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.
We chatted with tour manager and artist manager Drew Magid, who has worked with some of the biggest names in music—like Imagine Dragons, Charlie Puth, and Grouplove. From life on the road to becoming a new dad, Drew shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned from a career spent behind the scenes.
Listen to the whole episode now! Click here to listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube!
Saying Yes and Figuring It Out Later
Drew’s career took off with a surprise call during a Valentine’s Day shift at Pizzeria Uno. With zero merch experience, he jumped into touring with Young the Giant and learned everything on the fly.
“I told them I was the best merch guy in the world… I had no idea what I was doing.”
This say-yes-first attitude kept opening doors, eventually leading him to manage larger tours with Grouplove, Imagine Dragons, and more.
Managing the Crew, Not Just the Tour
Touring life is chaotic—think broken-down school buses, sleepless nights, and juggling multiple roles. But for Drew, managing people is just as important as running logistics.
“If your crew isn’t happy, your band won’t be either.”
From ensuring buses are stocked with ice to making sure artists are set up for success, he learned that the key to a smooth tour is keeping everyone—crew and artists—motivated and taken care of.
From Tour Manager to Artist Manager
After years on the road, Drew set his sights on artist management. He wanted to help artists think beyond the next tour—building long-term careers, not just filling up schedules.
“When you’re a manager, it’s about more than just making things happen. You need to ask why you’re doing them.”
With Big Loud Management, Drew now works with artists like Mackenzie Porter and Dallas Smith, helping them navigate everything from touring to social media strategy.
Balancing Fatherhood, Fitness, and Philanthropy
These days, Drew is adjusting to life as a new dad. While sleepless nights with his newborn son might rival the chaos of tour life, endurance sports keep him grounded. Having completed multiple Ironman races, he finds running clears his head.
“When things get crazy, that’s when I think the most clearly.”
He also channels his energy into philanthropy. Drew has raised funds for Culture City and the American Cancer Society through events and concerts, calling these experiences the most meaningful of his career.
“If you have time to help, you should.”
A Career Built on Hustle and Relationships
Drew’s journey from merch guy to artist manager shows the value of hard work, adaptability, and never being afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s managing international tours or juggling diaper duty, Drew’s approach is simple:
“A no today doesn’t mean no forever.”
Listen to the full conversation on the Giggs Podcast to hear more about Drew’s wild ride through the music industry—and maybe pick up a few tips for your own hustle.
