The band Blind Melon was on the rise to fame in the 90’s when tragedy struck in the form of a cocaine overdose by the groups lead singer, Shannon Hoon. Now, photographer Danny Clinch is making a documentary that followed the life of Shannon. The funding for needed the project was advertised through a kickstarter with the goal of $100,000. Today Danny Clinch reached the goal, and the Shannon Hoon documentary is underway.
The Shannon Hoon documentary has been funded thanks to long time friend and photographer of Blind Melon, Danny Clinch. Danny is looking to shed light on the spirit, and simply the kind of individual Shannon Hoon was. Many may not know who he is, but Danny believes that Hoon’s personality will shine through on camera. Another goal for the project is for people to get to know, or re-examine Blind Melon’s music. The group only had one album before the tragic death of Shannon, and a lot of potential went untapped.The documentary of Shannon’s life should entice people to find and listen to Blind Melon forming an appreciation. Clinch detailed what he remembers Hoon being like to Rolling Stone.
“He was really an endearing character. He could just become your best friend straight away. His energy was great. He was really creative and super friendly. He definitely liked to have a good time and he enjoyed the rock & roll lifestyle for sure.”
The project was funded through KickStarter. The goal of $100,000 was surpassed, which gave clearance for Clinch to direct the documentary of randomly compiled footage. When the documentary is released, people will most likely give Blind Melon a second chance. Once looking back at a record, the tendency to not point out flaws but instead appreciate the music occurs. A funny bit of footage from the rock-doc shows Hoon delivering pizza in the middle of a Guns N’ Roses show in nothing but his birthday suit. This tiny bit of footage speaks volumes about the person Hoon was. Carefree, fun-loving, and a great musician on top of that. It is tragic that he passed way too soon, but this documentary should re-acquaint fans with Shannon Hoon and Blind Melon. Clinch also spoke about the feelings he has towards the music Blind Melon created.
“I don’t think they were making grunge. [I]t was more in line with southern rock. The band members came from Mississippi and Pennsylvania, and Shannon was from Indiana, so their influences were a little different than those of the Seattle scene. ‘No Rain’ is a great song and did great things for them, but I don’t think it’s a representation of who they were musically and they didn’t get the due they deserved. I was with the band when Rolling Stone gave Soup one-and-a-half stars and you hate to let one critic ruin your day and your vibe, but when Rolling Stone gives your record one-and-a-half stars, you’re pretty bummed,” he continues. “I’m hoping that this film is going to kick up some dust and get people to re-examine the music.”
Leave a Comment