Music and Money in Second Life part 2
With Facebook changing its branding to “Meta” and announcing its plans for a virtual world, I started thinking back to ten years ago when I was involved with second life and the music industry. Musicians come together through “Streams” to play together from all around the world. They plan and rehearse what they are going to play (usually) and some even get together in person (real-life or RL), in what they call “Jams”. I went to a small version of a jam many years ago that consisted of three or four musicians. It was fun. They also have regional jams around the world with lots of musicians and fans attending.
In world, musicians are mostly playing for the love of playing and for people to experience their music. Most of them have jobs and play in-world simply for the love of music. One of the nice features of this, besides being able to listen from the comfort of your own home, is the fact that several musicians can log in to second life and play together. This gives you an even better music experience.
In Second Life, there are ways of earning “Lindens” (SL money) or you can purchase them. This online money gives you the ability to experience SL more fully, but it’s not necessary in order to have a great experience in SL. There’s no rule that you have to spend RL money in world. You can wander around, be homeless and just have the standard clothing that comes with your avatar. I would never recommend spending money that you need for housing, medications, food, etc.
Come visit SL. Ask me for a personal tour and see if it’s something you might enjoy. It’s a great way to spend some time and make some friends. You’ll have to have a decent computer, internet, and an open mind to new experiences. Email me at marianne@thehipsenior.com with questions or to schedule a tour.
