Ongoing History of New Music: "We Are The Road Crew - A History of Roadies"

Host: Alan Cross
Episode Release Date: May 7, 2025

Introduction: The Unsung Heroes of the Music Industry

Alan Cross opens the episode by highlighting the often overlooked yet indispensable roles that support personnel play in both society and the music industry. Drawing parallels between various "thankless jobs," he emphasizes that without these behind-the-scenes individuals, both societal functions and live music experiences would falter.

"If there ain't no road crew, then there ain't nothing at all."
— Alan Cross [01:09]

Defining the Road Crew: Roles and Responsibilities

Cross delves into the multifaceted world of roadies, explaining that the term encompasses a broad range of support roles essential for live performances. Roadies ensure that every aspect of a concert runs smoothly, from setting up equipment to managing sound and lighting.

• Generalists vs. Specialists: Some roadies handle multiple tasks, while others focus on specific areas like guitar techs, sound engineers, or lighting specialists.

• Skills and Expertise: Modern roadies require knowledge in math, physics, electronics, and acoustics to manage increasingly complex equipment and technologies.

"The best of all, roadies work at a level that maybe, I don't know, a hundred other people can match."
— Alan Cross [06:38]

A Historical Perspective: Ben Dorsey – The First Roadie

The episode pays homage to Ben Dorsey, recognized as the world's first roadie. His career spanned over six decades, working with legendary artists like Hank Thompson, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson.

• Legacy and Influence: Dorsey's impact is memorialized in songs, novels, documentaries, and even a Roadie Hall of Fame induction.

"Ben Dorsey was the first person to be inducted into the Roadie hall of Fame in Nashville."
— Alan Cross [06:38]

Roadies Who Became Legends: Stories from the Trenches

Cross shares compelling stories of roadies whose contributions were pivotal to some of the biggest moments in music history.

1. Greg Carroll and U2’s "One Tree Hill":

   Carroll, a roadie for U2, tragically died in a motorcycle accident. His memory inspired Bono to pen the song "One Tree Hill," dedicated to Carroll, encapsulating the emotional bond between band members and their crew.

   "One Tree Hill from the Joshua Tree album, inspired by Greg Carroll, a U2 roadie who was killed in a motorcycle accident while working for the band."
   — Alan Cross [11:42]

2. John Marshall and Metallica:

   As Metallica's guitar tech, Marshall stepped in to perform when James Hetfield was incapacitated, showcasing the critical safety nets roadies provide during tours.

3. Depeche Mode’s Andy Fletcher and Darrell Bamonte:

   Fletcher’s struggle with mental health during the 1994 Exotic Tour saw Bamonte fill in, ensuring the tour’s success despite personal challenges.

From Roadie to Rockstar: Transitioning into the Spotlight

The episode explores instances where roadies transitioned into prominent roles within the music industry, demonstrating the versatile pathways within the field.

• Noel Gallagher and Oasis:
  Starting as a guitar roadie for Inspiral Carpets, Gallagher leveraged his experiences to form Oasis, leading to his monumental success.

  "The Rain took it and were renamed Oasis and within two years they were performing this song to thousands of people."
  — Alan Cross [15:35]

• Others Include:

  • Tupac Shakur: Began as a roadie, dancer, and backup singer for Digital Underground before launching a legendary solo career.
  • Henry Rollins: Transitioned from roadie duties with Minor Threat to becoming the frontman of Black Flag.
  • Richey Edwards: Moved from roadie for Manic Street Preachers to a central figure in the band.

Famous Roadies: Legends Behind the Bands

Cross spotlights several renowned roadies whose expertise and dedication have earned them legendary status within the industry.

• Henry "The Horse" Smith: Known for his incredible strength, Smith worked with icons like Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith, earning his nickname for effortlessly handling heavy equipment.

• Dallas Shoe: A guitar tech for Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles, Prince, Pearl Jam, and U2, Shoe is often hailed as one of the greatest guitar technicians of all time.

• Willie Williams: From punk gigs in London to designing all of U2's major tours, Williams has been a pivotal figure in shaping live performances.

• Dave Matthews: Not to be confused with the vocalist from the Dave Matthews Band, this roadie worked for Kiss, meticulously caring for the band’s wigs and handling onstage emergencies.

"He's from Lexington, Kentucky and has been part of the U2 road crew since the second leg of the Joshua Tree tour. There are those in the business who consider him to be the goat of guitar techs."
— Alan Cross [22:02]

Diversity and Inclusion: Shifting the Roadie Landscape

The podcast addresses the demographic disparities within the roadie profession, acknowledging its predominantly white and male composition. However, strides are being made to diversify the field.

• Organizations and Initiatives:

  • Roadies of Color United: Co-founded by Casey Jackson, this group supports people of color aspiring to enter the live touring business.

  • Diversify the Stage: Founded by Noel Skaggs, this organization aims to create opportunities for women, LGBTQ individuals, and other underrepresented groups.

• Notable Diverse Roadies:

  • Janine Anderson: Tour manager for Soul Asylum, one of the few women in such roles.

  • Marty Hom: An Asian veteran tour manager with Fleetwood Mac and Barbra Streisand.

  • Jerome Cooks: A Black tour manager for Tool, exemplifying the increasing diversity within the profession.

"The industry is going to need more people. Touring has never been a bigger business and a lot of the old guard is retiring."
— Alan Cross [22:52]

Modern Roadies: Education and Evolving Roles

Today's roadies are far more specialized, often requiring formal education and training to handle sophisticated equipment and technologies.

• Educational Pathways:

  • Academy of Contemporary Music (London): Offers comprehensive training for aspiring roadies.

  • Metalworks Institute (Mississauga, Ontario): Provides diploma courses in live music and concert production, as well as live sound production.

• Evolving Skill Sets:

  • Roadies now need expertise in areas like acoustics and electronics, moving beyond just manual labor to become technical specialists.

"With today's gear, you have to know math, physics, electronics, acoustics and more."
— Alan Cross [22:52]

A Day in the Life: The Grueling Schedule of a Roadie

Cross outlines the demanding daily schedule that roadies endure during a tour, emphasizing the relentless pace and the physical and mental toll it takes.

1. Early Arrival:
   Roadies often arrive at venues by 10 AM to begin setup after traveling overnight.

2. Setup and Rigging:
   Within hours, riggers and techs have stages set with sound and lighting equipment in place.

3. Sound Checks and Adjustments:
   Continuous testing ensures that audio and visual elements are perfect.

4. Performance Night:
   After preparations, the crew manages the flow of performances, catering, and logistical needs.

5. Teardown and Move-Out:
   Immediately after the show, the crew disassembles equipment and travels to the next venue, often with minimal rest.

"Imagine doing this day after day through different cities, different countries, different venues, different kinds of weather for months and months at a time."
— Alan Cross [24:27]

Recognition and Tribute: Acknowledging the Road Crew

In closing, Cross underscores the vital contributions of roadies to the live music experience. He cites examples like Taylor Swift’s generous bonuses to her crew and acknowledges songs that pay homage to these unsung heroes.

"Roadies, the unsung heroes of music. Unless you consider songs like that, of course."
— Alan Cross [24:27]

He encourages listeners to appreciate and recognize the hard work and dedication of road crews who tirelessly ensure that live performances are executed flawlessly.

Conclusion

"We Are The Road Crew - A History of Roadies" offers an in-depth exploration of the vital roles that roadies play in the music industry. Through historical insights, personal stories, and discussions on diversity and modern challenges, Alan Cross provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding and newfound appreciation for these behind-the-scenes professionals who make live music possible.

Notable Quotes:

• "If there ain't no road crew, then there ain't nothing at all." — Alan Cross [01:09]

• "Ben Dorsey was the first person to be inducted into the Roadie hall of Fame in Nashville." — Alan Cross [06:38]

• "With today's gear, you have to know math, physics, electronics, acoustics and more." — Alan Cross [22:52]

• "Roadies, the unsung heroes of music." — Alan Cross [24:27]

This episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to the roadies who, though often invisible to the audience, are the backbone of the live music experience. Alan Cross successfully shines a light on their indispensable contributions, ensuring their stories and sacrifices are not forgotten.