coachella.

since 1999, i’ve been announcing/attending the coachella valley music and arts fest at the empire polo fields in indio, california.

needless to say, there’s something special (dare i say, magical?) about this three day desert event.

speaking of, being “big-boned,” i’ve never been a fan of the heat. however, (every year) i brave the sweltering conditions to experience the music, art, energy, vibe, half-naked people, and after-parties.

my favorite time of day? when the sun dips below the santa rosa mountains…

before we continue, first some coachella facts:

- pearl jam was the first band to play the venue in 1993. having caught the the san diego civic show a couple of nights earlier, i didn’t make the trip.

- the inaugural coachella was held in early october and featured beck, the chemical brothers, tool, morrisey, and rage against the machine. it ruled, and was empty.

- due to financial concerns, coachella did not happen in 2000. it returned as a single day event in 2001, with a reunited jane’s addiction. additionally, coachella moved to late april, where it would stay until this year.

- my favorite coachella? no question, 2004. the pixies. the flaming lips. and, radiohead.

i shot this photo of thom/johnny from the pit (a personal favorite.) i have since blown it up and it’s hanging in my “home studio.”

i also interviewed wayne coyne (the flaming lips) before he jumped into the giant hamster ball, or bubble. check it out, i’m sweating, and he’s wearing a suit.

2009 marks the first year coachella is happening in mid-april. in a move similar to last year’s roger waters announcement, it has a beatle headlining the first night. personally, i’m ecstatic and amazed. or is that, maybe i’m amazed? thank you.

in addition to paul mccartney, i’m stoked to experience my bloody valentine, patton and rahzel, beirut, henry rollins, and my new favorite band, glasvegas.

without further ado, here’s the official poster:

i’d love to read your memories of coachella (past) and comments on this year’s line-up.

perhaps i will see you in line for spicy pizza…