Tell me your fandom story. When did you become a fan? Why? What drew you to the band?
I grew up listening to a lot of music and watching music videos. My taste in music runs from rock to classical, but I lean heavily on sub-genres including post-punk, new wave, hip hop, edm, and metal. I believe the reason my taste is so varied is due to my mom exposing me to so many styles. Duran Duran captured my attention at a young age with their style, creativity, and energy! My mom always bought me books and magazines with song lyrics, and I made it a point to write out the DD lyrics for my own interpretation. The combination of their lyrics, musicianship, and stylistic videos dazzled my mind and expanded my perspective of the world. I’ve gotten a ton of inspiration from the band, and I’m proud to say Duran Duran are the spark to my eternal creative flame!
How do you participate in the fandom? For example, do you participate on social media? Collect something? Go to concerts? Attend fan meetups? Create something?
I’m one of the admins for Duran Duran Worldwide (DDWW – https://www.facebook.com/ddwwinfo). I have an extensive collection of DD memorabilia including albums, remixes, cds, dvds, posters, scrapbooks, biographies, and other goodies. I have to give a shout out to Durandy and Jenny Essen for helping me expand my collection. Regrettably, the last DD concert I attended was too long ago (2005). I’m going to more than make up for it whenever the Future Past tour hits the US! I’m going to zip all over, and attend fan meetups and meet those in the DD community, or as I like to say the “DD Fam.” As far as creations, I’m a recent college graduate and decorated my graduation cap with DD. They have been a significant influence on my personal and professional journey, so I wanted to celebrate them on my big day!
What do you like best about being in the Duran fan community?
Most of my interactions have been via online or phone, but the camaraderie between everyone continues to amaze me. I feel the fan community is family. In addition, I’ve connected with people who have other interests similar to mine, and it all started with our collaborative love of the band.
Do you have a favorite concert experience? If so, tell us about it. When was it? Where was it? What made it awesome? If you haven’t attended a concert, what would your ideal concert be like? I saw DD at Nutter Center and years later at Fraze Pavilion with the original lineup. Both were phenomenal experiences. I have yet to see them live with Dom, but I hope to fix that this year!
Do you have a favorite fandom experience? If so, what was it? Was the band involved? Other fans? What made it awesome?
It always makes me happy to read other fans’ experiences with meeting them. I have yet to meet the band. I keep wishing it into existence. My favorite fandom experience is being an ongoing admin with DDWW. Through DDWW organizer Kirk Harrington, I’ve been able to conduct interviews with author/music journalist Annie Zaleski, horror author Martin McGregor, and fragrance designers David Moltz and Kavi Ahuja of D.S. & Durga. Having a platform to interview and write about these amazing people has given me an outlet to write about what I love. I want to do more!
Quick Questions:
Favorite song – There are so many, but Love Voodoo is #1 (Honorable mention goes to Invisible, Out of My Mind, Shadows on Your Side).
Favorite album – Depending on my mood, it’s a toss up between Future Past, Seven and The Ragged Tiger, Big Thing, and the Wedding Album.
Favorite side or solo project – This is so hard! Love Arcadia but the Power Station keeps me dancing.
Favorite band member – Each band member is unique in their own way, and I’m a fan of each of their personalities, intelligence, and style. Growing up I heavily favored Simon. I feel the vibes of Nick and John (Gemini magic). Roger’s demeanor reminds me of my own evolution. Once shy and reserved, I’m now more open and the life of the party. Lol!
Favorite video – Nightboat and Out of My Mind are a tie.
