Louder Than Life

MURWILLUMBAH artist, writer and music industry worker Emily Rockit has launched her debut book, Louder Than Life: The Touring Musician’s Handbook, drawing on two decades spent working on the road.

The book brings together stories and advice from 33 touring musicians, alongside practical guidance on the realities of life in music.

It was launched last month with live music and a panel discussion featuring contributors to the book.

Rockit said the project grew out of a desire to create something useful and accessible for musicians navigating the touring circuit.

“I wanted to create a practical guide that entertains through storytelling, showcasing the talented and hardworking musicians I’ve come to love and respect—many of whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years,” Rockit said.

The author said she was motivated to inform, educate, and empower independent musicians.

“So many industry publications are dry and technical, and I wanted to create something that felt more human, fun, and down to earth,” she said.

“Louder Than Life has practical advice, but it’s also full of wild, hilarious tour stories from Australian artists and a few cheeky ones of my own. I wanted readers to feel inspired, seen, and entertained, not lectured to.

“On a personal level, it was a creative outlet as I’ve always loved working with artists, but this project gave me a chance to express myself creatively in a way that felt deeply fulfilling.”

Rockit said she wrote the book for a variety of musicians and music lovers.

“It’s for emerging musicians who dream of touring but don’t know where to start, and for more established artists looking for fresh tips and perspective,” she said.

“It’s also for any musician who loves a good tour story, the kind that inspires, entertains, and reminds you of why you fell in love with music in the first place.”

The book offers practical support and advice, from planning tours to dealing with what can go wrong, but the author’s experiences as a touring artist were life-changing.

“I’ve spent over 20 years working across almost every corner of the music industry, performing and touring, artist management, marketing, event production, and supporting independent musicians with touring, PR, and career development,” Rockit said.

“This book is my way of paying homage to those moments and to the amazing musicians who live that life every day.”

To pick up a copy in the new year, check your local bookshop or follow @emilyrockit on Instagram or on Facebook at @emilyrockitofficial