only steel in the house

Chris Robbins · Post by **Chris Robbins** » 20 Nov 2002 5:31 pm

Last week we had the good fortune to do a twenty minute opener for Emerson Drive and Trick Pony in Burlington Iowa.As I expected I had the only steel in the house.We have opened there several times and very seldom do I get a chance to talk to a real pro. Tommy Mortenson played for Chad Brock there a couple of years ago and was a super guy to visit with but he was the last I seen.It seems the pros just dont carry pedal steel players anymore.I sure hope the band I play for never turns pro or Ill be out of a part time job.

Joey Ace · Post by **Joey Ace** » 20 Nov 2002 6:28 pm

This really bothers me. Especially bands that have Steel featured on their recordings.

There are those that say support these bands that tour without Steel anyway, so they can afford to add it in the future.

I don't believe it, and I don't support them.

Eric West · Post by **Eric West** » 20 Nov 2002 9:26 pm

I remember a few years back, I worked with a band, Sundance, that opened for the Sweethearts of the Rodeo in a local club. I liked their stuff. The Sound check went OK, and the stage was set up alright. I'd played there a hundred times.

Showtime comes, and my side of the stage was dark. No steel in the mix. I just tilted the Session 500 up on an ash tray, put the pedal all the way down, and I came through just fine.

Couldn't figure it out til I saw there wasn't a steel in their band.

Also, a few years ago Paycheck opened for Conf. Railroad. (I remebered them for their lousy drummer/bandleader) and Chely Wright. (Excellent!) Anyhow, they barely had a steel in their mix, and had the whole band turned down to half of wnat the others were. I thoght they were the best. I guess Donny was just glad to be anywhere there weren't bars on the windows....

EJL