What do you think?
Rate this book
Memoir of a Roadie
Joel Miller is an ex- roadie for Guns N’ Roses, Poison, Stone Temple Pilots, & The Cranberries. His autobiography is an often-hilarious personal account of a young man in his early 20’s trying to be a “good” roadie while also trying to understand life’s big picture. Through the advice of rock stars and career roadies Joel tries to find the pathway to roadie righteousness.
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2020
294 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Joel Miller
3 books7 followersJoel A. Miller is a British-American writer and filmmaker. He is the writer and director of the film The Still Life and wrote the autobiography Memoir of a Roadie.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 7, 2021
Some great inside stories about quite a few bands (GNR, Poison, STP, Cranberries) and the author's writing style is all over the place and manic, but it actually works. It gives you the sense of the chaos on a daily basis anyone on the road with musical acts endures.
January 1, 2021
GREAT read by a FUN author!
I love rock books & this one was GREAT, I literally couldn't put it down! The author Joel (roadie name Rifken) is very cute, VERY cool, and a LOT of fun to read, he's just a lot of fun period. Read this, you won't regret it! (can't wait for his next one, BTW!)
I love rock books & this one was GREAT, I literally couldn't put it down! The author Joel (roadie name Rifken) is very cute, VERY cool, and a LOT of fun to read, he's just a lot of fun period. Read this, you won't regret it! (can't wait for his next one, BTW!)
December 28, 2020
Very interesting book about the life of a roadie. Good good read.
September 12, 2020
Early on, I figured out that Joel and I are relatively the same age. This and my involvement in my local music scene made it very easy for me to relate to the stories and adventures that Joel has recounted in this phenomenal work. If you've ever wondered what it was like on the road of a rock tour, this book is a definite must read. Not only do you get to read about how stages are born and die, interactions between the behind the scenes staff, interactions with the people who live in the city, but also down to Earth conversations with rock Gods are also covered. Joel does an excellent job of pulling you into the lifestyle and letting you live through his trials, tribulations, and emotions.
August 19, 2020
Love this book ! From the start I felt like I was back in the golden years of Rock. Visually descriptive with a sense of humor not forced the book has direct appeal to anyone who loves Rock and wondered about the behind the scenes of that life. The writer has a candid honest approach which never goes over the top and leaves us wanting more at the end. I enjoyed the read, and would recommend enthusiastically to anyone who just wants to enjoy a great walk down memory lane through the eyes of a great writer who lived it. Dave in NYC 👍
September 11, 2020
Joel Miller, the roadie with aspiration!
I enjoyed this carefree account of a wiseguy that learns some important life lesson while working as a rock n roll roadie. He shows you that new job preparation isn't always mandatory.
I enjoyed this carefree account of a wiseguy that learns some important life lesson while working as a rock n roll roadie. He shows you that new job preparation isn't always mandatory.
October 16, 2023
The overall tone of this audiobook was so immature I had a hard time listening to it. It was like listening to a 12 year old straight, white boy talk about his road experiences, sparing any possible political correctness. I didn’t like it.
October 25, 2023
I do enjoy memoirs and this one covered an industry I know well. In the end, it reinforced that roadies work hard, party hard and generally are a#$holes to everyone.
January 18, 2021
Dreamt of being a roadie
In high school my friends and I were huge fans of heavy metal bands like Megadeth and Anthrax. We'd always stay after the show ended to see the stage taken down and packed. We talked about being roadies but didn't know how to get started. So it never happened but the book provides what life would have been like as a roadie. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
In high school my friends and I were huge fans of heavy metal bands like Megadeth and Anthrax. We'd always stay after the show ended to see the stage taken down and packed. We talked about being roadies but didn't know how to get started. So it never happened but the book provides what life would have been like as a roadie. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
August 17, 2024
The 'Roadie Ramblings' peppered throughout the book are boring & not the edgy, hot take he thinks they are. Misogynistic & offensive commentary with appalling grammar and made-up words. The audiobook was difficult to listen to as he described most things as either it 'sucked' or it 'kicked ass' in an overly dramatic heavy accent. Do not recommend. Would give zero stars if I could. I finished it because I was waiting for the interesting stories. They don't exist.
August 28, 2020
It’s a Long Way to the Top—A Road-Warrior’s Guide to Rock ‘N Roll
Joel Miller’s ‘Memoir of a Roadie: Axl said I made a great cup of tea…’ offers readers a no-holds-barred, ‘behind the scenes’ look at life on the road with some of the biggest rock acts of all time.
Leaning heavily on his ‘fly on the wall’ experience as a roadie for some of the ‘80s and ‘90s biggest acts (from G&R and STP to Poison and The Cranberries), Miller recounts one classic tale after another. And while fans of those acts will undoubtedly enjoy a bevy of never-before-heard tales of decibels and debauchery, this is so much more than your run-of-the-mill ‘chicks, guitars, and fast-cars’ bio.
Beginning in his early twenties, Miller’s narrative from humble beginnings to working some of the world’s biggest ‘stages’ is both highly entertaining and surprisingly reflective. Not only do we learn the priceless ‘rock star’ secrets—yes, he really did make AXL a cup of tea—Miller also offers readers a vicarious glimpse into the frenetic life of a rock band on the road.
While technically a memoir, Miller’s conversational tone and unflinching honesty makes for an incredibly captivating read from start to finish. Loaded with never-before-seen pictures and chock full of hilarious observations and fascinating anecdotes, Joel Miller’s ‘Memoir of a Roadie’ is one of the best ‘rock’ books on the proverbial shelves by someone you’ve probably never heard of—a ‘must-read’ for rock fans everywhere.
Joel Miller’s ‘Memoir of a Roadie: Axl said I made a great cup of tea…’ offers readers a no-holds-barred, ‘behind the scenes’ look at life on the road with some of the biggest rock acts of all time.
Leaning heavily on his ‘fly on the wall’ experience as a roadie for some of the ‘80s and ‘90s biggest acts (from G&R and STP to Poison and The Cranberries), Miller recounts one classic tale after another. And while fans of those acts will undoubtedly enjoy a bevy of never-before-heard tales of decibels and debauchery, this is so much more than your run-of-the-mill ‘chicks, guitars, and fast-cars’ bio.
Beginning in his early twenties, Miller’s narrative from humble beginnings to working some of the world’s biggest ‘stages’ is both highly entertaining and surprisingly reflective. Not only do we learn the priceless ‘rock star’ secrets—yes, he really did make AXL a cup of tea—Miller also offers readers a vicarious glimpse into the frenetic life of a rock band on the road.
While technically a memoir, Miller’s conversational tone and unflinching honesty makes for an incredibly captivating read from start to finish. Loaded with never-before-seen pictures and chock full of hilarious observations and fascinating anecdotes, Joel Miller’s ‘Memoir of a Roadie’ is one of the best ‘rock’ books on the proverbial shelves by someone you’ve probably never heard of—a ‘must-read’ for rock fans everywhere.
January 27, 2021
Do not waste your money
This is a book about an egotistical, foul mouthed alcoholic drug user. His vanity is sickening! He thinks he is top stuff in the rock n roll roadie department. Joel worked for has been bands like Axl Rose without the original line up. Stone Temple Pilots is another and Poison. Bret never speaks to Joel because HD witnesses what a jerk This kid is. This kids whole world revolves around himself. He abandons his dying father to go on assignment with the Cranberries in Mexico. Oh ! And his mother just found out she has breast cancer! He is never sober. Joel is hungover at all the gigs ! He starts and fails at every business adventure he tries. But back to his pretend relationship with Axl..
Axl Rose said six words to the guy, literally and he used it to con readers into buy this book. He is rude to everyone! he admits that.
This is a book about an egotistical, foul mouthed alcoholic drug user. His vanity is sickening! He thinks he is top stuff in the rock n roll roadie department. Joel worked for has been bands like Axl Rose without the original line up. Stone Temple Pilots is another and Poison. Bret never speaks to Joel because HD witnesses what a jerk This kid is. This kids whole world revolves around himself. He abandons his dying father to go on assignment with the Cranberries in Mexico. Oh ! And his mother just found out she has breast cancer! He is never sober. Joel is hungover at all the gigs ! He starts and fails at every business adventure he tries. But back to his pretend relationship with Axl..
Axl Rose said six words to the guy, literally and he used it to con readers into buy this book. He is rude to everyone! he admits that.
February 1, 2021
I expected more from this book. While some of the stories of "roadie life" were entertaining, many became boring. I wish that he delved into more information of Scott Weiland - especially since he is no longer here. There were moments in the book that appear embellished in favor of the author.
In regards to the writing, I had read in another review that the author's writing was all over the place and I agree. There was a flow through a couple of chapters and then he was all over the place again.
Overall, it was not a bad book for free.
In regards to the writing, I had read in another review that the author's writing was all over the place and I agree. There was a flow through a couple of chapters and then he was all over the place again.
Overall, it was not a bad book for free.
March 17, 2021
I thought this was a good read overall. Was interesting hearing stories about STP and Godsmack. Was kinda disappointed that Rifkin didn't give any specific reason as to why he abruptly stopped being a touring roadie... Didn't really fill the reader in on how he has made a living ever since then... None of anyone's business really, but when you spend 7 hours investing in someone's story it's kinda cool to see how there life turned out...
January 25, 2021
Without content.
Rambled on, seemingly thinking he was funny and interesting.
Waste of time and do not waste your time.
Glad it was free.
Rambled on, seemingly thinking he was funny and interesting.
Waste of time and do not waste your time.
Glad it was free.
October 1, 2020
I was asked to review this book, and I said yes, because I love reading about everything rock ‘n’ roll. Plus, I’ve never read an autobiography by a roadie before.
If you’re expecting a tell-all about the rock stars Joel roadied for, you won’t get that here. These are Joel’s stories through his eyes about life on the road and how he became a roadie. You’ll meet the many roadies, tour managers, and everyone else who goes on the road to make a concert happen. There are glimpses of various rock bands, but nothing too personal or titillating.
The book has a nice opening. Joel is at a turning point in his life. He can’t be a kid anymore, but he’s not sure how to be that adult that he is. So when an opportunity present itself to go on the road, he takes the gamble.
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2020/10/0...
If you’re expecting a tell-all about the rock stars Joel roadied for, you won’t get that here. These are Joel’s stories through his eyes about life on the road and how he became a roadie. You’ll meet the many roadies, tour managers, and everyone else who goes on the road to make a concert happen. There are glimpses of various rock bands, but nothing too personal or titillating.
The book has a nice opening. Joel is at a turning point in his life. He can’t be a kid anymore, but he’s not sure how to be that adult that he is. So when an opportunity present itself to go on the road, he takes the gamble.
Read more here: https://maggieblackbird.com/2020/10/0...
January 21, 2022
3.5 stars. It was great to read a book written from a roadie’s perspective after having read so many by other music and film industry people.
The formatting reminds me of my first book, not a compliment. "Agreeance" is not a word. Perplexing how that got by all proof readers and editors.
It’s great to learn that my unfulfilled fantasies of being a roadie were exactly what they should have been, the job is tough and I wouldn’t have liked it.
Writing style is enjoyable. It’s funny how Joel repeatedly said he was trying to become a tough guy asshole. Maybe he always was.
I will send him my concertgoer’s tour book when it’s done.
The formatting reminds me of my first book, not a compliment. "Agreeance" is not a word. Perplexing how that got by all proof readers and editors.
It’s great to learn that my unfulfilled fantasies of being a roadie were exactly what they should have been, the job is tough and I wouldn’t have liked it.
Writing style is enjoyable. It’s funny how Joel repeatedly said he was trying to become a tough guy asshole. Maybe he always was.
I will send him my concertgoer’s tour book when it’s done.
April 23, 2023
READ IT!!! IT'S SO GOOD!!!
As a major rock fan who's gone to my share of concerts, I found this book to be both entertaining and informative. Joel is a total nut in this book and so are the guys he was working with. Lots of crazy antics and really funny moments throughout. While I know a roadie's job (obviously) is hard work; I never realized how much time daily is spent setting things up and taking it back down at each venue. But to have all of the experiences Joel had....I see it as a once in a lifetime experience. What a blast it must've been! Great book. Glad I found it.
As a major rock fan who's gone to my share of concerts, I found this book to be both entertaining and informative. Joel is a total nut in this book and so are the guys he was working with. Lots of crazy antics and really funny moments throughout. While I know a roadie's job (obviously) is hard work; I never realized how much time daily is spent setting things up and taking it back down at each venue. But to have all of the experiences Joel had....I see it as a once in a lifetime experience. What a blast it must've been! Great book. Glad I found it.
May 16, 2022
Fantastic, quick read. Enjoyable. Heavy on juvenile antics and colorful characters- I loved both. Enjoyed the theme of trying to determine what growing up is. Some missed opportunities though, that resulted in the lower rating. The lack of reflection on suicide seems stark, given the bands covered. The lack of reflection as to what would have been had the roadie life continued. And a theme of alcoholism that never was brougjt to a conclusion, one way or the other.
Great read. Could have been phenomenal.
Great read. Could have been phenomenal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2022
Having been a roadie myself in my younger years, on a much smaller scale than Joel, I could relate to some of the stories in this book which made me enjoy it so much more.
Music has always been my first love and it is nice to read a book that tells some of the truth behind the scenes without glorifying the debauched lifestyle sometimes led.
Some books in this field are egotistical and contain little substance, yes there are egotistical elements in this book but it is much better written than most others and it was a pleasure to read it.
Music has always been my first love and it is nice to read a book that tells some of the truth behind the scenes without glorifying the debauched lifestyle sometimes led.
Some books in this field are egotistical and contain little substance, yes there are egotistical elements in this book but it is much better written than most others and it was a pleasure to read it.
June 13, 2021
Kinda slow but actually good
This book was kinda slow at times but I actually enjoyed reading it. He talks about the craziness of being a roadie. There were a lot of people in the book. If he writes another one I would suggest a list of who is who and what they do. Also some more follow ups on the people. He really brought these people to life. I would read another book by him. It kept me entertained.
This book was kinda slow at times but I actually enjoyed reading it. He talks about the craziness of being a roadie. There were a lot of people in the book. If he writes another one I would suggest a list of who is who and what they do. Also some more follow ups on the people. He really brought these people to life. I would read another book by him. It kept me entertained.
September 22, 2024
Pretty boring for being about rock and roll
Not much happens here. You want to like the author, but time and time again, he's a bit of an asshole. I couldn't have cared less about his drunken escapades by the end.
Quite poorly written, also, both in the way sentences are structured, and it's very sloppy dealing with quotation marks. Shit like, "That's a no, no." Writer obviously thinks he's brilliant.
Not much happens here. You want to like the author, but time and time again, he's a bit of an asshole. I couldn't have cared less about his drunken escapades by the end.
Quite poorly written, also, both in the way sentences are structured, and it's very sloppy dealing with quotation marks. Shit like, "That's a no, no." Writer obviously thinks he's brilliant.
May 19, 2021
Outrageous!
Joel has written one of the best behind the scenes roadie true work book! It was both interesting and jocular. He has great writing ability and can really describe his job and life on the road. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in what goes on at a rock concert and how the roadies make it all happen! Enjoyed this immensely! Thank you Joel!
Joel has written one of the best behind the scenes roadie true work book! It was both interesting and jocular. He has great writing ability and can really describe his job and life on the road. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in what goes on at a rock concert and how the roadies make it all happen! Enjoyed this immensely! Thank you Joel!
July 29, 2021
Most excellent!
Excellent road book. I love music biographies especially reading about tours, and this was an interesting angle from the perspective of the road crew. It’s also a good travel book refreshingly written by someone who is not pretentious. There’s some great candid moments of a few larger than life rock stars.
Excellent road book. I love music biographies especially reading about tours, and this was an interesting angle from the perspective of the road crew. It’s also a good travel book refreshingly written by someone who is not pretentious. There’s some great candid moments of a few larger than life rock stars.
January 19, 2022
I've always loved Rock n Roll and appreciated the work that goes on for all those great shows. What drew me in to this book was how young he was and obviously had a decent brain in head so why choose this path? He quick witted and funny and toured with a few bands I like, such as STP & Guns & Roses. But it can be a dark road to go down with all the drinking and such.
January 29, 2024
Great Read
I'm an avid reader of interesting memoirs. This was very well written. I almost felt like I could've been right there watching his stories unfold. That's great writing. Thank you for sharing your stories. Will definitely look forward to reading more of your books. Keep up the great writing.
I'm an avid reader of interesting memoirs. This was very well written. I almost felt like I could've been right there watching his stories unfold. That's great writing. Thank you for sharing your stories. Will definitely look forward to reading more of your books. Keep up the great writing.
October 16, 2021
I liked it
Funny and very interesting. I’ve seen my fair of concerts and only ever talked one roadie. My top had come down when I was prancing around. The roadie missed the show and wanted me to show him my tits. I didn’t comply. Great job on the book Rifkin!
Funny and very interesting. I’ve seen my fair of concerts and only ever talked one roadie. My top had come down when I was prancing around. The roadie missed the show and wanted me to show him my tits. I didn’t comply. Great job on the book Rifkin!
January 17, 2021
Having been a “fly-in girl” in a previous life, I was familiar with many of the venues mentioned in this book and it was nice to revisit some of those places without the jagermeister hangover.
May 2, 2022
Excellent read!
Loved it! Wow. Worth every minute of your time. Joel takes us on a trip through the crazy life of a roadie and comes out of it alive!
Loved it! Wow. Worth every minute of your time. Joel takes us on a trip through the crazy life of a roadie and comes out of it alive!
August 15, 2022
#78 of 120 books pledged to read during 2022
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews