Joining a band and rocking out with your buddies is almost always a great idea. Except if you're only doing it for...
Few bands even reach the status necessary to attract groupies. And for amount of work it takes to get there, you're better off putting a ton of effort into your significant other.
Believe it or not, Rich Hippies were probably broke. According to this study, you probably will be, too.
Most bands make an honest living on the club circuit these days. The thought of seeing your name in lights is a decent motivator, but definitely not a good primary reason to pursue music.
Unless you're in a tribute band, there aren't many folks out there who are interested in seeing you in crazy wigs and outfits.
Getting smashed and wrecking hotel rooms used to make you cool. Now, it makes it so you won't be getting a room for the rest of your tour.
Being in a band is a great confidence booster. That said, it's not an experience that will make you fundementally more likeable as a person.
Nobody likes a show-off, especially in the music biz.
Music is a cool medium for you to channel your weird side, but just being in a band won't make you different or edgy these days. Everybody and their brother is in a band!
Though some people start or join bands for all the wrong reasons, there are still tons of great reasons.
Dylan Welsh is a freelance musician and music journalist, based in Seattle, WA. He currently plays in multiple Seattle bands, interns at Mirror Sound Studio, and writes for the Sonicbids blog. Visit his website for more information.