From Guitar Tech to Rockstar: Trace Foster’s Journey with Aerosmith, AC/DC & Close Enemies

Apr 04, 2025

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stand side-stage while Angus Young of AC/DC melts faces with a solo—or to fine-tune guitars for Aerosmith before a sold-out arena show? Now imagine stepping from behind the curtain to form a band with one of your childhood idols. That’s exactly what Trace Foster did.

In this post, we’ll explore Trace’s evolution from legendary guitar tech for AC/DC, Aerosmith, and The Rolling Stones to co-founding the breakout band Close Enemies with Aerosmith’s Tom Hamilton. Whether you're a rock fan, musician, or someone chasing a creative dream, you’ll leave this story feeling inspired and ready to hit your next stage—whatever that looks like.

The Backstory: How Trace Foster Went From Side Stage to Center Stage

Trace Foster didn’t just stumble into rock and roll greatness. Growing up in Rockford, Illinois—home of Cheap Trick—music was in his DNA. He moved to LA straight out of high school, chasing big-label dreams like many 80s hopefuls.

When those dreams fizzled, he didn’t give up—he pivoted. A studio gig led to more work behind the scenes, where his natural ear for tone and sound engineering set him apart. One thing led to another, and soon he was touring with Melissa Etheridge, playing live and teching her gear.

From there, he became the go-to guitar tech for legends like:

Joe Perry (Aerosmith)
Angus Young (AC/DC)
Ronnie Wood (The Rolling Stones)
Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick)

Yet even after decades of working with the best, Trace knew he had more to offer. His personal drive, musical chops, and knack for building deep artist trust put him in a unique position: to start something of his own.

What Makes Trace Foster’s Story So Powerful?

🎸 He Turned a Supporting Role Into a Spotlight Moment

Unlike most techs, Trace didn’t stay in the shadows. He continued to hone his musicianship and sound instincts, earning the respect of legends. Joe Perry even called him a "guitar monster." That kind of validation doesn’t come easy.

🛠️ His Approach to Guitar Tech Work Was Next-Level

Trace's secret? Anticipation. He learned the sound, tone, and catalog of every artist he worked with—often before they asked. Whether building Joe Perry's guitar rig blind or stepping in during Aerosmith rehearsals, Trace became a Swiss Army knife of the stage.

“It’s 40% knowledge, 60% personality,” Trace explains. “I’m not the smartest tech, but I know how to make an artist feel seen, heard, and prepared.”

🔥 Close Enemies Is More Than a Supergroup—It’s a Purpose-Driven Band

Trace's band Close Enemies came together organically—born from writing sessions, mutual admiration, and a desire to create something real. The lineup includes:

Tom Hamilton (Aerosmith) on bass
Peter Stroud (Sheryl Crow) on guitar
Tony Brock (The Babys, Rod Stewart) on drums
Chasen Hampton (former Mickey Mouse Club singer/actor) on vocals

Together, they write emotionally rich, genre-crossing songs. Their debut single Sound of a Train dropped in early 2024 and has already turned heads across the rock world.

A Moment of Reflection: From Mixing Cables to Mixing Hits

Trace’s journey is a masterclass in staying ready, saying yes to growth, and never losing your passion. His transition from being Aerosmith’s emergency stand-in to leading his own band wasn’t overnight—but it was intentional.

“People ask how I kept getting gigs. The truth? I was always watching, always learning. I never acted like I knew everything—I just showed up ready.”

Perhaps most inspiring is how Trace keeps his ego in check. Even as Close Enemies gains traction, he insists it’s a team effort, not a vanity project.

This humility, paired with a lifetime of experience, makes Close Enemies feel more like a movement than a band—bringing rock authenticity back to an industry desperate for it.

What’s Next for Close Enemies? 🎤

If you caught them on tour this year, you already know: Close Enemies isn’t just another side project—it’s the real deal.

Their upcoming album features 10 original songs that blend blues, pop-rock, and gritty Southern energy. Tracks like Rain, Inside Out, and Wink and a Feather show range and songwriting power.

With a fall 2025 tour in the works (squeezed between Trace’s time with AC/DC), you’ll want to get in early before they outgrow intimate venues like The Stone Pony.

👉 Follow Close Enemies at https://closeenemiestheband.com
👉 Catch full interviews & behind-the-scenes on the Metal Mayhem ROC Podcast https://metalmayhemroc.com

Final Thoughts: Rock Dreams Never Expire

Trace Foster’s journey proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Whether you’re tuning guitars for the biggest names in music or starting your first creative business, the key is consistency, humility, and surrounding yourself with people who elevate the mission.

So what’s your “Close Enemies” moment? Maybe it’s a podcast, a business launch, or picking up the guitar again. Whatever it is—go all in. Because the world needs your story just as much as it needed Trace’s.

Watch our exclusive interview here:

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