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The Reality of Touring and How Artists Handle It Emotionally: Karol G, Peso Pluma…

We speak with an expert coach in emotional intelligence who gave us some key insights

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Throughout the year, we have a wide range of concerts available, but it’s clear that when good weather arrives, especially in the summer, the number of concerts increases. During these months, many artists hit the road. While most people are enjoying their vacations, these artists face their busiest months.

Some artists, especially international ones, spend months touring around the world. Just ask Taylor Swift, or our Latin artists like Karol G, Peso Pluma, or Anitta, among others. This means a lot of traveling, being far from home, and meeting new people every day, which inevitably takes a toll.

Karol G performs in concert during the «Mañana Será Bonito» tour at Alamodome on August 31, 2023 in San Antonio, Texas. Rick Kern/Getty Images

Many think tours are fun times where a group of friends gets to travel together and enjoy night after night, but this idealization needs to be grounded in reality—it’s not easy. And this doesn’t just affect newer artists; veterans like Bruce Springsteen are also impacted.

We turned to an expert coach in Emotional Intelligence and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Enrique Jurado, to understand the key points artists should keep in mind to manage their emotions effectively.

Should artists prepare emotionally for tours?

Absolutely. When someone spends time away from their loved ones and environment, they need an emotional management process just like anyone else. Artists are highly exposed, making it crucial for them to manage their emotions and prepare for such exposure.

How does being away from home for so long affect their mood?

It has a significant impact. They are people just like us, not robots. Many go from anonymity to being idolized, which can greatly distort their egos, personalities, and identities. This can be very dangerous if not handled well and if they don’t understand the rules of the game. Self-awareness is also crucial here.

Anitta performs during day two of Emblema 2024 festival at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on May 18, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico. Medios y Media/Getty Images

How can they cope with being separated from family?

Separation can cause feelings of fear, sadness, and even anger. Emotional intelligence is key to managing all these emotions.

Five tips for artists to avoid being affected by touring:

  1. Emotional intelligence: Understanding how emotions work to manage them effectively.
  2. Personal responsibility: Knowing that everything that happens within them is their responsibility. They should understand their body, thoughts, emotions, and behavior well, emphasizing self-awareness.
  3. Mindfulness: Being present. The more present they are (living in the moment), the better their ability to concentrate and stay centered.
  4. Personal relationships: Working on relationships with themselves and others. Building self-esteem is essential.
  5. Perspective: Understanding that everything they have now is temporary. They shouldn’t take it too seriously but also shouldn’t let it bring them down. They should be grateful for the gift of living their dream.
Peso Pluma at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards held at the Dolby Theatre on April 1, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images

How might they be affected when the tour ends?

They should appreciate the process they’ve experienced and remember it fondly and with excitement. If they want to continue professionally, it’s a great school for developing a long-term career. They shouldn’t feel like it’s the beginning or end of the world, but rather part of the journey.

What should they do to continue with their lives?

Take it as a gift from life. Sometimes life gives us wonderful gifts, and other times it takes them away. What’s clear is that we remain the same people. It’s essential to know where we come from, where we’re going, and where we are at any given moment.

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