artistspot
Did you grow up in a musical household?
I grew up listening to music. No one really played instruments in our household but Mom and Dad always listened to country music. Back in the 70s, they followed a band around the band’s name was the Steve Bledsoe Band. I would tag along and I just loved listening to their music. I watched my Dad help them equalize their mix during their gigs and I loved it! I also watched him during his time at ICCC when he was teaching broadcasting so I learned so many different aspects of the electrical part of engineering.
At what point did you take an interest in sound engineering?
When I was kid, I actually wanted to be a performer. I learned guitar and would put on my own shows in my mind and in our basement but, I was just way too shy. I couldn’t do it. I tried to play Christmas songs for our family during the holidays but I just froze . So, I learned I’m most comfortable behind the board.
What are some of your most memorable moments during a gig?
Around 1995, I was at the Laramar Ballroom when the Ski Band was opening for Fog Hat. Ed Wilson was running sound for the Ski Band. I watched him like a hawk. He taught me about the balance of a show. Making sure the vocals are always at the forefront and adjusting the bass and treble as needed. I knew in that moment, on that night, that this is what I wanted to do. I was also fortunate to work with Andy Anderson from 1998 – 2021. He helped me learn more about multiple monitor mixes.
Mark Gales
Hometown: Fort Dodge • Profession: Live Sound Engineer
What type of show is your favorite to work?
Head East, Atlanta Rhythm Section, The Byrds, Spencer Davis Group, Rick Derringer, Delbert McClinton, Samantha Fish, and many many others.
10. What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in sound production over the years?
Going to digital with lighting and sound gear has been a game changer. Not only being compact but more energy efficient and just lighter weight.
You still going to be doing this in 25 years? I will do it as long as my body allows!
What would you tell a student or young adult, interested in getting their feet wet in your career field?
First of all, you have to be passionate about doing this kind of work. You have to be able to take what you can get for work and try anything and everything. It never hurts to have a second job while you’re getting started. Start training your ear. Listen for instrumentation, listen for highs/lows, bass/ treble and the various drum kit pieces just learn it all.
What is the most challenging thing to happen during a gig?
The first national act that I ever ran monitors for was Blue Oyster Cult. To say I was scared doesn’t even describe it. Before the band arrived, we had spent some time getting everything dialed in. I was in control of their monitors and made some adjustments throughout and the show went off without a hitch. After I survived this show, I knew that I could make it through any gig.
What type of show is your favorite to work?
I really enjoy motorcycle rallies. It’s fun to work monitors for their events. Sometimes there are as many as 10 – 12 monitor mixes and I like the challenge.
8 • FORT DODGE BUSINESS CONNECTION • July 2022 10
