Contribution by: M Jay
Touring pros might be some of the most versatile people on earth.
Think about this.
Most people struggle adjusting to a different time zone or after a rough travel day.
On tour that can be several times a week.
We go from freezing arenas to outdoor festivals overnight.
From a hotel bed to a bus bunk to a middle seat on a packed flight in 48 hours.
From sleeping four hours to working sixteen- and then doing it again.
We eat whatever’s around, drink whatever’s available, and none of it matters.
Our bodies get bruised. Not a big deal. No time to think about it.
Dry desert air one day, cold rainy load in the next, on occasion catering that doesn’t look edible but we take our chances, it all becomes routine, we know the time of day because sound check is at 4:00 and if all goes well everything is ready by 3:45. No sound check for the opening act today. A great time for a quick nap before dinner and doors. It’s the kind of life that not many are familiar with.
Why is it addictive?
Because of that feeling when the house lights go out and the band hits the stage, it doesn’t matter if it’s your first tour or tenth. You had something to do with making it happen.
The audience doesn’t see what happens next. They don’t care that the same thing is happening 400 miles away tomorrow night. But it does, sometimes 5 cities in 5 nights.
That makes people in this industry a different type.
You build yourself up and it becomes what you know. You’re a team, a family. You’re in it together every day.
You learn about each other, laugh often, and work through things that would break most people.
It’s not exactly for everyone. Seeing it all come together is impressive.
Working with your road family ends at some point. The tour is done. Everyone hopes to be with that same group again but you just don’t know.
All of a sudden you find yourself at home with no real direction.
The adrenaline rush is gone.
Your family has been handling everything.
They missed you and want attention but it’s tough.
Every single thing is different at home.
The lawn needs to be mowed.
You’re home now and that’s normal life.
No sound check.
No lobby calls.
And nothing that you’ve become accustomed to.
There needs to be a strength and there especially needs to be understanding. It’s a true test.
It’s real life smacking you in the face. If you’re having trouble or know someone who is, please reach out for help. It’s good to feel good. There’s nothing wrong with feeling better. Here are a few options
for confidential help.
Backline Care 24/7
Eccho Live
Roadies In Recovery
MusiCares
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-8255 or text TALK to 741741
