A landmark photography project
Photography by Aleks Paluszek and MJ Smith
Born in Oldham in 1959, Clint Boon rose to fame as the keyboard player (and sometimes vocalist) of Inspiral Carpets, joining the band in 1986.
The band were at the forefront of the Madchester music scene with ‘This is How it Feels’, 'Dragging Me Down' and ‘Saturn 5’ amongst their many hits. Interestingly Noel Gallagher's introduction to the music industry was as a roadie for the band in this era.
After the Inspiral Carpets split in 1995, Clint went on to form The Clint Boon Experience and establish his own record label, 'Booney Tunes'. Of recent years, Clint is recognised as one of the region's most prolific DJs with residences at a number of nightclubs around the North West. He rejoined the Inspiral Carpets for two sell-out tours in 2002 and 2003.
Inspiral Carpets. Clint (left) with his trademark haircut
Moo... the Inspiral's logo
Clint was resident DJ at Manchester's 'SOUTH' Nightclub for 21 years before its closure in 2022 - this was the city's longest club residency.
His DJ work goes hand in hand with his career as a broadcaster. He has worked as a radio presenter for several Manchester based radio stations, 96.2 The Revolution, XFM Manchester, Radio X, BBC Radio Manchester and currently, drive time on XS Manchester. Clint is a passionate promoter of Manchester's music and culture.
After the loss of his prematurely born daughter Luna Bliss in 2013, Clint has been a supporter and patron of SiMBA, a charity supporting parents who have lost a very young baby. Hector's Fund, named after Clint’s middle son, has raised £40,000 for Manchester’s St Mary’s Hospital.
THE SHOOT: Manchester club 'SOUTH'
Where Clint was resident DJ on Saturday nights for over 21 years
Student reflection: MJ Smith
“We photographed Clint at 'South' nightclub in Manchester city centre. To deal with the basement room's lack of natural light, we brought along LED Strip lights which we positioned both in front and behind Clint to produce an exciting light balance. The challenge was to capture Clint looking relaxed in what is normally a chaotic environment - I think we managed to do this successfully. This was a technically tricky but enjoyable shoot - Clint was a great character to photograph and interact with.”
