I love to write. I always have. People in school and the military have even been foolish enough to give me awards for my efforts.^

Since retiring from law enforcement, I’ve decided to pursue freelance music journalism, something I’ve always wanted to do.

I’m a contributing freelancer for Prog magazine and have had articles published in Record Collector magazine. I’m always looking for an opportunity to write for other music publications. But the time has come to add another color to my palate.

I’ve always had a fascination with photography. Trouble is, for the longest, I wasn’t very good at it. My work with film was spotty at best. But with the advent of digital technology, I’ve been able to get on the other side of the learning curve. I even had a few shots published in Prog.

To that end, I’m looking to expand my freelance work to concert photography. I’m more than ready and eager to explore this pursuit.

I try to get to as many shows as I can. The goal is to ultimately get to as many as five shows a week. This means taking hundreds of photographs during that week, ultimately adding up to thousands of pictures per month. But that’s how photography works. Sports Illustrated photographers take a thousand shots at a game to find one for publication. I find that both fascinating and something I’m eager to do.

I’ve gone on the road for a couple of weekend tours with my friends in Sons of Ra, an up and coming Chicago band. We were traveling with Colorado-based Source. I also took shots of any other band on their bill. Some of them have used my photos on their social media pages.

I would very much like to do this with other bands. I’m sure I could have use during a three- or four-day swing through the Midwest. I’m sure it helps that I’m based in Chicago, where nearly every band seems to visit.

My terms are quite reasonable. They’ll vary by artist, since not every artist runs on the same level. Regardless, I’m sure we’ll be able to come to an agreement with minimal fuss.

I can be as visible or invisible as the band desires. If I’m writing on top of taking photos, I may ask the occasional question. I can also take video and create content for social media, which I have done for quite a few bands.

So, let’s talk about it! Band coverage on multiple levels for multiple purposes from one guy. This is something I really enjoy doing, and I’d like to really enjoy doing it for you. Think of the photos you see here as part of my resume. There are plenty more where these came from.

If you or your band are interested, please drop me an email at cirdecsongs@gmail.com

I look forward to hearing from you!

^ — This is false modesty at best. I’m actually pretty arrogant where my writing is concerned. I actually got offended when people would edit my work (even though they were almost always right).

#cirdecsongs

If you would like to have your music reviewed, contact me at cirdecsongs@gmail.com