How a Musician Runs a Business on Tour
The road is calling, and when it does, you need more than just a bass line—you need a business plan. For musician and manager Blasko, the life of a touring artist is a high-wire act, balancing the electrifying demands of the stage with the meticulous demands of running an empire.
Currently, Blasko is out on the road as the bassist for the legendary Rob Zombie, a gig that epitomizes the demanding, high-energy world of heavy music. But the work doesn’t stop when the show ends. Blasko is also steering his own management company, demonstrating that the creative pursuit and the entrepreneurial hustle can, and should, coexist.
To navigate this dual existence, he takes the opportunity to unpack the realities of the life on the road. He recently joined forces with Michael Brandvold to host a popular podcast on Music Biz Weekly, where they dive deep into the often-unspoken strategies of maintaining a career while constantly traveling and performing.
“Every day is a different day and it’s not an easy thing to do,” Blasko reflects. While running a management business often seems like a separate venture, he points out that many artists in bands of various sizes are operating mobile businesses, proving that the hustle is universal.
The conversation extends beyond the logistics of travel, focusing on productivity and adaptation. Blasko shares practical tips for staying productive amidst the chaos, including his method of keeping essential tech gear and an office setup packed into a mobile backpack. This approach allows him to be both a performer and a CEO, wherever the next set list takes him.
The discussion also touches on the evolution of touring itself. Reflecting on the differences between touring in the 1980s and today, the pair explore how modern technology has revolutionized connectivity. While technology provides incredible advantages for staying connected instantly, it also brings increased expectations for constant communication and awareness.
Ultimately, Blasko and Brandvold’s journey is a reminder that success in the music industry today requires not just raw talent and stage presence, but sharp business acumen and the flexibility to manage a dynamic life in motion. It’s a compelling look at how artists are mastering the art of staying in control, even while chasing the spotlight.
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