They played and sang “Heart of Gold” by Neil Young. They had a young woman singing backup. She was blond and wore a bluejean suit. She looked really happy up there, singing, harmonizing.

They did Heart of Gold better than Neil Young, I thought, and then wondered if I was “stirring my brains with my dick” as Jim Harrison would say. All I’m saying is, a female vocalist can add something special to your band you’ll never get otherwise.

If you need help with the amps, get one of those 2-wheel dollies.

But, I get your point too, Larry. But, I do have to say that a female singer doesn’t have to play an instrument to be respectful of the band and at least do what she can to help load and unload equipment. I speak from experience! You know, a lot of “cord loading” experience.

Still, she’d been down the road for an hour and a half by the time I’d packed up my car and pulled out of the parking lot.

Do you think most male singers carry anything other than their own equipment? Or show up prepared and on time for every rehearsal? Or respect and appreciate all the musicians they work with. Or don’t think the world revolves around them?

Certainly, not all singers are so self-centered. But regardless, most audiences will tend to focus on, or fawn over, the lead singer, whether male or female. They are perceived as the leader of the band, and as carrying the emotion of the songs, and they garner most of the attention.

The singers who are truly dedicated, generous, and appreciative, are willing and able to direct a good bit of the attention toward the rest of the band. It’s a matter of talent, integrity, and mutual respect. It all depends on who you choose, and why. If you choose a singer based only on their popularity or attractiveness….then that’s what you’ll have to deal with.

Another choice is not to hire a SINGER to front your band. If a male band wants to include a female voice, they should look for a talented female MUSICIAN with a decent voice. Then they become part of the band, and carry their weight as any other member would. If not, you let ‘em go, as you would any other slacker.

There are good female musicians/singers out there, (and I’m not talking about banging a tambourine) – women who play guitar, bass, keyboards, banjo, fiddle, dulcimer, drums, flute, horns, etc – you just gotta find the right fit for your band, and treat her with the same respect you would a male musician.

Just my thoughts…..for what it’s worth.

As for how many it takes, almost all girl singers are too big to even get in a light bulb, much less screw in it.

John – Married for life (sorry girls).