Q & A with Spud Groshong
Spud Groshong is a monitor engineer based out of Portland, OR. For the last sixteen years he’s toured extensively with bands including Panic! at the Disco, DNCE, Lamb of God, Meshuggah, Papa Roach and Buckcherry.
In addition to being a sought after audio engineer he is also an avid traveler, amazing photographer and host of a great travel related podcast called “Lost in Transit”.
I highly recommend you follow Spud on Instagram @spudgroshong, and check out his podcast which you can find wherever you listen to podcasts.
Favorite concert or live show you’ve attended as a fan (not for work)?
That’s kind of a hard question for me. Growing up my favorite concert was either The Smashing Pumpkins on the Mellon Collie tour or Coal Chamber, Machine Head and Pantera. It’s funny to think about cause both of these were in high school. I will say though, Pantera will always be my favorite band to see live. I saw them 15 times. Always outstanding and nothing, in my eyes comes close.
Is there anything you try to do every off day?
Drink coffee and take photos. I love getting lost in a place I'm not super familiar with and finding some place to photograph. It’s a damn fun hobby but lately I've also been spending my days off putting together my podcast.
What are the one to three work-related tool(s) you can’t do without? (Computer, gear, tool, phone app, etc.)?
This question is funny to me cause I roll into shows with my in ears and a memory stick these days. I don't use tools, I try and do everything by ear still, like the old fart I'm becoming.
Are there any standard industry practices that you’d like to change?
Not really. I’m pretty content with things. One might hear me bitch about this or that but that’s just more of a personality trait.
Since you began working in this industry are there any concepts or practices you’ve implemented that have had a positive impact on your work (reduced stress, saved time, etc.)?
Hakuna Matata. It was years ago when some Australian guy grabbed me by the shoulder and said "MATE! It’s not brain surgery, calm down" and ever since I just try and take it as mellow as possible. Sure I get worked up but who doesn't.
Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-8 years?
Hopefully somewhere without me. As much as I love touring around the world I'm starting to feel my time in this industry has run its course.
What ruins your day at a show?
When the band is bummed out about the ears.
What improves your day at a show?
COFFEE. Coffee makes everything better.
How do you stay connected to home while away (or do you)?
Honestly I don't. I check in from time to time but I wouldn't say it’s connected unless it’s with my girlfriend. We are in touch every day.
What's the most important thing in your suitcase?
Considering I don't really have a suitcase, I use a duffle bag. My passport. I can get anything out in the world, but I need that passport to feel whole.