Dear Venues and Mr. / Ms. / Mrs. Promoter,

Throughout the years of being a part of the punk rock community in South Florida, we've dealt with countless venues, promoters, and other shady characters.  Among other things, we have learned that for the most part, bands tend to outlive venues and promoters.  Although we have had the pleasure of working with some great promoters and venues, it seems that for the most part the relationship between bands and venues/promoters has been on the decline.

It seems that for the most part, venues and promoters have lost respect for our local musicians and for our scene. Most of them are only concerned with how much money they are going to make at the show, disregarding the needs of the bands that are bringing people to their venues. I'm not saying that they should not be concerned with their income for these events. After all, the purpose of any business is to make money. However, it's also essential to keep in mind that people come to your venue and to your show because of the bands that are playing it, not because they want to see your pretty face, drink your beer, or watch television. These are all things that can be done in any establishment in the South Florida area, as well as at home.

Here are some words of advice for our local venues and promoters. Stop fucking over your musicians; it is because of them that your establishment is still there. Realize that most musicians play music because they love to do it, and not because they are out to make a buck. Keep in mind all the hard work that is put into writing a song, getting along with your band mates, loading/unloading at every gig, recording, touring, all of this while still holding daytime jobs and keeping up with your bills. Allow bands the necessary time to set up their gear and play a decent set, bands don't go through all this bullshit to play a 15 minute set, it's a waste of time and resources. Be courteous to the band, they are your friend, not your enemy. It's understood that there also some bands out there that are nothing but assholes, but fortunately, they are the minority. Be sure to keep a good line of communication with bands, find out what they expect from the show, and be sure you are both on the same page. If you're not able to pay your band, why charge them for their wives or girlfriends to get into the show?? Does that make any sense?? Or why charge them for water?? Keep in mind that most local bands end up in the red at the end of the night, we don't make any money. If any money is made at al, it all goes back to the band, to get you to the next gig, to get your merch printed, or record your next album.

On that note, if you'd like to book To Be Hated, be sure you read over this blog. We don't ask for much, other than to be respected and be treated fairly. Those of you that have dealt with us know that we never ask for money, we've never turned down any gig because of money, and if we have asked for a guarantee for the show it's because we couldn't afford getting to the show without it. If you happen to be one of these bullshit venues or promoters, then you should probably go fuck yourself and don't waste your time contacting us.