The Economics of Everyday Things 101. Street Performers
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Aug 4, 2025 
Brett Dallas, a seasoned street performer from Denver, shares his 16-year journey in the lively world of busking. He discusses the unique challenges street performers face, from aggressive competitors to city regulations and the unpredictable nature of income. Brett dives into the art of engagement, explaining how he captures audiences' attention with his looping guitar techniques. The conversation also unveils the shift from cash to digital tipping and its impact on performers, highlighting the emotional highs and lows of seeking recognition in public spaces.
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Brett Dallas' Busking Start
- Brett Dallas started busking in 2009 for expressive relief and was surprised by the $40-50 he earned in an hour.
- That success inspired him to pursue street performing professionally.
Audience Type Beats Foot Traffic
- The quality of the crowd matters more than foot traffic volume for street performers.
- People strolling leisurely or enjoying the day tip more than hurried business crowds.
Street Harassment Incident
- Brett was targeted with boiling water thrown beside him while playing in a Denver alley.
- After that incident, he avoided returning to that location for safety.