MEGADETH Tour Manager Tracey "MegaBlonde" Wiedeman Recaps Priest Feast - "What A Long Strange Trip It's Been"

May 1, 2009, 15 years ago

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MEGADETH tour manager Tracey "MegaBlonde" Wiedeman has filed the following report on the European leg of the Priest Feast:

"Often times I stop to simply say, 'Thank You.' I realize how lucky I have been to travel the world. I appreciate that I have been to places some people will never see. I owe this greatly in part to Dave Mustaine. If there had been no Megadeth, there would not be so many wonderful memories.

Now that the European Priestfeast tour has come to a close, the launch of the new Dave Mustaine Signature Marshall cabinets took place in Frankfurt at Musikmesse and the Revolver Golden God Awards have come and gone it gives me time to reflect of our time on the road.

Although I feel very blessed for all that I have experienced, life on the road is not easy. Most people think it’s all parties and play. Don’t get me wrong, we find a way to have a good time wherever we go, but being on the road is a lot of hard work, sleepless hours and is very strenuous on all relationships whether it be with your mate, your family or even your friends. On the road, all we have is each other. Fortunately, the Megadeth camp is a true family. There is always someone there to offer you support if you are having a bad day. There was one day in particular I was going through some personal issues and Dave knew I was going through a rough time and he came in to production just to see if I wanted a hug. It’s these little things that make all the difference as we roll down the heavy metal highway.

On this last tour, we had the unique experience to witness the continuation of work on the new album. Our crew would set up a mini studio in the dressing room, in the top front lounge of our bus or in Dave’s hotel rooms, etc. Fans will not be disappointed in what’s soon to come. The lyrics are compelling and the riffs are strong. It will surely be everything we have always loved about Megadeth.

Dave’s intelligence and sense of humor still never ceases to amaze me. Dave continues to always teach me something new and on a daily basis and every day out of nowhere he would crack a joke that would make me bust out laughing out loud to which he would always reply, 'you like that one?'

There could not be a better group of band guys to Tour Manage. James Lomenzo is always full of wisdom and funny one liners, Chris Broderick is either working out or practicing on his guitar and Shawn Drover is humble and a good listener after a long, strenuous day. Overall, they sure help make my job a lot easier! 'Thanks guys!'

As always, the fans were amazing in Europe. They are extremely loyal and supportive. We had meet and greet contests for fan club members at every show and they were all so very kind, appreciative and hospitable. It was a pleasure to get the opportunity to meet some of the fans in each city and a great big thank you to those of you who brought gifts, which is always unnecessary but thoughtful. It was also a delight to once again have the pleasure of working with all of our International reps from Roadrunner records. They are always so professional and helpful. It’s always nice to see them again.

I am frequently asked what my favorite part of the tour has been...."

Go to this location for Wiedeman's complete journal entry.


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