Rules of Cowboy’s Ragtime Band

Here is list of rules that producer and songwriter Cowboy Jack Clement posted at his studio for band members. This copy of the list is posted at Graceyland / Sunbird Studio in Briarcliff, Texas, where we recorded Dollars and Dimes and Mountain Home.

Enjoy the words of wisdom that I think apply far beyond the studio doors…

 

Band Member Rules

1. Be alert.
2. Be on time.
3. Don’t bring or invite anyone.
4. Don’t talk about your troubles.
5. Don’t mention the words “earphones,” “headphones,” “cans,” “earmuffs,” or the like.
6. Be quiet when the Cowboy is speaking.
7. Don’t be timid or shy with your playing.
8. Have a good day.
9. Listen.
10. Remember that it only takes 3 minutes to cut a hit record.