Music Club - Whole Lotta Roadies
Music Club - Whole Lotta Roadies
This year, the Fruit Tree Foundation announced the creation of a unique album, 'Whole Lotta Roadies', put together by some of Scotland’s most loved musical artists and their crew. The project was initiated by Rod Jones of Idlewild, with the aim of raising awareness and funds for the live music crew, who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and it's restrictions on live shows.
On the line-up for this one-off recorded extravaganza are Belle and Sebastian, Mogwai, Twin Atlantic, Arab Strap, The Proclaimers, KT Tunstall, Fatherson, Emma Pollock, Honeyblood, Kathryn Joseph, The Rezillos, The Xcerts, and Idlewild.
We caught up with Rod to find out more about the album.
Can you tell us a little more about the ‘Whole Lotta Roadies’ initiative? Why did you decide to do this?
It really came from just reading how so many friends who had worked with our band over the years were struggling with lack of any work or support during this crisis. I thought about how many of our crew and crew in general were amazing musicians in their own right and wanted to try and showcase that alongside raising awareness of how important they are to the live music industry. Also hoping to raise some money to help those in need.
Some of the biggest acts in the Scottish music industry are featured in ‘Whole Lotta Roadies’. Can you tell us about the compilation of the album? What role does the road crew play?
The list of bands and artists is phenomenal and really everyone who I asked that was able jumped at the chance to get involve and help. The crew essentially cover a song from the band they have worked with over the years and then the singer from the band adds vocals.
It must have been unusual recording an album during a pandemic, how did you make this work?
It's had its challenges with distancing and organising safely getting everyone in and out in small groups. We just had to piece things together bit by bit with a lot of notes and some very well prepared crew members who were fantastic.
How did the crew choose which song they would cover?
We asked fans of the bands to choose the songs and then let the crew pick from the top few suggestions.
We can’t wait to hear the album…when will this be released? Where can we purchase it?
We are aiming at 18th Dec assuming we can get it all finished with restrictions in place. It can be pre ordered now on Bandcamp and will be released there exclusively.
What do you think the music industry will look like post COVID-19?
Your guess is as good as mine but hopefully with some support it will bounce back. There’s alot of talented, creative and hard working people who will never stop making music and a lot of people who rely on it for joy!
How do you think Scotland has influenced the music industry?
Scottish music has influenced so many bands and artists over the years. For such a small country the creative output is incredible and far reaching.
Pre-order the Whole Lotta Roadies album here.
Follow Whole Lotta Roadies on Instagram @wholelottaroadies.
