After engrossing myself in an incredibly written article by Laura Escude in Medium.com about the health risks of touring, it confirms the importance of the mission to save as many lives in the industry as possible. A study recently conducted by Sydney University found that, on average, musicians die 25 years younger than non-musicians.
As mentioned in Digital Music News, globally, touring has generated over $5 billion in the last two years — but no one knows the challenges faced by those who create the experiences. Not only touring artists, but their road crew, vendors, and other support personnel are away from their families for months at a time.
Here are tips to put yourself and the crew first:
- If you start buying into all of the after parties and alcohol you are doomed. Putting yourself to bed is the number 1 priority. If you need access to meditations to relax after a huge show, visit the Headspace app and simply download and listen. It’s a game changer.
- Ask yourself this very important question – “If I were to look after myself to the best of my ability, what would I do differently?” This helps you discover small things you can change about your schedule, your nutrition anything that you feel needs tweaking. Small changes make a HUGE difference.
- Check out the amazing work they are doing at Light Hope Life, A Nonprofit suicide prevention foundation to help and able crew and artists to effectively talk to others who are in crisis.
- Preparation is key. Having a coach and mental wellness expert on the team is going to change your life. If it is something you have been considering, its a no brainer. Working with you on health, self care, peak performance and strategies to ensure even the darkest days are well protected.
If you are feeling low and are seeking assistance please check out any of these resources for more information and support.
Support Act – 1800 959 500
Beyond Blue – 1300 46 36
Backline – Fill out their on line contact form to be connected with a case manager
MusiCares – Fill out their online form to be connected with a case manager
Help Musicians – mmm@helpmusicians.org.uk
Nancy Lipman has a career spanning over 20 years in the music, media and corporate industries identifying, developing, coaching and mentoring high-calibre talent both locally and internationally.
A DJ, personal development and business guru, Nancy has run her own successful artist agency since 2011. Strategically and intuitively understanding her clients, with laser like focus on wellbeing, Nancy is on a mission to create positive, successful careers for artists in the music industry.
Nancy is the founder of WingWoman, a coaching and mentoring company supporting the business and personal life of an artist in the music industry.
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