9 Comments

Francesco, thanks so much for this post. I managed an acapella group in the 80’s and 90’s who toured the world. A lot easier without instruments. However, the road takes its toll. For 7 years, they also worked with a dance troupe for a season each year—buses with equipment, roadies. Difficult but everything easier and less expensive in those days. I’ve been out of the game for a long time but music will always be my life. Your post might explain why places like the Freight in Berkeley and SFJAZZ can’t afford the acts that came before the pandemic and are struggling. Was so grateful to see Silk Road at Zellerbach. It still resonates. But, maybe your post explains why you were at The Fillmore instead of SFJazz and why many other groups are seeking larger venues? In any case, thanks for braving the road to share your gifts. Some of us find as much sustenance in music as we do in food! Thank you!!

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What are your thoughts on American roads? Loved our tour, thanks so much. Could you do a vid on soundcheck? Thanks!

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The quality of the roads changes quite dramatically from state to state . In the last tour going from Seattle to LA and across to Louisiana the roads were pretty good (Louisiana maybe not so much 😅). We also had an amazing driver who was super smooth!

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That’s really interesting about the difference in roads state to state.

Also just want to say I hope the book is coming along well. What you have shared has been really thought provoking and fun!

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Thank you and the entire crew/family for suffering what you do to bring us GREAT shows 🙏🙏🙏

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As soon as I saw the headline I thought, "Yeah, I want to know about that!" It's very interesting and didn't know about Only #1s rule, but it makes sense. Those are cool looking businesses. Mega acts having 50-100 buses is amazing. I also didn't know that the sides could fold out like that. Thanks for sharing that with us!

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That's an interesting insight into life on the road. Thanks for the enlightenment!

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Thank you for sharing this. It provides an insight few can imagine. They only see the glitz & the glamor. Touring is hard work for everyone involved but at the same time, rewarding. Thank you for doing what you do! 💞🎼🎶

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Thank you for this interesting behind the scenes look of life on the road. One of my favorite singers is Jackson Browne, your essay filled in the details to his song, “The Load Out”.

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