Yesterday I was involved with a music charity event. The event itself was a poker tournament. It was the second annual Recording Industry Professionals Poker Tournament. It was filled to the brim with names the average music consumer would likely never recognize. But to musician’s with a clue and to other behind-the-scenes music creators, they are the names people want to work with because they are behind most of the biggest records in history.
We all came together to raise money for the Sound Art LA organization. Entry fees went to the charity to provide money to help teach music to kids in school. Something sorely needed in this day and age now that budgets are getting slashed even more. It was a gathering of fun and more fun. No doubt.
There was a max of 120 players in the room. A veritable who’s who, plus a few people like me who are recognized, but not name brands yet. The bonus was the comradery. The bigger the name, generally the cooler the person. Which means we want to have kids learn music and why not, it’s how the industry moves forward.
In the end, after all the dust settled, it was yours truly who happened to be left standing as the victor who won the whole shebang. What a day of fun! I met some great people and got to help a charity in the process. Can’t beat that. I also got a nice little trophy made of glass that is really heavy and really cool to boot.
Because of the nature of the event and the fact that I won and this particular tune was on during play… I’m rolling with Lady Ga Ga’s Poker Face. It’s a serious pop tune in terms of catchiness. But then pretty much all her big hits are exactly that, a study in how to be as catchy as possible. I find it funny when people are shocked that I actually can appreciate Lady Ga Ga’s ability to craft a song. I don’t understand why it’s shocking. A good song that is well written is exactly that a good song.
Don’t knock it, go get it!