Photo Friday: Only Memories, Fading Memories . . . I Want Them Back
I’ve mentioned before that my husband and I are riding the nostalgia wave and have made the decision to go to concerts of favorite artists from the past while we can. Between farewell tours and people (Bowie, Prince, Tom Petty are three I'm still upset about) dropping like flies, NOW is the time.
In April, we saw Cheap Trick. In June, we skipped ahead to the 90’s . . .
and saw Counting Crows. Adam Duritz was a very memorable singer for me in the 1990's. You probably remember their most popular hit, 'Mr. Jones (and me)' as well as 'Accidentally In Love' from Shrek 2. I was disappointed that they did not play that particular song, nor did they do their popular remake of 'Big Yellow Taxi,' which my son loved when he was a youngster.
Fortunately, they did play one of my favorite songs of all time, 'A Long December.' Blogger makes it impossible for me to upload my own videos, so please enjoy the youtube video of the song. All in all, it was a good (long) concert, Adam sounded exactly the same as he did three decades ago, and he was quite humble about thanking the fans multiple times. The opening act was Dashboard Confessional, which I only knew by name. They were fine, but I still couldn't tell you any of their songs.
A few months back, my husband asked if I wanted to go see one of my all-time fave bands, Barenaked Ladies, as a treat for our anniversary. I was hesitant because I’m a purist and firmly believe(d) that bands are never the same once they lose their lead singer. Steven Page left/was kicked out of BNL in 2009 and have they actually had a hit song since then?
Plus, there was the fact that the concert was at Blossom Music Center, an outdoor venue affected by weather and this year, the constant Canadian wildfire smoke. Neither my husband nor I have had good experiences at Blossom, dating back to before we knew each other. And the parking situation is a nightmare. Getting out of there is reminiscent to leaving the Super Bowl.
A 'normal' evening at Blossom. Photo was taken by my friend who went to see Foreigner/LoverBoy this past Monday night. Does anyone else think this looks like hell?
The good news for us was that there were no lawn seats being sold for the Barenaked Ladies concert. Only pavilion. YES! This is what the venue looked like when we arrived last Friday night. Not a madhouse!
The first opener was del Amitri. I didn't think I knew any of their songs, but I did remember their hit, 'Roll To Me,' from 1995. You can look it up if you are interested. I bet you remember it, too!
We were very excited about the second opening act, Five For Fighting. You probably remember their very popular song, 'Superman.' Their other well-known hit is '100 Years.' It's a beautiful song and if you aren't familiar with it, I encourage you to look at the lyrics here.
My husband and oldest daughter love it so much that they chose it as their father-daughter dance at her wedding back in 2014.
They ended their set with a sing-along to a Queen medley. It.was.amazing!!!!
On to the main act . . . did I mention we had 4th row seats??? Not that our bottoms touched the seats once BNL took the stage. If it's truly our last summer on Earth, BNL made it the best summer on Earth. Honestly, if you are a fan of their music and have never seen them live, it is something to experience. Total joy! I loved that everyone in the audience sang along the entire time. They even showed the lyrics to 'One Week' on the screen behind them so that we could attempt to follow along . . . chickity china, the chinese chicken . . .
Pinch me . . . I just made you say underwear . . . (note guitar decoration)
I officially take back everything I've ever said about BNL not being the same without Steven Page. Ed Robertson IS Barenaked Ladies. He's a master at connecting with the audience.
Of course, being in the 4th row definitely helped us make eye contact with the band. I was bawling during 'The Old Apartment.' What a thrill to hear them play my favorite song of theirs live. It's also my 5 year old grandson's favorite BNL song, as well. We raised our kids to be fans and they have passed it on to their children.
I didn't get a photo, but during the encore, the drummer led the audience in a rendition of Def Leppard's 'Rock of Ages' which was super fun for this '80's gal.
Have you passed down any musical tastes to your children? Are you picky about venues? Is there a band/singer you need to see before it's too late? Are there any that you are still disappointed to have missed?
You just brought back so many memories for me with the mentioning of these bands. I forgot all about Dashboard Confessional. I used to love their song Vindicated. Just went and put that back on my playlist. I always loved 100 years, too. Such a bittersweet song. I wasn't an overly huge fan of BNL. I do remember riding around with my best friend in high school singing One Week and causing mayhem whenever we could though LOL. I'm ok with any venue if the artist is one I really want to see, so I probably would have braved that one up there but would have probably complained a little. I think I've seen everyone in concert that I really wanted to, but I was recently ticked that I didn't buy Ed Sheeran tickets for his Detroit show. I told Jason when he announced his tour that he'd probably bring Eminem on stage since they've collaborated a few times, and sure enough, he did. Not that I'm an overly huge fan of either, but I do love most of Ed's songs and I like the songs he has done with Eminem. Glad you were able to have a fantastic time at the show. And kudos for throwing caution to the wind and getting out there to see these shows!
I’m so glad you know these bands. I’m surprised that I didn’t recognize any Dashboard Confessional songs. So, I guess I don’t know Vindicated as I’ll bet they played it. 100 Years is such a classic song. That’s a great memory of singing along to One Week.
Bummer on missing Sheeran/Eminem together. That would have been really cool to see. There’s always next time because they’re both young (though I guess Eminem is over 40 by now, which is shocking to realize). But like I always say, I’ll always be younger than Madonna. . .LOL!
Isn't it something how powerful music is? How it can transport you back in time and flood you with memories? I was talking with someone at work the other day about Bowie and Prince, and how much I miss them.
Yup, I clearing remember Counting Crows and 'A Long December'. One of my faves as well!
"Does anyone else think this looks like hell?" LOL! Yes, it does! And TOTALLY different from the photo below it.
'Roll To Me,' OMG, I LOVE that song!
And not only did I read the lyrics to '100 Years', but I found the video on YouTube and watched it. It's so beautiful. It's like watching a complete 4-minute movie. That photo of your husband and daughter dancing to it at her wedding made me very teary-eyed. It's the perfect father-daughter song!
"They ended their set with a sing-along to a Queen medley. It.was.amazing!!!!" God, how I miss Queen as well! I just watched a documentary on Freddie.
Thanks so much for sharing your past concerts. I smiled all through this post because I could hear your enjoyment and excitement!
My two favorite concerts were Bette Midler and Diana Ross. This was back in the late 70s, when I was living in NYC. FAB-U-LOUS!
Music is such a powerful medium. I can’t believe how often it brings me to tears, from church to the car radio! I’m glad you enjoyed all the songs I’ve mentioned in the post along with me. That photo of my husband and daughter is so special to us. They have always had such a close relationship. She was a fast pitch softball pitcher and they traveled the country together for all her high school years. Lots of memories they have together.
I love that you saw such heavy hitters like Midler and Ross. I bet they were so amazing. Icons! Enjoy the weekend, Ron, but I warn you that the humidity was BRUTAL here today.😡
I haven't been to live rock concert in years. They don't appeal to me anymore, but I did see a few when I was younger and more into them. One great one was the Stones' Steel Wheels tour. Also saw Simon and Garfunkel.
I have always been obsessed with music, but I couldn’t afford to go to concerts when I was young (nor would my parents have allowed me), so I’m making up for lost time. You saw some heavy hitters right there!
BNL AND FIVE FOR FIGHTING!! That is some serious Canadiana there! I applaud you - and as a Canadian girl in the 90s, I was OBSESSED with BNL, Gordon had come out when I was in grade 11 and it was THE album. I can still sing every word to every song. Enid, we never really knew each other anyway. I did see them in concert and it was awesome, but that was back in the Steven Page days obviously. I have a huge spotify playlist called Nicole Karaoke and my boys know all the songs - and it is VERY eclectic. The kids know all the words to Aretha Franklin, for example, but also random things like the Rubberband Man. Second night at the warehouse, and my mock turtleneck just reeks. Ooooh I will be singing this ALL DAY.
Yeah!!! I’m so glad you saw this post because of the Canadian connection. When I first started blogging, I had two followers from Canada that were sister-in-laws and one of them loved BNL. That was back in their hey day. Enid is a great song, too. Honestly, they could have played any song and we would have been able to sing along. I was really hoping for Call And Answer, but no luck there.
That’s so cool that your sons know such classic songs. I think the other band we played the most for our kids was Fleetwood Mac and we took them to their concert once. My son, who has traveled all over the states and to Toronto for concerts still says Mac is in his Top 5 best concerts!
Now I have to go listen to Rubberband Man because it’s been yeeeeaaaarrrs.
Glad to hear you had a wonderful time! Music has the power to take you back and flood you with memories like nothing else can. This is a great thing for you and your husband to be doing together!
What a great '90s nostalgia trip. I know all those bands/artists, even Del Amitri! But I had no idea BNL fired their lead singer so long ago. You're right, though: it's not like they pop up on the radio much these days.
Tara and I have tickets for Stevie Nicks and Billy Joel in Minneapolis in November. Two legends that have been on our bucket list for a long time. Since they're both getting up there in years, we figured, now was the time!
I was SO mad when Page left! I think it had to do with a drug bust. He still plays solo and ironically was in Cleveland the same week as BNL. I’d go see him! But it’s surprising that newer BNL songs aren’t on the radio because there are good ones out there, like Lovin’ Life. Their songs are so positive. We even saw some young children at the concert.
I think I told you that a college boyfriend broke up with me because I turned down a ticket to Stevie Nicks with him. Lol, I will always associate her with that. It was in her Stand Back days. Think of me if she sings that! But we are HUGE Fleetwood Mac fans and have seen them twice.
I knew who all of these bands were! I love Counting Crows. My favorite song is Round Here. I am so glad Adam Horowitz still sounds good and is a lovely human. That makes me happy.
My husband and I also love BNL (If I had a million dollars....haven't you always wanted a monKEY!) But what a concert! Del Amitri, Five for Fighting, and Barenaked Ladies?? What fun!
That Blossom situation....holy hell. I mean, Loverboy and Foreigner are great and all, but man. All I can think about is two big-name bands touring together. Can you imagine that in the 80s?? How times have changed.
I love that you're going to all of these concerts. ❤️
And I love that you knew all the bands! We really do have the same taste in music, as I always relate to all the videos you post. Counting Crows did sing Round Here. I didn’t mention, but in the encore, the finished with California Dreamin’, which is my all-time favorite childhood song. Adam was a sincere, mellow dude. Remember when he dated both Courtney Cox and Jennifer Aniston during the Friends years?
I know, can you believe that lineup? And in June, SemiSonic took the place of Five For Fighting. I bet they were good, too. Blossom is just awful in a lot of ways. Part of the situation is that it’s in the middle of nowhere, so there’s only one road to leave on. And you’re nowhere near a highway.
We have two more concerts coming up at the end of the year, but one is for Middle Child (Straight No Chaser). But hoping other bands announce dates near us this fall.
I confess that I don't like the live versions of my favorite songs so I never go to concerts anymore! When I was younger I went to Bachman, Turner Overdrive and The Beach Boys! (note: Bob Seger was back up for BTO which tells you how old I am!) That being said, I would love to see The Eagles but ticket prices are too outrageous anymore! I'm glad enjoyed the concert!
I agree, that photo looks like HELL. I admit that I'm a clueless music fan . . . I enjoy a lot of music, but never know who sings what. i'm weird that way I like Prince and would've loved to see him in concert. I like John Denver, too. Coach and I saw the BoDeans on NYE a few years ago and it was so fun. I'm not a huge concert going type. I had a bad experience a few weeks before we got married at a Hootie and the Blowfish concert.
Picture this: outside venue (similar to the 'HELL' photo you posted). It poured. Coach was living with his folks. Before GPS. I drove home with my sister. He had to drive his sister's friend home and then he got turned around drivig to his folk's house in the northern suburbs of Chicago - I was living in the western burbs. His mom called me at my condo in the MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT because he wasn't home and she was worried. Then I was worried. I started calling hospitals to see if he'd been brought in. He called me from her house a few minutes later. I've seen U2 in concert multiple times -once while living in Ireland. Awesome.
Our kids know lots of classic rock lyrics. Mini has shared a playlist of hers on Spotify and it has a lot of Neil Diamone and Fleetwood. Coach barely remembers what happened yesterday or the names of our children, but he has a freaky memory for lyrics and bands and the years things happened. Who even is he?
That is a bad memory. I think your taste in music is fabulous, though! U2 has always been my fave and I’ve seen them twice. Probably my favorite concert of all time was the Elevation Tour of 2001. It was a religious experience for me. I’m pretty good with lyrics and the years songs came out, only because I associate songs with certain people and what we were doing.
Like you, I'm so sad to not have seen Prince and Bowie. We did see Tom Petty way back when. (around 1986?) I LOVE Counting Crows. We saw them at Farm Aid in 2007 for my 40th birthday. For some reason, when I think of Adam, I just remember that he and Courtney Cox dated for a minute. Why does my brain work like that? I LOVE A Long December too.
I know of all the bands you mentioned, but I ADORE BNL the most. I'm so happy to hear they are just as good now with the shake up that happened. This would have been so much fun for me too and I'm living vicariously through you!
My girls grew up listening to a lot of DMB, BNL, Sublime, Hootie & TBF (which is crazy that we rub elbows with Mark Bryan on occasion-super nice guy) to name a few. Linds was trying to see BNL a few years ago but wasn't able to make it happen.
I love that you love all these bands, too. My husband saw Tom Petty before I knew him. I love so many of his songs. That’s so cool that you saw Counting Crows for your 40th! I saw Harry Anderson (Night Court) at a comedy club for my 40th. LOL! May he rest in peace. And of course I also think of Adam dating Courtney Cox AND Jennifer Aniston back in the day!
Isn’t BNL the best? You absolutely have to see them because it’s a giant sing along. You would love it! I love the bands your kids grew up with, but my kids hated DMB, despite me trying to indoctrinate them. I have no idea why? Maybe because I used to cry to Big Eyed Fish??? 🤣 Funny side story: my son-in-law has friends who used to work Blossom security 15 years ago or so and they said DMB fans were the worst as far as behavior (I’m assuming lots of pot smokers?) but that always cracks me up because it’s not like there aren’t heavy metal bands playing there, too!
I take offense about DMB fans being the worst and I never smoked pot at the concerts....that's not saying I didn't get a contact high from all those around me! We also saw Harry Anderson, many, many years ago at a comedy club in West Palm Beach; he was great!! And now that I think about it, Night Court was a great sitcom!
Lol, I guess some folks need to mellow out for the mellow music? I bet we saw Harry Anderson around the same time. Unfortunately, I turned 40 quite awhile ago.
I'm so glad you went and had such a great time! Glad the singer redeemed himself in your mind. (I can understand your distress there. I mean, could there be Pearl Jam without Eddie Vedder?!) YEEEEESSSS, to the parking lot stress. I remember that well from Dave Matthews Band. Ugh. And the lawn-only seating for Jack Johnson was horribly claustrophobic. Sitting was never an option. So, I'm happy for you that all worked out for the better. I remember Five for Fighting and those two great songs you mentioned. Kind of weird to see these guys as old men now. Glad they're still just as good. Dashboard C I've also heard of, but can't think of any songs. Sounds like a terrific time. So happy for you that you went! For my part, I'm sorry I never saw Chris Cornell. :/
Hi Betsy! Nope, Pearl Jam can only be Vedder. I feel that way about Journey and Van Halen, too. You saw DMB at Blossom? Please read my funny side story in the comment just above yours. Too funny! Lawn only sounds awful! Why??? Yeah, it’s hard to believe the ages, but I guess if they were popular in the 90’s, they’re not 30 now. I was shocked when I looked up Adam Duritz and saw he was my age. Actually, that should make me feel good, but it didn’t! Such a bummer on Cornell. Add Michael Hutchence and Chester Bennington to that sad list.
I love that you knew it was me. 🙂 It was actually out here that I saw DMB. I saw the Cranberries in Cleveland, but I don’t remember the venue. I’ll read your side story above now!
That IS funny, and I DO remember people smoking pot at the DMB concert! The Jack Johnson one too, but no surprise there. Not so much the Cranberries when I was a kid. 😆
Wow, sounds like you guys had a great time! I don't know BNL that well, but now I'm very interested, thanks to you!
That's such a lovely story about Five for Fighting and "100 Years." Another band/song I'll have to investigate. I know Del Amitri and I've very fond of their song "The Last to Know."
I'm never been much of a concert-goer to be honest.
I saw the Police at Madison Square Garden when the Go-Gos were the opening act. I saw Phil Collins at the Garden and Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes someplace on 14th Street which may or may not be a Trader Joe's today.
Betsy again. Not sure why I have to comment down here. Anyway. The Cranberries, I'm almost certain, was an indoor venue. Does that help? And, yes, I'm glad I got to see them when I did. It's too bad they can't be touring now too. :/ When Hubs and I were on our honeymoon in Ireland, our taxi driver pointed out Delores O'Rierdan's house, saying, "That's not a house. That's a statement." :P It was large. And I figured mentioning Pearl Jam would give me away. :) :)
Hi Rob! I’m always happy to introduce people to great bands. You saw some of the greats, back in the day. How crazy a venue is now a Trader Joe’s. When my husband lived in Brooklyn back in 1984, he remembers seeing a sign at a local venue for INXS before they became well known. He thought it was pronounced Inks.
Betsy, that is a cool story about being in Ireland. A girl I’ve known since kindergarten met Bono outside a bar in Dublin and he talked to her and her little girl. That’s my favorite Ireland story🥰
We haven't been to any rock gigs for a very long time. I think the last one was K T Tunstall, who was tremendous. But as you say, we're losing so many great singers and musicians, now's the time to catch them in the act as it were. Jenny's a big fan of Counting Crows but they've never performed in Belfast.
We really haven’t gone to too many shows until recently. I think Covid made us realize life is short. I’m glad to hear Jenny likes Counting Crows, too.
Enjoyed this post, Bijoux, and agree with you that the Blossom Music Center venue you showed did look like something I would not want to attend. While I was not a huge fan of most of the groups you mentioned, the exception was Barenaked Ladies and my favorite tune they did "If I Had A Million Dollars" which I was introduced to on the country music station we listened to when living in CVA. What great seats you had in the 4th row! The last concert performance we saw was Big Bad Voodo Daddy at a music venue here in NH.
Million Dollars is such a great song to sing to and one of their biggest hits. My kids always loved that one. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy sounds like a good time to me! I am only vaguely familiar with their music but I know the genre.
Wow, Bijoux. Sounds like a great time and so glad you and the hubby had a wonderful time. Lots of fond memories of BNL as they blew up when I was in college and all of the cover bands would play their songs at the bars. We are taking the kids to see Joan Jett and then Weezer this month so it will be interesting to see how they react. Mrs. Shife is a big fan of both of those acts. Should be fun.
BNL is truly the best! Soooo many great songs. I absolutely love Weezer, so I hope you post about it. How fun for your kids. Think of me when they play Island in the Sun because that’s a song that makes me cry!
That's awesome that you and your husband are going to so many concerts.
Personally, I don't enjoy concerts. We went to a Tori Amos concert at an outdoor venue in Atlanta back in 2009, and while she was incredible, I didn't enjoy the experience. I just felt like we paid a lot of money to hear Tori Amos, not hear fans sing along with Tori Amos. I know I sound like a total bore! I do love going to plays and shows, like Cats, though. I guess I like things where the audience doesn't participate.
That's so cool that your grandchildren like Bare Naked Ladies. Our neighbors who have six kids are a little bit older than us (I think they're considered young Gen X and we're considered old Gen Y), and their kids like a lot of 90s music. Whenever I've had the kids in the car with me, they almost always pick some kind of 90s playlist from my phone. I guess it's what they're used to listening to with their parents. One of the boys just bought his first truck and it has a CD player, so we bought him a George Strait CD and a CD case to hold multiple CDs (remember those?!) for it. I love to see younger people appreciating how awesome 90s music was/is.
Yeah, I’m not a huge fan of the outdoor venues. People seem to act like idiots when they are outdoors, for some reason. I do understand not enjoying audience participation if it takes away from the act you’re paying to see. Your neighbors sound like fun people! I miss my car CD player. Good memories of my kids picking what CD to listen to. Thanks for stopping by, Danielle.
MUSIC!!! As I type this I'm listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Simple Man' because after I listened to '100 Years' (excellent song for your husband and daughter to dance to!!) I put that one on since it's the song my son and I danced to at his wedding. As for passing down musical tastes... Skynyrd wasn't a band he or I followed at all... just liked the song for the dance. He loves The Beatles from Ron, and I used to listen to Rush, and he liked them too so I took him to see them one time, maybe for his 16th or 17th b.d. My daughter got totally into Depeche Mode because I had a cassette tape. lol We have other band/song connections too. So now the song playing is 'Remedy' by the Black Crowes. And how interesting because it's one of my fav songs by them and I'm going to the Aerosmith Peace Out Farewell tour next month, and BC are their opening act! I'm so glad you've gotten to see some concerts recently, especially BNL!! Nice anniversary gift! I was lucky enough to see Prince and Sheila E wayyyy back in the 80's for the Purple Rain tour but I would have loved to see him again. One of my absolute favorite artists! Even though U2 is still playing, and I do love them too, I think the days of concerts are getting a bit behind me. Ron and I went on lots of concert dates over the years (Speaking of Prince, we did see The Revolution when they were touring in honor of him after he died.) but his tinnitus has caused deafness in one ear and he struggles with the other at times, too. Also, crowds are just so difficult for both us now. Fun post, really enjoyed it. ~Mary
Awww, I’m still mad that I didn’t get a mother/son dance with my son since we had to cancel his reception the summer of Covid. My husband always talks about seeing Rush with his high school friends in a loge (a parent must have gotten it through work). That’s cool that your daughter loves Depeche Mode. We are seeing them again in November. I can’t wait to hear about your Aerosmith concert! And I’m so jealous that you saw Prince, Sheila E, AND The Revolution! That’s amazing! But what about Morris Day and the Time? LOL!
We’ve seen U2 twice. While they will always be my faves, I think I don’t need to pay their ticket prices again. Plus, I don’t think they can ever top their Elevation Tour. It was a religious experience.
You just brought back so many memories for me with the mentioning of these bands. I forgot all about Dashboard Confessional. I used to love their song Vindicated. Just went and put that back on my playlist. I always loved 100 years, too. Such a bittersweet song. I wasn't an overly huge fan of BNL. I do remember riding around with my best friend in high school singing One Week and causing mayhem whenever we could though LOL.
ReplyDeleteI'm ok with any venue if the artist is one I really want to see, so I probably would have braved that one up there but would have probably complained a little.
I think I've seen everyone in concert that I really wanted to, but I was recently ticked that I didn't buy Ed Sheeran tickets for his Detroit show. I told Jason when he announced his tour that he'd probably bring Eminem on stage since they've collaborated a few times, and sure enough, he did. Not that I'm an overly huge fan of either, but I do love most of Ed's songs and I like the songs he has done with Eminem.
Glad you were able to have a fantastic time at the show. And kudos for throwing caution to the wind and getting out there to see these shows!
I’m so glad you know these bands. I’m surprised that I didn’t recognize any Dashboard Confessional songs. So, I guess I don’t know Vindicated as I’ll bet they played it. 100 Years is such a classic song. That’s a great memory of singing along to One Week.
DeleteBummer on missing Sheeran/Eminem together. That would have been really cool to see. There’s always next time because they’re both young (though I guess Eminem is over 40 by now, which is shocking to realize). But like I always say, I’ll always be younger than Madonna. . .LOL!
I may be younger than Madonna, but she could probably beat me any day of the week in fitness LOL
DeleteNot currently!!!
DeleteIsn't it something how powerful music is? How it can transport you back in time and flood you with memories? I was talking with someone at work the other day about Bowie and Prince, and how much I miss them.
ReplyDeleteYup, I clearing remember Counting Crows and 'A Long December'. One of my faves as well!
"Does anyone else think this looks like hell?" LOL! Yes, it does! And TOTALLY different from the photo below it.
'Roll To Me,' OMG, I LOVE that song!
And not only did I read the lyrics to '100 Years', but I found the video on YouTube and watched it. It's so beautiful. It's like watching a complete 4-minute movie. That photo of your husband and daughter dancing to it at her wedding made me very teary-eyed. It's the perfect father-daughter song!
"They ended their set with a sing-along to a Queen medley. It.was.amazing!!!!" God, how I miss Queen as well! I just watched a documentary on Freddie.
Thanks so much for sharing your past concerts. I smiled all through this post because I could hear your enjoyment and excitement!
My two favorite concerts were Bette Midler and Diana Ross. This was back in the late 70s, when I was living in NYC. FAB-U-LOUS!
Have a spectacular weekend, my friend! X
Music is such a powerful medium. I can’t believe how often it brings me to tears, from church to the car radio! I’m glad you enjoyed all the songs I’ve mentioned in the post along with me. That photo of my husband and daughter is so special to us. They have always had such a close relationship. She was a fast pitch softball pitcher and they traveled the country together for all her high school years. Lots of memories they have together.
DeleteI love that you saw such heavy hitters like Midler and Ross. I bet they were so amazing. Icons! Enjoy the weekend, Ron, but I warn you that the humidity was BRUTAL here today.😡
I haven't been to live rock concert in years. They don't appeal to me anymore, but I did see a few when I was younger and more into them. One great one was the Stones' Steel Wheels tour. Also saw Simon and Garfunkel.
ReplyDeleteI have always been obsessed with music, but I couldn’t afford to go to concerts when I was young (nor would my parents have allowed me), so I’m making up for lost time. You saw some heavy hitters right there!
DeleteBNL AND FIVE FOR FIGHTING!! That is some serious Canadiana there! I applaud you - and as a Canadian girl in the 90s, I was OBSESSED with BNL, Gordon had come out when I was in grade 11 and it was THE album. I can still sing every word to every song. Enid, we never really knew each other anyway. I did see them in concert and it was awesome, but that was back in the Steven Page days obviously. I have a huge spotify playlist called Nicole Karaoke and my boys know all the songs - and it is VERY eclectic. The kids know all the words to Aretha Franklin, for example, but also random things like the Rubberband Man.
ReplyDeleteSecond night at the warehouse, and my mock turtleneck just reeks. Ooooh I will be singing this ALL DAY.
Yeah!!! I’m so glad you saw this post because of the Canadian connection. When I first started blogging, I had two followers from Canada that were sister-in-laws and one of them loved BNL. That was back in their hey day. Enid is a great song, too. Honestly, they could have played any song and we would have been able to sing along. I was really hoping for Call And Answer, but no luck there.
DeleteThat’s so cool that your sons know such classic songs. I think the other band we played the most for our kids was Fleetwood Mac and we took them to their concert once. My son, who has traveled all over the states and to Toronto for concerts still says Mac is in his Top 5 best concerts!
Now I have to go listen to Rubberband Man because it’s been yeeeeaaaarrrs.
You know I've never been to a concert, and I don't like crowds so I probably will never go to one.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand, Mary. That Foreigner concert looked like a nightmare.
DeleteGlad to hear you had a wonderful time! Music has the power to take you back and flood you with memories like nothing else can. This is a great thing for you and your husband to be doing together!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great '90s nostalgia trip. I know all those bands/artists, even Del Amitri! But I had no idea BNL fired their lead singer so long ago. You're right, though: it's not like they pop up on the radio much these days.
ReplyDeleteTara and I have tickets for Stevie Nicks and Billy Joel in Minneapolis in November. Two legends that have been on our bucket list for a long time. Since they're both getting up there in years, we figured, now was the time!
I was SO mad when Page left! I think it had to do with a drug bust. He still plays solo and ironically was in Cleveland the same week as BNL. I’d go see him! But it’s surprising that newer BNL songs aren’t on the radio because there are good ones out there, like Lovin’ Life. Their songs are so positive. We even saw some young children at the concert.
DeleteI think I told you that a college boyfriend broke up with me because I turned down a ticket to Stevie Nicks with him. Lol, I will always associate her with that. It was in her Stand Back days. Think of me if she sings that! But we are HUGE Fleetwood Mac fans and have seen them twice.
I LOVE THIS TO PIECES.
ReplyDeleteI knew who all of these bands were! I love Counting Crows. My favorite song is Round Here. I am so glad Adam Horowitz still sounds good and is a lovely human. That makes me happy.
My husband and I also love BNL (If I had a million dollars....haven't you always wanted a monKEY!) But what a concert! Del Amitri, Five for Fighting, and Barenaked Ladies?? What fun!
That Blossom situation....holy hell. I mean, Loverboy and Foreigner are great and all, but man. All I can think about is two big-name bands touring together. Can you imagine that in the 80s?? How times have changed.
I love that you're going to all of these concerts. ❤️
And I love that you knew all the bands! We really do have the same taste in music, as I always relate to all the videos you post. Counting Crows did sing Round Here. I didn’t mention, but in the encore, the finished with California Dreamin’, which is my all-time favorite childhood song. Adam was a sincere, mellow dude. Remember when he dated both Courtney Cox and Jennifer Aniston during the Friends years?
DeleteI know, can you believe that lineup? And in June, SemiSonic took the place of Five For Fighting. I bet they were good, too. Blossom is just awful in a lot of ways. Part of the situation is that it’s in the middle of nowhere, so there’s only one road to leave on. And you’re nowhere near a highway.
We have two more concerts coming up at the end of the year, but one is for Middle Child (Straight No Chaser). But hoping other bands announce dates near us this fall.
I confess that I don't like the live versions of my favorite songs so I never go to concerts anymore! When I was younger I went to Bachman, Turner Overdrive and The Beach Boys! (note: Bob Seger was back up for BTO which tells you how old I am!) That being said, I would love to see The Eagles but ticket prices are too outrageous anymore! I'm glad enjoyed the concert!
ReplyDeleteSometimes live versions of songs are just not the same. You saw some classics, back in the day.
DeleteI agree, that photo looks like HELL. I admit that I'm a clueless music fan . . . I enjoy a lot of music, but never know who sings what. i'm weird that way I like Prince and would've loved to see him in concert. I like John Denver, too. Coach and I saw the BoDeans on NYE a few years ago and it was so fun. I'm not a huge concert going type. I had a bad experience a few weeks before we got married at a Hootie and the Blowfish concert.
ReplyDeletePicture this: outside venue (similar to the 'HELL' photo you posted). It poured. Coach was living with his folks. Before GPS. I drove home with my sister. He had to drive his sister's friend home and then he got turned around drivig to his folk's house in the northern suburbs of Chicago - I was living in the western burbs. His mom called me at my condo in the MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT because he wasn't home and she was worried. Then I was worried. I started calling hospitals to see if he'd been brought in. He called me from her house a few minutes later. I've seen U2 in concert multiple times -once while living in Ireland. Awesome.
Our kids know lots of classic rock lyrics. Mini has shared a playlist of hers on Spotify and it has a lot of Neil Diamone and Fleetwood. Coach barely remembers what happened yesterday or the names of our children, but he has a freaky memory for lyrics and bands and the years things happened. Who even is he?
That is a bad memory. I think your taste in music is fabulous, though! U2 has always been my fave and I’ve seen them twice. Probably my favorite concert of all time was the Elevation Tour of 2001. It was a religious experience for me. I’m pretty good with lyrics and the years songs came out, only because I associate songs with certain people and what we were doing.
DeleteLike you, I'm so sad to not have seen Prince and Bowie. We did see Tom Petty way back when. (around 1986?)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE Counting Crows. We saw them at Farm Aid in 2007 for my 40th birthday. For some reason, when I think of Adam, I just remember that he and Courtney Cox dated for a minute. Why does my brain work like that? I LOVE A Long December too.
I know of all the bands you mentioned, but I ADORE BNL the most. I'm so happy to hear they are just as good now with the shake up that happened. This would have been so much fun for me too and I'm living vicariously through you!
My girls grew up listening to a lot of DMB, BNL, Sublime, Hootie & TBF (which is crazy that we rub elbows with Mark Bryan on occasion-super nice guy) to name a few. Linds was trying to see BNL a few years ago but wasn't able to make it happen.
I love that you love all these bands, too. My husband saw Tom Petty before I knew him. I love so many of his songs. That’s so cool that you saw Counting Crows for your 40th! I saw Harry Anderson (Night Court) at a comedy club for my 40th. LOL! May he rest in peace. And of course I also think of Adam dating Courtney Cox AND Jennifer Aniston back in the day!
DeleteIsn’t BNL the best? You absolutely have to see them because it’s a giant sing along. You would love it! I love the bands your kids grew up with, but my kids hated DMB, despite me trying to indoctrinate them. I have no idea why? Maybe because I used to cry to Big Eyed Fish??? 🤣 Funny side story: my son-in-law has friends who used to work Blossom security 15 years ago or so and they said DMB fans were the worst as far as behavior (I’m assuming lots of pot smokers?) but that always cracks me up because it’s not like there aren’t heavy metal bands playing there, too!
I take offense about DMB fans being the worst and I never smoked pot at the concerts....that's not saying I didn't get a contact high from all those around me!
DeleteWe also saw Harry Anderson, many, many years ago at a comedy club in West Palm Beach; he was great!! And now that I think about it, Night Court was a great sitcom!
Lol, I guess some folks need to mellow out for the mellow music? I bet we saw Harry Anderson around the same time. Unfortunately, I turned 40 quite awhile ago.
DeleteI'm so glad you went and had such a great time! Glad the singer redeemed himself in your mind. (I can understand your distress there. I mean, could there be Pearl Jam without Eddie Vedder?!) YEEEEESSSS, to the parking lot stress. I remember that well from Dave Matthews Band. Ugh. And the lawn-only seating for Jack Johnson was horribly claustrophobic. Sitting was never an option. So, I'm happy for you that all worked out for the better. I remember Five for Fighting and those two great songs you mentioned. Kind of weird to see these guys as old men now. Glad they're still just as good. Dashboard C I've also heard of, but can't think of any songs. Sounds like a terrific time. So happy for you that you went! For my part, I'm sorry I never saw Chris Cornell. :/
ReplyDeleteHi Betsy! Nope, Pearl Jam can only be Vedder. I feel that way about Journey and Van Halen, too. You saw DMB at Blossom? Please read my funny side story in the comment just above yours. Too funny! Lawn only sounds awful! Why??? Yeah, it’s hard to believe the ages, but I guess if they were popular in the 90’s, they’re not 30 now. I was shocked when I looked up Adam Duritz and saw he was my age. Actually, that should make me feel good, but it didn’t! Such a bummer on Cornell. Add Michael Hutchence and Chester Bennington to that sad list.
DeleteI love that you knew it was me. 🙂 It was actually out here that I saw DMB. I saw the Cranberries in Cleveland, but I don’t remember the venue. I’ll read your side story above now!
DeleteThat IS funny, and I DO remember people smoking pot at the DMB concert! The Jack Johnson one too, but no surprise there. Not so much the Cranberries when I was a kid. 😆
DeleteWell, who else would talk about Pearl Jam?? 🤣 I wonder where you saw the Cranberries? Agora? Beachland Ballroom? Good thing you saw them when you did!
DeleteWow, sounds like you guys had a great time! I don't know BNL that well, but now I'm very interested, thanks to you!
DeleteThat's such a lovely story about Five for Fighting and "100 Years." Another band/song I'll have to investigate. I know Del Amitri and I've very fond of their song "The Last to Know."
I'm never been much of a concert-goer to be honest.
I saw the Police at Madison Square Garden when the Go-Gos were the opening act. I saw Phil Collins at the Garden and Southside Johnny and The Asbury Jukes someplace on 14th Street which may or may not be a Trader Joe's today.
Great post!
Betsy again. Not sure why I have to comment down here. Anyway. The Cranberries, I'm almost certain, was an indoor venue. Does that help? And, yes, I'm glad I got to see them when I did. It's too bad they can't be touring now too. :/ When Hubs and I were on our honeymoon in Ireland, our taxi driver pointed out Delores O'Rierdan's house, saying, "That's not a house. That's a statement." :P It was large. And I figured mentioning Pearl Jam would give me away. :) :)
DeleteHi Rob! I’m always happy to introduce people to great bands. You saw some of the greats, back in the day. How crazy a venue is now a Trader Joe’s. When my husband lived in Brooklyn back in 1984, he remembers seeing a sign at a local venue for INXS before they became well known. He thought it was pronounced Inks.
DeleteBetsy, that is a cool story about being in Ireland. A girl I’ve known since kindergarten met Bono outside a bar in Dublin and he talked to her and her little girl. That’s my favorite Ireland story🥰
DeleteAww. That’s super cool. 😌
DeleteWe haven't been to any rock gigs for a very long time. I think the last one was K T Tunstall, who was tremendous. But as you say, we're losing so many great singers and musicians, now's the time to catch them in the act as it were. Jenny's a big fan of Counting Crows but they've never performed in Belfast.
ReplyDeleteWe really haven’t gone to too many shows until recently. I think Covid made us realize life is short. I’m glad to hear Jenny likes Counting Crows, too.
DeleteEnjoyed this post, Bijoux, and agree with you that the Blossom Music Center venue you showed did look like something I would not want to attend. While I was not a huge fan of most of the groups you mentioned, the exception was Barenaked Ladies and my favorite tune they did "If I Had A Million Dollars" which I was introduced to on the country music station we listened to when living in CVA. What great seats you had in the 4th row! The last concert performance we saw was Big Bad Voodo Daddy at a music venue here in NH.
ReplyDeleteMillion Dollars is such a great song to sing to and one of their biggest hits. My kids always loved that one. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy sounds like a good time to me! I am only vaguely familiar with their music but I know the genre.
DeleteWow, Bijoux. Sounds like a great time and so glad you and the hubby had a wonderful time. Lots of fond memories of BNL as they blew up when I was in college and all of the cover bands would play their songs at the bars. We are taking the kids to see Joan Jett and then Weezer this month so it will be interesting to see how they react. Mrs. Shife is a big fan of both of those acts. Should be fun.
ReplyDeleteBNL is truly the best! Soooo many great songs. I absolutely love Weezer, so I hope you post about it. How fun for your kids. Think of me when they play Island in the Sun because that’s a song that makes me cry!
DeleteI will do my best, Bijoux.
DeleteSounds like you had such an awesome time.
ReplyDeleteIt was wonderful.
DeleteThat's awesome that you and your husband are going to so many concerts.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I don't enjoy concerts. We went to a Tori Amos concert at an outdoor venue in Atlanta back in 2009, and while she was incredible, I didn't enjoy the experience. I just felt like we paid a lot of money to hear Tori Amos, not hear fans sing along with Tori Amos. I know I sound like a total bore! I do love going to plays and shows, like Cats, though. I guess I like things where the audience doesn't participate.
That's so cool that your grandchildren like Bare Naked Ladies. Our neighbors who have six kids are a little bit older than us (I think they're considered young Gen X and we're considered old Gen Y), and their kids like a lot of 90s music. Whenever I've had the kids in the car with me, they almost always pick some kind of 90s playlist from my phone. I guess it's what they're used to listening to with their parents. One of the boys just bought his first truck and it has a CD player, so we bought him a George Strait CD and a CD case to hold multiple CDs (remember those?!) for it. I love to see younger people appreciating how awesome 90s music was/is.
Yeah, I’m not a huge fan of the outdoor venues. People seem to act like idiots when they are outdoors, for some reason. I do understand not enjoying audience participation if it takes away from the act you’re paying to see. Your neighbors sound like fun people! I miss my car CD player. Good memories of my kids picking what CD to listen to. Thanks for stopping by, Danielle.
DeleteMUSIC!!! As I type this I'm listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Simple Man' because after I listened to '100 Years' (excellent song for your husband and daughter to dance to!!) I put that one on since it's the song my son and I danced to at his wedding. As for passing down musical tastes... Skynyrd wasn't a band he or I followed at all... just liked the song for the dance. He loves The Beatles from Ron, and I used to listen to Rush, and he liked them too so I took him to see them one time, maybe for his 16th or 17th b.d. My daughter got totally into Depeche Mode because I had a cassette tape. lol We have other band/song connections too. So now the song playing is 'Remedy' by the Black Crowes. And how interesting because it's one of my fav songs by them and I'm going to the Aerosmith Peace Out Farewell tour next month, and BC are their opening act!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you've gotten to see some concerts recently, especially BNL!! Nice anniversary gift!
I was lucky enough to see Prince and Sheila E wayyyy back in the 80's for the Purple Rain tour but I would have loved to see him again. One of my absolute favorite artists! Even though U2 is still playing, and I do love them too, I think the days of concerts are getting a bit behind me. Ron and I went on lots of concert dates over the years (Speaking of Prince, we did see The Revolution when they were touring in honor of him after he died.) but his tinnitus has caused deafness in one ear and he struggles with the other at times, too. Also, crowds are just so difficult for both us now.
Fun post, really enjoyed it.
~Mary
Awww, I’m still mad that I didn’t get a mother/son dance with my son since we had to cancel his reception the summer of Covid. My husband always talks about seeing Rush with his high school friends in a loge (a parent must have gotten it through work). That’s cool that your daughter loves Depeche Mode. We are seeing them again in November. I can’t wait to hear about your Aerosmith concert! And I’m so jealous that you saw Prince, Sheila E, AND The Revolution! That’s amazing! But what about Morris Day and the Time? LOL!
DeleteWe’ve seen U2 twice. While they will always be my faves, I think I don’t need to pay their ticket prices again. Plus, I don’t think they can ever top their Elevation Tour. It was a religious experience.
That's a sweet pic of your husband and daughter. I can't remember the last time I went to a concert.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lux. It’s a good memory of a special day.
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