Tana Douglas' songs from the road

What do Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ice Cube, Status Quo, and Neil Diamond all have in common? Tana Douglas. She’s recognised as the world’s first female roadie, and got her start as a teenager working with a young band who were about to release their debut album. The band was AC/DC, and that story is just one of hundreds that have filled her extraordinary life. Tana would go on to tech for The Who at Wembley Stadium, Iggy Pop in Amsterdam, even Elton John, playing a birthday party at Windsor Castle.

She’s just published her story, a memoir titled LOUD, which captures not just the wild tales from the road but also the spirit of the crew who make magic happen every night on stage. It’s a brilliant read, and I was so excited to meet Tana when she joined me to Take 5. She didn’t disappoint. This is as much about a trailblazer as it is a testament to the many roadies who bring our favourite music to life on stage.

Foo Fighters - Darling Nikki

Urge Overkill - Girl You'll Be a Woman Soon

The Who - Who Are You

INXS - Never Tear Us Apart

Social Distortion - Story of My Life