Sav Buist and Katie Larson of The Accidentals reflect on the generosity of fans, sponsors, and strangers, share some of their favorite tour van and trailer breakdown stories, reveal what they did with the proceeds from their first gig, and describe the day job of running their music business.
John Smith on Nick Drake and Spending More Time with the Pen
Songwriter and guitarist John Smith talks about working in a comic book shop and a boozy tour bus breakdown while on the road with David Gray.
Hillary Grace Fretland on Gas Station Taquitos and Working at a Wine Bar
Singer-songwriter Hillary Grace Fretland of Fretland talks about finding leftover snacks in the band’s rehearsal space, stealing lyrics from Drew Barrymore.
Vanessa Peters on Coffee and Saying No to a Paid Gig
Singer-songwriter Vanessa Peters talks about the relationship between audience demographics and merch sales and recalls touring with “Charlotte” and “Mercurio”.
Zach Schmidt on Pandemic Day Jobs and Building a Rehearsal Space
Nashville (by way of Pittsburgh) singer-songwriter Zach Schmidt talks about Mama Jo, his luxury touring ride, and keeping his focus on the songs.
Jon Klages on Inspirational Photographs and the Poseidon Adventure
Hoboken music scene veteran Jon Klages talks about a tour breakdown at a goat farm, an early job archiving music magazines, and the importance of musical collaborations.
Natalie D-Napoleon On Dodging Kangaroos and Pursuing a Ph.D
Australian singer-songwriter Natalie D-Napoleon talks about a beached Ford Mustang, Jim Connolly’s Piano Kitchen, and her magical doorway into music.
Parker Millsap on Band Dynamics, Kurt Vonnegut, and Streaming Service Algorithms
Parker Millsap talks about retrieving a stolen tour van (and amp), ordering off-menu at Taco Bell, and what motivated him to build a career in music.
Kimon Kirk on Arguing with Turtles and Enjoying the “Wild Ride” of Being a Musician
Kimon Kirk talks about a breakdown in Joshua Tree, avoiding deli platters, and the fun of surprises.
Jillette Johnson on Teaching Yoga and Taking Her Wurlitzer on Tour
Singer-songwriter Jillette Johnson talks about playing an NYC bar at the age of 12, getting robbed while on tour, and sharing her rehearsal space.