My step-dad is a professional "Studio Musician". He's one of those guys that has recorded with the Rolling Stones and many others but isnt an official member of the band. He's the guy on stage playing keyboard in concert, but is somewhat tucked away in the back of the stage. He gets liner notes credit for his work and does touring, but isnt paid nearly as much as they are. He doesnt fly in the private jet with the real band members, he has to provide his own way when on tour. He has worked with Bob Dylan, Hank Williams Jr, Elvin Bishop, Muddy Waters just to name a few. He gets royalty checks every month from sales. He was discovered playing blues in Memphis, TN playing in some hole in the wall place in 1966. He also played in Vegas with Frank Sinatra. For kicks 2 years ago, he went to Vegas and got a job playing piano in the foyer of the Bally's Paris casino, was paid Union scale. He has a bunch of Silver, Gold & Platinum records for his work. He plays keyboard, blows the harp, guitar, bass and somewhat beats the drums.
The point here is, if you can be a studio musician, do it! He brings in around $8,000 a month just from royalty checks alone, not including studio sessions & touring. His touring days are about over though as he is 61 and he just doesnt like to do it anymore. Some of his road stories seem impossible, but they are his stories and he can tell them anyway he wants!
Fordman