Meiko – TOUR TIPS

In this Tour Tips segment, the indie artist, Meiko, gives you some advice for being on the road. You can check out the feature, after the break.

1. Bring your own damn pillow (with a few extra pillowcases, ‘cuz touring gets gross) and an eye mask. This will save you, trust me. You’ll sleep like a baby in the van or in any grubby hotel room.

2. YELP is your friend. You can see which places are best to eat in within walking distance from the venue or from where you’re staying. This is invaluable and totally necessary on the road. I’ve found some great places by doing this. Best place I’ve found? Pequod’s Pizza in Chicago. They have a $4.99 “personal deep dish pizza and a drink” lunch special. Bam!

3. HOTWIRE is also your friend. The night before you need a place to stay or even the night of? Use Hotwire. If you’re worried about not being able to make sure there are 2 beds in the room, click the box that says you need a room for 4 people. This usually works, and if not, call as soon as it’s booked and explain your situation to the front desk. They should be able to help.

4. Be nice to the sound guy. This is super-important, because, in my experience, sound guys aren’t always that happy to see you, so you have to be extra-friendly. Don’t ask for too much on stage during your sound check. ALWAYS compliment them when you’re done checking. Something like, “Man! You make the sound in here amazing. It’s nice to be working with someone who gives a shit!” That will make them WANT to give a shit because they will feel acknowledged.

5. The front-seat passenger can NEVER sleep. You are the co-pilot. You are the map man/lady. You are the water bottle opener. You are the DJ. This is a very important role that should be taken seriously. If you want the front seat, you have to earn it. It’s also a safety issue!

(Photo credit: Ryan Nolan)

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