Q: I want to start a band and I was wondering if bars would have to hire me sue to discrimination?

A: Being treated differently from others is discrimination, but that discrimination only becomes unlawful if the reason for the difference in treatment is your membership in a protected class of people, such as your race, national origin, religion, etc. Suing a bar because it does not hire you would not be a way to get jobs. If your goal is getting work, you need to continue to knock on doors while improving your craft. Thousands of aspiring entertainers have been where you are. If you think your membership in a protected class is the reason you are not getting the gigs, and you think that can be proved, you should consult with a civil rights attorney about your options to sue.

Good luck to you.

A: Bars and other establishments that host live music are generally not required to hire any particular band or musician. They have the right to select performers based on their own preferences and criteria. Discrimination laws do not apply in this situation unless the bar is refusing to hire you based on a protected characteristic such as your race, gender, or religion.

If you are having difficulty getting hired as a musician, there are several things you can do to improve your chances:

Practice your craft and build your skills as a musician. The better you are, the more likely you will be to get hired.

Create a demo recording or a video of your performance that you can share with potential venues or promoters. This will give them a sense of your style and talent.

Network with other musicians and industry professionals. Attend local concerts and events, and connect with people in the music scene.

Be persistent and proactive in seeking out gigs. Reach out to venues and promoters, and be willing to start small and work your way up.

Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of getting hired as a musician:

Practice your craft and build your skills as a musician. Take lessons, rehearse regularly, and work on improving your technique.

Record a demo or a video of your performance. You can use this to showcase your talent and share it with potential venues or promoters.

Network with other musicians and industry professionals. Attend local concerts and events, and connect with people in the music scene. Join social media groups and online communities for musicians to expand your network.

Research local venues and promoters. Find out what types of music they typically book and what their booking process is. Reach out to them and provide your demo or video.

Be persistent and proactive in seeking out gigs. Follow up with venues and promoters, and be willing to start small and work your way up. Don't be discouraged by rejection, keep pushing and trying.

Remember that the music industry can be competitive, but with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, you can build a successful career as a musician. Good luck!