(WWW) It's interesting to see what websites come up with their definition of a busker. One such site is the editable Wikipedia.org informing readers since 2001.The word "wiki" is Hawaiian for "quick". The definition of 'busker' redirects to the 'street performance' page started in 2003 which has been edited, believe-it-or-not, over a thousand times.

"Street performance or busking is the act of performing in public places for gratuities."

Besides the basic definition, the page also covers etymology, history, forms, collecting money, pitches, legislation, and notable performers. The latter is filled with famous and not-so-famous artists including George Michael, the Violent Femmes, and even Benjamin Franklin.

Early editing was done by the Wiki editors themselves...

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(WWW) Let us now review the 12 Golden Rules of Busking and street-performing lest we get sidetracked displaying good performances.This time around, we find ourselves re-examining our environment to see if there's any room for improvement. But before we go any further, lets us remember the one Golden rule that spans all spiritualities across the globe. This is probably the best advice you'll receive in your lifetime.

"You’ll get drunks, nutters, thieves, pensioners informing you that you suck and hoodies gobbing in your case. Take it all on the chin. If you get heckled, laugh it off. If you get robbed, don’t chase them. Dealing with borderline psychopaths is an invaluable lesson for anyone hoping to further their career."

Ain't it the truth... ...

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(WWW) It's hard to believe that it was 15 years ago today that the mouse was clicked and the hand-coded Busker Central reference website went "live" on the internet.Five servers later, it continues to bring pertinent reference and news articles into the busker's life. Literally thousands of links and pages encapsulate the pure essence of Busker Central on the internet - worldwide communication.

Each and every day, performers surf into Busker Central in the hopes of finding new ways to express themselves in their artistic endeavor and perhaps learn, travel, and even supplement their incomes.

"When in Rome...", be sure to say 'hi' to all the buskers you may encounter. Europe is...

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Well, it rained here in Kansas City. Couldn't go out and do any busking Doh! I'm working on a new look for spring. . .no table.
This will eliminate my 3 shell game, my favorite effect and my bensen bowl routine. I need to re-think everything. I'm thinking rope through body, a giant 3 card monte, maybe "Sharpshooter" with some comedy gags and fun.
I had my website re-done. I think it will be more user friendly and offer more feedback. check it out:
http://blackbeltmagician.com
Any suggestions are welcome. I'm hoping to book some holiday new years shows.
Sold one of my busking books to a chap in Ireland. I'm curious to get his feedback.
That's about it from Kansas City,
Prof. Gizmo

A new coffee-table book for lovers of Venice Beach Street Performers has just been released.

In case you don't know, Venice Beach is the second most visited tourist area in Southern California with Disneyland being the first.

The writers of the book evidently found a guy who passed the 30 year mark. He was performing when most of today's self-proclaimed "king of the street performers" were still in diapers.

Also included is a humorous story from Mad Chad Taylor on how he first started juggling chainsaws thanks to some goofy commercial maker.

The book includes some killer photos...

Check it out