Romi Mayes - Bourbon Voice

Embracing the Solo Journey: Romi Mayes on Touring and Music

Romi Mayes about her (upcoming) solo tour, the challenges of performing in harsh weather, and her unique approach to music. 

As artists embark on their musical journeys, they often face challenges that test their resilience and creativity. Romi Mayes, a talented musician with over three decades of experience, shares her experiences and insights as she prepares for her first solo tour in years. In this post, we’ll explore the challenges of touring in Canada, the unpredictability of weather, and the personal growth that comes from stepping into the spotlight alone.

Romi Mayes has been touring since the late nineties, and she knows all too well the unique challenges that come with it, especially in Canada. Just recently, she faced a daunting situation: performing in Gimli, Manitoba, with temperatures plummeting to minus 45 degrees. "What are we doing? We shouldn’t even be considering this," she joked about the experience, highlighting the unpredictability of Canadian weather.

Romi notes that after years of performing, she’s learned the hard way about scheduling tours in March. The winter can linger, and the unpredictable conditions can lead to cancellations.

Over the years, she’s adapted her touring habits. "Nothing’s worth it anymore," she emphasized, indicating a shift towards making safer and more informed decisions about when and where to perform.

The challenges of harsh weather not only affect the logistics of touring but also impact artists' well-being. Romi's candidness about these experiences provides a relatable insight into the life of a touring musician.

As Romi gears up for her first solo tour in years, she expresses a mix of excitement and apprehension. "It’s terrifying," she admits, reflecting on her transition from performing with a band to going solo. This shift is significant, as it strips down the performance to its core elements: her voice and her guitar.

Romi has always leaned on her band members during performances, which provided her with support. Now, she must rely solely on herself, which brings both pressure and the opportunity for growth.
To maintain her voice during her solo tour, Romi is taking proactive measures, such as using a nebulizer and being mindful of her vocal health. This newfound focus on her voice highlights the importance of self-care in the music industry.

Her journey reflects a common narrative within the artist community: the shift from comfort to challenge can lead to remarkable personal and professional growth.

Touring is not just about the music; it’s also about the connections made along the way. Romi speaks about the importance of engaging with audiences and fellow artists. 

Romi emphasizes the joy of meeting fans and friends during her tours. "There are people I haven’t seen in a while, and we’re going to go out for a drink or hang out," she shares, demonstrating her appreciation for the community that music fosters.
Each performance is a chance to connect with others in the industry, and Romi acknowledges how these interactions can lead to future opportunities.

Her perspective on building relationships through music serves as a reminder of the collaborative spirit that exists within the industry, even amidst the challenges.

Romi Mayes’ journey as a musician is filled with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. As she embarks on her solo tour, she carries with her years of experience and newfound insights that will undoubtedly shape her performances. For those aspiring to pursue a career in music, Romi’s story offers valuable lessons on embracing challenges and the importance of connection in the industry. 

**Want to go deeper? Listen to the complete episode with Romi Mayes and find her at www.romimayes.ca