S03E15: Meeting My Heroes - Photographer Matt Carmichael’s Rock and Roll Adventures

This episode of Seeing Them Lives features an engaging conversation with Matt Carmichael, a seasoned live music fan and concert photographer, known for his long-term association with Poi Dog Pondering. The discussion delves into Carmichael's early concert experiences, starting with seeing the Jackson 5 at the Silver Dome in 1984. Matt shares intriguing anecdotes about the first concert he attended with his dad and reflects on the evolving context of that experience over time. 

He also recounts the unexpected presence of Paula Abdul as choreographer and a juggler named Chris Bliss opening the Jackson 5 performances, adding intriguing details to his music journey. The discussion explores Carmichael's storied career, highlighting his time as the house photographer for various iconic Chicago venues and his ongoing contributions to the band Poi Dog Pondering. He narrates the captivating story of how he built and managed the band's first website in 1994, leading to a cherished relationship with its members, characterized by unique moments and extraordinary access to the band. 

Stories of notable concert photographs, nurturing artist relationships, and dealing with fame punctuate the narrative, demonstrating Carmichael's passion and dedication to his craft. A substantial part of the conversation shifts to Carmichael's memorable experiences photographing famous bands like the Rolling Stones, where the planned and professional approach of the band stands out in contrast to other gigs. He shares stories about his work featured in Swedish postage stamps and meeting various musicians over the years.

He details heart-pounding moments with Mooney Suzuki and Gogo Bordello, where bands took risky performances. Additionally, Matt discusses his long-standing website, RocknRoll.net and discusses his latest project—a book compiling fascinating stories of meeting and working with iconic musicians and heroes. His work combines his love for music, photography, and personal narratives to create a rich tapestry of rock history and personal growth.

BANDS: Blind Melon, Poi Dog Pondering, Sahara Hot Nights, The Rolling Stones,  Zoe Keating.

VENUES: The Vic (Chicago), Metro (Chicago), Grant Park (Chicago).

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