Interview: Ryan McNeil

Hey guys,

today I am going to release the second part of my interview series. Last week you got to know a lot more about Martin and James. You found out what they say about working together for about 15 years, you found out what they think about each other and their fans. You simply heard a lot about the lives of musicians.

But what goes on behind the scenes? Well, today you will find out. Why? Because I got to interview Ryan McNeil - also known as Ryan the roadie.

house in the sand: So Ryan, Martin and James call you Ryan the Roadie. How would you describe your work?

Ryan: I would say Roadie sums it up pretty well. Basically anything that needs to be done when we are on the road, I try and do. As long as we get to the venue on time and everything runs smoothly with the show then I am happy. It can be anything from taking photogtraphs to doing merchandise or setting up the stage or probably most importantly making sure there is wine in the dressing room.

house in the sand: You spend a lot time with musicians. But what is your connection to music like? Do you play any instruments? What does music mean to you? And what kind of music do you like to listen to? 

Ryan: Music is a massive part of my life, I am a music lover. I play a little guitar, but not very well. I have always loved music since I was young and I have a very broad taste in it. The best thing about being friends with musicians is that I often get to see the creative process they go through when they are writing or working on new ideas, and to see how a song changes and grows over a period of time. 

As I said, I like to listen to a lot of different types of music, but some of my favourite bands are, Love, Fleetwood Mac, Josh Ritter, Tom petty, Modest Mouse....... I could go on all day, and of course Martin and James!

house in the sand: You’ve been working with Martin and James for a very long time now. You met them through school, is that right? How did you guys start to work together? 

Ryan: Yes, we all met at school and we quickly became really good friends from a young age and not much has changed since then.

We used to talk about going on the road together at some point when they managed to get a record deal. I was actually working on a boat in the highlands of Scotland when they moved over to Berlin at first. Then when they were signed to universal, they phoned and asked if I would like to come over and work with them on the road.I jumped at the chance, and the last few years of touring have really been amazing.

house in the sand: I think something every fan would love to know is: what is your favourite Martin and James song?

Ryan: Hmm, This is a really difficult question. I actually have a few that are my favourites. I would say, "Crashing into Love"," Broken sword" and a new one that is fast becoming a favourite is "What I'm searching for".

There are actually so many great songs its hard to pick a favourite.

house in the sand: What is your favourite part of being a roadie?

Ryan: Travelling, music and working with my best friends.

house in the sand: And your least favourite part? 

Ryan: Drives that are longer than 8 hours.

house in the sand: You also spend most of the time in Germany. How do you like it here? Does it feel like a second home to you? Is missing family and friends a big part of your life?

Ryan: I really love Germany, I have just moved into a flat in Berlin and I plan to stay here for a while. Its starting to feel like a proper home to me now and I always feel welcomed by all the people I meet. I do miss friends and family back home, but its only a 2 hour flight back to Scotland, so its never too hard to get back when I need to.

house in the sand: Please complete the following sentence: My name is Ryan McNeil and I …

Ryan: Love living in Germany!

house in the sand: Is there anything else you want the house in the sand readers to know? 

Ryan: Hmm, I think you have pretty much covered everything

.... I would ask the fans to share the youtube videos as much as possible, the more people who hear the music the better!

house in the sand: Ryan, thank you so much for taking time and answering those questions! I hope you had fun and won’t forget about the house in the sand.

Ryan: You’re very welcome, and the site is looking great. Keep up the good work!!

And again, at this point I want to thank Ryan for answering all of my questions and being super wonderful to work with.
I hope you enjoyed!

Thank you for reading! : )

Credits // Text & Questions: Vanessa Jertschewske | Answers: Ryan McNeil | Photography: Vanessa Jertschewske, Ryan McNeil