Touring might seem like a dream job—performing in different cities, meeting fans, and living on the road—but the reality is far more complex. A recent Apple Music for Artists blog post featured an insightful Q&A with Rebecca Travis, an experienced tour manager who has worked with artists like James Blake, Paolo Nutini, Florence + The Machine, and many more. She shared her thoughts on what it takes to keep a tour running smoothly and how artists can maintain their energy and well-being on the road.
Creating a Positive Touring Environment
According to Travis, a tour manager’s role isn’t just about logistics—it’s also about fostering a strong and motivated team. She highlights the importance of a supportive and appreciative atmosphere, where artists show gratitude to their crew. “Everyone likes to feel appreciated!” she says, emphasizing that a positive attitude from the artist helps create a better experience for the entire team.
Advice for First-Time Touring Artists
For musicians embarking on their first tour, Travis suggests establishing healthy habits early. Since routines tend to stick throughout a tour, she advises planning ahead for meals and exercise. Finding local gyms, bringing a folding bike, or scheduling regular walks can make a huge difference in maintaining energy levels.
How to Stay Energized on the Road
Touring can be exhausting, and Travis has noticed that as artists and crew members get older, they become more aware of the need to take care of themselves. She points to sleep, diet, and exercise as key factors in maintaining health while on tour. Hotels with gyms, day rooms for extra rest, and prioritizing quality food all contribute to keeping the team in top shape.
The Biggest Challenges of Touring Today
While technology has made communication and planning easier—thanks to touring apps and instant messaging—financial pressures have grown. Travis notes that post-COVID price increases in hotels, flights, and fuel have made budgeting for tours more challenging, especially for smaller artists.
Managing Stress and Preventing Burnout
Tour managers don’t always have control over the tour schedule, but they do their best to make it manageable. Travis emphasizes the importance of finding downtime for artists, ensuring they get extra hours of sleep whenever possible, and making travel as comfortable as the budget allows. Small wellness practices—such as alone time, fresh air, massages, or even yoga sessions—can help artists recharge.
What Makes a Tour Successful?
For Travis, success isn’t just about ticket sales. A great tour is one where the artist, band, and crew enjoy the experience and feel a sense of accomplishment. “If the band and crew are sad when it ends, it’s been a good run,” she says. While ideally, there would be time to rest between tours, the reality is that many artists and crew members jump straight into the next project.
This Apple Music for Artists blog post offers a fascinating look at the challenges and rewards of touring. Whether you’re an artist preparing for life on the road or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes world of touring, Rebecca Travis’ insights provide valuable lessons on teamwork, preparation, and self-care.
