Local musicians in Madison, Wisconsin are opening up about their struggle with alcohol while performing. In a newsletter column titled Microtones, the author shares his personal journey of taking a break from drinking, with his dog EmmyLou serving as his accountability partner. The article delves into the challenges musicians face in a state known for its heavy drinking culture. Artists like Terry Galloway and Dan Walkner discuss the pressure to drink while performing, with alcohol often being readily available at gigs. Madison singer-songwriter Josh Harty started a support group called “Sober Curious” for musicians interested in cutting down or eliminating alcohol from their lives. The group meets weekly and offers a more relaxed environment compared to traditional Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. The author reflects on his own experience of performing sober and the realization that alcohol does not necessarily enhance his music. As he prepares for an upcoming gig, he acknowledges the importance of moderation and the support of fellow musicians in maintaining sobriety.
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