Welcome to The Giggs Podcast! Giggs is the career platform for live event professionals. We're starting this podcast because there's not nearly enough content out there about what it really takes to be on the road. Whether you're an aspiring tour manager, a seasoned backline tech, or just getting started in the business, this podcast is for you. We're taking you behind the scenes to explore the highs and the lows of life gigging on the Giggs Podcast.
Touring with some of the world’s biggest stars like Post Malone, BTS, Madonna, and Jay-Z isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life. Angie Warner, a tour manager with over 24 years of experience, knows this better than anyone. From humble beginnings as a local runner to managing massive global tours, her story is one of hard work, resilience, and a deep love for live events. Let’s dive into her journey, lessons learned, and the challenges of managing some of the biggest acts on the planet.
Listen to the whole episode now! Click here to listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube!Starting from the Bottom
Angie’s career began in the trenches, working as a runner at venues in Charlotte, NC. It was there that she built relationships and gained the trust of production teams, leading to her big break: a job on NSYNC’s 2000 stadium tour. That first tour taught her how to build a family on the road, a lesson she’s carried with her ever since. “We all looked after each other,” she says, remembering how important it was to keep the crew connected and cared for.
The Story of Stoney, the Touring Dog
One of Angie’s most cherished companions on the road is Stoney, her dog who joined her team right before COVID hit. Stoney isn’t just a pet—he’s become a beloved member of Angie’s touring family. Not only does he bring joy to everyone on tour, but he’s also proven to have an almost sixth sense when it comes to people in distress. One unforgettable moment happened in LA when Stoney alerted security to a woman having a mental health crisis, potentially saving her life.
Stoney’s adventures have also gone viral. He’s become a fan favorite on social media, with appearances alongside BTS and Post Malone. But to Angie, he’s more than a cute tour mascot—he’s family.
Life on the Road: The Ups and Downs
Touring is tough. Long days, constant travel, and high-pressure environments are par for the course. But what keeps Angie going is the bond she forms with her crew. "The road is like a family for people who might not have one at home," she explains. For Angie, looking after her crew’s mental health is just as important as making sure the tour runs smoothly.
But after years of managing grueling schedules, even Angie has had to take a step back. The physical toll of constant touring—lack of sleep, unhealthy eating, and stress—caught up with her, and she began to experience heart palpitations and anxiety. “Something had to give,” she says. This led her to shift into country music, where the pace is a little slower, and she can find more balance.
The Evolving Live Music Industry
Over the years, Angie has seen the live event industry change dramatically. Where touring used to be a way to promote albums, it’s now often the main source of income for artists. That means longer tours, tighter schedules, and bigger demands. But Angie takes it all in stride, having managed some of the most complex tours in music history.
She’s also seen a rise in female leadership. “There are so many more women in the industry now, doing everything from tour management to rigging,” she says proudly. Angie herself has been a trailblazer, showing that women can not only keep up with the guys but bring their own unique strengths to the table.
Advice for Aspiring Tour Managers
For those looking to get into the industry, Angie’s advice is simple: start at the bottom. “Be a runner, learn every job, and build relationships,” she says. “There’s no one way to get into touring, but you have to be ready to hustle.” Angie’s career is proof that hard work and a willingness to take on any task can open the door to incredible opportunities.
But perhaps her most important advice is to take care of yourself. Touring is demanding, and burnout is real. Whether it’s through exercise, nutrition, or downtime with Stoney, Angie has learned that maintaining balance is key to sustaining a long career on the road.
Final Thoughts
Angie Warner’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for live music. She’s not just a tour manager—she’s a mentor, a leader, and a role model for the next generation of industry professionals. Her journey reminds us that while the road can be tough, it’s the moments of connection and joy that make it all worth it.
