Twitch The Ripper – TOUR TIPS

This set of Tour Tips is written by electronic band, Twitch The Ripper. You can check them out after the break!

1. Learn to improvise sleeping places –
If sleeping on a motel floor, any contact between your skin and the carpet will probably result in rash known as “rug face”, which is not a good look for anyone. Stay away from blood patches on the carpet / comforters and you’re probably better off using a sleeping bag on top of the mattress due to the “bed bug” outbreak if in the Northeast. If you sleep in the van, make sure to rotate who sleeps in the driver’s seat (if anyone), otherwise they won’t be moving their back in the morning.
2.  After a show –
Know where you’re going before you start driving as well as the general area of the venue. When in Philly, Baltimore, Hartford, Atlanta, etc and a wrong turn is made, you don’t want to have “steal this” written all over your trailer. Too many hardworking acts have suffered the loss over these tragedies so be aware!
3. Do something productive in the van/bus –
There’s a lot to be learned in spare traveling time. Pick up a book, computer or synth and get to work. It’s very easy to get a simple midi controller and laptop setup going for use in the van/bus or producing visual media can be just as easy. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, remember time is money – don’t waste it.
4. At the venue –
Backstage is over-rated so hang out with your fans! Be appreciative and meet people at your merch table. Trade CD’s with other artists, or hand out free samplers and stickers. I enjoy using social media, like twitter, for announcing giveaways to attending fellow tweeters, or for simply putting fans on the guest list.
5. Cleanliness –
A clean band member is a happy band member. If you can’t shower in a hotel or friend’s/fan’s house, don’t under estimate the power of a truck stop shower! A shower goes a long way when it comes to general mood. Just remember to wear flip flops, mushrooms grow in those showers!

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