Q & A WITH KENNY BARNWELL

Kenny Barnwell grew up in Georgia where he learned to play lots of instruments as a young boy, but got hooked on drugs and was homeless by sixteen. In fact, he was living in a van when someone introduced him to stage hand work. 

Fast forward through an eventful twenty-two-year career where he’s worked with bands like Bon Jovi, Stray Kids, Korn, Seal, and Amos Lee, playing the role of backline technician, stage manager, and occasionally a tour or production manager.

Now based in Tampa, Florida, he currently works with The Jonas Brothers while simultaneously running Crew Coach, which he founded, to mentor and coach the next generation of live production industry professionals.

You can find him @Kenny Barnwell on FB and @thekennybarnwell on Instagram.

Favorite concert or live show you’ve attended as a fan (not for work)?
Probably a Broadway show. My wife is a contemporary dancer and she’s opened me up to contemporary dance shows that I really like, like Alvin Ailey

Is there anything you try to do every off day?
I try to exercise every day, including off days. And because I spend time in the hotel coaching on off days, I also try to walk outside as well to get out of the hotel for a bit.

One to three must have work-related tool(s)? (Computer, gear, tool, phone app, etc.)?
Peterson Strobe Tuner
A good Flash light
Polish cloth: Very important for awards shows, tv shows etc. to make instruments look nice!

Are there any standard industry practices that you’d like to see change?
Not really actually. The industry is so dynamic with so many levels, and everyone has their own way to run and operate things. It’s all what you make of it, how you build relationships and move through it. Even unions, which can be frustrating, have their place. Personally, I choose to lead with grace. But the industry offers tremendous opportunity for people who want it.

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.)?
I started using the Z lock method for restringing guitars, which is a great way to save time and secure strings. I learned this method on a tour when I needed to quick change a string every night during the performance.

I’ve also integrated many new perspectives and insights for my career that have positively impacted my work. Helping others see a better way of doing things also impacts my work in a positive way.

Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-8 years?
Because of the crew shortage caused by the pandemic, standards for quality were forced down. But I think we’re on the other side of that, and back to demanding quality personnel despite any disconnect between available crew and opportunities.
Artists see live shows as a primary means of making money, new technologies will force tours to get bigger, and our industry will continue to grow.

How much sleep do you actually get? And how do you manage sleep deprivation?
I use the acronym MEDS: Meditation. Exercise. Diet. Sleep.
At times I do get tired. But I feel that most of the time it’s a choice, and honestly, getting sleep is usually never a problem for me. I choose no after show food or alcohol, which enables me to exercise and focus on my diet. No cell phone one hour before going to sleep. Instead, I read to disconnect and wind down. All of which makes for better sleep to get recharged.

What improves your day at a show?
Being the positive guy. I love to be the positive vibe of the tour, full of smiles, energy and encouragement. Positivity loves company, and it spreads. Especially when you have multiple positive people on a tour.

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?
It can be a love hate relationship, but it’s a choice and I have a passion for it. I’m motivated, inspired and driven. And being on the road allows me to set an example for the next generation as well.
I have a wife and two kids under two years old at home. They are a motivator as I focus on transitioning into my next career as a speaker, author, and coach, which will allow me to be home with them more often.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in the live production industry (perhaps something you wish someone would have told you when you were getting started)?
Try all paths until you find the right thing. But keep in mind that tours hire specialists not generalists, so eventually you have to choose something. Once you know what you want to do, don’t sit long. Be intentional, keep moving your education and relationships forward as much as possible. There is no number you need to hit, no amount of years you must be in the industry to get to the next level. It’s all about how willing you are to step up

What's the most essential thing in your suitcase?
Toothbrush and deodorant