Do you want to become a Roadie? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
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Roadies, also known as crew, help to stage large pop concerts and other events.
Generally the work includes:
They may also need to operate machinery such as fork-lift trucks, and may specialise in technical areas such as electrics, pyrotechnics (fireworks) and lighting.
The work varies depending on the size of the tour. Some groups need only one roadie to do a range of duties, while others need hundreds, including specialist technicians.
Roadies work long hours when on tour, however, there are rest days in between gigs and often long breaks between tours. The work is very physical and requires heavy lifting and bending. The environment is often noisy. When on tour, roadies may live away from home for long periods.
Unskilled roadies earn around £12,000 a year; those with technical skills may earn £30,000 or more.
A roadie in the music industry needs:
Most roadies are freelance and work for a variety of different employers from music promoters to individual bands, specific venues to equipment suppliers. Although there is always competition for vacancies, live music events are more popular now than ever before and opportunities are increasing.
Roadies do not usually need formal qualifications, and many people get their first job through contacts. Voluntary experience working backstage on school productions, at a local theatre group or in a small venue is useful. A health and safety or first-aid certificate can be useful.
Some jobs, such as sound production, lighting, pyrotechnics, rigging and video work, may require a technical qualification.
Most roadies learn on the job by working with more experienced people. Roadies can progress by taking on additional responsibilities, or by supervising small teams. Some may move on to become tour managers.
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