The Hand-Drawn Tour Map Ronnie Wood Created And Gave To Every Roadie

April 1, 2025

In the summer of 1975, the air was electric with excitement as the Rolling Stones prepared for their much-anticipated North American tour. Among the bustling group of musicians and crew was Ronnie Wood, the band’s guitarist known not just for his remarkable talent but also for his creative spirit. As the tour approached, Ronnie felt a desire to connect with the roadies—the unsung heroes of the music world. These dedicated individuals worked tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure each show went off without a hitch. Inspired by their commitment, Ronnie decided to create something special for them: a hand-drawn tour map that would be both functional and a piece of art.

Each night, as the band played to sold-out arenas, the roadies moved like shadows, ensuring the transitions between songs were seamless and the equipment was in perfect order. Ronnie knew they deserved more than just gratitude in passing; they needed a symbol of camaraderie and appreciation. So, he took a large piece of paper and began sketching. His artistic flair came through as he illustrated not just the venues but also little anecdotes and inside jokes that only the crew would understand. The cities were transformed with whimsical drawings, and arrows led them to everything from the best burger joints to the quietest places to unwind after a long night.

When the moment came to present the maps, he gathered the roadies before the first concert. The rehearsal room was filled with energy, but once they saw the hand-drawn maps, silence fell, replaced quickly by laughter and cheers. Ronnie watched their faces light up, their tiredness melting away in the warmth of this simple yet meaningful gesture. Each map was a reminder that they were all part of something bigger, a family forged in the heat of the tour experience. This act of kindness not only uplifted spirits but also solidified the bond among the crew, creating an atmosphere of unity that would carry them through the long nights and hard miles ahead.

Over the course of the tour, those hand-drawn maps became more than just a guide; they morphed into a cherished keepsake. The roadies would often pull them out, recalling the stories each drawing represented—times when they overcame challenges or shared a laugh on the road. Ronnie’s creation inspired everyone to give their best performance, knowing that their hard work was not taken for granted. The maps became legendary within the crew, illustrating the essence of teamwork and the impact of small gestures in a world often overshadowed by fame and fortune.

This experience also did something profound for Ronnie. While he was already a renowned musician, he found renewed purpose in his artistry beyond music. The tour not only showcased his talent on stage but also highlighted the importance of connection and gratitude. Ronnie Wood became a figure who understood that the heart of rock and roll wasn’t just about the music but also about the community that embraced it. As he continued his journey with the Stones, he made it his mission to foster this spirit of appreciation, forever changing the way he interacted with those who supported the band.

Years later, whenever Ronnie looked back on that summer, he remembered not just the roaring crowds but the laughter of his roadies, the joy in their eyes as they unfolded those maps. It served as a reminder that even in the glitz and glamour of the music industry, the real treasures lay in the relationships formed and the love shared along the way. And so, his determination continued, driven by a passion for music that resonated deeper than the notes themselves—proving that the essence of rock and roll is much more than the spotlight; it’s about the bonds created in the shadows.