  so shit-- i got this from Lance today...Hey K, First of all, I'm very happy that the band has inspired you in that way. That's very moving, and we're glad to be a part of it. Be careful though, it's a shady business. We calling this the "Farewell National Tour" because it'll probably be the last big national tour we do. I'm sure we'll do shows here and there after, perhaps even try to release a few more songs or something, but there's no telling. We simply don't want to just call it a day without warning some people so everyone can come see us and say goodbye. As far as just throwing in the towel, well, the bands been in the ring for a decade now. You mentioned a "try it own our own and see if the kids are still there for us.
" We've really been doing it on our own over the years, even when we were on major labels, and the kids are the only reason we've survived as long as we have. We have great loyal fans. It's just really hard to keep the business side of the band afloat, and as a result, we'll have to change the type of band that we currently are. We'll have to find other means of income, which means we can't concentrate on music and touring.
But, we are giving it one last shot. We just finished a new CD that we did on our own, and we're gonna go out on the road and rock. We'll see what the future holds and what opportunities may come as of that. Sincerely, Lance Rockworthy FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK my reply: Lance- Thanks for the note- that means a lot. You are more than right in saying it is a shady business- that is what scares me so much about wanting to work within it.
While my motivations are noble- merely wanting the best for those I believe in, spreading the word on sounds I dig, and the pure love of rock, I sadly feel myself to be a minority. The 'cheaters never win' theory doesn't apply to a business who's main objective is make the cash by whoring flash-in-the-pan bands out for their fifteen minutes of fame. I interned out in LA (uuggh) at Vagrant Records this summer, and while their intentions seemed rather respectable, it is simple to see how things can quickly spiral out of control.
I guess if you are willing to compromise your ideals and exploit the hell out of people who are trying to break even doing that they love, it is the business for you. Tragic, really. Anyway I hope I didn't come off wrong before, I certainly am more than supportive... I have been there since what, 1996? Regardless, I know you guys have been busting your asses over the years, and I hope you realize that most legit Skinnee fans know of and appreciate all you have done. I anticipate the release of the record-- my roommates and I were giddy as hell while pre-ordering the thing. I am more than proud of you guys for pushing on for as long as you have despite much corporate bullshit- that shows a dedication and spirit that is really hard to find these days. I do offer you a big thank you high five for everything you guys have done over the years, and thank you for setting the record straight for me. The whole idea that situations such as these happen surely can make a girl question why the hell she wants to offer herself to the industry demons. But hell, some things cannot change unless someone puts their ass on the line to speak on the way things should be. I guess that comes down to me either A. finding people who share my beliefs and scraping by or B. getting eaten alive. In a perfect world I would be there working on radio, street and retail promotion for you guys full time- that is something I would feel comfortable putting my heart into.
If there is a single thing I can do to help you guys out- before, during, after the big tour, please let me know. (And I am not merely being polite, I mean it. Seriously, let me know. ) I am here to help. While the idea of not having the J's active brings a tear to my eye, I trust you guys will rock out for as long as your hearts can take it. Real rockers don't fade away. Thanks again for letting me know what's going on, and please keep in touch. You have yourself a great tour- and my love to the rest of the guys. I hope to see you out here sometime soon... -=K i mean evey word. 
