NATIONAL ROADIE DAY
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NATIONAL ROADIE DAY
Every year on May 19, National Roadie Day honors the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help keep the show on the road. Today, we shine the spotlight on all roadies and honor the 100th birthday of Ben H. Dorcy, III (aka “Lovey”) the "King of the Roadies".
#NationalRoadieDay
Roadies are the backbone of live music. They are the first to arrive at a gig and the last to leave. They haul gear night after night and literally carry the show on their shoulders. They build up and set the stage from town to town so that the world can experience the joy of live music.
During shows, roadies work from the shadows on stage to swap instruments, fix cables, or troubleshoot issues. Many roadies become “music family”, offering support, sharing laughs, and keeping spirits high when the road gets long--all while staying out of the spotlight.
Story Behind the Roadie
Benjamin Holiday Dorcy, III, affectionately known as “Lovey,” is widely recognized as the first roadie in music history. Born on May 19, 1925, Dorcy blazed a trail that countless road crew members have followed ever since. He worked with legends like Willie Nelson, John Wayne, Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Charley Pride and so many more.
National Roadie Day (Lovey Poster)
King of the Roadies (Photo credit: Piper Ferguson)
Dorcy’s remarkable life and legacy are captured in the upcoming documentary Willie Nelson Presents: King of the Roadies, premiering at the Dallas International Film Festival. Alongside the film, a tribute album from Luna Wolf Records is slated for release, featuring an all-star lineup to celebrate Lovey and the roadie spirit.
Roadie Lifestyle
Roadies typically work 12–18 hours a day, especially while on tour. Load-in starts early in the morning, often around 7–8 AM. They get to their destination, set up the entire show, and even help artists prep. After the show, roadies tear everything down and pack it up for transport, often finishing in the early hours of the next morning. The job of a roadie is physically and mentally demanding, but is also rewarding for those who love music and believe in what they are doing.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL ROADIE DAY
On May 19, let’s crank up the volume and show some love to the ones who make the magic happen behind the scenes on National Roadie Day. After all, without roadies, the music never makes it to the stage. Here are a few things you can do to celebrate:
Musicians, Bands & Venues, why not celebrate your crew? Recognize your tour managers, techs, merch folks, and everyone who keeps the wheels turning. Post a tribute and share your favorite roadie memory on social media and tag it with #NationalRoadieDay #KeepTheShowOnTheRoad and #RoadiesRule.
Follow the Willie Nelson Presents: King of the Roadies film on social media and help spread Lovey’s legendary story. Watch the trailer and share posts honoring the world’s first roadie, Ben Dorcy (aka Lovey), and all who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the show on the road.
Music fans can support live music in your area and thank a roadie.
National Roadie Day Website Banner
HISTORY BEHIND NATIONAL ROADIE DAY
The National Day Calendar Registrar approved National Roadie Day in 2025. Each year on May 19, National Roadie Day honors the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the show on the road. The first annual National Roadie Day in 2025 celebrates the 100th birthday of Benjamin Holiday Dorcy III, (aka Lovey), the "King of the Roadies", and the very first roadie in music history.
About the Founder
National Roadie Day was created by Lovey, LLC, Luna Wolf Records, LLC, and uniphigood, LLC, to celebrate the 100th birthday of the world’s first roadie, “Lovey”, and establishes an annual celebration to recognize and thank ALL who work tirelessly behind the scenes to help keep the show on the road.
