Rock music stands as an iconic category of music with a rich legacy of legendary musicians and iconic performances. The story of an iconic band from the 80s told through the lens of photographer Daryl Bughman, shows an extraordinary chapter of dedication, friendship, and the undeniable magic of live music in Bughman’s latest creation, “8 Years 27 Concerts 2015-2023 Foreigner Live.” This blog is a tribute to Daryl’s extraordinary journey, a proof of the enduring power of music, and a reminder that sometimes, the best moments in life are the unexpected ones.
A British American rock band formed in New York City in 1976 was brought to life by a group of talented and legendary musicians. Their music was recognized globally, making them one of the world’s best-selling bands, with over 80 million records sold worldwide.
Daryl Bughman’s journey with them began as a stroke of fate through a lifelong friendship. Daryl’s close friend and confidant, Steve Szady, played an important role in igniting this journey. Their shared passion for music was nurtured since their time together in the late ’60s, and it laid the foundation for a bond that would stay strong for five decades.
Daryl had an eye for photography from a very young age, and the trust and mutual respect between him and Steve set the stage for something extraordinary. If Steve recommended a band, Daryl would listen; if Daryl spoke about music, Steve would heed his words. It was this synergy that led to the unforgettable encounter with the iconic band.
In January 2015, Steve contacted Daryl with a message that would change everything. “You have to see this new version.” They were set to perform at the Luhrs Performing Art Center at Shippensburg University. This new iteration of Rock music was making waves, and that is how Daryl found the passion to make the photo journal “8 Years 27 Concerts 2015-2023 Foreigner Live.”
To understand the significance of this moment, one must dive into Daryl’s past. The late ’70s and ’80s saw Rock music at the pinnacle of popularity. However, during this era, Daryl was entangled in the clutches of alcoholism and drug addiction. Music, even by renowned bands, had no place in his life. His sole focus was on his struggles with addiction.
The path to recovery was like a turning point in Daryl’s life. His decision to attend a concert in 2015 became the moment that renewed his passion for music. He had cultivated a thriving career as a photographer, particularly in sports photography, and was at an NCAA boxing event on the same day. As fate would have it, he had his camera gear with him when he arrived at the concert, despite the strict ‘no photography’ policies.
The moment it all started on stage, Daryl couldn’t resist capturing the magic. He discreetly began taking photographs, ensuring that the vigilant security personnel remained unaware. The band’s dynamic stage presence and rockstar personas made them an irresistible subject. Daryl’s photos from that night laid the foundation for what was to come.
Daryl’s journey with them didn’t stop with that one unexpected concert. The spellbinding performance stirred something within him, and he decided to share the images he had taken with the band’s management. This initial interaction with them was just the beginning of a remarkable eight-year journey.
Over the years, Daryl continued to photograph at various venues in the Northeast. His lens captured the evolution of the band, their changing costumes, and the shifting lights that accompanied their performances. Every concert became an opportunity to improve his craft and capture the essence of the band, and he projected all of those efforts in the form of “8 Years 27 Concerts 2015-2023 Foreigner Live.”
Daryl’s journey was not just about photography; it was about building an unspoken connection with the band members. As he watched them perform, they unknowingly became a part of his life. In his journal “8 Years 27 Concerts 2015-2023 Foreigner Live,” Daryl expresses his heartfelt gratitude to each member for allowing him to be a witness to their incredible journey.
Daryl Bughman’s story shows the power of music to transcend time and addiction. It renews the spirit and forms connections that words can’t always express. His lens captured not only the essence of a legendary band but also the essence of his own recovery and a newfound passion. Rock music has touched the hearts of millions, and through Daryl’s photographs, the magic lives on.