In this down economy a lot of people are looking for extra work.  Well, music fans, I think we have found the job for you!  I say sign me up as a Runner….

What is a runner you ask? It is someone who is responsible for making sure that an artist is happy and has all that they need during an event. Usually at an event, like Bayfest, trailers housed with what are called “riders” for the bands — their wish lists of must-have products the night of their concerts.

In an article from the Observer they talk to Runners and how the job works…..

“We’ve got everything they could possibly ask for,” said Letang, one of a handful of “runners,” whose job it is to make sure the trailer is stocked and the bands are happy.

“There’s about four or five of us just constantly running in and out of this thing.”

Letang and her teammates, including her husband Alan, are veterans of the job — one of the most hectic and unpredictable at the summer music festival.

“We call it ‘Camp Bayfest; we get so excited every year to come back and see each other,” she said. “I just love seeing each band — what it takes just to put three or four guys on stage — and how much work there is that you would never ever think of.”

“People think they’re all primadonnas, but, when you’re traveling that many days in a year, you want things to be a certain way, just to be yourself and function at your best.”

In fact, most of her encounters with Bayfest headliners have been pleasant, she said.

She recalls being told by crew members backstage not to speak to Steven Tyler — only because he’s been known to strike up a conversation with just about anybody.

The riders are also drivers — driving performers and their entourages, even if it’s just to kill time around Sarnia — like taking country star Toby Keith to Purdy’s for fish and chips.

“I was a runner for Rascal Flatts last year,” said Letang. “And they were the most down-to-earth, normal guys, ever.

Country Girl wants you to be a Tattle Tale! Have you been to a country concert lately? Run into a country artist while out on the town? We want to hear all about your country music news and entertainment. Email me at countrygirl@countrymusictattletale.com