Joe Shanahan is the founder and owner of Metro Chicago and Smart Bar in Chicago, Illinois.^[1] He is also the part owner of the Daily Bar and Grill^[2], as well as Double Door. ^[3]

Shanahan is widely regarded as an expert in the field of independent music promotion, speaking for groups including DePaul University, ^[4] Columbia College, City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs^[5], MOBfest^[6], South By Southwest, CIC^[7] and Canadian Music Week^[8].

Shanahan was one of the earliest supporters of the Smashing Pumpkins^[9]. He also managed the Smoking Popes^[10] as well as Diane Izzo. ^[11]

Shanahan serves on the board of Rock For Kids, a charity providing holiday gifts and music lessons to homeless and needy children in Chicago. ^[12]

On October 11, 2007, Shanahan was awarded a Recording Academy Honors from the Chicago Chapter of The Recording Academy in recognition of Metro's 25 years in the Chicago music community. ^[13]

In the summer of 2008, Shanahan publicly opposed the Promoters Ordinance proposed by the city of Chicago. He was part of a group of business leaders who convinced the city to table the proposal. ^[14]

References