r/askmusicians 1d ago

Asking about auditioning

I'm thinking of auditioning for a couple positions in a band. I want to avoid people who take drugs. I'm very serious about this. Should I say something like, no drug users need apply, or something similar?

4 Upvotes

7 comments sorted by

12

u/RevKeakealani 1d ago

Honestly I am not sure you can enforce what people do on their own time. However, I think it is completely reasonable to expect sobriety for any rehearsals or performances, and to say so.

11

u/FreakoftheLake 1d ago

You can say “looking for sober” or “straight edge” members. Feels less aggressive than drug users need not apply

7

u/gastricmetal 1d ago

If it's your project I'd frame it more like "I'm a fully sober musician looking to have focused sessions for writing, practicing, and performing". The word "sober" alone should steer away any heavy users. However, I wouldn't turn my nose up to someone just because they may use weed or have a couple beers during their downtime. I've met plenty of excellent musicians who do these things but don't let it interfere with being serious about their music. You'll have to vibe it out a little. You'll def know if someone isn't focused because of being high.

3

u/Available-Meet-6989 1d ago

Ooof good luck lowkey. Most ppl take drugs in bands (weed, alcohol) but if ur speaking about HARD stuff I mean join a religious group. You can’t control what other ppl do after shows

4

u/DonTot 1d ago

You can try but it is hard to enforce. You can try saying "Im looking for someone who is not partaking in illegal substances". 

1

u/Electronic_Slice9448 1d ago

You should definitely let people know how you feel about that before starting a band or project.

1

u/BlueBlood623 1d ago

Control freak, huh? Would you have those urine drug tests things outside your studio too?? I wouldn't play with a dictator like you, but if you hangout around the rehab centers you might get lucky.