What kind of camera do you use?

I wish I could say I toted a Leica or Hasselblad to every show, but in reality, I always carried a cheapo camera with me, just in case I had to check it, hide it, or pitch it. I try to bring cameras with built in zoom lenses, but it really varies event to event.

Why this exhibit, and why now?

This past summer I had my French Quarter apartment repainted and was living out of boxes for what turned out to be months. I decided to spend that time reorganizing some of my things. I went through 23 boxes of photographs and realized I had one incredible and eclectic collection of photos from the 1980s to present day. From straight portraits, to candids, to corny shots of me and musicians, I thought the collection really lent itself to a sort of unique view into my world. I felt I could create an exhibit where other people could experience the wonderful places I’ve been and the fabulous concerts I’ve seen.

When can I see your pictures, are they for sale and how can I contact you?

I know I sound totally jaded but there have been sooooo many. But, on Friday, January 24, 2003, I was with The Rolling Stones at Reliant Stadium in Houston, TX. Keith Richards’ personal tour assistant was my guide and seated me next to Mick’s girlfriend, L'Wren Scott, and Texas powerhouse Lynn Wyatt.

During the finale I was ushered to Keith’s van (every band member has their own car, limo, or van take them from the same venue to the same hotel), and was sitting inside with a few others when the last note of the concert was played. Like a big wave crashing on a beach, a surge of applause and screams literally cracked and exploded. Through the van’s rear window I could see Mick, Ron, Charlie, and Keith file off stage, get bundled up in robes, and hop into their rides.

When Keith climbed into the van, we were off like a shot to The Four Seasons with a police escort.

The band invited me to come back the next day to watch the Super Bowl with them, their tour managers and their flight crew.

Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top stopped by (we were in Texas after all), and he was wearing a ratty, smelly afghan and carried in a box of tamales. He didn’t offer me any, but I did feast on high end concessions served buffet style in the suite. The hotel even arranged to bring in a Good Humor freezer filled with ice cream.

It was so much fun, and definitely a precious Backstage, and off stage, experience.

One of the best backstage tips I ever got was from
Harry Connick, Jr. who used to play The Bottom Line when I was in high school. He told me to go to Tulane. If it weren’t for Harry, I never would have come to New Orleans.

Do you ever take being Backstage for granted?

Absolutely not!!! It’s never a given or a done deal. Each time is special, and it relies heavily on the generosity of the venue, the event, the performer, an assignment, or a contact.
I always thank whoever makes a Backstage experience possible, and I let them know how much I appreciate it.
I am always grateful and feel so lucky to be in such close proximity to some of the great music makers of our times.
It’s truly a thrill every time.