Doing The Block To Ole TikTok

Are you keeping up with the controversy of TikTok? The mega popular Gen Z social media site has been banned from computer systems in multiple places due to its alleged Chinese spying potential. University of Texas and Auburn University students are not happy. (You just turn off WiFi and use cellular, problem solved.)

All I ever see on TikTok are women dancing and other activities. Did see the guy this week chug-a-lugging a beer while playing guitar at Tootsies in Nashville.

Social media is at every level of society. If you want to see the latest from almost any star, check Instagram and, very often, TikTok. Twitter is there, but not in vogue, and Facebook seems to only be where your high school buds and grandparents hang out. I do it all, but it’s my job.

The algorithms of Facebook make you crazy. You just feel that site is messing with your every post.

The Aldeans seemed to have stepped back from the heat of social media post-holidays. Others sure spend a lot of time posting, but that is where the audience is these days.

Better be alert on use of TikTok. The feds and others really are concerned about its backstage intentions. I took my TikTok app off my phone, but do check it on computer every few days. Crazy stuff … it’s like one big “Jackass” TV show … thus, the popularity.

Have you seen the trend toward mocktails and alcohol-free bars? The Gen Z crowd has. They’ve been drinking a LOT, so the natural backlash is happening, as evidenced by Club Curious in Brooklyn, the storefront for Curious Elixirs, which has no booze bottled cocktails.

Bringing this up because you never know how big these trends will get. Nashville’s Lower Broadway club owners may have heart attacks with the thought.

Imagine the songs in the planning stage for booze-less bars! Ray Stevens and Roger Miller, and maybe Bobby Braddock would be inspired.

Can you work an artist too hard? I’ve seen it done a few times in the last 40 years. The artist gets hot, and bookers can’t say no to the new money. The artist gets sick or worse. You wonder about the stadium tours for some. How will their voice hold out for that many shows?

The money is great. It’s the first time the bank account is in great shape. You work until you fall down or can’t sing. Let’s hope that’s just what it seems like from here. It’s going to happen.

No reason to name names, you behind the scenes people know who they are. When they blow a vocal cord, or get Covid, or fall asleep, you will be there to help. Seen this story played out way too many times. Book responsibly …. Won’t happen. Like Jerry Reed sang, “When You’re Hot You’re Hot,” and when you’re not you are NOT.

Seen these stories about stars losing weight? Chris Young said he lost 50 pounds by eating better and exercising a little more. Shay Mooney lost 50 doing the same. They make it sound so easy!

January is the month of drinking less, eating less and working more. Reverse Groundhog Day.