. . .and had more fun.

3 hours on a Sunday from 11am to 2pm.  $8 and change in the box.  This was my first time out busking for the year and the first time out since maybe 2 years ago?  I think I skipped out last summer.  I learned a couple things.

1. Don't forget your water bottle in the car, dummy.
2. I spaced out and alternated instrumental jamming with singing to save my voice some.
3. It is difficult to monitor your instrument and voice volume with nothing around to get an echo, like inside a room.
4. Don't be afraid to hit the chorus 2, 3, 4 times in a row if people are moving by quickly.  :)
5. Some won't pay for an original.  I made $6 of the $8 playing "I Wanna Be Sedated".  I played "Unkind Woman Blues" for a couple guys sitting on the bench opposite me.  They sat through the whole thing, chuckled at the lyrics and left without dropping a dime.  This happened twice.
6. It pains me to say this.  Smile.
7. Wallets are pretty tight on a Sunday mid-day.  It was the only time I had while the rest of my family was out boating on Saratoga Lake so I took it.  I think I'd do better on a Friday or Saturday night when the tourists have had a little lubrication.

I had a great time and it wasn't all about putting money in the box.  Got some great compliments on the guitar and several pictures taken.  Kids looking and bobbing their heads with the beat is always worth it.

I'll be back out on Broadway in Saratoga Springs more this summer, even with the increased restrictions on busking in the city.