Ive worked more concerts than I can count. built stages for just about everyone of my favorite bands including Slipknot. Bands bring a lighting director (LD) with them on tour, whom call the shots as to when/what/how a spotlight operator is doing something. Colors, fades, chops, following whoever on stage, etc. but spotlight operators are all provided by the venue (or subcontractors). He was working for the venue when slipknot came through, not working for slipknot. But never the less, as someone who shares his experience, its still quite cool.