1997 Musicians Boycot
In October 1997 Arlene's was subject to a musicians' boycot due to not paying bands. Owner Shayne Doyle said "I have a lot of money invested in sound equipment, I have door people and sound people to pay. How do I get that money back? I consider the club successful in that it's here after a year. But the money I put into this place, I haven't gotten back.". Marc Ribot responded "I have never met a club owner who didn't claim to be losing money. This is the central showcase club in New York right now and they're acting like they're marginal." The Noise Action Coalition, a union of downtown New York City musicians, also handed out fliers and encouraged patrons, who did not have to pay a cover, not to order drinks and go on a "water strike".
Read more about this topic: Arlene's Grocery
Famous quotes containing the word musicians:
“How are we to know that a Dracula is a key-pounding pianist who lifts his hands up to his face, or that a bass fiddle is the doghouse, or that shmaltz musicians are four-button suit guys and long underwear boys?”
—In New York City, U.S. public relief program (1935-1943)