The world of live performances is often unpredictable and chaotic — and sometimes, just surviving to tell the tale feels like a victory in itself. But here's where it gets controversial: many performers might downplay these moments, yet those cringe-worthy or dangerous experiences are sometimes what makes touring unforgettable. Curious about the wildest misadventures and backstage secrets? Keep reading.
Tim Levinson, better known as Urthboy, shares his thoughts on what it takes to endure the often tumultuous life on the road, reflecting on the small yet crucial rituals that keep him grounded. One quirky survival tip he mentions is wearing clean socks after performances. Interestingly, Dave from Resin Dogs—someone Levinson looked up to during his teenage years—recommended adding fresh socks to the rider (the list of artist requests) to help cope with the rigors of touring, emphasizing the importance of simple comforts amidst chaos.
The Herd, Levinson’s band, has always been recognized for their incisive political lyrics. When asked about their favorite protest song, Levinson highlights Rage Against the Machine's 'Killing in the Name'. Unlike many songs that might seem to energize all types of audiences, this powerful track exemplifies a piece that rawly channels activism. Levinson underscores its dual impact: it resonates broadly—whether with a right-wing individual or an activist—and manages to deliver a message that punches hard without sacrificing authenticity. Still, he acknowledges that some listeners may distort such songs to fit their own narrative, which is an inevitable challenge for politically charged art.
When asked which animal Levinson identifies with most, he admits that his answer varies each year. Currently, he compares himself to sea otters, who hold onto each other’s paws as they drift to sleep — a poignant symbol of connection and mutual survival rather than cuteness. It speaks to Levinson’s appreciation for bonds forged through shared experiences, especially in the often isolating world of touring.
A crucial lesson Levinson learned from a seasoned bandmate, Kenny (aka Traksewt), is the importance of choosing battles wisely. Kenny demonstrated this by walking away from conflicts with aggressive young band members who threatened him — instead of engaging, he set boundaries by handing over responsibilities and leaving the confrontation behind. Levinson, growing up in hip-hop culture where confrontation was often the default response, realized that not every fight needed to be fought. This realization significantly shifted his approach to resolving problems, teaching him the value of diplomacy over brute force.
Reflecting on the wildest stage mishap, Levinson recalls a Brisbane performance where rain turned the outdoor stage into a potential shock hazard due to waterlogging and exposed cables. Despite the danger, the band persisted through their set before the event was ultimately halted because of electrical safety concerns. These stories remind us of a time when rock ’n’ roll was more devil-may-care — often pushing safety limits because the thrill and spontaneity were part of the experience. Levinson admits that during the 2000s, such daring moments were almost the norm, and really, it was often a relief just to have survived.
Levinson’s favorite album to revisit is A Tribe Called Quest’s 'Low End Theory'. This record has persisted as a beloved soundtrack through all his life stages — from his teens to his 40s. It stands out because it defies typical rap conventions with its jazzy, warm, yet still fiercely street-oriented sound. The chemistry among the artists on this album makes it feel authentic and, in Levinson’s words, so well-crafted that he wishes he could create something on that level himself — though he humorously admits that’s beyond his reach.
When asked about his most provocative pop culture opinion, Levinson boldly states that sequels, prequels, and reboots often get a bad reputation, but he believes reimagining a classic like 'Gremlins' with a visionary arthouse director could be incredible. He suggests that directors like Bong Joon Ho or Julia Ducournau could bring a darker, more nuanced tone, and even proposes that Gizmo should become the protagonist rather than an innocent bystander — offering a fresh, and somewhat controversial, take on the beloved story.
Levinson shares a somewhat cringeworthy backstage experience involving a legendary Australian musician. During a tour dedicated to Kev Carmody and Paul Kelly, he overheard himself asking Paul Kelly, a master songwriter, how he writes songs. The moment went silent, and Levinson felt the full weight of his awkwardness — realizing he had blurted out a fanboy question in front of music royalty. It serves as a reminder that even seasoned artists can have embarrassingly human moments.
As a writer, Levinson admires authors who seamlessly blend storytelling and wordplay. He cites Kae Tempest as an example of someone who crosses the line between lyricism and literature, creating imagery and emotion with words that go beyond just songwriting. Levinson even attempts to emulate this approach in his own work, such as when he covered Meg Mac’s 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' and tried to channel Tempest’s poetic intensity — aiming to craft lyrics that evoke genuine feeling.
Finally, Levinson discusses an underrated figure in the Australian rap scene. He highlights Kayeonwun (formerly Khi’leb) from Brisbane, praising his extraordinary talent, rich Ghanaian heritage, and the community-centered work his family does. Although Kayeonwun has yet to break into mainstream recognition, Levinson believes the artist is poised for a breakthrough that will showcase his remarkable skills when the right opportunity comes along.
The Herd’s 20th-anniversary tour for 'The Sun Never Sets' will be hitting interstate and regional venues throughout February, celebrating two decades of impactful music and unforgettable memories. What about your own experiences with chaotic gigs or the wildest backstage stories? Do you agree that some moments of chaos are just part of the thrill, or is safety always the priority? Share your thoughts below — perhaps you see it differently, and that’s what makes the live music world so fascinating!
