LOUD

An entertaining memoir from the world’s first female roadie.

During her many years in the business, Douglas not only broke the rules, but trampled over them, and it’s clear she enjoyed every step of the way. She was a pioneer, carving a reputation for herself in a male-dominated business. Though occasionally self-serving and overly nostalgic, her memoir is fun, rollicking, and sometimes poignant. As the author recounts, she fell into her role by accident after running away from an oppressive home in Brisbane, Australia. At age 16, she linked up with a bunch of guys who called their infant band AC/DC. Of course, that band would become legendary, but they began playing pubs and clubs. Needing a job, Douglas starting setting up amps and instruments. She graduated to overseeing cables and power systems and eventually worked for other bands touring Australia. This led to work in the U.K. and the U.S. with bigger and bigger acts. She had a knack for innovation, and she soon jumped into sound mixing and stage control. “If you want it done, ask a roadie,” writes Douglas. “It’s what we do.” Often the only woman on the crew, she did her share of partying, although she managed to avoid the dangerous side. She punctuates her account with sketches of the performers she encountered, although many have been forgotten as the music business moved on. Life on the touring circuit could be addictive. “If it doesn’t kill you,” she writes, “it’s one hell of a way to make a living!” For the author, the price tag was a chaotic private life, including the loss of friends to drugs or booze (the postscript includes a list). Through it all, Douglas survived and thrived, eventually becoming a respected logistics specialist for the entertainment industry. The book may not be for everyone, but it thrums with energy.

Candid and authentic, Douglas tells her remarkable story with strength and humor.