Doppler, A Roadies View

Do we get desperate at these times?

Everyone is aware of the situation with unemployment. Jobs are disappearing every day. In my line of work you are usually unemployed at some point if you are an independent. It happens and most of us prepare for it. I used to work as a stagehand with the local I.A.T.S.E. when I wasn't touring. The problem with that is unless you work full time with them you don't get a lot of hours. I could go back to it but it's complicated at this point.

There are bands working right now which means there are people working. However there are a lot of people looking for tours. I'm talking about folks with a lot of experience. Why are they not finding work? Are there not enough jobs? Are there too many people out there looking for these jobs?

I think the answer is complicated. I believe there are jobs, maybe not as many as some past years but there is some work. I think the problem is the salary base. Music artists are trying to cut costs, which is understandable. This means the salaries that are being afford are down.

There are always young inexperienced or limited experienced who will work these tours for a lot less money. Everyone starts somewhere.

I have been doing this for over 25 years and know a lot of people like me. The big question is, in todays economy do we take a job for less money than we are used to just to keep working? Managers of these artists will hire anyone if they think they can get them cheap.

I am not saying these younger crew will not do the job and do it well. I just fear that industry will set a standard where it will not be viable for us to make a decent living. Most tours now hire you as a sub contractor or self employed. You are now responsible for federal, state and social security. This is not new.

For me I cannot take a tour for half of what I usually make. I have been at this too long and have paid too many dues. It sounds egotistical I know but it's not. I have to make money when I can. I may work for 8 months but be off for 3 or 4. Some of that money is needed to live on.

If things don't get better maybe it will be time to retire and move on to something else.

posted by Doppler at 11:12 AM