Many of you have been to mega-shows, where you rely on big screens, or binoculars to even catch a glimpse of the act you paid big dollars for. As you can guess, alot of money, and planning would go into this. In the 60's and 70's, huge media coverage brought huge demand to bring what music fans heard on the radio, to the city the fans were in. Huge tours were indeed new to everyone at that time. To put everything together, in untested waters, was an enormous challenge. There were a few special people that pulled it off. Sam Cutler was one of the few. Sam is most notarized for his work with The Rolling Stones. He is credited with a phrase we all know now. " Ladies and Gentlemen...the Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World... The Rolling Stones!"
Sam will always be associated with the violent incident at the free concert in Altamont, California. He will also be noted to be associated Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, and Alex Korner. Sam ALSO organized some of the largest Rock n Rolls show EVER, outside of Woodstock. You can catch many glimpses of Sam in "Gimme Shelter", the documentary that blanketed the 1969 American Tour with The Stones. If there ever was a person to ask questions about putting together something HUGE, I would go with Mr. Cutler.
The questions and answers are short here. I just didn't see taking up alot of this man's time. I didn't want to come off as being another person, that wanted somethin' for nothin'
How did you become a tour manager?
I started being a stage manager and a production manager on shows learning how everything works, the went on to be a tour manager. My first job was with Alex Korner.
If you could start over again, what career path would you have chosen?
I am happy with what happened, and would have it no other way.
Who was the funniest musician you ever handled?
Doug Sahm was pretty funny.
Which current acts would you enjoy working with?
The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
What are some of your favorite actors and Television Shows?
I love "Breaking Bad", but no other that watching the news. I stay away from Television.
Are there any musicians you would have liked to have met, but never got the chance?
Johnny Cash
What activities do you enjoy now?
I have been a writer for many years.
I am sure this book has somethin' to it for anyone intriqued with the music industry.There is a tad more than plug in the amp involved. Musical integrity lies in the hand of every musician that takes time. Time away from others, time away from regular employment, time to learn the actual weight of music. I'll almost bet ANYthing Sam Cutler writes doesn't cost near as much as many concert tickets do now. How would you feel if a man of this stature in music history gave you a few minutes? I KNOW I've learned what I need.
I encourage everyone to share this interview, and at least learn a little bit about Sam Cutler. These people behind the scenes have brought you more than you have ever known. People like Sam were trusted, with ALOT to lose. EVERYONE needs to show Mr.Cutler some love and respect. Without guys like that, your Youtube, Album Collection, I-Pod, etc. sure would be lacking.
Interview by Ron "RoosterpuDDin" Isbell
