Becoming a roadie is a way to work in the music industry without musical talent. Roadies help with backstage work, technical skills, and heavy lifting. Starting with local bands can lead to success in the industry.
It’s likely that many people want to be a part of the music industry, but their talent lies elsewhere. Fortunately, traveling the world with a band doesn’t always require musical talent. Becoming a roadie is a way to be as close to rock stars as possible without performing on stage. If you have a skill that bands could use, usually related to backstage work, it’s possible to get a job as a roadie. Developing a marketable skill, education, and networking with local bands can lead to success in this role.
Most roadies help out in some capacity behind the scenes, but there is usually a wide variety of work that bands need to do before they play shows. If you have little technical knowledge but can move heavy equipment, you can help with stage setup before and after shows. The band’s equipment is often heavy, and most band members are too busy rehearsing or preparing for the show to struggle with themselves. Bands that are particularly busy with several shows in a row will likely appreciate the help of having a roadie.
If the heavy lifting doesn’t interest you, work on honing the technical skills most bands need. This can include lighting, sound, stage design and pyrotechnics. Some band members attempt these tasks themselves, but most would likely pay to have a professional specialize in one or more of these tasks. Even if you’ve learned these skills, you’ll probably find it easier to get a roadie position once you’ve had technical training. This could include a few classes at a local community college, or it could be a full degree in a subject like sound engineering, lighting, or music.
Like most other jobs, you’ll likely have to start small and work your way up to a high-paying position. One of the best ways to find out if you’re a roadie is to contact local bands. Most probably won’t be able to pay that much, if at all, but at least you can get experience to put a resume on, as well as see if the lifestyle suits you. Chances are good that someone you know has a band, but if that’s not the case, you can visit nearby venues that feature local bands to ask if they need any backstage help.
After working with one or more local bands for a few months, you’ll probably have a pretty good idea if you want to continue this type of work. If so, consider submitting your resume to bigger bands in your area. Eventually, a band you work with might become quite popular, or you could start sending your resume to known bands as long as you have experience.
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