What a crazy tour this has been! I feel like I have grown a lot while on this tour. I visited new cities I had never been to before, played a bunch with my band (and took them to some new cities as well), and got to perform at the Waka Winter Classic with some other very talented bands. I got to see old friends, and make new ones. Most importantly though, I think I learned more about the business side of music, and what actions I need to take in order to plan out more successful tours. This last tour was put together very last-minute. I had only given myself a few months to plan, whereas in the future I will give myself a good 6 months at least. I also need to get better at negotiating compensation with the venue booking agents ahead of time. I've always been pretty shy and non-confrontational, so it's hard for me to do so. But I'm becoming stronger, and more confident in myself all the time.
I would say that I can't wait until the next tour, but I really can. Going on tour is pretty exhausting. I performed nearly every day that I was on tour. I think the countless hours of driving, and staying with other people each night is the hardest. It's always go time on the road. Though it's nice to see old friends and stay with them, nothing beats the comfort of home. I've always liked to think that I could live on the road- buy an RV and live like a gypsy. But I can definitely see how it would get old quick.
My favorite part of this past tour was getting to play with the Sweets again. I miss them already. It's been hard not living near them. The last few tours have shown David and I how hard it is to have a "long-distance relationship" with my band. Our plan as of now is to move back to Fayetteville, where I can be closer to the band, and my close friends. It might take us a year or so to get to the point where we are financially able to do so, but I believe the time until then will be well spent. I will spend the next few months in Florida working on/recording my new album, as well as working my butt off and trying to catch up financially after this tour. I'm excited for the years to come. I think many good things are on the way!
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