An Escort For The Police At Riverbend
photo by Mark A. Herndon
Let’s start out by saying I realize there are nice folks that do not like Riverbend. That’s ok, and I respect that. If you are one of those, then this article is one you may want to skip.
Each year, I have the honor and privilege of getting to book bands for the Riverbend Festival. That’s one reason why you people see me out and about so often, as I really like to see and hear a band live before I book them if at all possible. I book most of the local bands and a few regional/national touring acts. My partners in crime, Jeff Styles and Dixie Fuller, mostly book the regional and national acts.
It used to be that the same bands played every two years. When I came along, I decided to spread the fun to bands that had not played before. So far, that system has worked well. Slowly, we have weaned the “regulars” off the expectation of getting to play every other year. Over 100 bands the past few years have gotten the opportunity to play the festival for the first time. I like that.
Here is where I really enjoy my job. After booking a band, often new to the Riverbend experience, it is very gratifying to see their social media posts. They are so excited. And, their fans are excited for them, too. I look for their posts and just beam when I read of their joy. When the schedule goes up on the Riverbend website, often they will screenshot it and show their family and friends. I love it.
When we get closer to the festival date, we have the band come in to pick up their credentials package and later that day, pictures of the artist badges will often appear on social media. I love that, too.
I know that booking a band for Riverbend isn’t like saving a life, being a good teacher or pastor, or some other form of real goodness, but it really makes my day to see how happy so many of these performers are when they get their shot. It makes it all worthwhile. I suppose I am a sentimental fool, but other people’s happiness makes me happy.
We are done booking for 2017, and I feel badly for those that didn’t get selected. However, those will move up the list to be considered for next year. I suppose what I am trying to say here is I really appreciate the opportunity to book bands and I am humbled by the feeling I get when I see their excitement. It is an honor for me to have a small part on that.
Bob Payne is the Entertainment Editor for the Chattanoogan.com and talent buyer for Friends of the Festival/Riverbend. You can follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/davrik2000 or email me at davrik@aol.com.