Gary Levitt – front man to Setting Sun
This week I am connecting travel and music with Gary Levitt of the hook-laiden indie pop band, Setting Sun. Having toured in various projects since 1999, Gary is no stranger to the road. In fact, last winter he took Setting Sun and fellow Young Love Records label mate, Quitzow on a headlining European tour. Quite an adventure for two indie folk bands from New Paltz, New York.
Here is what Gary had to say about living the simple life as a traveling musician:
How long has Setting Sun been together?
We’re a revolving cast of characters since 2003.
Where have you toured?
All of the USA several times, 7 countries in Europe and parts of Canada.
Where do you call home?
Right now New Paltz NY. When on tour it’s the van.
What are the most challenging aspects of touring?
The most challenging aspects for me is staying centered and grounded. There’s always people around and it can be hard to get alone time which I really need.
Do you face any limits/restrictions on the road?
We just try to eat healthy and inexpensively.
Is there much downtime for exploring? What do you usually do when you are in a new city?
I think it’s important to not book tours where there’s no down time for people to wander off on their own. I usually get as much exercise as possible by walking around and exploring the town or city. If there’s any nature around I’ll head for that since you spend an inordinate amount of time in the bars and the van.
Setting Sun & Quitzow European Tour Map
What connection do you see between an independent musician on tour, and an independent traveler?
I think traveling in general can make you feel like a bit of a nomad. If anything, being on tour is less nomadic since you’re working and you have a schedule. The few times I’ve traveled without playing shows I’ve felt more like a nomad because I had no real purpose. I much prefer seeing new places by being on tour. You meet a lot more people this way and get invited into people’s homes. This rarely happens when traveling as a tourist. At least not to me.
What is the best part of traveling as a musician?
Meeting many new people and staying in their houses. You get a sneak peek into many lifestyles and cultures. It can be fun and interesting, or downright scary.
Does constant travel influence your songwriting?
It helps with imagery and the experience ends up in the song in one form or another.
What forms of social media do you use to keep fans and family up to date on your travels?
On our last European tour I took pictures and wrote about our travels on Tumblr as a blog
After touring for so long, do you consider yourself a travel geek?
More like traveling fiend. If I could stay on the road all year playing decent shows I would.
For Gary, traveling solo can be a more eye-opening experience as a musician. For you musicians out there, do you agree?
Keep up with Setting Sun’s travels by visiting Gary’s MySpace page. Be sure to check out his performance the next time he visits your city!
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