Keep The Beat Keep The Respect: Music Scene Rhythm Meets Real Life Truth!

 Waking up this morning, I felt that quiet rush of gratitude humming through me — another sunrise, another shot to do what I love. I cracked open the inbox, and there they were: four assignments lined up like a blessing disguised as hustle. Instead of shaking my head, I nodded. Thankful to have the work, thankful to still be part of the noise and the narrative.

I skim down the AP wire, slide through the UPI feed, then wander into Facebook land like stepping into a familiar neon-lit alley. The day looks solid, steady, full of possibility. And yeah, there’s always a “but” lurking somewhere — but today I’m meeting it with gratitude instead of grit. It’s time to speak my peace!

There’s a virus going around that’s called Disrespect, and you can feel it creeping around in our local Las Vegas music community if you listen close enough. Out here, where amps buzz, voices shine, and dreams get tested under the neon heat, respect is the one thing that keeps people standing tall. 

The world’s changed, Vegas has changed, and the scene I’m proud to be part of has shifted right along with it! But the need to treat people right never goes out of style. As someone who cares and as a journalist who actually pays attention, I feel it’s my responsibility to say it straight: Respect is the baseline, the beat we all need to stay in time with!

The fix is actually pretty simple. 

"Treat others how you want to be treated"

For those of you that Respect your Creator, it's called the Golden Rule.

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

Rock Stars Who Kicked Off Their Music Careers At An Early Age In Life

 Las Vegas has always been a city of bright lights and big dreams, and its music scene is no exception. The future rock stars of this town are already sharpening their skills on small stages, open mics, and battle-of-the-bands competitions, ready to follow in the footsteps of legends who made it big at a young age. History shows that age is no barrier to success; rock icons like Joan Jett, Eddie Van Halen, and Billie Eilish were already making waves in their teens. Today’s Vegas talent is proving that same fire still burns, with young musicians (teenagers & younger) channeling raw passion, unshakable ambition, and a city’s worth of inspiration into performances that could someday put them on the global stage. 

Later, I'll be spotlighting the Las Vegas youth movement in music. 

For today, I'll be spotlighting some of the biggest names in music who were already on stage while most kids were still doing homework. 

Here’s a look at rock stars who proved that age is just a number when it comes to musical talent and high ambition.

Eddie Van Halen – At just 20 years old, Eddie and his brother Alex dropped Van Halen’s debut album in 1978, revolutionizing guitar playing forever!

Joan Jett – She picked up her first guitar at 13 and was performing with The Runaways by 15, making waves in the male-dominated rock world.

Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day) – Formed his first band, Sweet Children, at 14. By 16, he was recording music that would lead to Green Day’s punk rock takeover.

Wolf Van Halen – Joined Van Halen on tour at only 16, holding his own alongside legends.

Stevie Wonder – Though better known for soul and R&B, his early years were pure rock spirit, signed to Motown at age 11 and touring soon after.

Jon Bon Jovi – Recorded his first single at 16 and was working at a recording studio before forming Bon Jovi at 21.

Slash (Guns N’ Roses) – Started playing guitar at 15 and was jamming in bands across Los Angeles before he could drive.

 Michael Jackson – With the Jackson 5, he was performing stadium shows at just 11 years old, inspiring rock and pop artists for decades.

Avril Lavigne – Signed her first record deal at 16, bringing punk-pop attitude to a new generation.

Taylor Momsen (The Pretty Reckless) – Transitioned from acting to fronting a hard rock band at 16, touring the world before adulthood.

{My Take}

These artists show that when it comes to rock ‘n’ roll, the only real requirements are passion and a whole lot of nurtured talent!

No matter what age, if you’ve got the music in you, the big stages are more than ready for you to perform!

GE - Gary England

Why Some Local Musicians And Bands Get Noticed And Why Some Never Get Their Fair Share Of The Bright Lights Of Las Vegas

 Pretty much every day since moving to Las Vegas in May of 1999, when I first wake up, I check social media to see what's going on around Las Vegas in the music and entertainment industry. Then I proceed to my Associated Press and United Press International news feeds to see what is happening around the world that might concern Las Vegas. Then I write my blogs and ghost articles and send them off to press.

The media plays a significant role in determining who gets noticed and who doesn't around the world. So do many other factors. Las Vegas is overflowing with musical talent. Many musicians and bands seem to stay in the spotlight consistently, while other musicians and bands hardly ever get mentioned. I'm here today to explain why.

Yesterday I asked my Facebook friends the question: Who are some of the most gifted musicians in Las Vegas that have not received the accolades they deserve?   

In one day, 24 hours, the post received over 125 comments, and was seen on Facebook by over 2,800 people, mentioning musicians and bands who they believed deserved more of the spotlight that Vegas has to offer. All the names that were mentioned have incredible talent! So, why aren't they mentioned more when it comes to the local music scene? As a lifelong journalist, I'm here to shine some light on why I believe this is happening.

Las Vegas is a city teeming with musical talent, from polished tribute acts and lounge legends to gritty rockers and boundary-pushing originals. Yet, anyone watching the scene closely knows that not all talented musicians get the same spotlight. Some names seem to pop up in the media again and again, while others, despite immense skill, fly under the radar. So why does this happen?

One major factor is visibility and branding. Bands that maintain an active social media presence, regularly update their content, and engage with fans tend to draw more attention from bloggers, journalists, and promoters. Media outlets are more likely to cover artists who already have an audience or know how to market themselves.

Another big reason is relationships and connections. Musicians who take time to network, whether with venue managers, local influencers, or media professionals, often find themselves in the right place at the right time. These connections don’t guarantee talent, but they do open doors for interviews, reviews, and mentions.

Timing and trends also play a role. If a certain genre becomes hot, like country, funk, or ‘80s rock tributes, bands within that style are more likely to be featured. Others, even with equal or greater musicianship, may be overlooked simply because their sound doesn’t match the current wave.

Finally, some musicians treat their craft as a full-time pursuit, investing in press kits, hiring publicists, or staging high-quality shows. Others may play purely for passion and word-of-mouth, which can limit their exposure even if their music is top tier!

In the end, talent is essential, but in a city like Las Vegas, presentation, persistence, and promotion can make the difference between background noise and front-page news!

Ultimately, it's not just about who plays the best; it's about who gets seen, heard, and talked about. In Las Vegas, the spotlight isn't always fair, but those who learn how to chase it often find themselves right in the center of the bright lights of the Las Vegas music scene!

Comments welcomed!

GE - Gary England

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

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

Between The Voice American Idol And America's Got Talent Which Show Has The Best Talent?

 Being a music journalist. The Voice, American Idol, and America's Got Talent are brought up in many conversations around me. The question of which show has the best talent is the subject of many of these conversations. 

All three shows have launched careers, gone viral, and dominated prime-time TV. But when it comes to pure talent, who reigns supreme? The coached vocals of The Voice, the pop-star pressure of American Idol, or the wild-card spectacle of America’s Got Talent?

Each of these shows highlights different types of talent, so the "Best" really depends on what kind of talent you're looking for. 

Here's a breakdown to help you to compare the shows.

The Voice

• Focus: Singing, judged by celebrity coaches who build teams.

• Talent Quality: Great vocalists, often more technically skilled than Idol contestants, but fewer go on to major careers.

• Pros: High production value, unique blind auditions.

• Cons: Despite strong talent, less commercial success after the show.

Best For: Fans of vocal artistry and celebrity judges (like Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, John Legend).

American Idol

• Focus: Singing (solo vocalists primarily)

• Talent Quality: Known for discovering chart-topping artists like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson.

• Pros: Strong emphasis on vocal performance and artist development.

• Cons: Limited to singers, so the variety is low.

Best For: Pop and country music fans looking for the next big music star.

America’s Got Talent (AGT)

• Focus: All types of talent — singers, dancers, magicians, comedians, stunt performers, etc.

• Talent Quality: Wildly diverse; top-tier acts in multiple categories.

• Pros: Variety, global reach, high entertainment value.

• Cons: Not as focused on long-term career development for most acts.

Best For: Viewers who enjoy a variety show format with surprise acts and spectacle.

 So, Which Show Has the Best Talent?

The Voice 

Standout Talent: Jordan Smith, Travis Cormier (Canada "La Voix") & Tessanne Chin

American Idol

Standout Talent: Carrie Underwood, Adam Lambert, Daughtry.

America's Got Talent

Standout Talent: Terry Fator, Grace VanderWaal

In the end, American Idol delivers music superstars, The Voice showcases raw vocal talent, and America’s Got Talent offers variety like no other. The “best” show (Talent) depends on what you’re looking for: a future pop icon, a technically flawless singer, or a one-of-a-kind act that defies expectation. No matter your favorite, one thing’s clear: talent has many faces, and all three shows have helped shape the entertainment landscape in their very own way.

GE

Traits That Separate Working Musicians From Larger Than Life Rock Stars

 The word "Rockstar - Rock Star" is thrown around quite a bit in the music industry. 

{In My Opinion As A 50 Plus Year Music Journalist}

Not all musicians qualify to be deemed as Rock Stars.

To me, Rock Stars have a unique combination of traits that make them stand out. 

Whether it's their stage presence, confidence, or their sheer talent. 

Two Of The Very Best World-Renowned Best Guitarists On Planet Earth - Bad-A$$ Rock Stars
Mitch Perry & Rowan Robertson 

----------

After talking to fans, venue management, and with the musicians themselves. Here are some key traits that they mentioned when describing what a Rock Star means to them.

 Bigger Than Life Charisma & Stage Presence

A Rock Star commands attention the moment that they step on stage. Their energy and confidence make performances unforgettable.

Passion & Dedication

Rock Stars live and breathe music, putting in hours of practice and performance. Their love for their craft keeps them going, even when the industry is tough.

Confidence & Swagger

Rock Stars exude confidence, whether on stage or in interviews. They carry themselves with an attitude that makes them larger than life.

Creativity & Originality

Rock Stars push boundaries, creating unique music and performances. Their style, sound, and persona set them apart from the rest of the musicians.

Rebellious Spirit

Rock Stars challenge norms, break rules, and carve their own paths. Rock stars are known for their nonconformist attitudes.

Hard Work & Perseverance

Rock Stars spend years honing their craft, facing rejection and setbacks. They push through struggles to achieve their dreams.

Showmanship & Entertainment Value

Rock Stars know how to work a crowd, keeping fans engaged and excited. Their performances go beyond just playing music—they create an experience.

Emotional Depth & Vulnerability

Rock Stars pour their emotions into their music, connecting deeply with fans. They express raw, real feelings through their lyrics and performances.

Strong Branding & Image

Whether it’s fashion, hair, or attitude, rock stars cultivate an iconic look. Their image becomes as legendary as their music.

Influence & Leadership

Rock Stars inspire fans, musicians, and even entire generations. Their words and actions can shape culture and trends for many years.

{My Take}

"A rock star is a charismatic, boundary-pushing musician who captivates audiences with their talent, confidence, and larger-than-life presence."

 Yes, Rock Stars are pretty special people. 

~GE~

National News Media Entertainment 

#MitchPerry #RowanRobertson #RockStars #Guitarists #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #PMC

The Story Behind Chasing Light Winning Battle Of The Bands At The Bonfire Las Vegas

With only a few months of performing together. Chasing Light is already getting noticed.  

This week, Chasing Light Won The Battle Of The Bands contest at the Bonfire Las Vegas.

They also caught this journalist attention.

For many reasons I might add.

Here's the story.

Earlier this year, I wrote a "Behind The Scenes" article about what goes on in a band's closed-door practice session. Something fans don't get to see. The featured band in my article was "Sex To Love". That's when I met Nico Hayek (lead Guitarist For Sex To Love) and got to witness this young man's musical talent. 

I've been keeping up with the Battle Of The Bands contest for a couple of weeks on Facebook. I really believe that these contests are good for the music industry and help young and new talent in the industry to get the exposure that they much deserve! 

The next morning after the Battle Of The Bands finale. I opened up Facebook to find out that Chasing Light was the winner of the Battle Of The Bands finale the night before. As I read on I found out that Nico Hayek and Helena Harris was two members of the band. What a coincidence. I already know the musical talent that Nico possesses from meeting him a few months back. But to find out that I've already got to see Helena Harris and witness her amazing music talent on stage a few months back also at the Bonfire. Like wow!

Helena and Nico remind me of me. I found my passion for writing still in my teens. Much like Helena (Now 18) and Nico (Now 19) have both found their amazing musical niche in life.

To find out what your niche in life is while still in your teens is awesome!

And to excel in your niche is a blessing!

I compare Helena and Nico to Karen & Richard Carpenter. (Age & Musical Talent)

Besides Chasing Light's awesome talent on stage. Their social media presence is The Bomb!

Thanks to Helena's dad Larry Harris. Which handles his daughter's media and PR, along with Chasing Light's social media and internet presence. 

One thing that separates really good bands from the rest of the pack is how and where they're being seen.

As a band, you've got to keep fresh in all of your fan's minds. That's what Larry is really good at!

It's one thing in the business that I call one of the "It Factors"!

Yes, Chasing Light is "Doing Everything Right"

Their amazing talent on stage, with a Marketing and PR Guru (Helena's Dad), and a strong support system that Helena and Nico both have with their parents actively involved.

I see a very bright future for the both of them!

By the way. Congratulations For Winning Battle Of The Bands!

Check out the links below to find out more about Helena and Nico, and about their amazing band.

And The Bonfire LV. Their food and refreshments are deliciously Awesome. And their entertainment lineup, stage and sound system are Bad A$$ too! I Love This Bar!

For Vegas-Insider 

GE

Chasing Light Instagram

Chasing Light You Tube Channel

Chasing Light Facebook

Helena Harris Facebook

Helena Harris Instagram

Nico Hayek Facebook

Battle Of The Bands Bonfire

Bonfire LV

What Are The Skill Levels In Being A Musician?

 I've always said that if you're a paid musician living in Las Vegas, you've got to be good!

But are all musicians created equal?

The skill levels of being a musician can generally be categorized into different stages based on technical ability, musical knowledge, and experience. 

1st The Beginner

Learning basic techniques (e.g., how to hold an instrument, fundamental chords, basic rhythms).

Limited knowledge of music theory.

Can play simple songs but may struggle with timing and consistency.

Requires guidance from a teacher or instructional material.

Intermediate

More comfortable with the instrument and has developed muscle memory.

Can play more complex pieces and maintain a steady rhythm.

Starts understanding scales, chord progressions, and key signatures.

May begin improvising and writing simple songs.

Can play with other musicians in a basic setting (e.g., jam sessions, school bands).

Advanced

Highly developed technical skills and a deeper understanding of music theory.

Can play difficult compositions and improvise confidently.

Able to read music fluently (if applicable) and transcribe songs by ear.

May perform in professional settings, such as bands, orchestras, or solo gigs.

Can experiment with different genres and develop a unique style.

Professional

Master's complex techniques and can perform consistently under various conditions.

Strong theoretical knowledge, including advanced harmony and composition.

Can play multiple instruments or specialize deeply in one.

Performs, records, and teaches music professionally.

Can adapt quickly to different musical situations and collaborate with other musicians effortlessly.

Virtuoso (Elite/Legendary Level) - ROCK STAR!!

Extraordinary technical ability, expressiveness, and innovation.

Influences other musicians and pushes musical boundaries.

Recognized as a master in their genre (e.g., Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, Jimi Hendrix).

Has a unique style that is difficult for others to replicate.

Often composes groundbreaking music or develops new techniques.

To all of my musician friends.

Where do you see yourself in this progression?

GE