The Perks of Busking! Chapter One.
I thought I’d share a busking story that not only has a few gold nuggets (excellent tips) in between the lines, plus a weird ending that could become an irresistible challenge for you, but it also confirms that there are some amazing perks that come from street performance which are rarely talked about or promoted.
It all starts in one of Europe’s most intriguing cities – Prague. Mysterious and pretty, cold, yet inviting. On the stunning Charles Bridge, known by the locals as ‘Karoloy Most’ is one of the most sensational busking locations I have had the pleasure to perform at. This place provided the backdrop for another busking adventure which proved yet again, that buskers can find themselves in the most fortunate of situations. I guess it’s the payoff from having the guts to ‘put ourselves out there’.
So here I was busking on the Charles Bridge in Prague, when a woman came up to me and demanded to buy my music. Yes… demanded! I was thrilled to meet such an enthusiastic fan, but soon discovered that this woman was quick to develop an obsessive compulsive Johnnie Mac disorder (let’s not go there right now!) At this point in my career, I had no music to sell – which didn’t please her at all and it didn’t matter how much I tried to explain, this determined woman wanted my music. She came back a couple of days later and insisted that I help her find someone to record my songs.
Now because I had been unforgivingly slack about recording my music this far, I simply wasn’t going to knock back a sponsored recording session, so I went along for the ride. I watched as she called a long list of musician friends. And just as she was about to give up the game, another lady who was waiting to use the phone, overheard the story and instantly got involved. She said her boyfriend was one of the most respected musicians in Prague and that he would be happy to record my songs.
George was a tall, skinny, pony-tailed dude with dark, Nick Cave like features and demeanour. He lived and breathed music every waking hour and had performed with the biggest names in Prague. His house was beautifully set up as a studio, rehearsal space and instrument museum. I played him some of my songs and he listened expressionless. Finally, his poker face gave way to an enormous smile as he announced that he’d be honoured to record my songs. But, could I return him one favour “ I would like for you Johnnie to be promoting my music in the west”. He then played the most incredible piece of music. All instruments were played by George and the music was composed and arranged by him as well. “Of course I’ll help promote your music in the west – I love it! ”.
Well you’ll have to wait for chapter two of ‘The Perks of Busking’ in a few days to find out what happened in Prague that month but for now here’s another video of a song I wrote recently ( sorry this will be posted asap ) – inspired by busking in the magical city of Prague.
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Johnnie Mac is a world class, professional, leading street performer, turned celebrated musician. He is the only Aussie Professional Busker who provides a fast, reliable and sure-fire Busking System that can transform any busker into a well paid and highly acclaimed entertainer enjoying a remarkably exciting lifestyle. To discover 101 Essential Tips to Have More Fun and Earn More Money Busking visit http://www.BuskerWorld.com/theBuskersBible
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Dude, i have a question. Do you need a permit to busk in prague?
The most recent information I have from a busker a few months back was that it is illegal to busk in Prague without a licence, I have never had a problem when busking in Prague unless playing after 10pm in which case the police would tell me to go to the bar and sing there, Contact the Police, local government authorities, tourist information(one of these authorities will be responsible for issuing the licence) or ask via the buskerworld face book site as there is bound to be someone on facebook who has been to Prague recently (ie the last couple of years). My experiences in this city were totally amazing as you can see from the blogs so if you can get to Prague you will easily recoup the cost of a licence even if it costs a bit. I was easily making over a hundred euro per hour in my best time slots when busking in Prague so don’t be put off by the cost or inconvenience of getting a licence.
Hi there, I busked in prague back in 97 – an dam now back for more. best spots were the bridge after 9pm – when security finished, or old twon square near the clock. Just need to get some more info about that ‘ucking license. any more clues – pleaase?