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

Rob Hussey Leads A Full Scale Neon‑Fueled Rock Riot With Cyanide’s New Hit And Music Vid "Get Up And Dance"

 It's good to be home! And I'm back just in time for a hot one!

Las Vegas just got slapped with a full‑throttle sonic uppercut, courtesy of Rob Hussey, Vegas rock machine who writes it, shreds it, produces it, films it, and performs it like he’s got nitro in his veins. His band Cyanide just dropped their newest burner, “Get Up and Dance,” and both the track and the video are already detonating across the scene like a stack of amps pushed past their redline!

The music video hit YouTube Thursday night at 9 PM Pacific, and the second it went live, it felt like someone flipped the switch on a Vegas power surge. I spun the track on Spotify, cranked up the volume, and watched the video twice back‑to‑back — this vid is straight up Vegas Hot, no filter, no brakes!

“Get Up and Dance” is a high‑octane hard‑rock rager, built on monster riffs, skyscraper‑sized hooks, and that classic arena‑rock DNA that makes you want to stomp, shout, and throw horns until sunrise. It’s the kind of track that doesn’t ask you to move — it orders you to.

Cyanide On Spotify

Get Up And Dance On Spotify

And the video?

It's a pure chaos nuclear cinema explosion!

Fire blasting, lights strobing, bodies flying, the whole thing dripping with that wild‑child, Sin City swagger. It’s a love letter to the golden age of hard rock, but shot through a modern, adrenaline‑soaked lens only Rob Hussey could pull off. This is rock ’n’ roll with gasoline poured on top!

"Official Music Video"

Cyanide didn’t just release a song — they launched a party grenade into the Vegas music scene. And judging by the early buzz, the blast radius is global!

To Rob and the boys: thanks for keeping the Vegas rock heartbeat pounding loud enough for the world to feel it.

Cyanide just lit the fuse! “Get Up and Dance” proves real rock still hits like a desert thunderbolt. Turn it up, watch the vid, feel the burn, and ride the chaos that Rob Hussey & Cyanide bring to the local LV Music Scene!

Gary England

cyaniderocks.com

Cyanide YouTube Channel 

Cyanide Facebook

Rob Hussey Facebook

LaHi Cassiano - Guitar

Greg Percuoco - Guitar

Greg Montoya - Bass

Ryan Gillan - Drums

Keith Robert War - Featured Artist

#NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #LasVegasReviewJournal #USAT 

Rock‑Inspired Artist: The Amazing Visions Of Las Vegas Artist Nancy Spurlock

 Las Vegas Drum Show

March 2026

In a city built on spectacle and raw creative electricity and talent, Nancy Spurlock has carved out a place entirely her own. For ten years, she has been one of Las Vegas’ most distinctive rock‑inspired visual artists — a creator whose work feels like it was pulled straight from the soul of the music she loves. Her art doesn’t just hang on walls; it pulses, vibrates, and breathes with the same intensity as the stages and spotlights that define this city.

Click on the picture to enlarge

Nancy’s artistic journey officially launched on January 30th, 2016, a debut that marked the beginning of a bold, fearless career. From the start, she embraced a style that fused rock‑and‑roll attitude with emotional storytelling, blending color, texture, and movement into pieces that feel alive. Over the years, her work has evolved into a signature aesthetic — gritty yet elegant, rebellious yet deeply human.

A Style (Hers)That Hits Like a Power Chord

Nancy’s art is unmistakable. Her pieces often explode with:

• High‑contrast color palettes

• Bold, dramatic brushwork

• Themes rooted in music, identity, and emotional release

• A rock‑centric visual language that feels both nostalgic and modern

Whether she’s painting musicians, abstract energy, or the emotional undercurrent of a song, Nancy brings a sense of rhythm to the canvas. Her work doesn’t just depict rock culture — it embodies it!

Over the past decade, Nancy has built a loyal following across Las Vegas and beyond. Each piece of her art reflects her growth as both an artist and a storyteller.

What sets her apart is her authenticity. Nancy paints with the heart of someone who has lived the music, felt the pulse of the crowd, and understands the emotional weight behind every lyric and riff. Her fans don’t just admire her work — they connect with it!

Where to Experience Nancy’s World

Nancy’s presence online has become an extension of her creative voice. Fans can follow her journey, watch her process, and discover new pieces across her platforms:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube Channel 

For ten years, Nancy Spurlock has proven that art can be as loud, fearless, and emotionally charged as the music that inspires it. Her work continues to evolve, yet it never loses the raw honesty and rock‑and‑roll spirit that first set her apart back in 2016. As she steps into her next decade of creation, Nancy remains a true Las Vegas original — bold, expressive, and unapologetically authentic. Fans can follow her journey, explore her latest pieces, and experience her creative world across Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, (Links Above) where her art continues to strike chords and spark connections with every new release. 

To View Nancy's Art

Nancy, you're an amazing, top-level talent in this world! 

I'm so blessed to know you!

Gary England

Drums Clinics Gear & Groove: The 5th Annual Las Vegas Drum Show Returns March 29th To The Tuscany Suites And Casino

 

Las Vegas Drum Show

Experience the Rhythm at the 5th Annual Las Vegas Drum Show!

March 29, 2026, • Tuscany Suites & Casino

Get ready, Las Vegas — the 5th Annual Las Vegas Drum Show is back on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, 10am till 6pm, bringing a full day of rhythm, creativity, and percussion power to the Tuscany Suites & Casino.

Whether you’re a drummer, a gear lover, or simply someone who feels the beat, this is the ultimate gathering for anyone who lives life in time and tempo.

What to Expect

• Dozens upon dozens of Exhibitors: Explore drums, cymbals, snares, hardware, accessories, and custom builds from top brands and boutique makers.

• Live Clinics & Demonstrations: Learn from industry pros, discover new techniques, and get inspired by some of the most respected drummers in the business.

• Hands‑On Gear Access: Test out the latest equipment, compare sounds, and find your next must‑have piece of gear.

• Community & Connection: Meet fellow drummers, builders, collectors, and music lovers from across the region.

• Las Vegas Drum Show

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, March 29, 2026

• Time: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Location: Tuscany Suites & Casino 255 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169

• Admission: $20 at the door • $15 online anytime

• Info & Tickets: lasvegasdrumshow.com

Don’t Miss the Beat

Whether you’re chasing inspiration, hunting for new gear, or just want to immerse yourself in the world of percussion, the Las Vegas Drum Show is the place to be.

Mark your calendar, the show is a one-day-only, can't-miss event! Bring your passion and join the heartbeat of the Vegas music community. Las Vegas Drum Show Info.

{My Take}

The 5th Annual Las Vegas Drum Show is more than an event — it’s a gathering of passion, creativity, and the unmistakable heartbeat of the percussion world. Whether you’re hunting for new gear, soaking up inspiration from top‑tier clinicians, or simply reconnecting with the rhythm community, March 29th at the Tuscany Suites & Casino is where it all comes together. Mark the date, bring your energy, and get ready to experience a day where every beat tells a story!

See You There!

GE

Las Vegas Drum Show Official Website - Tickets

Las Vegas Drum Show Facebook

Las Vegas Drum Show Instagram 

Las Vegas Drum Show YouTube Channel 

Las Vegas Drum Show LinkedIn

Tuscany Suites & Casino Facebook

Social Media For Bands And Musicians: Which Social Media Platforms Work Best

To all of my bands and musicians: Which social media platforms do you use? Which one works best?

Seems like social media platforms work best in certain conditions. 

Here's what I found out from a cross-section of professional musicians and professional publicists in the biz from across the US.

Here’s a clear, strategic breakdown of how Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram stack up for working musicians, based on their strengths, audiences, and the type of content that performs best. This comparison reflects current industry insights on how artists use social media platforms to grow visibility and fan engagement.

1. TikTok — Best for Viral Discovery & Fast Audience Growth

TikTok remains the most powerful platform for breaking new artists and pushing songs into the algorithmic spotlight.

Strengths

• Short‑form video drives massive organic reach

• Music‑driven trends help unknown artists go viral

• Great for personality‑driven content and behind‑the‑scenes moments

• Younger audiences discover new music here first

Best For

• Performance clips

• Song teases

• Humor, personality, and storytelling

• Quick fan engagement

2. YouTube — Best for Long‑Term Growth & Professional Content

YouTube is the most important platform for sustained career-building because it serves as both a social network and a search engine.

Strengths

• Ideal for full performances, music videos, and long‑form storytelling

• Strong monetization opportunities

• Fans use YouTube to search for artists, covers, and tutorials

• Evergreen content continues to grow over time

Best For

• Official music videos

• Live show footage

• Lyric videos

• Behind‑the‑scenes documentaries

• Tutorials or gear breakdowns

3. Instagram — Best for Branding, Aesthetics & Fan Relationships

Instagram is where musicians build visual identity and maintain a polished brand presence.

Strengths

• Reels offer strong reach (similar to TikTok)

• Great for photos, posters, and aesthetic storytelling

• Strong DM culture for fan and industry networking

• Ideal for promoting shows and merch

Best For

• Reels (performance clips, teasers)

• High‑quality photos

• Tour posters and announcements

• Stories for daily engagement

4. Facebook — Best for Event Promotion & Local Gig Marketing

While not the trendiest platform, Facebook remains essential for working bands, especially those who rely on live shows.

Strengths

• The best platform for event pages and RSVPs

• Strong reach among adults 30–65

• Local venues, promoters, and fans still rely on Facebook

• Great for community building and longer posts

Best For

• Show announcements

• Event invites

• Local fan engagement

• Band updates and longer storytelling

Final Takeaway

• TikTok grows your audience.

• YouTube deepens your audience.

• Instagram brands your audience.

• Facebook activates your audience—especially for live shows.

In the end, no single platform carries the entire load for a modern working band. TikTok fuels discovery, YouTube builds long‑term credibility, Instagram shapes visual identity, and Facebook remains the backbone of local gig promotion. 

In a crowded digital world, the bands that win are the ones who show up consistently, play to each of the social media platforms’ strengths, and stay impossible to ignore.

GE

Local Las Vegas Bands Can Beat The Algorithms: They Just Need To Play The Social Media Game

 Social media algorithms are complex systems that determine what 

content users see on their feeds, 

influencing engagement and user experience across platforms like 

Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Las Vegas has one of the most underrated music ecosystems in the country—packed with tribute acts that rival the originals, original bands with real grit, and musicians who grind harder than most people ever see. But even with all that talent, the biggest challenge remains the same: getting seen. Social media algorithms don’t always play fair, and local artists often get buried under national acts, viral trends, and paid promotions.

The good news? Bands can beat the system. It just takes strategy, consistency, and a little Vegas swagger.

Algorithms reward content that feels personal and real.

Bands that only post show flyers get ignored—by fans and the platforms.

What works better:

• Behind‑the‑scenes rehearsal clips

• Quick stories about how a song came together

• Candid moments at soundcheck

• Short, raw performance snippets

People want to feel connected to the musicians, not just the marketing.

Show Up Consistently

You don’t have to post every day, but you do have to show up regularly.

A simple rhythm works:

• 3–4 posts a week

• 3–5 stories a day (easy behind‑the‑scenes stuff)

• One live stream every week or two

Consistency tells the algorithm, “Hey, this band is active—push them.”

Lean Into Short‑Form Video

Reels, TikToks, and YouTube Shorts are the new radio.

Short clips that perform well:

• 10–20 second performance highlights

• Funny band moments

• “What it’s like playing in Vegas” stories

• Quick covers of trending songs

• Fan reactions

Short‑form video is the fastest way to reach people who’ve never heard of you.

Collaborate With Other Vegas Artists

Vegas musicians are stronger together.

Collabs the algorithm loves:

• Split‑screen duets

• Joint rehearsal clips

• Cross‑promotion posts

• Tagging each other in stories

• Co‑headlining events and sharing content

When two bands share audiences, both grow.

Tag the City—Literally

Las Vegas is a global brand. Use it.

Bands should tag:

• @vegas

• @lasvegaslocals

• @vegasmusic

• Local venues

• Local influencers

• Local hashtags

Geo‑tags and city‑based hashtags help content reach people who actually go to shows.

Make Fans Part of the Show

User‑generated content is algorithm gold.

Encourage fans to:

• Tag the band in videos

• Post photos from shows

• Use a band hashtag

• Share clips of their favorite songs

Then repost that content. It builds community and boosts visibility.

Talk Back—Engagement Is Currency

Algorithms reward conversations.

Bands should:

• Reply to every comment

• Ask questions in captions

• Run polls

• Thank fans publicly

• Comment on other local bands’ posts

Engagement tells the platform, “People care about this band—show them to more users.”

Promote the Scene, Not Just Yourself

The more the Vegas scene grows, the more every band benefits.

Ways to lift the whole community:

• Shout out to other bands

• Share local show calendars

• Highlight venues that treat musicians right

• Celebrate new releases from Vegas artists

• Create “Vegas Music Spotlight” posts

When bands support each other, the algorithm notices—and so do fans.

Tell Your Story

Vegas is a city built on storytelling. Bands that share their journey stand out.

Great story angles:

• Why did you start the band

• What Vegas means to you

• Your biggest challenges

• Your favorite show moments

• What inspires your music

People follow stories more than they follow genres.

Release Content More Often Than Music

You don’t need a new album to stay relevant.

You just need:

• Clips

• Photos

• Thoughts

• Moments

• Personality

Content keeps the band alive between releases.

{My Take}

With a little extra work, local bands can beat the algorithms. They just need to play the social media game with the same passion they bring to the stage!

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

When Should A New Local Band Hire a Professional To Handle Their Social Media Presence?

 Social Media Presence is very important when it comes to promoting a band.

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter (X).

It's a very time-consuming process.

Between practice sessions, travel, and playing gigs. There's not enough time to handle it all.

So, when is it time to hire a social media professional to handle the job? 

1. You're Growing Fast and Can't Keep Up

If your band is gaining traction—more gigs, more fans, more DMs—and social media starts feeling like a full-time job on top of music, it's a good sign it's time to delegate.

2. You Want to Look More Professional

A consistent, polished online presence can help you land better shows, attract sponsors, and grow your audience. A pro can help with:

• Visual branding

• Strategic posting

• High-quality content creation

3. You're Not Getting the Results You Want

If you're posting but not seeing growth, engagement, or gig opportunities from social media, a media person could bring in strategy and analytics to fix that.

4. You're Preparing to Release a Big Project

Album drops, tours, music videos, or major press coverage—these moments benefit from a focused, well-timed social media campaign. That’s when a media pro can really shine.

5. You Want to Focus on the Music

Plain and simple—if social media is taking energy away from writing, rehearsing, or performing, then it’s a smart investment to offload that work.

{My Take}

You don’t really need to hire a full-time media person right away. 

A lot of bands start by contracting someone per project, like a single release or a tour. 

Start with a part-time person a few hours per week to keep things active and to keep your band heading in the right direction.

Good Luck & Rock On !

GE

Broadcast Details Las Vegas Kings vs. N.A.L. Colorado Spartans April 12th Denver Colorado

The Las Vegas Kings will be traveling to Denver, Colorado April 12th to face the Colorado Spartans of the National Arena League. 

The game will be broadcast on YouTube TV Live < Here > 

Saturday April 12th, 2025 

6pm Las Vegas - 7pm Denver, Colorado

Go Kings!

GE