Life on a Rock Tour: An Inside Look
Mick Wagner, a seasoned professional in the music industry, has shed light on the unique experiences of working on a rock tour. Tour life, as described by Wagner, is an intriguing blend of adventure, hard work, and comedy. In this article, we will explore what it's really like to be part of such an endeavor, sharing insights into the varied aspects of life on the road.
Day-to-Day Experience
Starting early and ending late is the norm on a rock tour. As a bus tour, the early mornings and late nights can be challenging. This is particularly evident when dealing with roles such as sound crew (PA). My experiences often involved the day going by in a whirlwind, with my boss frequently reminding me to take a break and eat during the day. With ample food availability, especially if catering is part of the tour, meals are plentiful: three meals per day, endless snacks, and bus stock. Additionally, there's the opportunity to savor local cuisine after gigs. However, the intense physical activity, such as running around large venues, often ensures that one burns off the calories.
Travel and Accommodations
Traveling on a rock tour offers the experience of visiting a multitude of cities. However, as a result, one may only catch fleeting glimpses of them, with the bus lot and venue being the primary focal points. This can be a bit of a risk, especially for those who are less familiar with the world outside the tour. Thankfully, for others, growing up traveling can make it less daunting. Some tours dedicate off days to cooler locations, but these are often dictated by the most affordable places to house a significant group of people. Therefore, you might end up in more remote areas, which can be exhilarating with the right company. On such tours, you can make lasting memories, from setting up private rooms at restaurants for events to playing board games and entertaining evenings.
The Rewards and Challenges
While the life on a rock tour can be tough, the rewards of such an experience justify the hardships. Balancing home life with tour life is a significant challenge, especially with weekend schedules and long hours away from home. Weekend work is the norm, with departures often occurring late on Wednesday nights and returns on Monday mornings. This leaves little time for normal activities, and often, you''re left with catching up on sleep, emails, and reports during these off days.
One anecdote shared by Wagner underscores the unique dynamics of such a life. A friend got married on a Tuesday simply because it was the only day that fit everyone's schedule. Despite the practical challenges, the camaraderie among those on the tour often compensates for these difficulties. Nashville, known for its robust music scene, offers understanding and appreciation for such lifestyles, making it a unique and supportive environment for touring musicians.
Conclusion
Looking back, it's clear that the life on a rock tour is both challenging and rewarding. While there are tough schedules, strained relationships, and a lack of sleep, the hard work and exposure to diverse and sometimes unconventional venues are priceless. Everyone who has been on a tour will nod in agreement that it's all worth it. For those destined for a life on the road, the excitement, fun, and memories vastly outweigh the challenges.
Key Takeaways
Work on a rock tour involves early mornings and late nights. Plentiful food is available but requires discipline to keep up with the physical demands. Traveling offers the opportunity to visit many cities but can be limited in scope. Experiences like off days and fun events can create lasting memories. Life on the road is challenging but rewarding, especially in supportive environments like Nashville.