I miss the days of smoking inside. Yes, I get it. Cigarettes are bad for you, blah, blah, blah. I still miss it. There was nothing like playing with the band, a line of empty shot glasses across my piano and a smoldering cigar resting on an ashtray. I can remember playing The Dance by Garth Brooks with an inch of ash dangling from whatever machine-rolled stick I was smoking. There was a cloud of white smoke clinging to the ceiling, veterans with spouses, kicking up their heels, while I got to play music AND smoke. It was the best of times.
Therefore, I have made a list of reasons why cigar smoking should be acceptable at all the live music venues in our dear city of Knoxville. (At least when I am playing there.)
I look much cooler (and younger) when smoking a cigar. I have an image to consider, and I cannot be looking the full 37 years of age that I am. It is bad for the band's image.
It gives me something to do between songs. You sit there at your little round table, drinking your drinks, singing along, and have no idea the amount of anxiety we deal with. What are we going to play next? Am I in tune? Where is our server? The pressure could be alleviated with a cigar.
It helps my voice sound better. Nat King Cole smoked 3 packs of Kools a day to maintain that velvety voice. Give a fat guy a break. I just need a couple of draws per song.
I will drink more. To the venues that give us free drinks this sounds like an issue. I promise I will maintain my current drinking level if allowed to smoke my cigar. For the venues who don't offer free drinks (you know who you are) this is a win for you.
I think I play better. The smoke in the air makes me sound better. I have no scientific proof, but this sounds like it could be a thing
I am way happier. Let's face it. A happy me is good for everyone. Nothing else to add here.
You are contributing to a worthy cause. Everyone likes a worthy cause. Trust me, this is one. I have reasons, but you don't need reasons. Do the right thing.
I hope I have made a case for instituting a cigar-friendly environment. If you have questions, comments, etc., I'll be smoking. OUTSIDE!
Jamie
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