just another roadie {s.t}

1

CURRENTLY REWRITING / EDITING

I huffed as I load the final piece of heavy equipment onto the bus. I just finished packing up the first show of the tour with the band System of a Down. I say just "I" because the assholes that I unfortunately have to work with were apparently too busy to help me pack up. Whatever their excuse was, I was frustrated to say the least. I mean, it wasn't too bad but definitely not a one man job.

I walk back into the venue, my skin warming up from being outside for so long, and admire the satisfyingly empty arena. Although the concert was long finished, I could still feel the excitement radiating throughout the building. I wasn't super familiar with the band, but they do put on quite the show.

However, I enjoy doing my research on the bands I tour with beforehand, even if the information can be a bit inconsistent and somewhat false, it is a good base to start off with. From what I've gathered they are a band of talented, gorgeous Armenian guys that make beautiful music, not just in their sound, but also in the meaning behind each song.

Before getting this job I knew the basic songs I would occasionally hear on the radio or with friends, but since then I've gotten more into their music, I have also gained an appreciation and respect for the group. It was really interesting to listen to their songs and deciphering the meaning behind it while I could not sleep a few nights before. I believe enjoying the music that the band I am helping out on tour creates is very important.

"Is that everything?" My boss, Jim, asked with a tone that showed he did not feel the same energy in the venue as I did.

"Yep, just packed the last of it a moment ago. Maybe next time you can get some of your other employees the help me next time, hmm?" I replied in annoyance. I feel as though he believes that I am the only one with legs sometimes.

I watch Jim walk back into the building, knowing damn well he was just trying to find something I may have forgotten about to patronize me. Soon enough he walks back out and gives me a dramatic puff to show his displeasure.

"You forgot about the backup mic, Val," he said in a snarky tone that made me want to clock him in the jaw.

"Maybe if you made the other people here do their damn job we wouldn't be having this issue." I told him, obviously reaching my limit with annoyances tonight.

"Get it done." He told me sternly before leaving my sight.

I rolled my eyes when he left my field of vision. If he was in there why couldn't he just get it? Does he really see me as such a mule? I push my thoughts aside and make my way back into the arena once again, wanting to argue more with the man, but realized that my job depended on me sitting there and taking it from him.

'What is that guys problem with me?' I thought to myself. The man didn't even tell me where the mic was, how the hell am I supposed to find it?

I search for about ten minutes before I slump down on one of the comfy black leather chairs that they kept backstage, presumably for the band and crewp. Should I keep looking? Yeah, probably, but I need a break dammit. I just finished packing up a ton of heavy music and sound equipment, I believe I am entitled to a five minute break.

I sit on the chair in silence with my head in my hands as I shut my eyes for a brief moment. You would really think that the only woman on the team that I would receive special treatment. Although, as much as I hate how unfairly my boss treats me, I would much rather be doing this than working behind a counter or desk.

I sit for another few glorious moments, setting the muscles in my legs and back rest before I spring back into action. Soon, I continue my search, looking under tables and chairs, searching every desk. What the hell was he talking about? It can't be here, he must have made a mistake. I rub my scalp out of frustration and turn around to walk back to the bus I previously packed.