In a 2008 interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Cody Bonnette and Colin Kimble of As Cities Burn offer a candid look into the realities of being a band in the ever-changing music industry. They discuss their early days of relentless DIY touring, booking their own shows using MP3.com and BYOFL before MySpace transformed how bands networked. They reflect on the challenges of navigating a heavily saturated scene where more bands are touring than ever, often competing for limited resources and struggling to make ends meet.
The duo shares insight into their journey from playing small shows to signing with Solid State Records, revealing the moment they nearly lost hope before securing a deal. They talk about the shifting landscape of the music industry, how digital downloads have impacted record sales, and the growing importance of merchandise and touring revenue for sustaining a band. Cody and Colin also dive into the politics of the industry—how labels and magazines shape public perception, why certain bands seem to rise overnight, and how image sometimes takes precedence over musical substance.
Throughout the conversation, they open up about their personal experiences with the pressures of touring, the emotional toll of chasing success, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile. From fan interactions to life-changing messages about how their music has helped people through dark times, they reflect on what truly matters in their career. They also give advice to young musicians hoping to break into the scene, cautioning against the illusions of instant success and emphasizing the importance of genuine artistry over fleeting trends.
Closing out the interview, the band shares thoughts on where the music industry is headed, whether physical CDs will eventually disappear, and how they’ve managed to stay grounded amidst the chaos of the scene.