No Tour, No Problem: Roadie Jobs Between Gigs

 There are times in this industry when things slow down — and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. We’re not talking about a week or two of downtime between tours, but those longer stretches where you might not have anything booked for a month or more. It happens to everyone, no matter how experienced you are or which department you work in. It's just the nature of working for yourself and it's not specific to any industry or profession.

In fact, what’s inspiring is how resourceful and ambitious people can be during these quiet periods. Many roadies use this time to pick up work that complements their skills or gives them a fresh change of pace. For example, riggers can pick up scaffolding work, set carpenters might pick up manual labour jobs, and backline techs sometimes dive into bar or hospitality work. I even know a merch guy who becomes a handyman during the slower months. These gigs aren’t just stopgaps — they’re a smart way to stay busy, keep the income flowing, and maybe even learn something new.

What’s great about these side jobs is how they show the versatility and determination of roadies. It’s not about “waiting” for the next gig; it’s about staying active and building skills that might come in handy later. Plus, it’s a reminder that being a roadie doesn’t box you into one specific role. Whether you’re fixing things, hauling gear, or managing a bar, it all feeds into the same resourcefulness and adaptability that make you great at your main job.

Of course, while you’re working these gigs, it’s still important to stay connected to the industry. Keep in touch with people you’ve toured with before and let them know you’re available. It’s not about pestering them but reminding them you’re around if something comes up. Equipment suppliers can also be good to keep in communication with, they're often one of the first to hear about tours and events .

Quiet times are part of the rhythm of being a roadie, but they’re also an opportunity. Whether you’re learning something new, making connections, or simply enjoying a different type of work. And when the next tour rolls around, you’ll be ready to hit the road with fresh energy and perspective.