Birmingham Rock Band Lifts the Lid on the Demands of Touring Life
A Birmingham-based rock band has pulled back the curtain on the infamous rock and roll lifestyle, describing it as a significant sacrifice that requires immense dedication and resilience.
The Formation and Roots of Second Cities
Formed in 2017, Second Cities blends elements of emo and rock, with a name that proudly reflects their Birmingham origins. The band was originally established at Access Creative College in Digbeth, with drummer Josh Zaidi-Crosse joining the lineup approximately 18 months later.
The current members include Jamie Martin as the lead singer, Josh Zaidi-Crosse on drums, Tony Mac and Zoey Luna on guitars, and Damon Springthorpe on bass.
Early Musical Influences and Inspirations
For lead vocalist Jamie Martin, his musical journey began in his mother's church, where he first learned to play the trombone. His passion for rock music was ignited upon discovering the band Green Day, setting him on a path toward a career in rock and roll.
Similarly, drummer Josh Zaidi-Crosse grew up watching his father perform in a church band, an experience that continues to inspire him. Josh credits his father as a key motivator, constantly pushing him to strive for success in the music industry.
The Reality of Balancing Music and Work
The band members are grounded in reality, often working day jobs to financially support their musical endeavors. Jamie works in customer service, while Josh juggles multiple roles, including part-time care work, to make ends meet while pursuing their passion.
The Sacrifices of Touring and Life on the Road
In an interview conducted at the Digbeth rock bar Subside, Jamie Martin elaborated on the harsh realities of touring. He emphasized that to truly embrace this lifestyle, musicians must embark on extended tours, leaving behind friends, family, and even pets for prolonged periods.
Jamie stated, "It's a sacrifice. I've met musicians out on the road who come back like a soldier returning from war. The child they had when they left might be walking and talking when they return."
He further explained that the touring process is incredibly demanding, requiring a specific type of person who can endure sleepless nights and early morning travel. Despite these challenges, Jamie remains unwavering in his commitment, saying, "But there's nothing else I want to do. Don't get me wrong, I love my job and they support me with my passion. But my passion is my career."
Over time, the band has reached a point where their work is flexible, and they no longer need to inject personal funds, as the band has begun to sustain itself financially.
Learning and Adapting Through Experience
Drummer Josh Zaidi-Crosse shared insights from their early touring days, recalling how the band had to share beds during their first tour, a humbling experience that taught them valuable lessons. He noted, "We learnt not to take multiple cars and instead take a touring van and stuff where you learn and adapt."
Josh highlighted that in the music industry, bands typically do not start generating significant income until a few years in, when fans begin purchasing merchandise and tickets. He described this as a process that requires trust and perseverance, adding, "You have to make anything work in order to succeed."
Growing Recognition and Future Prospects
The band continues to find the experience surreal, with Jamie mentioning that they are occasionally recognized on the streets by fans. They have also cultivated a growing following in Germany, marking an exciting expansion of their audience.
Reflecting on performances, Jamie admitted, "Whenever you get off from performing, you think 'oh my god, can I do this again tomorrow?'"—a sentiment that underscores the relentless nature of their career.
For those interested in learning more about Second Cities, a documentary detailing the creation of their latest album, 'Secrets,' is available for viewing on YouTube.
