USA - Bandit Lites recently honoured lighting designer Chaz Martin for marking more than 40 years with the company, and recognised Don Lockridge, Rick Munroe and Rick Herndon as they retired from the renowned lighting company, marking the end of an era. They have been integral in shaping the company’s success as their decades of experience helped innovate lighting designs, train the next generation of technicians and foster a legacy of creativity, precision and excellence.
Chaz Martin joined Bandit Lites in 1984 when he came to the United States with R.E.M. as their lighting designer. His storied career includes working with Jimmy Buffett, System of a Down, Beck, The Cowboy Junkies, Faith No More, OMD, Dan Fogelberg, Jewel, Tears for Fears and Hugh Laurie.
“Chaz and I became the best of friends in 1984 and have remained that way ever since,” said Bandit Lites chair Michael T. Strickland. “He lived in Knoxville for many years, and we ran around together all the time. There is no one more talented than Chaz. Chaz, along with Michael Stipe, created the world-famous R.E.M. dark look; he magically made light and dark complement one another and the famous R.E.M. look was born.
“His dry English humour coupled with his personality make Chaz one of a kind. He and Jimmy Buffett hit it off from day one and that was a real odd couple! He worked with Jimmy to the end. I love Chaz and hope we work together until the end. Thank you for 40 great years Chaz, I love you sir.”
Don Lockridge’s retirement from Bandit is bittersweet as he initially came to Bandit in 1987 as “the new guy”; 37 years later, Strickland still reverently referred to Lockridge with that title. He was an integral member of Garth Brook’s touring team, providing constant support to the legendary lighting rigs. He also worked with Ronnie Milsap, The Judds, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, REM, Jason Aldean, Toby Keith, Sepultura, Widespread Panic and countless other tours and special events.
When Rick Munroe came through Johnson City in 1974 as KISS’s lighting director, he met Strickland and the two kept in touch over the years. Rick stayed with KISS until the original break up, and he eventually found his way back to East Tennessee and joined Bandit full time. He spent decades working with Jimmy Buffett as well as touring with Lord of the Dance.
“When I first started working, I saw how all the different aspects of our business are put together: electronics, building, packaging, travel, marketing and computer technology,” said Munroe of his time at Bandit. “I was very impressed as I heard people from each department discuss procedures, needs, pros and cons of applications, and how they intended to fix whatever might go wrong. I have had the pleasure of working with people who enjoy what they do and do it very well.”
Rick Herndon also announced his retirement following 17 years with Bandit. Herndon’s dedication to motor maintenance made for a streamlined process that Bandit upholds to this day. His skill and aptitude were known throughout the entire company, ensuring that every motor that came through the shop was in working order.
“Before Rick joined Bandit we lived in fear of the word chain hoist,” said Strickland. “After Rick, chain hoists were never an issue. He was one of those people that you simply never heard from or about. He is truly a craftsman of the highest degree, and he worked quietly plying his trade.”
