A Day in the Life of an Australian Musician: The Realities of Touring

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a musician on tour in Australia? It might look like a dream job from the outside—travelling from city to city, performing in front of excited crowds, and living life on the road. But behind the scenes, there’s a whole other story filled with challenges, sacrifices, and unforgettable moments. Let’s take a peek into the daily life of a touring musician and discover what it really takes to bring live music to your city!

Early Mornings and Long Drives

For most Australian musicians, a day on tour starts early—often before sunrise. With cities spread far apart and flights not always an option, road trips are the norm. Load-in time at the next venue could be just hours away, and every minute counts. Touring across Australia means facing endless highways, unpredictable weather, and the occasional kangaroo crossing.

"You get used to the long drives," says Jamie, a guitarist from an indie rock band making their way up the east coast. "It’s all part of the adventure. We spend hours in the van, catching up on sleep, sharing playlists, or just staring out the window at the endless outback. It can be exhausting, but you learn to find joy in the little things—like discovering a great pie shop in a tiny town."

Sound Checks and Setups

After hours on the road, the next stop is the venue. The crew unloads the gear, and it’s time for sound checks—a crucial part of the day. Sound checks can make or break a performance, ensuring that the band and the audience get the best possible experience.

"Sound checks are like a dress rehearsal," says Sarah, a lead vocalist for a soul band touring in Western Australia. "We fine-tune everything—the mic levels, the instruments, the acoustics of the room. Each venue is different, and sometimes it can take hours to get everything just right. But when it all comes together, it’s magic."

The Waiting Game

After sound checks, there’s often a few hours of downtime before the show. For some, it’s a chance to explore the local area, find a good coffee spot, or catch up on much-needed rest. But for others, the waiting game can feel like the hardest part.

"You’re just waiting for the adrenaline rush," shares Matt, a drummer who has been touring for over a decade. "It’s this strange mix of excitement and anxiety. You’re always thinking about the show—will the crowd be good? Will we have technical issues? But once you step on stage, all of that melts away."

The Thrill of the Performance

Finally, it’s showtime. The energy backstage is electric. As the crowd starts to fill the venue, you can feel the anticipation building. The lights go down, and the band takes the stage. The next hour or two is a blur of music, lights, and pure connection with the audience.

"This is why we do it," explains Jess, a singer-songwriter from Sydney. "There’s nothing like the feeling of playing live—the energy from the crowd, the rush of adrenaline. It’s an instant connection. All the hard work, the travel, the fatigue—it all becomes worth it in that moment."

The Aftermath and the Road Ahead

Once the final note has been played and the encore is done, it’s time to pack up and hit the road again. For some, there’s a chance to meet fans, sell merchandise, and chat with other musicians. For others, it’s straight back to the van for the next leg of the journey.

"After a great gig, you’re on a high," says Lucas, a bassist who’s been touring Australia for years. "But you’ve got to stay grounded because tomorrow could be completely different. Touring is like a rollercoaster—every day is unpredictable. But that’s also what makes it so exciting."

The Unseen Challenges

While the excitement of performing is undeniable, the realities of touring are far from glamorous. Musicians face a unique set of challenges, from financial strain and homesickness to maintaining health and well-being on the road.

"Touring can be incredibly tough," admits Amy, a touring violinist from Melbourne. "You’re away from family and friends for weeks or months at a time. You’re not always eating well, and sleep is a luxury. There are moments when you feel like giving up. But then you play that one show where everything clicks, and you’re reminded why you started this journey in the first place."

Why They Do It

So, why do musicians choose to endure the gruelling life of touring? For most, it comes down to a passion for music and a love for the stage.

"Music is in our blood," says Ethan, a lead guitarist from a blues band. "We live for the moments when we can connect with people through our music, when a song we wrote resonates with someone in the audience. There’s nothing else like it."

How You Can Support Touring Musicians

Live music is an essential part of culture and community, and musicians need your support now more than ever. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Attend Shows: Nothing beats the energy of a live performance! Use platforms like LiveLink to discover upcoming gigs near you.

• Buy Merchandise: Support artists by purchasing their merch—t-shirts, albums, posters, and more.

• Share the Love: Spread the word on social media, tell your friends, and encourage others to attend shows.

Touring is a journey filled with highs and lows, but it’s a journey musicians take with love and dedication. So, the next time you’re at a live gig, remember the incredible effort that goes into bringing that music to you. Every cheer, every clap, every moment of applause makes all the difference.

Ready to experience the magic of live music for yourself? Head to LiveLink now and find a live performance near you! Let’s keep the music alive together! 🎶