From Ashes To New – TOUR TIPS

This new set of Tour Tips was written by the rap-rock alternative band, From Ashes To New. You can check out their tips for being on the road, after the break.

1. Personal Hygiene – This one is number one because when you’re living with up to 7 other people in a touring vehicle the one thing that can’t be ignored is if someone is stinking up the joint. It’s an necessity for touring on a budget that if the venue you’re gigging at doesn’t have showers, to make sure you find one. Sometimes you have to get creative but being on stage 4-5 days out of the week makes you pretty ripe, so respecting everyone around you by not making them smell you is key!

2. Catch Zs – Again, if you’re touring on a budget chances are that you’re driving your own rig so make sure you have a fair driving rotation and plenty of sleep. Getting enough sleep ensures you won’t wrap your rig around a tree and THAT is pretty important. It’s equally important to have a designated shotgun rider too. They aren’t allowed to sleep either because they’re equally as responsible for the driver not falling asleep as the driver is.

3. Get Some Alone Time – First of all, get your mind out of the gutter… unless, no wait. That definitely still applies here too…I guess. The point is, you can only spend so much time with the amount of people you’re touring with before people eventually get on each other’s nerves and if that goes on for too long you’re asking for a fight. Take a few minutes, recharge your batteries, gather your thoughts and get your head back in the game!

4. Health Nuts – This one is pretty self explanatory. Keep yourself healthy and well fed. It’s hard to eat clean on the road but if you’re stuffing your face with fast food everyday you’re gonna be paying for that in worse ways than money. Chances are that if you’re doing this on a budget, you’re living in Walmart parking lots so that’s instant access to cheap, creative alternatives to fast food. Nuts, fresh fruits, etc. Also, if you can buy a cheap grill, store it in your trailer and make some cheap meals with your per diems if you are traveling with someone who can cook.

5. Warm up – This may be the last entry but it doesn’t necessarily make it the least important. 30-60 minutes of warm ups prior to your set time are pretty crucial if you want to go the distance in this industry…or so I’m told. If you’re not taking care of your body you’re going to suffer and so is your band. It’s not just about your own personal and physical preservation, it’s about the people in your band depending on you to perform to the best of your ability night in and night out. If you can’t do that then chances are they will find someone who will!

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Did you find these tips useful? Let us know in the comments below!