1. Charles Daniels camera
2. Boston rock history.
Charles Daniels, a renowned street photographer and chronicler of Boston’s early rock history, passed away on Monday at the age of 81. Mr. Daniels, who had been battling cancer and pneumonia, leaves behind a vast collection of undeveloped film that may be the greatest photographic record of Boston’s rock scene in its early days.
Born on November 30, 1942, in Luverne, Alabama, Charles Daniels spent much of his childhood on a farm where he was introduced to live music at a young age. His love for photography began when he met musician Wolf in the mid-1960s. Wolf, who was the overnight DJ on WBCN-FM rock station at the time, recognized Daniels’ talent and dedication to his craft.
As their friendship grew, Daniels became deeply involved in Boston’s rock scene. He became the emcee for the Boston Tea Party, announcing bands at iconic venues like the Boston Garden, the Orpheum Theatre, and the Music Hall. It was during these performances that he captured some of his most memorable photographs, focusing on the moments when musicians were relaxed and being themselves.
But Daniels’ photography wasn’t limited to musicians. His rolls of film also captured the day-to-day life of Boston in that era, including the people behind the scenes who made the music possible. From limousine drivers to road managers, Daniels documented the entire ecosystem of the rock world.
Although he never received formal education beyond the seventh grade, Daniels was known for his intelligence and intuition. He pursued various jobs throughout his life, including working as a hairdresser and with horses. However, his passion for photography always remained. His refrigerator and plastic bags were filled with undeveloped rolls of film from the 1960s and 1970s, waiting for the right moment.
In recent years, Daniels’ partner, Susan Berstler, took on the responsibility of caring for him as he underwent chemotherapy. She was also instrumental in organizing a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of developing his unrealized work. Thanks to her efforts, Daniels’ photographs have received international attention and have been recognized as a significant historical record of the times.
Charles Daniels was not only a talented photographer but also a generous mentor to aspiring photographers. He often gave them their first cameras and encouraged them to pursue their passion. His warm and respectful approach allowed him to gain the trust of rock stars, who knew he was not trying to exploit their fame but rather document their art.
As the world mourns the loss of Charles Daniels, his legacy lives on through his photographs. His work serves as a chronicle of a bygone era and a testament to the power of capturing the decisive moments in life. His artistic vision and dedication will continue to inspire generations of photographers to come.
A celebration of Charles Daniels’ life and work will be announced in the near future. He is survived by his partner, Susan Berstler..
– Charles Daniels, chronicler of Boston’s rock history, passes away at 81
– Renowned camera chronicler of Boston’s rock scene, Charles Daniels, dies at 81.
