Touring In Winter Archives

The ‘New Normal’ is here to stay, so we’re giving you five creative ways to bring back touring as soon as humanly possible.

The spread of COVID-19 has changed the music business in ways we never imagined. Fans and artists alike want things to go back to the way they were before March 2020, but that is a fantasy. The past is dead, and no amount of begging or wishful thinking will resurrect it.

We live in a new reality where the old way of doing things no longer works. We can either complain or adapt, and we at Music Biz believe change is always a positive. Discovering new ways to do things challenges us to be more creative, more inclusive, and more understanding. All of that is something we as a species could use more of right now.

The biggest obstacle the music business faces right now is touring. The vast majority of artists make the bulk of their living by being on the road. There have been no tours for the last three months, and there is only a handful currently scheduled for the fall. Those that are daring to step out and perform again do so with the knowledge their dates may be canceled when the “second wave” of COVID-19 takes the US by storm this fall.

With all the questions and concerns surrounding touring, it’s easy to understand why so few feel comfortable announcing or discussing their plans at this time. Still, the conversations around live music are ongoing, and the fan demand for talent has rarely, if ever, been higher than it is right at this moment.

In this episode of Music Biz, host James Shotwell shares five ways touring can resume in the near future. No solution is perfect. At least one is inarguably terrible. But all these ideas need to be considered and at least attempted if we have any chance of discovering what works best for everyone.

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Every year for three years running we have partnered with one of our favorite bands to share a series of tips and tricks for surviving the winter tour grind. Being on the road away family and friends is never an easy task, but there is an added degree of difficulty when those efforts are met with cold air and frozen roads. We know many of you reading this will be hitting the highway this season in hopes of furthering your reach, and we want to do everything in our power to ensure you are safe and prepared for whatever the open road brings your way.

This year, It Lies Within vocalist Zachary Scott was kind enough to write our winter tour survival tips amidst a very busy promotional run for his band’s new album, Paramount (out 1/8). You can read Zach’s advice and thoughts below. Afterwards, comment and add anything you think we may have missed.

Hey ladies and gents, it’s Zachary Scott here from It Lies Within. Im stoked to have a chance to write this section for Haulixn Daily. Touring since 2011, I hope to contribute some insight on how to survive the winter while on tour. Sit down and strap in!

Vehicle Maintenance and Paperwork

– Make sure you have a reliable vehicle

It will cost you more money and time fixing vehicles not capable of pulling a trailer full of equipment.

– Oil Change. Check fluid levels

– Check tread on tires.

Winter tires are a plus, if you can afford them. They can be expensive, but they could actually save you in the long run.

-Chains for your tires depending on where you’re traveling , plan ahead.

Make sure you check your routing for chain stops throughout the mountains.

– Make sure you have all paperwork in order

Valid Driver’s License, Insurance, Inspection and Emissions (If Needed)

Food

– Buy in Bulk

Being so cold in the trailer it’s a great way to store more food and drinks. This can save you tons of money on the road.

– Coupons

Take advantage of the internet. Look up coupons before just going to any fast food place or restaurant.

Clothing

– Everyone always over packs on tour.

Stay warm but try not to bring more than needed. Bring your favorite hoodie. Who doesn’t have a favorite hoodie right? Stay stylish, brutal and cozy!

– Bring a light coat to double up with your hoodie

Windbreakers are great for this. You don’t want to over pack or bring your largest Down jacket.

-Extra blankets

Get with your band members and make sure everyone is bringing enough blankets and or a sleeping bag. Running the van all night is not good.

Extra’s Needed

-Ice Scraper

-Windshield Wipers

-Winter Mechanics Gloves

This will save you if you need any vehicle repairs. It happens more than you would think and saves your hands.

-Lock De-Icer

-Coffee Maker

Comes in handy for a vocalist all year round. A must have. Soup, Hot Coffee, Tea, and Cocoa

Lastly and most important, allow for extra drive time.

Winter conditions can take you for a spin. Leave early and prepare for a longer drive than gps might say. Thank you guys so much for giving me the opportunity to share this. I hope to be a guest on another piece in the future. Stay safe out there!