In the world of live music, the spotlight is typically reserved for the performers on stage, while the dedicated crew members who make every show possible remain out of sight. Nick DeLaCruz, the founder of This Is DeLaCruz, is on a mission to change that by shining a light on the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Through his platform, he’s redefined what it means to celebrate live music, telling the real, raw stories of the professionals who make every show a success.
This Is DeLaCruz is not just another music-focused media brand—it’s a storytelling movement that elevates the voices of the crew and technicians who keep the live music machine running. Born out of Nick’s own experiences as a touring audio engineer, the platform has become a go-to source for authentic, unfiltered interviews with the people who power the live music industry. From audio engineers and lighting techs to roadies and tour managers, Nick’s platform showcases the personal journeys of those whose work often goes unnoticed by the public but is critical to the success of any performance.
“I’ve seen these incredible professionals work behind the scenes for years, and most of them never get the recognition they deserve,” Nick says. “That’s what inspired This Is DeLaCruz. I wanted to share the stories of the crew, not just the artists. These people are the ones who make the magic happen, and they deserve to have their voices heard.”
The stories featured on This Is DeLaCruz are not just about technical expertise—they delve into the humanity of those who dedicate their lives to the live music industry. The platform explores the highs and lows of the job, touching on themes like mental health, burnout, sobriety, relationships, and the physical and emotional toll of life on the road. These are the stories of people who sacrifice much to do what they love, yet rarely receive the credit they deserve.
What makes This Is DeLaCruz stand out is the authenticity of its approach. Unlike traditional media outlets or celebrity-driven platforms, Nick’s interviews are rooted in shared experience. Having spent years working in the industry, Nick brings a unique perspective to the conversations he has with his subjects. His firsthand knowledge and deep understanding of the challenges crew members face foster an environment of trust and openness, allowing his guests to speak freely about their experiences.
“I’ve been there,” says Nick. “I’ve mixed shows, I’ve loaded the trucks, and I know what it’s like to be behind the scenes. That shared experience creates a different kind of interview—it’s not just about gear or tech specs, it’s about the people, their struggles, and their triumphs.”
The platform has grown exponentially since its inception, reaching a wide audience of both industry professionals and music fans alike. Through documentaries, mini-series, podcasts, and social media content, This Is DeLaCruz has provided a glimpse into the lives of some of the most respected names in the live music world, including the crew behind major acts like Madonna, Pantera, Sleep Token, and Chris Stapleton.
While other platforms may focus on the artists or technical details, This Is DeLaCruz takes a different approach—one that centers the people who make the performance possible. It’s a celebration of the individuals who work tirelessly, often in the shadows, to ensure every show is a success. Nick’s mission is to highlight these people’s stories, giving them the platform they deserve while educating fans and industry professionals alike about the realities of life on the road.
One of the defining aspects of This Is DeLaCruz is its focus on mental health and personal growth. As a former touring professional who went through his own journey of sobriety and reinvention, Nick brings a personal perspective to the conversation. The platform explores the challenges of working in an industry that demands constant travel, late nights, and immense physical and emotional strain. Through the stories shared on the platform, Nick hopes to normalize discussions around mental health, burnout, and the importance of self-care in the fast-paced, high-stress world of live music.
“For me, this platform is about more than just telling stories—it’s about creating a space where we can talk openly about the struggles we face in this industry,” Nick says. “The reality is that many people in the live music world struggle with burnout, substance abuse, and mental health issues, but there’s often a stigma around talking about it. This Is DeLaCruz is here to change that and provide a place for those conversations to happen.”
The impact of This Is DeLaCruz extends beyond just entertainment. By giving crew members the chance to share their stories, Nick is helping to reshape the narrative around live music. He’s showing that the people who work behind the scenes are just as important as the artists on stage and that their contributions are invaluable. The platform is also inspiring a new generation of aspiring professionals who may not have known about the careers and opportunities available behind the scenes.
“The response from the community has been overwhelming,” Nick reflects. “We’ve created a space where people feel seen and heard. That’s been incredibly rewarding—not just for me, but for everyone who’s been a part of this journey.”
As This Is DeLaCruz continues to grow, the mission remains clear: to amplify the voices that are often overlooked in the live music industry and to provide a platform where people can share their authentic, unfiltered stories.This Is DeLaCruz is more than a brand—it’s a movement reminding us that every great show is built by people whose names you may never know, but whose stories matter just as much.
For more information on This Is DeLaCruz, visit the official website, and follow on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X.
