THE EFFICIENT HUSTLE

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Q & A WITH DANNY DEL PRINCIPE

Favorite concert or live show you’ve attended as a fan (not for work)?
I got to see Phil Collins pretty recently at the Prudential Center in Newark, That was fucking epic, the set list was absolutely perfect. Honorable mentions, Pearl Jam at Bonnaroo 08, Metallica at Webster Hall 2017

Is there anything you try to do every off day?
I use off days mostly for solo missions. Doing merch and interacting with a slew of different people on a nightly basis definitely takes its toll on you mentally. So you definitely need to carve out some time for yourself. And for me that’s what days off are for. On any given day off you’re guaranteed to find me at a Dave and Busters, or a Movie Theater. Or on the bus watching Letterkenny. 

What are one to three work-related tool(s) you can’t do without? (Computer, gear, tool, phone app, etc.)?
Gaff Tape  

Are there any standard industry practices that you’d like to change?
If the venue is getting a cut of the merch, why isn’t the Band/ Artist getting a cut of the bar?

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.)?
The evolution of the credit card machine. That’s the ultimate game changer for me. I can’t even fathom touring without that now a days. 

Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-8 years?
For fucks sake, hopefully less mumble rap and face tattoos, and more substance and vulnerability. I sound old dammit. 

What ruins your day at a show?
I can tell you objectively now having experience on both sides of the coin between touring and venue work. The deal breaker on any day is how well a touring/ venue crew can jive together. Sometimes, all it takes is one person knowing another person on each respective crew to make everything comfortable and easy for the day. And on any given day, all it takes is someone talking to you the wrong way or having a bad attitude to put you in the “fuck this person” mindset. I find that happens often, and you really gotta step back in those situations and take a minute and realize “shit, this could be a lot worse, but let’s try to make it better”. 

What improves your day at a show?
Coffee, and then 3 more coffees, vegan options, free popcorn....or just popcorn in the venue in general. 

Our industry isn’t as glamorous as often perceived, what continues to motivate you to work such long hours and be away from home for extended periods of time?
I just try to be grateful every single day. I know a lot of people who hate their jobs, and go to work miserable every day. I’ve never known that struggle in my adult life. I can honestly say with all the insane shit that happens on tour on a daily basis, I’ve never wanted to trade it for a desk job. 

How do you stay connected to home while away (or do you?)
Smart phone/ tablets all the way. 

What's the most important thing in your suitcase?
Deodorant, clean socks and underwear. Hands down no questions asked