Q & A WITH MATT WILSON
Matt Wilson is one of those guys who rarely slows down. Except for the mandatory COVID-19 break of 2020, catching him at his Lexington, KY home is a rare occurrence. He keeps his calendar full jumping from gig to gig, covering tour and production management duties. He also handles both front of house or monitor engineer positions on the audio side of things. .
His most recent resume includes artists like Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, Thrice, Motion City Soundtrack, and Bayside. But that is just the shortlist. There have been numerous others throughout his fifteen years in the industry.
In May of 2020, with the industry on pause, I knew I might catch him at home, so I checked in.
Favorite concert or live show you've attended as a fan (not for work)?
Sigur Ros Takk Tour, or any Springsteen show.
Is there anything you try to do every off day?
I try to force myself to have an actual off day. It's fine to do your catch-up, but make time for yourself as well.
What is one to three must have work-related tool(s)? (Computer, gear, tool, phone app, etc.)?
Definitely my computer. My USB and iLok for sound. Master Tour is essential for me.
Are there any standard industry practices that you'd like to change?
Better inclusion for the women in our industry. They have to work twice as hard to be heard. I've encountered some artists (none of the ones I've listed) that simply won't hire women due to how it makes the band look. The change has already started to happen, but there's still a lot of work to be done. All of my "top" badass TM/PM/FOH/Promoter/etc. are all strong women.
Since you began working in this industry, are there any concepts or practices you've implemented that have positively impacted your work (reduced stress, saved time, etc.)?
Master Tour, for Guest List alone. Also, having a very solid production advance.
Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-8 years?
I'm already seeing the change due to COVID19. We just did a drive-in show where there was really no PA, just FM and a WIFI based app called Mix Halo. We had some kinks to figure out, but it's in the ballpark.
How much sleep do you actually get? And how do you manage sleep deprivation?
Having a kid made me realize that sleep is a blessing. Really good coffee keeps me going.
What improves your day at a show?
A great crew, from both sides of the tour and the house.
Our industry isn't as glamorous as often perceived. What motivates you to work such long hours and be away from home for extended periods?
On those special shows, you feel that you helped bring something to life for the greater good.
What advice would you give to someone just starting his or her career in the live production industry (perhaps something you wish someone would have told you when you were getting started)?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't play the fake it till you make it card. Be upfront and say, "I haven't used this before, can you give me walk-through?" That will save you a lot of mistakes.
What's the most essential thing in your suitcase?
Clean clothes.