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Dirty-South Blues Harp forum: wail on! > busking Venice Beach?
busking Venice Beach?
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kudzurunner
5093 posts
Oct 31, 2014
5:27 PM
I'm going to be in Los Angeles next weekend (Nov. 6-8) at the American Studies Association meeting and I've been thinking (because I'm a crazy harp player) that I might bring along my Mouse and maybe even my percussion setup and busk Venice Beach.

Is busking with amps (and percussion??), and without permits, allowed there? If there's any hassle factor at all, I won't do this. Or if amps are OK but percussion is too much, I'll happily leave the drums at home.

But because my official duties will be completed by Thursday night, Saturday is wide open. I'm tempted.

I'd be open, BTW, to the idea of being joined by a guitarist.

Actually, I may have found my answer here:

http://suebasko.blogspot.com/2011/04/how-to-be-street-performer-in-los.html

But I'd appreciate feedback from those who've actually done this.

Other possibility: Hollywood, with just a Mouse.

Last Edited by kudzurunner on Oct 31, 2014 5:38 PM
JustFuya
630 posts
Nov 01, 2014
9:23 AM
If you wish to 'wet your whistle' (alcohol) you cannot do so outdoors. The authorities are watchful on the beaches & boardwalks. Un-American but very Californian. No problem stepping into one of the many bars during breaks if you are traveling light or with a friend.

Bring a fistful of dollars for fellow buskers.

For the record, Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek met on Venice beach. That was well before all 'The Rules' became law. They are well posted and worse than graffiti in my mind.

Venice Beach Webcam

Last Edited by JustFuya on Nov 01, 2014 10:59 AM
kudzurunner
5097 posts
Nov 01, 2014
12:51 PM
Thanks for the info about public drinking and bar availability. What about actual busking on the street, though? And why would I want to bring money for fellow buskers, when I'm performing myself? Will they be tipping me? Or are you suggesting that I'll need to buy them off in order to convince them to allow me to play rather than running me out of town? Please clarify.
JustFuya
631 posts
Nov 01, 2014
4:08 PM
I see a lot of busking videos with ie beer presence so I thought it was worth mentioning.

Busking is rampant and legal in VB. There is somewhat of a swap-meet/carnival atmosphere with a lot of tourist traffic, especially during the summer. It has an 'anything goes' reputation.

I'm pretty sure you will do some walking around before you find your spot. 'Fistful' is an exaggeration. Having mentioned your need for a accompaniment, a dollar might provide entree. It worked for me last summer when I was waylaid by my girlfriend who insisted we visit VB.

There are plenty of places to sit but a foldup chair allows you more freedom of choice. That may not be a factor considering your ETA.

I'm sure you will feel welcome and appreciated however you set up. There will be nobody running you off. Nobody owns their spot and police are a constant (& friendly) presence. As mentioned, you will see plenty of municipal code signage to guide you.


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