Backstage – Post Malone & Jelly Roll
Backstage – Post Malone & Jelly Roll
Another weekend, another adventure… one that very nearly got tanked… why? Because Transport for London decided that going on strike for the gigs’ original dates and the week leading up to them was a great time to do so, which, of course, created a bit of a headache for everyone involved. The strike action meant that no large-scale public events were permitted to take place, as the city councils would not be able to issue entertainment licences due to the lack of public transport facilities, which would be deemed unsafe for all. It was quite the challenge for all the businesses involved; some had flights and logistics to replan, accommodation, localised transport…. But everyone did what they needed to as soon as we were informed of the rescheduled dates; it was back to making things happen. This gig required somewhat different planning than previous backstages; it was in London and over 2 days, so I had my own logistics to plan and home life to sort out, which, being over a weekend, made that bit easier. Arriving on site time specific is usually easy, but getting into London by car can often present its own challenges, and even though I allowed more than 6 hours to drive down and in, it really should have been 7 – many thanks M1! Load-in was fast, so was security and sign-in, next to leave my car at the secure compound and get to work setting up. At this point, it was 90 minutes until the setup deadline. Lots of security checks to be completed, ID and all bags, its incredibly tight. It was really lovely seeing familiar faces from previous shows, it takes alot of the nerves away knowing that you are surrounded by people who know and understand you and what value you bring. As 16.30 open time rolled around, bodies were coming through to see us – some people had jobs for the show that I had never heard of before, so as the day very quickly progressed there was such a huge cross section of the industry, that I actually lost track of time and it wasn’t until security came through did I realise that it was curtains up time.. and we could go out onto the pitch to watch the gig – result! We had the opportunity to have some time talking to Jelly Roll post-performance – He was just lovely! I was able to present the custom jackets made for them both and have a little chat about passion projects. During both days we also got to chat to the band and some of the supporting musicians too; it was great chatting to so many people and learning about their role in the event and seeing firsthand how many cogs make up the machine. Usually being at a gig for me is either in the pit or a seat somewhere, never really taking notice of the inner workings, and this two day gig allowed me to see the full spectrum of it like the stage being built and taken down, the mammoth cleaning team, food and drink, sound, lights, deliveries…. that list could go on and on but it has given me a whole new level of respect for the true backstage effort.
At the time of writing this I have no idea what could come next, but I know I can take away so many fantastic memories, learning opportunities, and some great new friends.
Until Next Time!
