I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely feeling the effects of (Covid-induced) cabin fever. Yeah, I’m shot and shot and boosted and have so far escaped the pandémie du covid and intend to keep it that way. And apparently a lot of you (and millions more) feel the same way. But as the weather is turning comfortable, there’s a sense that we’re back to some level of normalcy. A good example was last month’s packed Coachella festival, which drew hundreds of thousands of fans out for a couple weekends of fun.
While perhaps not at the same level of fun and good vibrations, the NAB Show attracted a respectable 52,000+ draw. Not quite at the 100,000 figures of years past, but a step in the right direction, and so far, all signs are pointing at positive outcomes of next month’s NAMM and InfoComm Expos. And things are looking up for the live performance industry — not only on the mega-tour level, but local happenings — from winery shows, to street fairs to rodeos and even bread and butter events like graduations and weddings — are all beginning to surface on the day planners of sound and production companies everywhere.
At this point, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the return of NAMM. Besides being a must-attend event for the pro audio community, over the years, it has truly developed into an annual meeting of the tribes, whether in formal one-to-one meetings or chance encounters in hotel lobbies or the show floor. It’s the place to be, and the Parnelli Awards, set for June 3 this year, has developed into a major part of the NAMM experience. Hope to see you there!
