Seeing Them Live

In this episode, Charles and Doug welcome back Andy, a schoolteacher and avid music fan, to give an After Show Report on the 2025 Bonnaroo Music Festival. Andy shares his adventurous experience, from a nine-hour drive to the festival and an unexpected encounter with law enforcement, to dealing with torrential rains, flash floods, and a canceled show. He recounts his dedication to seeing his favorite bands, notably King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, and the camaraderie among festivalgoers amidst the chaos. Tune in to hear Andy's vivid storytelling and reflections on navigating one of the most challenging yet memorable music festivals.

In this engaging episode, Charles and Doug explore the intersection of True Crime with Rock and Roll with renowned guest Jim Berkenstadt, known as the Rock and Roll Detective. Jim shares captivating stories from his career, including explosive concert experiences and his eighth-grade first 'case' involving Beatles conspiracy theories. Jim discusses his bestselling works such as 'The Beatle Who Vanished,' being adapted into a movie, and 'Mysteries in the Music: Case Closed,' which delves into various rock and roll mysteries. He also touches on his role in consulting for rock documentaries and his detailed research into enigmatic stories like the FBI's investigation into 'Louie Louie.' Wrapping up, Jim reveals intriguing details about his other projects, including a forthcoming documentary, 'If These Walls Could Rock.'

In this episode of 'Seeing Them Live,' concert photographer Matt Carmichael shares captivating stories from his extensive career. From a memorable first concert at the Jackson 5 to wild backstage moments with Poi Dog Pondering and Mark Grace, Matt takes us through his journey. He also discusses his work with iconic venues like Metro and bands like Blind Melon, Zoe Keating, and the Rolling Stones. Find out why the Rolling Stones is the best band to photograph and how his work was featured in a Swedish postage stamp. Additionally, Matt talks about his website, RocknRoll.net where he showcases his concert photography and fascinating encounters with various artists.

In this special anniversary episode of Seeing Them Live, producer and co-host Doug steps in for Charles to celebrate the podcast's third year. Highlighting their journey, Doug recounts memorable moments from some of the podcast's episodes, featuring stories from notable guests like Tom Fitzer, Roger Merlot, Dawn Fontaine, Jamie James, and more. From wild concert escapades to life-changing musical experiences, this episode curates eight standout clips, providing a sampler for new listeners. Doug also shares fascinating podcast statistics, top episodes, and the powerful impact music has had on guests and fans alike.

Join Charles on Seeing Them Live for a ticket stub story from a Nirvana concert in October 1993. Charles recounts an event he documented in his book, ‘Ticket Stub Stories:  A Memoir of Live Music’, when he attended the second show at the Aragon Ballroom and the band, upset by a critical review, did not perform their hit 'Smells Like Teen Spirit.' Discover how Kurt Cobain's frustration led to a memorable, albeit puzzling, night for fans, and learn about the backstory involving Chicago Tribune writer Greg Kott. Tune in to explore the connection between rock legends and journalistic critique.