In a world where youth often dominates the pulsating heart of electronic dance music (EDM), Matthew Churney stands as a vibrant anomaly and a true testament to the scene’s enduring spirit. At 54, while many of his peers might be opting for quieter pastimes, Matthew, affectionately known by some as a “Dancing Viking” for his energetic and distinctive presence, remains a fixture in Chicago’s dynamic electronic music landscape. From the mainstream stages of Pitchfork and Lollapalooza to the underground vibes of warehouse raves, Matthew, often alongside his twin brother Max, consistently becomes an unforgettable part of any dance floor he graces.
Donning homemade outfits and protective gear that speaks to years of dedicated raving – think knee pads and back braces – the Churney brothers are not just attendees; they are performers in their own right. Their raw passion and unique dance styles have captivated audiences for years, evidenced by a viral video from Lollapalooza 2009 that has garnered millions of views. But who is this enigmatic figure, this “dancing viking” who defies age stereotypes and embodies the soul of rave culture? What drives him to keep dancing and connecting with the music across generations?
To delve deeper into the story behind the moves, we sat down with Matthew in Chicago’s Logan Square. What unfolded was a conversation as captivating as his dance performances. From tales of early days at Woodstock to reflections on sobriety, and from intriguing theories about world events to his unwavering love for dance, Matthew Churney is far more than just a dancer in the crowd – he’s a living embodiment of EDM’s timeless appeal.
From Woodstock to Warehouses: A Journey Through Sound
Matthew’s journey into electronic music is deeply rooted in the cultural shifts of the late 20th century. Growing up in the 60s, he experienced the seismic changes in music firsthand, and the electronic sounds of the 80s and 90s resonated deeply with him. “I’d say the 80s and the 90s,” Matthew reflects on electronic music’s golden era. “You had everything from techno to trance. And I include a lot of hip-hop stuff in there too. Grandmaster Flash, you know, all that stuff was heavily influenced by electronica.” This broad appreciation highlights his understanding of EDM as part of a larger musical evolution.
His early rave experiences were, as he candidly admits, often “through the glasses of being altered.” Yet, even through the haze of youthful experimentation, the energy and freedom of these gatherings left an indelible mark. Woodstock ’94, with its dedicated rave night, stands out as a particularly formative experience. This immersion in the early rave scene shaped his understanding of electronic music culture, even as it evolved and matured.
The Sober Rave: Finding Joy Beyond Altered States
A significant aspect of Matthew’s story is his journey to sobriety. Having been clean for many years, he offers a unique perspective on enjoying electronic music without drugs. “It’s really fun to be screwed up dancing to it,” he acknowledges the allure of altered states in the rave scene. “At the same time, it can be [fun sober], you just need the right music and crowd.” This sentiment challenges the often-misconceived notion that drug use is integral to the rave experience. Matthew firmly believes, “you don’t need drugs to have a good time. I live by that. That’s not a load of bullshit.” His continued presence and infectious energy in the EDM scene serve as a living example of this philosophy, proving that the music and community can be powerfully engaging in their own right.
Navigating the Evolving EDM Landscape: Innocence Lost and PLUR Maintained
Matthew has witnessed the evolution of EDM from underground gatherings to mainstream festivals, and he has nuanced views on these changes. He acknowledges the downsides of increased popularity, noting, “It’s gotten so mainstream that it probably has lost some appeal to those who got in on it from the beginning.” He’s also aware of the darker aspects that can accompany larger crowds, referencing issues like theft, violence, and even tragic incidents like the Nitrous Mafia murder at Gathering of the Vibes. These realities, he believes, contribute to a loss of “innocence” in the scene, drawing parallels to the introduction of drugs into music culture in the 60s.
Despite these concerns, Matthew remains a staunch believer in the core values of the rave community, particularly PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, Respect). “It’s real,” he asserts. “There are a lot of really good people on the planet that care about each other. They care about the partying experience.” He highlights the positive aspects of rave culture, where people look out for one another, ensuring the safety and well-being of those in need. This belief in the inherent goodness within the EDM community fuels his continued participation and engagement.
A Day in the Life of a Dancing Viking: Beyond the Dance Floor
Matthew’s life extends beyond the bright lights and booming bass of the EDM scene. His daily routine, while unconventional, reflects his focus on well-being and his passions. He admits to enjoying sleep and often stays up late, indulging in television until he drifts off. His bed, a “structural massage table,” hints at his past training in structural massage, a practice he pursued before his teacher’s passing.
Dance is not just a hobby for Matthew; it’s a vital form of exercise and self-expression. “I try to get out and dance as much as I can,” he explains. “Dance is my only form of exercise.” He actively seeks out events, although he finds social media event platforms like Facebook to be “a pain in the ass.” Maintaining his health is also a priority, as he acknowledges his struggles with being underweight, partly due to his energetic dancing and past psychological challenges.
These challenges, including a period around 9/11 that led to a bipolar diagnosis in 2003, reveal a deeper layer to Matthew’s personality. He openly discusses his experiences with mental health, adding vulnerability and relatability to his “dancing viking” persona. His journey through these struggles and his commitment to sobriety demonstrate resilience and self-awareness.
Conspiracy Theories and Physical Realities: The Mind and Body of Matthew Churney
The conversation with Matthew takes intriguing turns, venturing into areas beyond music and dance. He expresses belief in 9/11 conspiracy theories, reflecting a questioning and open-minded approach to complex events. This willingness to explore unconventional ideas adds another dimension to his multifaceted personality.
Physically, Matthew acknowledges the wear and tear of years of dancing and an active life. He mentions knee surgeries and back issues stemming from past work and accidents, including being hit by a car while working as a bike messenger. He also recounts a story about his brother Max’s serious leg injury, allegedly caused by a valet driver from Michael Jordan’s restaurant, and his frustration with the perceived injustice of the legal outcome. These physical ailments underscore the dedication Matthew and his brother have to their active lifestyles, pushing through pain to continue dancing and engaging with the music they love.
Spiderbat: More Than Just a Dancer, An Artist and Creator
Matthew’s artistic expression isn’t limited to dance. He is also the creator behind “Spiderbat,” his unique clothing line. The name, a clever blend of Spiderman and Batman, was chosen to avoid copyright issues while still referencing the superhero-like image he often projects. “Spiderbat is the name and identity of my clothing line,” he explains. “I took Spiderman and Batman and slapped them together and came up with this mythological creature that represented my clothing.”
His foray into clothing design reveals a desire to express his creativity beyond movement, adding another layer to his identity as an artist within the EDM scene. While he admits to not being particularly “media savvy” or business-oriented, the existence of Spiderbat highlights his multifaceted nature and his drive to create.
The Sacred Bath and Lasting Legacy: More Than Just Madness
In a lighter moment, Matthew describes his appreciation for baths, considering them a “sacred experience.” This highlights his introspective side and his understanding of the importance of self-care amidst an active and sometimes chaotic lifestyle. He recognizes the need to balance external engagement with moments of personal reflection and rejuvenation.
In his “last words,” Matthew expresses a desire to be seen as “more of a true artist as opposed to this crazy guy that is just out there.” He emphasizes the depth of his emotions and intentions, stating, “People need to know I have a heart and a soul. It’s not just the madness you see on the outside.” Ultimately, Matthew Churney, Chicago’s “dancing viking,” seeks respect and the opportunity for genuine self-expression. His enduring presence in the EDM scene is a testament to his passion, resilience, and the profound connection he has forged with the music and the community. He is a reminder that age is no barrier to participation, creativity, and the enduring power of dance.
