Generally speaking, cover bands make more money than original groups as they play private gatherings such as weddings, bar mitzvahs, holiday parties, and corporate events. Original bands are usually found only on the club scene, and unless you play in a band with a large following, you will not make much money in clubs. In some cases, you may find that you actually lose money because of the pay-to-play syndrome. Because of this, you should think about what your objectives are as a band. As you do this, don't lose track of your personal objectives too.

If your group is interested in music strictly as a hobby, then performing and recording will be extremely rewarding. However, if you're looking to sign with a major record label, tour the globe, and sign autographs after each show, then you could be headed for disappointment. Bottom line:fame is rare in any business.

When playing in any type of band, the best attitude to have is one of careful optimism. You should always work hard to make your dreams a reality. You must also accept the unpredictable nature of the performing arts. If things don't go quite as planned, you have to be able to brush it off, stay focused on the music, and move on. Oddly enough, the number of successes you will have will surprise you if you strike a balance between aspirations and the cold, hard realities of working in showbiz.

Some gigs will be good; others will be a drag. Some shows will be profitable; others will spell a loss. Sometimes you'll have a large, attentive audience; other times you'll have six people dozing off at the bar. Can you laugh it off when things don't go as planned? If so, then you'll enjoy the experience of performing with a band a lot more.