NAMM Pulls ‘Roadie’ Industry Into the Fold

Prior to Timeless acquiring Symphony Publishing, I lived in two different, distinct worlds. As a freelancer for MMR, I’d write about that new nine-channel mixer and interview that independent music storeowner on why he or she chose to take on that particular line of entry-level woodwinds.

Meanwhile, as senior writer for Timeless’s Projection Lights & Staging News and Front of House magazines, I’d write about that new 96-channel digital sound console and interview Michael Bublé’s video director on why he chose that particular SL-Pro 8mm video wall for their international tour. In addition, I have for the past seven years, had the honor of producing the Parnelli Awards for Timeless, a “Grammy’s for roadies.”  (This year’s 13^th gala ceremony was on November 23^rd).

Recently one Dan Del Fiorentino bridged those worlds. Dan, who runs NAMM’s Oral History program, reached out for help in setting him up for interviews with high-level production and touring professionals, people who have moved the tours of U2 and Bruce Springsteen across continents, people who were at Woodstock warning audience members about a certain brown acid… I was happy to help, but pointed out that these people could be considered out of the realm of the MI world. After all, aren’t they “just” roadies? He sent me to Joe Lamond.

“The NAMM Show is made up of people who all love music, but for many reasons decided to pursue a career in the business side of the industry,” NAMM CEO Lamond explained to me. “We are all cut from the same cloth.”

The concert and live event world is huge and still growing. “In a world of social media and technology that can tend to isolate, bringing people together through live events becomes more important. Concert and live event professionals make purchasing decisions, probably hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth each year. We want those folks at the NAMM Show.”

Lamond was once a roadie himself, and feels a connection to the people who would be hard pressed to be able to strum an Em7 chord on the guitar, but who are vital to our MI food chain. “While the pop star of the moment gets the glory, these guys work 20-hour days to make sure the show goes on without a hitch so that millions of fans can create memories that will last a lifetime.” (And be inspired to pick up an instrument themselves, no?)

So go to NAMM.org’s Oral History page, and see who Dan has interviewed from the live event industry. I also invite you to go to Parnelliawards.com and learn more about what Timeless is doing to foster, promote, and honor those who – while not inclined to be dedicated music makers themselves – are nonetheless joined arm in arm with us to foster music making.