... to our ongoing Saturday series of Central Texas songwriters at Café Pacha. We are indebted to Tom McAleer of TJM Music Services, based in San Antonio, for providing us a steady stream of exceptional singer-songwriters. There is real talent in our region, and Pacha is a place for artists to hone their skills and their songs in an intimate setting.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to harassment from BMI and ASCAP, the music series has had to be cancelled. Even though our artists play original music, we face the possibility of a law suit if even one cover request gets played. Even though our liability is for about $12, according to their own checklist, there is a minimum fee in the hundreds, and a suit would cost us a thousand. This is called a shakedown. We cannot afford the fees or the risk. If you think it is wrong that these organisations can shut down a little café’s attempt to give a practice space to fledgling musicians, who play only for tips, please make your voices known to both BMI and ASCAP. The effect of these practices is ultimately to stifle local live music.

TJM Music Services Songwriter Showcase

at Café Pacha

March 20, 2010

Photographs courtesy of Jimbo Scarborough