Here in Louisville there is a great music blog called 37 Flood. It covers live shows by local bands, touring bands coming through town, record releases, benefits, clubs, etc. The blogger who runs it loves music and bands and gives attention and support to both. So why in the world would a local band have this local blogger kicked out of their show?

I was escorted out just as VHS or Beta took the stage and directed not to bring my camera back in. I was told that the band didn't allow photography unless you have a press pass.**

The bassist has been blogging about their tour and they have an active MySpace page. I point that out to say they're not some old school band with no idea about social media. In other words they should know better. They should know that they have nothing to fear and lots to gain from supportive fans who want to photograph and write about their shows. Or in words that I and others have said oh so many times before "Photography is not a crime."

There was a VHS or Beta billboard near the main music store in town. Every time I passed it I thought "I'm going to pick up the new VHS or Beta record." I hadn't done it yet but fully planned to do so. Not any more. I'm a photographer and social media advocate. If you don't want bloggers and amateur photographers documenting your shows then I don't think I need to spend my money on your records.

** I'll leave the door open here for the possibility that the fault actually lies with the club and not the band. Maybe the security guy was overzealous and thought that if he said it was on the band's request it would go down easier. If that is the case I will happily acknowledge it.