Earning Your Spikes

I’ve been known to say to someone that they have earned or need to “earn your spikes.”  I have also been presented with the question of what that means. For me, earning your spikes is equal to earning my respect. I use it in conjuction with friends I have met over the last few years, most of them Hank III fans.

How does someone earn my respect? By staying true to themselves, having integrity, being flexible with ideas and open to change, someone who is passionate about the music they love and willing to put time, effort, creativity and sometimes money towards supporting Hank III and the Reinstate Movement.  Don’t get me wrong, we’re all broke so don’t think I am passing the collection plate – I’m not.  But it does take money to see shows, or travel to follow the band. There is also the money spent on album and merch sales, babysitters so you can get to the show, and that copy of Lovesick, Broke and Driftin that you just bought for your buddy’s bday gift…. it adds up.

But you do not have to have a lot of money to participate (it helps to have a little).  You need only have a voice (some printed petititions help too).  If you have a special talent, passion or skill, figure out how you can apply that to supporting the band, outlaw country music and the Reinstate Hank movement.  Be creative, go to support events, find a way to get that petition in at the next event you attend… people are interested.

How do I support the band? I travel all over the USA to catch shows. I buy my tickets (usually at least two) and I have been known to give a free ticket or two away at sold out shows just because I could… I support the band thru buying merchandise, running this site and making web sites for band members. Hanks Angels make Reinstate Posters and flyers for free download to pass around and get the word out. Various other artwork is being created for this site and future projects relating to Church of Hank….  and all of it was done not by me alone, but by a group of my dedicated hellbilly friends, and many more dedicated friends I have made thru the Hank III “family” network.  Thank you to everyone. I look forward to many years to come with you all!  You’ve earned your spikes!!!!!!!