Big Bands and Their Tour Buses: Parking and Housing Arrangements
When performing with a big band, the logistics of parking and accommodating tour buses are crucial. Big bands, whether rock, jazz, big band swing, or other genres, typically need specific arrangements to ensure their vehicles and members are well taken care of during their tour schedules. This article explores various methods used by big bands to park and house their tour buses between concert venues.
A Breakdown of Parking and Housing Arrangements
Between concerts, big bands have several options for parking and housing their tour buses, depending on logistical needs, the tour schedule, and specific venue arrangements.
Venue Parking Lots
Many concert venues offer designated areas for tour buses. These sites are usually safe and secure, ensuring that the buses are well-preserved until the next performance. After a show, bands typically park their buses in these lots and then move on to the next venue. This method is efficient and secure, making it the preferred choice for many tour directors.
Tour Bus Companies
Some bands rent their buses from tour bus companies that provide secure parking facilities. These companies may have facilities in major cities or along popular tour routes. Renting from a professional tour bus company ensures that all buses are maintained, serviced, and protected. This is particularly useful for long tours where regular maintenance is crucial.
Hotels
Bands also often stay at hotels that can accommodate their buses. Some hotels have designated parking areas for tour vehicles, allowing band members to stay close to their transportation. This method provides convenience and security, ensuring that the buses are parked in a controlled environment.
Rest Areas and Truck Stops
On long tours, bands may stop at rest areas or truck stops to take breaks. These locations often provide ample parking for large vehicles like tour buses. This is an ideal temporary solution for extended road trips, ensuring that the buses can be parked safely and that the band can rest and recharge.
Private Properties
Occasionally, bands might park on private property, such as a fan's home or a local business that allows the bus to stay overnight. This method is less common but useful for unexpected delays or smaller-scale tours. It relies on the goodwill and hospitality of local individuals and businesses.
Backstage Areas
At festivals or larger events, buses are often parked in backstage areas designated for crew and performers. This ensures that the buses are close to the main venue, making it easy for the band and crew to move between performances and other activities.
Styx's Tour Bus Experience
While the logistics for modern big bands can be complex, the classic rock band Styx provides a specific example of how these arrangements can vary. After performances, the band and road crew travel to their next destination, often driving overnight to avoid bus fatigue. They stay in hotels, often the same ones multiple times, which can offer some convenience and comfort. However, the buses are usually parked off main streets in darker, secure areas near the venue. Styx has two tour buses—one for the band and one for the crew. Some crew members may sleep in the buses, depending on the situation.
Modern tour management takes into account the needs of the band, the comfort of the crew, and the logistical requirements of the tour. This guarantees that the experience is smooth and efficient, allowing the band to focus on their performances and engaging with their fans.
Conclusion
In summary, the arrangement of parking and housing for big band tour buses is multifaceted and varies according to the type of band, the scale of the tour, and the specific logistics required. From venue parking lots to using tour bus companies, hotels, or even makeshift parking arrangements, these methods ensure that big bands can perform to their best without disruptions. As the industry evolves, so do the strategies employed to keep big bands on the road and ready for their next performance.