When contemplating opening my own music venue, I spent a great deal of time looking around at different places in the area. I noted that location was very important.

How much traffic passes by, proximity to the street, local restrictions on signage, etc. were all factors that contributed to the success (or failure) of the places I looked at.

The amount of advertising dollars spent, how close the nearest college is, square footage and even which town seemed to be factors as well.

But one thing that really surprised me was that what most of the successful places had in common was a lot of large flat screen TVs.

This fact alone discouraged me from even trying.

I didn't feel like it was worth my time to provide a place for people to leave their home to do something that, in my opinion, is something you do in your living room or den.

Besides, if you want to go watch the big game in a bar or restaurant while happily munching on chicken wings, there are already way too many places to choose from.

For me, it's all about the music.

That's why I go out. I can cook my own food, pour my own whiskey, and watch my favorite football team (GO PANTHERS !) at home.

Although we share the same last name, Ronnie Johnson and I aren't related.

But we both love music.

That's why when you walk into Buddy Roe's Shrimp Shack, you'll notice a few things right off.

First, while there is a TV over the bar, there aren't multiple screens flickering from every corner.

And while the food there is great, one of the more interesting features is the way that the room is laid out.

The stage is visible from as many seats as possible and the back deck.

Also very cool are the garage doors that roll up to allow folks in the smoking section to watch the band.

Johnson (my brother from another mother) is committed to the music.

This week at Buddy Roe's it's the Fairy God Mutha's on Wednesday.

On Thursday it's Ronnie Johnson & Chris Clifton, Jonathan Birchfield on Friday, and on Saturday it's the Buddy Roes Halloween Bash.

There will be free hor d'oeuvres , drink specials, a costume contest with cool prizes and Music From Johnson and Chris Clifton. Check it out.

Until next time, be nice to each other and support live music.

(Stu Johnson's column will return next week. To read and comment on past columns, go to www.moultrienews.com. To get your establishment listed in the East Cooper Music Scene, email Stu at sjohnson@allnightkungfu.com).