Concert Photo Bucket List
I have been fortunate in getting to shoot many incredible artists over the years including No Doubt, Green Day, The Jonas Brothers, Coldplay and even Elton John. However, some of my favorite shows have been ones that I have attended solely as a fan. Below is a list, in no particular order, of the top bands and artists that I still dream of someday having the chance to shoot.
FOO FIGHTERS
Having been a fan of the Foo Fighters since I was a kid hearing "Monkey Wrench" on the radio, I have had the chance to see them live only once. The show was at Citi Field and the seats were pretty high up. Dave Grohl was also seated in a throne for the entire performance because he had an injured leg. Nevertheless, he rocked out and put on one hell of a show. I hope to someday be able to catch them from the pit, and see Dave Grohl kill it on two legs.
Favorite Songs: My Hero, Rope
MUSE
I have seen Muse play festivals, arenas and even small clubs across multiple states. Their show has some insane production including lasers, confetti balls and holograms. Muse comes off as larger than life, especially for a band of only 3 members. I would die happy if I ever had the chance to be in the photo pit at one of their shows.
Favorite songs: Plug In Baby, Butterflies and Hurricanes
THE DARKNESS
When I think of the most fun I've ever had at a show, The Darkness at Brooklyn Steel definitely comes to mind. I have loved this band since the TRL days and only just got to see them perform live this year. If you haven't heard anything of theirs past 2002's "I believe in a Thing Called Love" you are really missing out. This band is so much more than a gimmick and I can't wait to get some amazing photos of them.
Favorite Songs: Barbarian, Southern Trains
BUTCH WALKER
Butch Walker is an incredible singer/songwriter who's live shows are filled with emotion and energy. He has an amazing way of captivating and interacting with his audience. I was so enamored by him in fact, that I got some Butch Walker lyrics tattooed on my ankle. Despite the fact that I have gone to countless shows over the years, I have never brought my camera. Maybe it was because I didn't want to be distracted and just wanted to watch, dance and sing along. It was probably also a fear of not being able to capture his essence in a photo. Here's hoping I have the chance to be in the photo pit on his tour this fall. If not, I'll definitely still be there watching from the crowd.
Favorite Songs: Best Thing You Never Had, Closer to the Truth and Further from the Sky
HONORABLE MENTION : THE FLAMING LIPS
I have listed the Flaming Lips as an honorable mention because I have yet to see them perform live. The photos and videos I have seen from their shows truly blow me away. They seem to be the most insane over the top live band on tour. They have it all - Inflatables, confetti cannons, disco balls and balloons. I'm excited at the idea of ever getting to shoot their set, but I'm also intrigued just to get to see for myself what all the hype is about!