Music man: 5 Questions With Bonhomme Hospitality’s Musical Director Saam Hagshenas
At Bonhomme, telling our unique stories wouldn’t be complete without a harmonious soundtrack.
If you’ve experienced Bordel's wonderful rotating roster of one-of-a-kind performing artists (think flamenco, jazz, sensuous burlesque), the perfectly retro boogie music that is DISCO, or Beatnik, Beatnik On The River and Celeste’s of-the-moment DJs, you can thank Saam for that. Hell, even Mama Delia and Porto have a unique sound all their own that is courtesy of — you guessed it — Saam. Here, Saam talks about where he goes to get inspired, the music of his youth and more...
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Being able to work with creative people every day, seeing how the right music can change a space and, as a giant nerd, being able to incorporate technology into a creative field to solve problems.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS INDUSTRY?
As a former musician and DJ, I noticed a lot of inefficiencies in how artists were booked. I also saw giant disparities in Chicago between clubs that played "cool" music and those that were commercially successful, which wasn't the case in other cities I had toured through. I thought that could change but wasn't sure how. Luckily, I was able to partner with some creative and music-forward people in the hospitality industry who shared that vision, and we were able to create some really unique music programs that people seem to love.
WHAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU?
Until the age of 12, I listened almost exclusively to two things: The Beatles (thanks to Mom) and Kool and the Gang (thanks to Dad).
DESCRIBE YOUR PERFECT DAY.
Sitting outside, listening to music and discovering new music from the past.
WHERE DO YOU GO FOR INSPIRATION?
Probably walking. I spent a good amount of time as a kid in Vienna visiting family. There was a little path by a stream called “Beethovengang,” where Beethoven would walk to come up with his melodies. It was so cool to walk in his footsteps and imagine where he had the epiphany and coming up with his 5th Symphony, “Ode to joy” or something. There's something about walking in silence with your thoughts and the beat and the pace of your steps that are great for music.
