local band; they play like headliners, even if they’re opening.

Visual presence and crowd interaction set them apart.

Merch and Revenue Strategy

They sell well-designed merch (shirts, vinyl, patches, etc.) and know how to push it live.

Often have multiple income streams: sync licensing, Patreon, online sales, etc.

Long-Term Vision

They treat the band like a business, with goals, plans, and measurable progress.

They sacrifice for the bigger picture, often turning down smaller gigs or distractions to focus on what moves them forward.

{My Take}

Breaking out of the local scene and into the touring circuit doesn’t happen overnight. It takes hustle, professionalism, and a relentless belief in your music. But for the bands willing to put in the work, the road is waiting—and so are the fans.

GE

Sin City Sounds Local Las Vegas Bands Lighting Up The City This Weekend

 Yesterday, I asked my Facebook friends (Music Fans & Musicians) to post local bands performing around Las Vegas this weekend. Let's just say that you all really made my job easy writing this blog. Thanks for all of your comments! (Bands)

Here are local bands performing this weekend around Las Vegas 

(Friday, July 11th - Sunday, July 13th)

Go See Them .. They ROCK!!

** Click On The Event Flyers (Pictures) To Enlarge **

Friday, July 11th TONIGHT

Saturday, July 12th

BYOB At The Tuscany < Event Link >

Sunday, July 13th

(Check out the band, the event, or the venue's Facebook page for more information)

No matter what part of Las Vegas you live in, there's no shortage of awesome live music and local bands to enjoy this weekend!

Have A Rock'N Weekend!

GE

Why Local Las Vegas Music Venues Should Start Charging For Their “Free” Concerts In The Future!

 With the closings of Count's Vamp'd in June, and Club Madrid inside Sunset Station Hotel Casino just this past weekend. It raises a few questions for me. Both venues provided free entertainment a majority of the time. While making their profits on refreshments (Plus food sales at Count's Vamp'd) alone. Neither venue mentioned money as a reason for their closings. But as we all know, bands and entertainment don't come cheap! Plus, sound and lighting techs. And the expense of just opening the doors. It Ain't Cheap!

Could charging for free concerts and music keep local Las Vegas music venues alive?

Here's my thoughts. 

In a city known for entertainment, Las Vegas' local music venues are vital to its cultural fabric. These intimate stages are where local talent grows, where loyal fans connect, and where the spirit of live music is kept alive night after night. Yet many of these venues offer live music for free, relying on food and drink sales or casino backing (Hotel Showrooms) to cover costs. But as times change and expenses rise, it’s time to rethink that model.

Charging even a modest cover—$5 or $10—can make a meaningful difference. 

It helps cover the rising costs of sound engineers, security, lighting techs, and the musicians themselves. Many of these bands spend hours rehearsing, hauling gear, and delivering professional-quality performances. A paid ticket signals to the audience that what they’re seeing has value, and encourages more respectful, engaged crowds to attend. There used to be a "2 Drink Minimum" at many venues in the past. What happened to that?

Moreover, charging helps venues stay afloat. The reality is: without revenue from the door, more venues will close. We’ve already seen beloved spots like Count’s Vamp’d and Club Madrid at Sunset Station shut their doors. Cover charges help keep the lights on, the sound systems running, and the booking calendars full.

Lastly, small fees help build a stronger local scene. When venues are profitable, they’re more likely to take risks on new acts, promote original music, and reinvest in better production. That’s a win for musicians and fans alike.

{My Take}

In a city where we tip for valet, pay resort fees, and spend $20 on cocktails, it’s time we also put value on the local music experience. A small cover charge is not a burden; it’s an investment in keeping live music alive in Las Vegas.

I Support Local Las Vegas Music & Bands!

GE

How Local Bands And Musicians Take The Next Big Steps To Rock Star Status

 What does it take for a local band or a local music artist to make it Big in the music industry?

To find out, I talked with a few of my friends who tour and perform all over the world, a handful of local music artists, venue management, and two agents who handle top names in the music biz. 

This is what I learned.

Moving from a local band or solo act into a touring or featured band status takes a combination of talent, strategy, networking, and business sense. I call this "Doing Everything Right"! 

Master the Local Scene

Polish the live show. Every performance should be tight, engaging, and memorable.

Build a fanbase. Consistently draw crowds locally. Promoters pay attention to ticket sales and engagement.

Dominate local media. Get featured in blogs, newspapers, podcasts, or local radio.

Create a Strong Online Presence

Professional branding. High-quality photos, logos, and videos.

Consistent content. Post regularly across social media platforms.

Release original music. Distribute via Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, etc.

Engage with fans. Treat social media like your virtual merch table.

Build Industry Connections

Network with booking agents, venue owners, and other bands.

Open for touring acts when they come through town—this is a huge way to get noticed.

Attend music conferences or trade shows (like the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show / The Las Vegas Drum Show).

Prove Marketability

Show promoters real numbers: ticket sales, social media growth, Spotify streams.

Develop a press kit (EPK) with bios, live footage, photos, and reviews.

Start Touring Regionally (When Ready)

Book small out-of-town shows. Use local support acts to help draw a crowd.

Keep touring costs low—prove you can make it work on a budget.

Build mailing lists and engage with fans in every city.

Get Professional Help (When Ready)

Management: A good manager helps open doors and guides long-term strategy.

Booking agents: They can plug you into bigger venues and tours.

Publicists: Help you get press and boost visibility.

Capitalize on Breakout Opportunities

Win or place in reputable contests (e.g., “Battle of the Bands” or national unsigned artist competitions).

Get a song featured in a film, TV, or social media virality.

Have a standout performance at a major festival or opening slot that catches industry attention.

{My Take}

Breaking out of the local scene and into the world of touring or featured band status isn’t just about talent—it’s about dedication, smart decisions, and relentless hustle. Every show played, every fan gained, and every connection made is a step forward. For those who are serious about their craft and ready to treat their music like a business, the road may be long, but the destination is well within reach. Keep grinding, stay authentic, and let your music lead the way!

Keep Rock'N

GE

Las Vegas Musician Jimmie B Romero His Journey From Rock To Country Music Star

In my recent blog, I talked about nationally known rock, pop, and hip-hop music artists who have made the transition (Either in part or fully) from their chosen genre of music to crossover to the country music scene.

Today, I'm featuring one of the most successful Local Las Vegas Rock N Rollers to make the crossover to country music performer. His name is Jimmie B Romero. 

With over a decade of performances at renowned venues like the House of Blues, Toby Keith's Bar n' Grill, and The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails inside the Cosmopolitan Hotel Casino LV. Jimmie has established himself as a captivating frontman known for energizing audiences and filling dance floors all over town. 

Jimmie's been a prominent figure in the Las Vegas music scene for years and has showcased his versatility by contributing to many established bands throughout his career, performing recently with high-caliber bands such as Jetboy and The Hellenbacks. Jimmie has also been associated with The Wild Wolves, another Top Las Vegas band that blends rock and country influences together.

His recent (Less than a year) evolution into country music has been marked by amazing success, amassing over 111 million streams across 26 platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music. His style blends the raw energy of rock with the storytelling essence of country, evident in tracks like "Johnny & June" and "Goes Around Comes Around." 

It is amazing, to say the least, to have amassed the huge number of streams (111 million) that Jimmie and his country music have received in this short period of time!

{My Take}

As Jimmie B. Romero continues to bridge the worlds of rock and country with authenticity and passion, his journey is a testament to artistic evolution and staying power. Whether he's commanding the stage with Jetboy, driving the grit of The Hellenbacks, or weaving stories through his solo work, Jimmie proves that great music knows no boundaries. With new projects always on his horizon, one thing is certain. "Jimmie B. Romero isn’t just part of the Las Vegas music scene; he’s helping to shape its look and sound for many years to come"!

GE

To be syndicated: #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #USAT #LasVegasReviewJournal #LasVegasSun #LasVegasWeekly #VegasInsider #GaryEngland 

For more information about Jimmie B Romero, performance dates, booking, and contact info. Check the links below.

Jimmie Romero Instagram

Jimmie B Romero On Spotify

Jimmie B Romero Facebook

Jimmie B Romero YouTube Channel

jimmieromero.com (Official Website)

Contact Jimmie B Romero

Onward And Upward For The Las Vegas Local Music Scene !

 After attending the 4th Annual Las Vegas Drum Show this past weekend. 

And looking forward to the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show coming up on May 30th through June 1st later this year. I've got to say that the Local Music Scene in Las Vegas is red hot!

Yes, Las Vegas definitely has a thriving local music scene!

But by Las Vegas Standards, there’s always room for growth. 

Just look how things have changed in Vegas over the last ten years or so.

What would it take to complete and enhance the Local Music Scene in Las Vegas?

Here are a few of my thoughts.

{My Take}

Vegas has plenty of small clubs and massive arenas, but there’s a lack of mid-sized venues (500-2,500 capacity) for growing bands to play before they reach the big leagues. More venues like Brooklyn Bowl or House of Blues would help bridge that gap.

While electronic and pop acts thrive due to the city's club scene, rock and metal bands don’t get as much attention. More dedicated rock venues and festivals could help balance the playing field in Vegas' Local Music scene!

Most live music in Vegas happens in bars or casinos, making it tough for younger musicians and fans. More all-ages or 18+ venues could encourage the next generation of local talent.

While there are many talented musicians, different genres and groups tend to stay in their own bubbles. More cross-genre events, jam nights, and collaborative efforts could strengthen the overall scene.

Unlike cities with strong indie radio stations, Vegas lacks a major platform that consistently supports local artists. A dedicated radio station or media outlet focused on local bands would help give them more exposure. I like to think that the blog that you're reading helps that cause! 

Vegas hosts major festivals like Life Is Beautiful and When We Were Young, but a homegrown festival focused on local talent could put the city’s musicians in the spotlight.

Major labels, booking agents, and management companies are mostly based in L.A. or New York. If Vegas developed more of its own music industry infrastructure—local record labels, management firms, and booking agencies—it could help local artists build careers without having to move away.

These are just a few of my thoughts (As a journalist) about how to complete and/or enhance the Local Music Scene in Las Vegas. 

What are your thoughts?

Comment Below.

GE