Life...Circa 2003

This page is all about (some of my) 2003 experiences in life, thoughts, etc.  Being back in Los Angeles/Hollywood has brought life back into my world and I'm enjoying every minute of it.  I like to think my life is just beginning anew.  An adventure awaits with each new day out in the City of Angels!

Sunday July 13 to Wednesday July 16th

Duran Duran REUNITED!

From Sunday night to Wednesday evening was CRAZY!  It was all about Duran Duran but trying to get tickets was an impossible adventure that went from good to bad to good again but in between the good was a nightmare! 

It all began a few days before Sunday when I found out that the reunited Duran Duran were doing a special one off performance at The Roxy on Sunset Blvd.  The show was going to be Tuesday evening July 15th!  Tickets were going on sale Monday the 14th at The Roxy box office.   Not before!  Considering that my roommate Marc and I already had tickets for Duran's Wednesday night show at The Pacific Amphitheater in Costa Mesa, I didn't know if I should bother.  But, considering The Roxy has a 450 capacity limit while the Amphitheater seats several thousands, I decided after talking with Marc that I would go up Monday morning bright and early and wait in line until noon.  Thank God I didn't wait!

   Sunday night, I walked up to The Roxy (only a 10 minutes from my place) around 11pm just to see what kind of line, if any, there was.  To my surprise, there were about 40 or so people already in line!  I couldn't believe it!  I walked up to the end of the line and asked if in fact everyone was waiting for Duran Duran tickets.  It turns out they were so as I stood there, I wondered if I should just go on home or be crazy and stay.  I knew that if I left, there would be no point in coming the next morning because the line would be too long.  But, if I waited, I was in for a 13 hour wait.  

What to do?  Was Duran Duran really THAT important?  I had a lot to consider.  I didn't have to work Monday, this was the first time in 18 years that Duran were performing together in their ORIGINAL five man line-up, The Roxy is so small that anywhere is like first row, and I knew Marc (and I) would really like to go and that this was a once in a lifetime chance.  I had my doubts though and was thinking of leaving when a self appointed "Duran Nazi" as she called herself came up with a list to take my name down and place in line to prevent late line crashers and scalpers.   After informing me that in my place in line, I'd be guaranteed a ticket since there was a two ticket maximum.  So...I waited! 

As I began to wait, I was told that someone in front of me was gone to get food and would be coming back.   I said okay.  A little while later, that "someone" was a woman ("Beth") who pulled up in a car.  By this time, 10 people were behind me in line.  I helped her unload two folding chairs from the trunk, she said I could sit in one and that she'd be back after parking her car.  Okay.  After 30 minutes, she returned only to ask if I wanted coffee.  "Definitely."  She took off again. 

As I waited, I thought of going on home.  This was stupid, waiting all night.  Why should we have to?  The Roxy Management should just come out and give the people waiting their two tickets each so everyone could go on home and not clutter up the sidewalk all night.  But, no...That would be too simple.  After an hour, "Beth" hadn't returned with my coffee so I had someone in line watch my place and I left to run home for snacks, Red Bulls, magazines, and a Walkman to help pass the time.       

That was the great thing about the line.  Throughout the night, we were allowed to leave for food, drink, restroom breaks and to get reading material to get us through the night.   People in line were really cool about watching seats while others took breaks.  

I came back about an hour later and "Beth" was sitting in one of the chairs with my coffee.  The coffee was great but I still had the rest of the night ahead of me.  Would I be able to hang?  Yeah.  Not only was everybody around me talkative, but I had lots of espressos, Red Bulls, and coffee to keep me awake.  I had so much that I didn't even get drowsy.  Once daylight hit, I had my shades to help out.  As the morning wore on, the traffic got more and more congested, both on the street and the sidewalk as well. 

By 9am, the line was about 200 plus strong.  I was 50th in line and still felt assured that I would get tickets.  Not only did I feel assured, I was assured by the self appointed "Duran Nazi".  When daylight hit, the "Duran Nazi" noticed "Beth" and wanted to know why she wasn't on the list.  I had thought she was already in the line but had gone to park her car and all.  So, I stuck up for her.  I would regret it later.

A little after 9am, a security guy from The Roxy came up and went up and down the line telling us all that only 20 wristbands were given out to the first twenty and that only a total of 40 tickets would be given out.  At 2 tickets per person, that meant the rest of us (over 200 at this point) were out of luck.  WHAT??  I had been in line 10 hours at this point!   Why didn't someone from The Roxy tell us this the night before or leave a sign on their Box Office so that we all wouldn't waste the entire night waiting for nothing?   To say people in line were upset was an understatement!!

As we contemplated whether we should stay or just go home, "Beth" got on her cell phone and called KROQ.  It seems that Simon LeBon and Nick Rhodes were on the radio being interviewed by Kevin & Bean, a pair of attention hungry radio jocks.  "Beth" didn't get through to them but spoke with some others behind the scenes.  Not only was the Promotions person at KROQ surprised at the few tickets being made available to the public but at how lousy The Roxy were being at handling things.

"Beth" and others were persistent enough that calls were made behind the scenes between KROQ, The Roxy and others in power to the point that we were shortly informed that more tickets were being made available to us all.  Over a hundred of them which meant that we still stood a chance of getting tickets.  AWESOME!!  So, armed with the great news, we all decided we would stick it out a couple more hours till the noon ticket sales!   "Beth" made more calls to KROQ and The Roxy to confirm things and after a bit was phoned back by someone. 

After getting off the phone, she let us know that she was informed that indeed there would be more tickets made available AND that beginning at noon, we could also call and buy tickets by phone with a credit card while we waited in line, to make doubly sure that we would get tickets.  Uh oh.  I didn't like how that sounded.  Too many people calling up would mean tickets would sell much faster.   I decided not to think about that and focused on the possibilities of getting tickets.   

As the morning wore on, the sun wore down on us and the temperature rose steadily.  It got increasingly more uncomfortable for me.  Thank God I had a long sleeve shirt with me because it came in handy to shield me from the sun.  As the noon hour approached, it still looked as if we would be able to get tickets.  A KROQ van pulled up and disheveled radio minions went up and down the line trying to unload cheesy key chains and bottle openers (all with the KROQ logo).  To me, and after waiting all night, I could have cared less about some lame trinkets from a lame corporate monolith like KROQ. 

"The World Famous" KROQ was how they advertised themselves.  What the fools in the suits that are the corporate powers that be behind KROQ don't realize is that the radio station became WORLD FAMOUS back in the day when they were far more experimental in nature and were unafraid to take risks by playing album cuts rather than just singles.  Back in the 80's, KROQ really pushed the envelope on what music they played and how they played it.  Hell, they even gave much due respect to DJ Rodney Bingenheimer. 

Rodney is a guy who has (and still does) known EVERYBODY: Sonny & Cher, Blondie, Ramones, Gwen Stefani, Coldplay, Oasis, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Billy Idol, Van Halen, The Go-Go's, and so many others!!  He played songs of artists before any other radio station in America would, thus catapulting the likes of Van Halen, The Go-Go's, Coldplay and others onto everyone's play lists.  He is a true original and as of late, KROQ is ALL about the business and not so much about the music to the point where Rodney has been pushed off to one late night a week, Sundays from Midnight to 3am like an annoying stepchild. 

So, with all that said, I could have cared less about KROQ being there.  They have no idea how little respect they have anymore from the people that were listening to the station since the beginning.  My roommate Marc who has worked for the Virgin Megastore for years and knows music inside and out told me that if he were Simon LeBon and Duran Duran, he would tell them "NO THANKS" to promoting The Roxy show due to the fact that KROQ has done very little to play the NEW Duran Duran singles from the 90's leading up to today.   KROQ is the epitome of a station that has COMPLETELY sold out!  SHAME ON THEM!! 

Trust me, I'm not an idiot.  I know ratings and money are important, but what the KROQ and MTV suits have failed to realize is that us music lovers aren't stupid and don't need to have the same crap spoon-fed to us EVERY  SINGLE DAY.  And, while I'm on the subject, MTV is another horrid example of how ratings and greedy execs have tainted the history of MTV to the point where it's so little about the music anymore and so much about the BS reality shows that are tired, stale and boring like, "Road Rules", "The Real World" and all the other "reality" type shows that have NOTHING to do with music!!  Over the years, I've seen the likes of David Bowie, Weird Al Yankovic and Dee Snider snub MTV on live television for their lack of music programming.  For the MTV suits to just ignore the thousands of unhappy musicians and fans demonstrates a total lack of respect.

Getting back to the line and waiting for Duran tickets, by this point, "Beth" wasn't feeling well and was sitting in a lawn chair in front of me in line with her head in her hands.  I shielded her from the sun with my shirt as we got ready for the box office to open.   During our wait, she had brought me coffee/espresso, had gone out to get Burger King (at no cost to me) and had been so vocal about calling KROQ.  She thanked me for blocking the sun.  It's the least I could do. 

It wasn't long before noon came around.  At noon, cell phones began sprouting up throughout the line as people began trying to get through to the box office to buy tickets.  Of course, the line was busy.  I tried too.  About 30 times in fact but the line was busy, busy, busy.    The line began to move.  FINALLY!!!!

As the line got closer, two of the women in line with me ("Beth" and "Sara") spoke badly of KROQ after seeing the van.  But, it got worse as we got closer and they saw a portly KROQ radio assistant/gofer leaning against a parking meter next to the van.   No energy, disheveled, and completely lacking in any kind of personality.   "Sara" went into detail about how at the legendary KROQ Weenie Roast, the portly KROQ dude had been in charge of cooking the hot dogs.  Well, come to find out, he wasn't cooking them.  "Sara" had asked him why to which he had answered, "I'm lacking the motivation".  She went on about how she couldn't believe not only that he had said such a statement but that someone like him was working for such a powerhouse radio station like KROQ.  "Sara" said she had even offered to the guy that she could help out and cook the hot dogs.  He told her "No Thanks". 

I couldn't help but wonder as I stood and listened to the story at how a guy like him got (and keeps) his job with KROQ while someone like me who would bust my ass in the job had never been afforded an opportunity like his.  I guess it really is WHO you know and not how GOOD you are that gets you the job.  At least at KROQ anyway.

A guy who was in the line with us ("Tom") began talking to me as we slowly approached the box office.   He pointed out the guy who kept going up to the window after each ticket buyer from the line left.  "I don't like the way that looks." he said to me.  It seems the guy going repeatedly up to the box office window was a Roxy employee who was checking to see how many tickets were left.  As we got closer, the guy was checking with more frequency.  No way.  It couldn't happen.  We have to get tickets.   We're too close.  We'll get tickets.  It was now 12:45pm.  I had been in line 13 hours and 45 minutes.  I was hungry.  I was tired.  I was sweaty.  Mind you, I still "looked" good but I felt drained as all get out.

Only 5 people left before I would be buying my tickets at the box office.  While waiting my last couple of minutes, I was informed we would buy our tickets but be given vouchers to bring back the night of the show with a picture ID so as to avoid scalpers.  That was understandable.  4 people left.  Cool.  The guy checked at the window.   "Okay, two more people" he said as he motioned to us.  They paid and got their vouchers.  The guy checked again.  "Okay, one more person".   "Sara" went up to the window, paid, got her voucher and screamed with joy. 

After the guy went up to the window, he motioned for "Beth".  "Okay, only one person."   She went up and she didn't have her ID!!!!  WHAT?  Who wouldn't bring their ID???  A minute went by as they decided what to do.  The manager was called from inside.  Another minute went by.  The manager finally came and she was allowed to buy her two tickets.  She got her voucher and walked off.  The guy went up to window.  He stood there for a moment, talking to someone.  My mind was racing.  Would I get tickets?  I have too.  I've waited all night.   There's no way life would be that unfair. 

He called for two more.  YES!!!!  I was going to get tickets!!!  Finally!!  As "Tom" and I walked up to the box office, the guy informed us, "Just to let you two know, there are no more tickets.  The last two tickets were just sold.   What will happen now is you will give your name and number to the people behind the glass and you'll be first on the standby list."  I COULD NOT BELIEVE MY EARS!!!   IT HAD HAPPENED!!  THE TICKETS HAD SOLD OUT!!!  And, to make matters worse, they had sold out with "BETH"!!!!!  The woman who had come AFTER I did in line.  I had let her in front of me and now look what happened!  I was in shock as I gave my name and number to the woman in the box office.  I asked if I would be up for two tickets, she just shrugged her shoulders.  What kind of place was this???? 

I was completely silent (and exhausted) as I walked back down the line of about 300 people towards The Viper Room and on down Sunset Blvd. to my apartment.  Those 300 people didn't stand a chance.  And, even though I was NUMBER ONE on the list, there was no guarantee for me either.  UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!!!!!  I had waited 14 hours for THIS????  FOR THIS??  First, we were told there would be tickets (by the "Duran Nazi" who was surprisingly nowhere to be found at the end of it all).  Then, we were told there would only be 40 tickets given out.  Finally, we were told there would be tickets.  

In the end, though, there was NOT!  I found out later that day (Monday) that Duran Duran's management had posted an apology on the official web site regarding The Roxy's complete mismanagement of the ticket sales.  The main problem was that phone sales were NOT AUTHORIZED by Duran's management and the tickets were ONLY to be made available at the BOX OFFICE and IN PERSON!  What an unprofessionally run box office and business The Roxy turned out to be. 

My roommate didn't believe me at first but after reading Duran's apology realized what a nightmare I had endured.  The next evening (Tuesday) Marc and I went on up to The Roxy to see about the standby list and to check things out.  Maybe we still stood a chance of scoring two tickets!  Once there, I went up to the front only to be directed to the long line that had already assembled.  "Even for standby people?" I asked.   "Yep."  Okay.  I was NOT happy.  I went back to the line of about 100 people to wait. 

As we waited, a con artist type guy who Marc and I knew came up.  "Johnny" was his name and the type to always tell lies about who he had seen, known and done in his life.  He told us he was on the guest list.   Of course, we didn't believe him.  Hell, Marc didn't want to even talk to the guy.  He seems to be nothing but trouble and someone you really can't trust.   After he left, we tried to stay positive about possibilities but as the line began to move forward, we had our doubts. 

As we neared the front, I asked one of the security guys where the standby list would be.  He pointed at another guy who was indeed holding a list.  I went up to him and when I asked about a standby list and that I should be number one on the list, he looked at me like I was stupid.  "What standby list?  There never was a standby list."   WHAT????  I told the guy, "Well, if the powers that be at The Roxy hadn't sold tickets by phone, I would have gotten two because they had sold out right before me." to which the guy replied, there wasn't phone sales (lie!) but all through last week, people have been calling from throughout the country.  We had to give THEM options."  Oh, so they DID have phone sales.  Whatever. 

I was cool about things and went back to tell Marc.  I went up to the box office.  CLOSED!   There was a lady sitting there though with another list.  It was for KROQ ticket winners.  Oh, great.  "The World Famous" (for past successes) KROQ!  They were the last thing I wanted to hear anything about.

As we stood around waiting, our mood began to sink as we realized there wasn't a standby list and we weren't going to get in.  To make matters worse, we saw "Johnny" walk by, get his ticket from the KROQ table and walk on in.  I also saw "Beth" and "Sara".  They too had their tickets and went in.  They were surprised I didn't get tickets.  Thanks for your concern.  At least someone will enjoy the show. 

While waiting, we stood near the red carpet which had been spread out.  It was a media circus as various celebs walked down, spoke to press and disappeared into The Roxy.  Gwen Stefani and her husband Gavin Rossdale, the No Doubt band, all five members of Duran Duran, Christina Applegate, Beck, Mark McGrath (singer of Sugar Ray), Jon Cryer, Michael Des Barres, ex-wife Pamela Des Barres and others.  While it was cool seeing so many celebs, it was a downer not to be going in.  After most people had been let in and the first song was heard in the air (Friends of Mine), Marc and I decided to go home.  

Even though trying to get tickets had been a dismal failure and getting in had been hopeless, there was a lesson to learn in it all.  I learned a heavy lesson in patience, to not be nice and let others in front of you in line, that life isn't always fair, and to be earlier when deciding to wait all night for tickets.  But, trust me, after this incident, I will NEVER waste my time for tickets EVER again.  Especially, any of this all night nonsense.  As The Roxy made many tickets available to celebrities and important people, I'll just have to wait till I'm an important person so I can have better ways to get tickets.  Once again, it's all in who you are or who you know.  That's Hollywood!  I'm not bitter, just stating a truism.

When it comes down to it, things weren't a total loss.  My roommate already had two tickets to the next night's (Wednesday) Duran Duran show down in Costa Mesa at The Pacific Amphitheater.   Even though traffic was a nightmare just getting there from Hollywood AND it took us 20 minutes just to find parking in the overflowing parking lot (there was a Fair going on at the same location), we managed (after RUNNING from the car to our seats) to catch the second song on.  MAN!  How difficult can things get?

The show was pretty amazing considering the guys hadn't played live in about 18 years.  Yeah, they played all the old favorites as well as new ones.  Afterwards, Marc and I walked around the Fair with a couple of friends we ran into.  It was surreal being so close to the big city, people and mentality of Los Angeles, yet so far away.  The folks at the fair were of a different, more small town breed. 

For example, while getting drinks at one of the stands, a 40ish guy with a couple of ladies asked if we had seen the show and wondered who played.  When we told him Duran Duran, he asked how much tickets had cost.  He was dumb struck to find out $60 and couldn't believe that anybody would actually pay that much for such an ancient band.  He then looked right at me and asked, "Doesn't the keyboardist wear a lot of makeup?  I heard he was queer."  I was dumb struck at such a stupid question/comment and I looked right at him and answered "Well, if he was wearing makeup, he must be queer."  I got my drink and walked off.  What an idiot!

It was only a couple of minutes later when we got another insane comment thrown our way.  While walking down the thoroughfare, talking and checking out the sites, we all enjoyed our drinks and snacks.  One of the guys with us was enjoying a grilled corn on the cob that he'd bought.  As we passed a group of (supposedly hetero) Hispanic guys, one of them called out to my friend eating the corn, "Hey!  You make that corn look mighty good!" 

I could NOT believe it and even being a straight guy, found the night's comments from BOTH gentlemen (or should I say homophobes) offensive.  I couldn't wait to leave.  I felt like I was in some small town Fair in some backwards part of America...NOT in Costa Mesa, outside of Los Angeles.  It was like we had driven right into an episode of The Twilight Zone.   And, I don't mean a nice episode.

Message to Duran Duran: Please NEVER go back to The Pacific Amphitheater.  You guys are way too good for that place or those people.  At least if you DO go back, do it when the Fair is CLOSED.  Ever heard the song, "Freaks Come Out at Night"?  Enuff said!

July 22, 2003 Monday.   A day (and night) to remember!

Today was unforgettable!  I got a call in the afternoon from my roommate about a Berlin "reunion" that was going down at The Roxy of all places that same evening.   I didn't believe him at first because I had always been vocal about the fact that, for me, it was all about the ORIGINAL line-up of Berlin.  The new version just didn't cut it for me.  No offense to Terri Nunn who's beautiful and has one of the best female voices in rock, but the post Crawford and Diamond Berlin ain't Berlin.  It's Terri Nunn and Band.  Berlin was always about the ENTIRE group, not just Terri, although some people (Terri included) don't seem to think so.  To hear that they were getting together in just a few hours was unbelievable to me.  But, a reunion it was!!

Marc (my roommate and I) went up to The Roxy and got to behold the reunion of all of the original members:

DAVID DIAMOND - keyboards/guitar/bg vocals   Whether playing a snippet of 'Cat Scratch Fever' on electric guitar during the live 'Sex', singing back up or playing the keys, David was just an incredible, sexy and confident force to be reckoned with.  As a matter of fact, for the time, he could NOT be reckoned with.   God broke the mold when He made Mr. Diamond.  Don't let the VH1 Bands Reunited Special and what he said fool you.  David knew EXACTLY what he was doing both on stage and in the studio.

JOHN CRAWFORD - keyboards/bass/vocals   What can I say but bow down in front of this genius!  The mastermind behind Berlin, whether behind the keys, on bass, taking over on vocals in 'Sex' and 'Rumor of Love' or dancing his ass off, this amazing talent was an 80s new wave God.

RIC OLSEN - guitar/keyboards/bg vocals   One of the coolest guitarists of the day, this guy had the look, talent and attitude down and style beyond words.

MATT REID - keyboards    Amazing could best describe this guy.  During the course of one song in concert, Matt exuded killer timing, keyboard dexterity, a wicked sense of humor and choreographed moves so stylish, he was without peer.

ROD LEARNED - drums    Tight, fast and loud and I ain't talkin' sex either.  Rod's talents behind the kit kicked ass.  With impeccable timing and a coolness that amazes me to this day, he was unbelievable!

TERRI NUNN - vocals     The original new wave DIVA, she had a voice, energy, presence and sensuality that was unmatched in music.   Phenomenal!!!!!

In my opinion, the above six individuals was BERLIN.  They were such an inspiring group of individuals/musicians that, together on one stage, they painted a picture of perfection, both in sound and vision.  So PERFECT were they that I can't bring myself to go see the "new" Berlin.  It's not even a pale imitation of the ORIGINAL Berlin.   Yes, the "new" Berlin are excellent musicians, but they are NOT Berlin and never can be.  Only Crawford, Diamond, Olsen, Reid, Learned (and Brill) fill that bill.

To get the BEST and most FLAWLESS idea of what the original Berlin were all about, you only need check out their set from 1983 at The Palace in Hollywood.  The show was part of a larger new wave concert that was aired back in the day on cable.  Berlin did only three songs that evening, but it stands as my favorite live performance from ANY band EVER!  The songs were 'The Metro', 'Tell Me Why' and 'Sex'.  Full of sexual bravado, tight musicianship, complete confidence, incredible energy, unmatched charisma, and pure genius, their performance that night was better than SEX! 

Rob Brill, the drummer during the most successful period of Berlin (and in above photo) was not included, in favor of original drummer Rod Learned.  The whole event was filmed for an upcoming new series on VH-1 which centers around reforming 80's bands.  Now, you have to realize, VH-1 host Omar Haleem (w/ Richard Blade, legendary DJ from Los Angeles' KROQ behind the scenes) went around the country in search of every band member to track them down and invite them to reform for this once in a lifetime event.  They all hadn't been together in about 20 years.   To see them on stage was amazing.  Considering they only had one day to rehearse, they were completely tight, on the one and elated to be there. 

The show was free and the energy was incredibly high, both with audience and band.  Berlin performed about 5 songs and all without doing the played out and tired jam 'Take My Breath Away' which made me happy but then again, that song came out AFTER the original lineup had splintered apart.

After the show, Marc and I went over to The Viper Room and checked out a new band from Sweden called 'The Sounds' which is a cross between Blondie, The Sex Pistols and Berlin.  Talk about mind blowing.  They were as intense a band as I've seen in awhile. Bass, Guitar, Drums, Synth and a blonde singer that had immense passion, rage, emotion and more stage presence than I have seen in a long long time.  The Viper Room was off the hook sound, occupancy and temperature wise.  No, I'm serious.  The AC was busted.   After the show, we got a drink at the bar and Marc and I ran into a friend John who was there with Justynn, a beauty and friend of his.  We hung out a bit longer and then called it a night but let me tell you, it was a night to remember!!

Thursday August 7, 2003

Worked the door at 'Parlour Club', www.parlourclub.com , a Hollywood nightspot at 7702 Santa Monica Blvd.  The night is called 'Console'.  This was my first gig as a Door Host and considering that the guest DJ was David J (from Bauhaus, Love & Rockets and solo fame), it was a cool beginning.   David J. played a cool mix of music styles and I had an all around great time.   Most importantly, there were no fights and everybody was friendly and laid-back.   It was all about dancing and enjoying the vibe.  No "stand and model" types here.  If every club was this cool, Hollywood would be a nicer place.  From the looks of things, I'll be back in two weeks for David J.'s return.  Going in the future a month to September, I DID do the door at the next DJ appearance by David J.  After that however, the powers that be at the club decided to do away with 'Console'.  It was fun while it lasted.

Sunday August 10, 2003

I pulled an all niter at a music video shoot for a great (and California based) band called 'Skaie Zoe' ( www.skaiezoe.com ). They are a 6 piece band of pure pop/rock/folk.  The lead singer (Skaie) was full of beauty, energy, charisma, talent and a smile to die for.  When it comes down to it, the entire band were all cool, talented and down to earth.  The drummer (Matthew) was on top of his game and gave me great pointers on drums and drumming, the guitarist (Aragorn) knew his licks and solos, even playing bits of Ozzy, Van Halen and blues. 

After playing the intro to VH's 'Mean Street' between takes, I mentioned it to him and he went and played it again which was way cool and unexpected.  The bass player held the groove down  and the two backing vocalists (Amy & Andrea) were not only beautiful but had voices and personalities to match.  And, even though Amy had to leave early (4am) for an ALL day industry related job, she was full of smiles, laughs, humor, energy and class.  As a matter of fact, the entire band was a class act and should NOT be missed in a live setting.

I learned about the gig through a woman I met at an industry type party.  She was involved in producing the video and after finding out that directing music videos and live concerts was one of my goals, invited me to help out, watch the director and meet and make contacts.  It was at a Theater space in the Los Feliz area and lasted from 9pm to 6am.  During that time, I met lots of amazing people, got to help build & strike the set, talked to the band, director, crew and cast.  I didn't get paid but that wasn't the point.   For me, it was all about the experience of it all and helping out.  And, even with the dozens of people involved, there was not a negative vibe in the house.   Everybody was nice, professional and friendly.  It felt very much like a family to me.  One of like minded artists, helping one another. 

One unexpected happening of the night was when the director used all of us as the audience.  He wanted a concert feel to the video and we "acted" out in full on concert goer mode: jumping, dancing, clapping, high energy.  It was alot of work but added alot to the video, plus we got to let loose in the process.  All in all, it was a night to remember.  I know I won't soon forget it.

Sunday  August 17, 2003  &  Sunday  August 24, 2003

This turned out to be an unbelievably cool experience!!  The Human League LIVE at The House of Blues on the Sunset Strip. The League www.humanleague.dk are a band I've wanted to see for quite some time.  The show did NOT disappoint.   Heavy on keyboards and synths with a rich, dark and sexy sound that is a mixture of Erasure, Depeche, Heaven 17 and of course Human League, they were better now than even back in the 80's.  For those NOT in the know, their sound has the best elements of wave, Goth, Synth, dance and pop.  I was blown away by how great Susan, Joanne and Philip looked.  The two beautiful women changed outfits numerous times and Philip took control of the stage like a rock God should.  I felt for him though.   Several times throughout the show, his voice showed serious signs of strain.   It was so noticeable at times that even I felt his pain.  Halfway through the show, he mentioned it and all was forgiven by the audience.  A sexy lady in the front row (standing next to me, my roommate Marc and friend Matt) gave Philip a mini spray bottle for singers between songs.  The look of appreciation on his face and voicing of thanks to her showed how down to earth and cool he really is.  A great singer AND human being.  Since the show, I watched the interview on their recently released DVD video collection.  It was with Phil Oakey, Susan, and Joanne.  They were incredibly down to earth, personable and people you'd want to not only have a drink with but go dancing with as well.  After all their history, hardships and recent record industry hardships, they remain incredibly positive and happy.  When they spoke of how their most recent release "Secrets" was virtually ignored by radio while being highly praised by the critics, it vividly illustrated how the radio and music industry is so incredibly narrow minded in the music they push.  Radio and the powers that be in the industry have for too long pushed the same mediocrity through the airwaves to our waiting ears, while masterpieces like "Secrets" get left by the wayside.   In the case of The Human League, it didn't help matters that the record label that supported them with "Secrets" disintegrated.  My advice...RUN don't walk to the closest record store and buy their newest and latest release "Secrets" (cover above).  You will NOT be disappointed, just like my experience seeing them live.

Speaking of which, I saw The Human League AGAIN on Sunday August 24th at their final tour date at The Grove in Anaheim and, let me tell you, it was an adventure and a half!  Since the House of Blues show, I had known about The Human League's final show and knew I wanted to go.   The plus about this show was that General Public were going to open for them.   Something that hadn't happened at the Sunset show. 

There was only one problem.  Since I didn't have a car at my disposal (that's a long story in itself), how was I going to get to Anaheim.  My roommate Marc didn't want to spare the $34 for the ticket.  Once would have to do for him.  For me though, once was NOT enough so after running out of possible friends to go with, I decided to venture out on my own and use public transportation to get to Anaheim.

So, I went online to MTA's site and after deciding that a 2 hour and 40 minute bus ride would be out of the question, looked at the train schedule and map.  It was then that I discovered that the Blue Line went all the way to Long Beach.  One of the stops on the map said 'Anaheim'.  Perfect!  I'll just take a bus to Hollywood and Vine, get on the Blue Line and go all the way to 'Anaheim'.  So, around 5:30pm, I headed for the bus stop with General Public & Human League CDs/player in tow.

Fast forward an hour and a half to 7pm.  I step off the Blue Line at the 'Anaheim' stop and as the train pulled away and I got a good look at my surroundings, it felt more like a city in Mexico than Anaheim.  As a matter of fact, I was soon to discover that I was NOT in Anaheim.   The stop I had traveled almost two hours to get to was 'Anaheim STREET' NOT the city of 'Anaheim'.  I was in LONG BEACH!  "You have got to be kidding me!" I thought in frustration as I looked at my watch.  7:10pm.  The show was scheduled to begin at 8pm.  What to do??

Since I was hungry, I stopped into a nearby Burger King and got a quick meal.  I asked the people behind the counter where I was exactly and if I was close to Anaheim (the city).  No one knew.  What?  As I waited for my food, I called a friend to ask if he had a map and could tell me where Anaheim was in relation to Long Beach.  He didn't have a map and couldn't help me out.  As I talked, my order was ready and while talking on the phone, I got my tray of food and drink. 

While walking and talking at the same time.   The drink became unbalanced on the tray and toppled to the floor, exploding everywhere.  Thank God no one was around.  Even so, I was growing more frustrated by the minute.  I finished my call, sat and ate my food quickly and left.   I didn't bother to get another drink.  The line was too line and I was on a time crunch.

Back on the street, I looked for a cab.  There were none in sight.  As I walked to a nearby bus stop, I called other friends.  Most didn't answer their phones due to most not having cell phones.  The ones that DID answer, didn't know enough about the area to help me with directions.  So, I gave up and got on the first bus that came my way.  The driver wasn't any help and I rode to his last stop which was downtown Long Beach.  

Once off the bus, I asked another bus driver and was told I would need to take bus 60 to Orange County/Anaheim.  FINALLY!  "How long will the bus take to get there?" I asked.  "About an hour."  As I waited for bus 60, I looked at a nearby clock tower and saw it was 8pm. 

At this point, I was ready to call it a day and head home.  It was my fault that I hadn't checked things out better online and had assumed that ANAHEIM was the CITY, not a STREET.  Just as I was losing hope, bus 60 came around the corner.  I decided to go for it and see where the nights adventure would take me.  I asked the driver if she went by The Grove concert venue.  She didn't BUT she did tell me when to get off in order to catch bus 50? which would take me right by The Grove.  Cool.  There might be hope.  I knew that seeing General Public was probably a lost cause but I may just have a chance to make it to The Human League, which is the band I really wanted to see anyway.

After changing buses, I asked the driver how long until he would get to The Grove.  About 30 minutes.   It was now 8:40pm.  Uh oh.  This is cutting it close.  I sat down on the bus and listened to some Human League tracks as the bus traveled across Orange County towards The Grove.  Finally, at 9:20pm, the bus arrived at the venue in Anaheim. I got out and walked to the entrance.  I could see people mingling in the outside patio, drinking, smoking and socializing.  There were two ticket takers (men) at the entrance. 

I walked up to them and asked if The Human League had started their set yet.  They let me know that General Public had finished their set and that The Human League had NOT started yet.  I asked where I needed to go to buy tickets.  They looked at one another, laughed a bit and turned back to me.  "Um, there aren't any more tickets.  The box office is closed."

I couldn't believe it!!  After all this traveling (3 hours worth), I find out there aren't any tickets?   What's going on?  I was cool though and let them know that I had taken a train and three buses to get to The Grove and had been on the road for 3 hours.  It was at that moment that the clouds parted and the sun shone down on me.  They let me know that since I had gone through so much to get to the show, I could go on in for free to sections 2 or 5 and that if anyone asks to say I work for the city.  Yyyyeeesss!   Now, that's what I'm talking about!  The nightmarish journey to The Human League was turning into a beautiful dream! 

Once inside, I went to section 2 which is as close as I could get.  Less than 10 minutes after finding my spot, the band came out and the opening notes of the song "Being Boiled" began.   The show was BETTER than the House of Blues show.  For one, Philip Oakey's voice was in much better shape and except for a handful of rough moments, sounded strong and rich.  Also, since it was the last American date of their tour, the energy of the band was much greater than the first show I had seen.  They played the exact same set of songs, but I didn't care.  They still brought a freshness to the set and changed things up ever so slightly.  It was an unforgettable experience!

The show ended at 11pm.  Now, it was time to find my way back home to Hollywood.  I grabbed a bite at Mickey D's and went to the bus stop.  The bus finally came at 11:40pm.  After inquiring about the best way to get back to Hollywood, the driver told me to take this bus and then that bus and then another bus which would ultimately take me back to Hollywood.   While the driver was explaining things to me, I noticed a black woman in her early twenties standing near me.  It seems she had been hanging and talking with driver.  

Upon asking the driver how much it all would cost for transfers and such, the woman interrupted with, "Oh good.  I've been waiting for someone like you to give this to."  I turned to her as she pulled a monthly bus pass out of her purse.   She handed it to me with a smile, "I don't need this pass anymore.  It's good on any bus and train until the end of August."  I couldn't believe my luck.   First the free concert and now the free bus pass.  I smiled, thanked her and sat down, pass in hand.  Who says there aren't helpful, giving people in Hollywood and the surrounding areas?  This night had turned out perfectly.  And, all because I was willing to undertake an adventure alone.  That's what I love about life.  You never know what's right around the corner.

One thing I did NOT like about the trip home... Well, TWO things... The first was the amount of disheveled, unkempt, dirty,and homeless types that were on the busses going home.  Lastly, I didn't get home until around 3am!!!  It took a total of 4 hours to get from the venue in Anaheim to my place in Hollywood.  Now, on the surface, that's all sad and pathetic but, I realize in life, you take the good with the bad.  On this night, the good far outweighed the bad!!          

Sunday,  September 21, 2003

FISCHERSPOONER!!!!!!!!   Live at House of Blues on Sunset Blvd.  The show was out of this world and one of the best, if not THE best show I've seen in my entire life!  Yes, that is a BIG statement but I stand behind it!!  Casey Spooner and Mr. Fischer blew the proverbial roof off the joint.  The show was full of spectacle, fashion, dance, confetti explosions, intense lights, fog, color and utter insanity!

Casey (the leader & singer) took control from the moment he walked out on stage!  The show mixes in your face beats, singing, dance, and sexual tension all in a COMPLETELY original and innovative art meets design meets electroclash way!  At times throughout the show, Casey had the music and action stopped due to the audience not being loud and energetic enough or a performance going south.  It was all done in classic Fischerspooner fashion, complete with their tongues planted firmly in cheek. 

The most incredible part of the evening and performance for me was the few times that Casey fell backwards into the audience and had them surf him around the entire floor of people, one time even all the way to a waiting revolving stage in the back!  He trusted and adored the audience and we returned the favor.  Another unforgettable part of the show was during one of the slower, more dramatic songs.  Casey was alone on stage in a flowing outfit and reflective shades on. 

He was facing stage left and as the song built in momentum, so did the HUGE wind fan build until it was blowing at full velocity along with intense fog and bright lights...all hitting him with strong force.   It all caused his outfit to blow backwards to great dramatic effect.  The wind was strong enough to cause Casey to teeter on the edge of balance.  It was utterly amazing. 

A most UNFORGETTABLE evening!   I went with my roommate but while he stayed right in front near the stage, I went upstairs to the side balcony away from the floor so that I could have more room and get a full view of the stage WITHOUT the heat and pushing from all the bodies near the stage.   I was getting way too hot for my own good and needed my space to cool down and enjoy the concert. 

The main reason I left the floor though was as Fischerspooner's show approached, many women considerably shorter than I slowly appeared all around me and at 6'4", I was definitely in the way, so to be cool (in more ways than one), I went upstairs and avoided the champagne, confetti and sold out floor!  And, to be honest, watching from above made for a more complete Fischerspooner experience!!!!!

Halfway through the show AND during the finale, two confetti cannons on each end of the stage let loose with so much confetti that at times, the entire stage and floor was nothing but a blanket of white.   White confetti that is.  It was an unbelievable sight to behold!!!!!!

Saturday,  September 27, 2003

HAL SPARKS vs. AHMET ZAPPA!!  Live @ The Viper Room!

This was an unGodly night of ROCK n' ROLL, Comedy, and energy that blew me away!  From the moment I saw in the LA Weekly that Hal Sparks AND Ahmet Zappa were on the same bill, I knew I had to be there.  I had missed Ahmet's last appearance at The Viper Room and didn't want to miss it again.  Years ago, I saw his band 'Z' with brother Dweezil and it had rocked!  Plus, his very cool variety show 'Happy Hour' (again with brother Dweezil and the 'Bombshell Dancers' aka Pussycat Dolls) used to be a weekly favorite of mine.   It used to air on the USA network until the powers that be canceled it.  I guess the show was too eclectic and zany for the suits in charge. 

As for Hal Sparks, I had dug his work from his days on Talk Soup, 'Dude, Where's My Car' and 'Queer as Folk', not to mention we had previously been related in a distant, distant way.  I thought it would be "good times" as Ahmet loves to say to finally get to meet Hal and see his AND Ahmet's performances.

I got to The Viper Room with my roommate (Marc) and seeing Hal, went up and introduced myself.  He was down to earth and way friendly.  As Marc and I waited for Hal's show to begin, we both wondered what kind of comedy/stand up show he was going to do and how weird a venue The Viper Room was for such a show.  But, then again, Marc saw Hal with a guitar pick and began to wonder.  Could he be in a band?  No.  Couldn't be.  There had never been any inkling of musical talent in any of his previous acting work.  Why would he.....

BBBBOOOMMM!!!   Before we knew it, Hal was introduced by the MC and took to the stage with a vengeance, complete with black skull cap, goatee, leather wrist band and a Zakk Wylde Signature Les Paul (see example picture above).  Along with a bass player and drummer, Hal Sparks tore the stage up in a way I had never seen before in my LIFE!  I couldn't believe how completely secure, confident AND talented he was, not only on lead AND rhythm guitar but also on lead vocals as well. 

The show was full of catchy tunes AND riffs that was all ROCK & METAL!  Hal ruled that stage better than any "actor/comedian" I have ever seen!  His set was all powerful with absolutely NO BS!!!  Sure, he smiled and had funny banter between some of the songs, but from the first chord of each song, Hal was in complete control, full of Rock God posturing and presence.  After the show was over, I leaned to my roommate and told him that if I was an AOR exec from a music/record label that I would sign Hal ON THE SPOT!!!!!!!!  HE WAS THAT GOOD!!!!!!!!!  So good in fact that I hope to one day see him open for Zakk Wylde's 'Black Label Society'.

Later that night, Ahmet and his band took to the stage and played for about an hour.  The show wasn't as HEAVY as Hal's but was just as good.  What Ahmet lacked in METAL, he more than made up for in comedic banter, crazy antics, insane story telling and killer vocals!   He wore a t-shirt with the title 'Freak Out' which is straight from an album by his late father Frank's band 'The Mothers of Invention'. 

Speaking of Frank, halfway through the set, Ahmet and band performed a crushingly emotional ballad.   Ahmet sang with such control, intensity and beauty that you'd have to be a cold, selfish, Hollywood punk (like many people think hang in The Viper Room...that couldn't be any further from the truth) NOT to have been moved.  Afterwards, he told us that he had written in memory of his father.  He then proceeded to ask us, "You know what's good about Prostate cancer and diseases besides nothing?  Nothing."   Even in such a deep and moving moment, Ahmet found and clung to the humor.   Sure, he can feel deeply about emotional issues, but he can also be as crazy, zany and off the wall as the most talented child. 

I saw Ahmet's mother Gail and sister Moon in the audience, cheering him on and it was just cool to be in the same room with such loving, talented and sincere people.  In a town like La La Land, where so many celebrity families are dysfunctional and in serious need of therapy and/or rehab, it's really cool to see a family like the Zappas who not only have weathered the storms and difficulties of tragedy and Hollywood but have overcome it all with a laugh and a smile, all without the booze, drugs and insanity that is all around.  It seems they know what the meaning of family is all about....support, love, compassion, and honesty...but, most importantly, unconditional love. 

Enough of the sappy talk and back to the ROCK!  The night with Hal and Ahmet was a night I'll never forget.  They were both equally talented in their different ways and one thing they BOTH did in the same way was they ROCKED!!!!!!!!!  And, anybody reading this in a position of music label power, sign Hal Sparks NOW!!!!!!!!!!  He may seem nice, sweet and innocent (to a degree) on 'Queer as Folk', but on stage, this guy is a new and improved brand of Rock God and a welcome one at that!  And, as for Ahmet, if you don't know who he is by now, then go back to the cave you've been living in.

Enuff said!

Tuesday, October 7, 2003

Simply Red with newcomer Joss Stone opening, LIVE at the Mayan Theater near downtown Los Angeles.  An amazing night full of funk, soul, class, beauty, energy and unforgettable song, not to mention two voices (Mick's & Joss') that were angelic! 

I went with my roommate Marc who got two tickets along with Aftershow passes.   Opening the Simply Red show was Joss Stone, a beautiful teenager with blonde hair, an infectious, happy, and humble attitude and a voice that was so unbelievably full of old school soul and emotion that the audience was sold moments into the first song!!!  Simply Red, led by leader Mick Hucknall proved that they still have it and much more!  If the audience's positive love and energy was any indication, you'd think Simply Red were at number one in the charts.  Simply Red released their newest release "Home" this year on their OWN independent label.  It seems they had difficulty getting major label attention so Mick took control of things and released it himself.  I guess the powers that be in the music industry have left some gems behind.  Money has become such an issue, that loyalty to bands like Simply Red who have more than paid their dues isn't always respected.  Joss Stone is different though because she looks so NOT what her voice and music projects.  She looks like another Britney/Jessica/Christina but her voice and soulfulness is another matter entirely.  She deserves much props for shattering the stereotype of what someone looks and sounds like.  Unbelievable!!  

It was at the aftershow that Marc and I met and talked with the lead singer Mick Hucknall.  He was very down to earth, friendly and extremely classy.  We talked to him for a couple of minutes about music, his new album and remixes of the new singles 'Sunrise' and 'Fake'.   Other than the opportunity to meet Mick, the afterparty was an extreme disappointment.  It was in a minimally decorated backroom that had visuals projecting on one wall, a bar on the other (with full price drinks I might add), no place to sit and cool out, and music that took little imagination to throw together.  No live DJ, no dancing, no originality.  I don't know who's fault it was but I think it may have something to do with Simply Red NOT being with a major record label who more than likely would have put more effort, style and money into the afterparty affair.  It's too bad that The Mayan didn't do more to show they care.  I know I would have.

Friday, November 7, 2003

THE ALARM...Live at the Knitting Factory in Hollywood!  I have to admit, being from the midwest, I was never really into The Alarm, mainly because they were never played like they were here in Los Angeles and on KROQ, where they were HUGE back in the 80's and beyond.  I went because my roommate had an extra ticket.  I was quite surprised with the evening.  The Alarm has often been called the "poor man's U2" and I can see that.  They come from the same Ireland, Mike Peters (Alarm) and Bono (U2) have similar voices, and they both have a cool rock sound not unlike each other. 

The difference in both bands though is that while U2 has kept the exact same band lineup over the years, The Alarm has gone through many lineup changes and other drama, both personal and professional.  Seeing The Alarm at the Knitting Factory however, you couldn't have known that it wasn't the original band if you were fresh off the street because they rocked the roof of the place with an energy and warmth rarely seen in such a seasoned band.  Even though I didn't know many songs at all, I was a great night. 

Sunday, December 7, 2003

Movie Night at The Viper Room!  This is a truly awesome experience and one I will try to go to every Sunday.  I went to the very first one a few weeks ago.  It was 'Scarface' complete with free Coke (coca-cola that is) and it was fantastic in picture, sound and vibe!  Each Sunday, The Viper Room has a movie night.  The Thursday before the night, they advertise in the LA Weekly with hints (like the above example) on what the movie will be.  As you can tell from above, the hints are from 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High'.  I thought it was way cool that solo artist Lili Haydn was going to be there to perform along with extra silent short films.  She's an amazing violinist so I wanted to make sure and make it. 

Unfortunately, on the same evening was going to be 'Angels in America' on HBO.  My roommate and a friend ordered pizza and were going to watch it.  I ended up watching a bit of 'Angels' and since I was recording it, took off after a bit for The Viper Room.  They start early, so I missed out on Lili Haydn and the silent shorts which was a real downer as I have yet to see her perform.  Lili was still there but enjoying the film, 'Fast Times' with friends.  My friend, bartender/manager Jeff, was there and I caught most of 'Fast Times'.  From the moment I walked in, I felt right at home.  The energy was up, light and festive. 

What's so great about this weekly movie night is that they renovate the entire upstairs into a lounge, complete with bean bags, love seats, comfy chairs, small tables and candlelight.  The vibe is so cool and laid back.  Also included in the night is $1 popcorn, $2 espressos, drink specials, magicians, guest hosts, and other surprises.  Two surprises came tonight in the form of free pizza and a second movie!

After 'Fast Times' was over, Sal (co-owner) didn't want us to leave so he went above and beyond by ordering pizza and asking what second film we'd like to watch.  After a few back and forths and voting, we all decided on Walter Hill's classic 'The Warriors'.  Back in the 80's when it came out, it was all the rage.  As I watched it tonight, I realized how incredibly stylized it is, with all the precise actor blocking and line readings.  At times, it was laughable, which I'm sure wasn't the intent of the filmmaker. 

What was cool about Sal is that he sent over the lighting and sound wiz that has worked there for years to purchase 'The Warriors' from Tower Video next door.  The complimentary pizza was from a nearby pizzeria.  In all my years, I've never been a part of such a giving club atmosphere.  It was a great evening with everyone in an approachable, friendly mood.   I would have to say that this Sunday night movie gig is the best night to be found on a Sunday in Hollywood and one I would highly recommend.  Upon leaving, I ran into Sal and wished him a great Christmas.  As I walked home (a 10 minute walk) in the cold morning air (2am), it didn't matter that I had gone to The Viper Room alone.   Once inside, it was like a private family party!

Friday, December 12, 2003

Having finished DJing, I wasn't totally sold on going out, but my friend Jeremy talked me into it.  We ended up at 'The Well' along with another of his friends.  The no cover bar ended up being a cool hangout.  Once inside, they quickly went in opposite directions, trying hard to land a beautiful woman.  Left alone and not wanting to cramp their style, I ended up sitting at the only empty table.  It's just not my thing to be going around, scoping out all the ladies so I figured I'd just sit back and enjoy the scene with my beer.  While enjoying the atmosphere, I couldn't help but notice the table next to mine, where three women sat together.  One of them stood out to me.  Not only was she beautiful but I could tell she was the life of the party. 

After a bit, I got up and went over to the juke box to pick some songs.  One of them was Outkast's 'Hey Ya', a really cool and hot number that has been riding high on the charts, worldwide.   Once in my seat, the moment 'Hey Ya' came on, the room lit up with most of the room moving, grooving and singing along, including the table with three women.  Even when I'm away from work, I love it when I can DJ in any small way.  It's better than the explicit NWA nonsense that was playing earlier.  

While back at my table, I couldn't help but smirk when my friend Jeremy walked by without noticing me.  He had a trance like "Where's the next babe I can talk too" look in his eyes.   At the table next to mine, I couldn't help eavesdropping in their animated conversation, which was mostly being led by the beautiful brunette.  I was taken by her, not only with her physical beauty, but in how she expressed herself.  She definitely stood out, but I wasn't about to go up and say anything unless the timing was right.  As the night went on, my attention kept going back to the brunette.  Her energy and personality mesmerized me.  An inspiration to say the least, especially considering how conservative many a person can be. 

As the evening drew to a close, I couldn't help overhearing their conversation as it turned towards men and got a bit...um...BLUE.  At one climactic moment, I smiled.  I looked at them just as they looked at me.  They saw I heard them and broke out laughing.  I laughed back.  They asked if I had overheard.  I confirmed that I had causing their slight embarrassment.  The perfect moment to talk to them (and her) had finally arrived!  It was at this time that my friend Jeremy came up.  Damn!  He was ready to go.  Well, there went my "perfect moment".  As I got up to leave, I knew I wasn't about to leave the room without talking to the beautiful brunette.   I went up and got her attention.  As she looked up at me with her gorgeous eyes, I said, "I just want you to know that I love your energy."  She thanked me and I made my exit with Jeremy.  As I walked away, I wondered if that was it.  I didn't even know her name.  I wanted to know more about her but the bar was closing and Jeremy and friend were ready to leave. 

I stopped in my tracks on the sidewalk causing Jeremy to ask, "What are you doing?"  I was NOT going to leave without at least giving her my number and/or getting hers.  I told Jeremy I had met a woman and I wanted to give her my number and get hers.  He was like, "Oh, cool.  Okay."  I turned back around to see that the bar door was closed.  Was I too late?  Was the door locked?  I reached for the door to find it...UNLOCKED!  Thank God.  I went back in just as the three women were getting up to leave.  I went back up to the brunette beauty and gave her my card.  I know.  "Cards" are kinda cliché but, at this point, time wasn't exactly on my side.  I had to be quick.  She responded with a bit of surprise but it was all good.  I could tell she was a bit amused with my name on the card, "Myles Matisse".  I mean, how contrived can a name get, right?   I quickly pointed out that it was my "DJ"/"Artistic" moniker and not my "real" name.  Having just met her, she wasn't all that comfortable giving me any of her info which I can understand.  In this day and age and with all the freaks that have made things difficult for us normal people, women can't be too careful. 

As she followed behind her friends and we left the bar, we continued to talk.  Once she found out I had graduated from SIUC in Illinois, she lit up because she ended up being from Illinois.   What a small world.  It was at that point that her girlfriends, having walked on to their car, called for her.  My time had run out and not a moment too soon, especially considering I waited until the very last minute to talk to her.  After a fond farewell, she rejoined her friends and I caught up with Jeremy.  The other friend that came with us?  Oh, he was still with us...but with a young lady on his arm.   Not bad considering he had only met her an hour before.  Talk about being quick on your feet.  Damn! 

As we got into the car and drove into the night, I couldn't help but think about the beautiful brunette I had just talked with.  It's not everyday that I see a woman that is stunning enough for me to approach.  Many of my friends (who will remain anonymous) it seems will go up to almost any woman because as we all know, most men want only one thing...at first anyway.  It takes quite a beauty for me to make a move.  Tonight was such a night.  This amazing brunette had, in her own way, helped make my evening unforgettable.  Her name?  Claudette, I think.  See, that's where the problem comes into the picture.  Sure, I gave her MY info but I didn't and couldn't get hers.  She chose not to give me her info because why should she having just met me and all.  If I had gone up to the table earlier and joined in on their conversation, things might have turned out differently and I could have left with a number.  As it stands, I'll just have to see if she calls.  I'm not gonna hold my breath though because unfortunately or fortunately, depending on who you ask, even in the 21st century, most women don't call first and expect the man to make the first move.   Without the number, that ain't gonna happen.  That's cool though.  It was good just meeting her.

Saturday, December 13, 2003

Dialogue in NAVY BLUE was written AFTER the concert!

Even though this night hasn't officially passed, I have to just say that me, my roommate Marc and my good friend Alan are going to be going to a once in a lifetime concert at the Forum.  I have been a fan of Prince since way back and Sheila E. has put together an event for her beloved children's charity that is unbelievable in its scope and greatness.  I am still speechless at the magnitude and amount of "Princely" musicians attending:

THE REVOLUTION:   The complete band that backed Prince during the 'Purple Rain' heyday...Wendy & Lisa, Brownmark, Bobby Z, and Dr. Fink.  YES!!!   Introduced by Alan Leeds, (ex President of Prince's Paisley Park Studios/Company, longtime "family" member of the Prince camp AND brother to sax player Eric Leeds) The ENTIRE Revolution took to the stage and ROCKED the house for the first time in 17 years!!!  Wendy Melvoin took over for the missing (and ultimately SHAMEFUL, STUPID and SOUL-LESS) Prince on lead vocals and you know what...it didn't matter that Prince was not there.  As a matter of fact, it was BETTER.  The band and performance was more informal and powerful due to the Purple EGO not mucking up things.  The band looked better than ever and gave a blistering set! 

(from l to r) Dr. Fink (left of picture), Eric Leeds, Bobby Z (behind Eric), Brownmark, Lisa Coleman (on keys in back), Wendy Melvoin, Susannah Melvoin, Bridgett Bryant, Debra Parson.

At the encore, which was the jam 'Baby, I'm a Star' ALL the evening's performers took to the stage for an all star jam fest!!!!  It was an unforgettable experience!!  Prince who???  Exactly!!   It was so awesome that my roommate Marc said afterwards that The Revolution should go ahead and continue recording as a group WITHOUT PRINCE and with Wendy and Brownmark on vocals.  There were times when Brownmark and Wendy traded vocals and it was amazing!  After Wendy made a vocal jab at Prince for NOT being there by saying she hoped their performance and OUR singing would cause Prince's "ears to burn", she added that she hoped this "Family Jamm" and The Revolution's reunion will be an annual thing until they get too old to perform.  All the PRAISE and PROPS in heaven and on earth goes out to the ENTIRE Revolution for leaving their egos at the door (unlike Prince, Morris, Jesse and Monte) and lending their support to the legacy of the "Minneapolis Sound", the beautiful Sheila E., and the CHILDREN!!!!!!!!!!

THE TIME:  The complete (minus Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis) band that Prince originally put together...Morris Day, Jerome Benton, Jellybean Johnson, Monte Moir AND Jesse Johnson.   WRONG!!!  This was one of the lowpoints AND highpoints of the evening.  The lowpoint was that Morris Day, Monte Moir, Jesse Johnson, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Vanity, Andre Cymone, Dez Dickerson and Alexander O'Neal were NOT there to represent!  I don't know what happened to Jesse, especially since his name was on the souvenir T-Shirt and his bio in the program.  If his NOT being there was for reasons other than Life threatening, then I'm extremely disappointed because not showing up not only makes him look BAD but is a direct slap in the face to the musical legacy he was a major part of and one that put him on the map in the FIRST place.  More importantly though, his NON-presence is a HUGE slap in the face to all the children that this charity event was put together for, as well as Sheila E., Lynn Mabry and their 'Lil' Angel Bunny' Foundation'!  As for Morris Day, it turns out he failed to appear BECAUSE of his own ego and greed for money, as brought to hilarious light by Sheila E.  And, that leads to one of the highpoints of the evening.   After Carmen Electra announced The Time (including Jesse Johnson who didn't come out), out came Jellybean Johnson, Jerome Benton and a "surprise guest" who turned out to be none other than...MOWWIS DAY (Sheila E. in "Morris Day" drag complete with a handkerchief around his head like in the intro montage to the movie 'Purple Rain' where he was at home vacuuming). 

(from l to r) St. Paul Peterson, Sheila E., & up with St. Paul...House band members Mano Hanes, DeWayne Swan, and Kat Dyson.

This "parody" version of The Time, backed by Jellybean's mighty drumming, St. Paul guesting on keys (see to the left of "Mowwis") and Sheila's house band tore through a reworked version of 'Jungle Love' complete with "NEW" lyrics where Sheila E...I mean "Mowwis Day" (complete with mustache) viciously and hilariously tore apart the REAL Morris, saying that "I want all the money!" etc.  "Mowwis" did alot of posturing, exaggerated walk, and grabbing at his crotch.  The dance moves between her/him and Jerome were off the hook!!!  It made her look GOOD and Morris Day look BAD.  Shame on him for NOT showing up.  And, as far as that goes, where was Monte Moir in all of this?      

JESSE JOHNSON:   Lead Guitarist of 'The Time' as well as an amazing solo artist who also founded and produced: 'Ta Mara and The Seen'.  WRONG!!   This NO SHOW made himself look like an idiot.  Such a shame too.  All that potential flushed down the toilet.  His NOT being there comes across as uncaring and does nothing but hurt his fans, fellow musicians and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, the neglected, emotionally and sexually abused children that this 'Lil' Bunny Angel Foundation' backed charity event was put together for!!!  Karma is a b*tch and NON-actions like his (and the other no-shows) ain't cool!  And, unless there's a very good reason for them NOT being there, is irreprehensible and shameful. 

THE FAMILY: One of the early bands Prince put together.  They were the first to make the song 'Nothing Compares 2 U' famous.  They consist of: St. Paul, Susannah Melvoin, Jellybean Johnson, Jerome Benton, and Eric Leeds.  The amazing thing about this band being reunited is that not only did they NEVER perform live but St. Paul left right after the album after having serious disagreements with Prince and how he wanted things to be.   OH LAWD!!!  This, for me, was the HIGHPOINT of the concert, right along next to The Revolution's reunion!  This FIRST live performance of The Family was so tight, they coulda squeezed diamonds outta coal!!!   UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!!!  FUNKY!!!!!!  BRILLIANT!!!!!!!   AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!  St. Paul, looking suave, sophisticated and soulful as ever gave a flawlessly funky vocal performance!  It's mad crazy that such soul comes from a white guy but I'm telling you...it does and it did!  Susannah was in top form vocally and her and St. Paul co-lead vocalled like they had been singing together for decades!  Jellybean provided the "bottom" and he and house band were "on the one"!!!  Jerome had fun, providing vocals, percussion and got the crowd (and band) energy up!  Eric Leeds represented the funk with his delicious sax playing!  You could tell watching the event that this band were ECSTATIC to FINALLY be performing!!!  Truly, this night was a dream come true, for them AND for us!  

APOLLONIA:  The female lead in the film 'Purple Rain' and lead singer in 'Apollonia 6', the "remake" of 'Vanity 6'.   BEAUTIFUL!!!   Looking hot as ever in a red shimmering top and silver reflective skirt, she sang (unfortunately) only one track, 'Take Me With U' from the 'Purple Rain' soundtrack/movie.   A great performance but not the song I would have picked.  Completely ignored was anything from the album 'Apollonia 6' which was way disappointing.  Where was 'Happy Birthday Mr. Christian' or especially 'Sex Shooter'.  I mean, "C'mon!"  'Take Me With U'???  Sure, Apollonia DID sing on that track, but it was a DUET with Prince...NOT a solo jam.  Oh well.  Maybe next year!

JILL JONES:  She released a self titled album on Paisley Park Records which was one of the BEST releases by a Prince side project.  Her voice is unbelievable!  She also had a large role in the widely panned 'Grafitti Bridge' film.  A GODDESS!! 

Jill (on the left) sings with Wendy during The Revolution's encore, 'Baby, I'm a Star'.

Jill looked gorgeous at the event with straight brown hair and a sexy silky dress.  The only downside was that she only sang ONE song...'Mia Bocca'.   She did come out later for The Revolution's encore of 'Baby, I'm a Star'!  She was the first to perform at the event and I was a bit miffed that unlike all the later performers, most people SAT through her one song.  It seems they didn't really know her or her album.  Oh well...It's their loss!

MADHOUSE:  It's incredible that Sheila E. was instrumental in getting this band back together, especially considering that Prince was 100% responsible for their existence.  The band consists of: Eric Leeds, Dr. Fink, Sheila E. and Prince.  JAZZY FUNK HEAVEN!! 

(from l to r) Dr. Fink, Raymond, Eric Leeds, Sheila (out of picture)

Since the LAME Prince wasn't there to do guitar, it was all about the sax of Eric, keyboards of Matt "Doctor" Fink, drumming of Sheila E. and bass by house band bassist & Musical Director of the night Raymond McKinley!  As Sheila E. said before Madhouse's set, this was the FIRST time Madhouse have EVER played live in this configuration.  You couldn't tell though as they tore through four jams...Two from the album '8' and two from '16'.  They were ultra tight and owned the joint!!!   

SHEILA E.:  For her to have been instrumental in putting this event together just shows how beautiful a person she is.  She will be performing at the event with the band that put her on the map (outside of Prince that is): Levi Seacer Jr. on rhythm guitar, Eddie M. on sax, Stef Burns on lead guitar, Susie Davis on keys and backing vocals, Benny Rietveld on bass, Juan Escovedo (Sheila's younger brother) on percussion, and Karl Perazzo on drums.  FANTASTIC!!  Sheila E. backed by her 'Purple Rain' era touring band was too funky!!!  The band's playing along with Sheila's INCREDIBLE percussion/drumming were on the mark in EVERY way and the love was all over that stage!   Missing were Eddie M. and Levi Seacer Jr. although Miko Weaver took his place and it was mentioned that Miko was in that version of the band anyway, so it's all good.   Eddie M. should have been there, especially considering he was promoted on Sheila's website as one of the performers slated to appear.  SHAME on Eddie M. for NOT being there.  His brilliant sax playing would have added so much to the set!  Taking his place was Randy Ellis, the sax player in the "house band".

CHAKA KHAN:   Prince has written songs for her and she also covered 'I Feel For You' from one of Prince's early recordings.  He also produced her latest release.  AWESOME & DISAPPOINTING at the same time!   "Awesome" because she was in great spirits and voice.   "Disappointing" because she only sang ONE song, 'I Feel For You'.   It would have been nice to hear more!

PATTI LABELLE:   Unofficially Prince's 'godmother', she is like his second mom and he has written songs for her, mainly 'Yo Mister'.  UNBELIEVABLE!!!!!   Unmistakably the BEST voice of the evening (the second best being St. Paul).   Miss LaBelle tore the joint apart with her singing, wailing and high notes and was perfect in every way.  She only sang ONE song, 'Yo Mister' causing many in the audience to chant for her return.  She did later when The Revolution performed 'Purple Rain'.

CARMEN ELECTRA:   She is hosting the event and Prince discovered her and produced, wrote and arranged her first album, 'Carmen Electra'.  YES!!   She did indeed host the event.  She did NOT sing although her and Sheila did do a bit of 'Go Go Dancer' acapella style on the podium mic.  Carmen was in great spirits although her hair and dress was a bit disappointing.  Whoever styled her dropped the ball on that one.

A couple of media outlets have reported that Prince will be there but won't perform.  He did NOT show AT ALL and even Wendy mentioned it during The Revolution's set.  I don't believe it though considering how much he has wanted Wendy & Lisa to get in touch.  You can't tell me that he didn't have ANYTHING to do with these groups getting back together. He had EVERYTHING to do with these groups being created in the first place.  For him to not show would make him look really bad.  OOOPS!  It's too late!  He looks very BAD because he did NOT show.  SHAME ON HIM and if I was Sheila, The Revolution and everybody else, I would not only NOT congratulate him on his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but I wouldn't answer his damn calls and see how HE likes it.   I think he's just downplaying his significance out of respect for Sheila E's charity.  Who knows.  I guess only the concert will tell.  The concert DID tell...that all the reunited bands and performers didn't need Prince's presence to represent the funk!  Their comraderie and positivity made Prince's presence completely unnecessary and in some ways, a breath of fresh air as their was no EGO to stifle the flow!  Sure, Prince created the blueprint for them all but he did such a great job that they don't need him any more.  This performance was all about the love of Sheila E., The Lil' Angel Bunny Foundation, and all the musicians and crew behind the event!!  "Sho The Love"?  They did that and much more...All for the CHILDREN and the musical legacy they helped Prince create.  Without them, Prince woulda remained just a two bit, sexually dismissive performer.  And, if he ain't careful, he's gonna end up a two bit performer again AND if he isn't careful, may end up a very lonely old man.   It's all about HIM you say?  No, it's all about THEM...the "them" that tore the roof of The Forum for one night only!! 

The event wasn't sold out by any means and I blame lack of media and RADIO support for that.  But, it was BETTER being an intimate audience.  It made the evening more special and personal!   I'm just glad I was able to lend my support and spread the word to the few that were interested, namely Marc and Alan, two of my very good friends (who also happen to be fans of the "Minneapolis Sound")

The "set list" for the night:

Jill Jones: 'Mia Bocca'.

Apollonia: 'Take Me With U'.

Madhouse (Sheila E., Matt "Doctor" Fink, Eric Leeds and house band): '10', '13', '6', '16'.

The Family (Susannah, St. Paul Peterson, Jerome Benton, Jellybean Johnson, Eric Leeds, Miko Weaver): 'River Run Dry', 'Mutiny', 'High Fashion', 'Screams of Passion', 'Nothing compares 2 U'.

Sheila E. & Band (Sheila E., Stef Burns, Susie Davis, Benny Rietveld, Juan Escovedo, Karl Perazzo and house band): 'Sister Fate Intro', 'Oliver's House', 'The Belle of St. Mark', 'A Love Bizarre/One Nation Under a Groove' (w/ Lynn Mabry on guest vocals), 'Holly Rock', '17 Days', 'Alphabet St.', 'The Glamorous Life'.

Chaka Khan: 'I feel 4 U'

Patti Labelle: 'Yo Mister'

The Time (Sheila as "Mowwis", Jellybean Johnson, Jerome Benton & house band): 'Jungle Love'

The Revolution: (Wendy, Lisa, Brownmark, Dr. Fink, Bobby Z): 'Mountains', 'America', 'Pop Life', 'Raspberry Beret', 'Anotherloverholenyohead', 'Purple Rain' (w/ Patti LaBelle), 'Baby I'm a Star' (encore with all performers back on stage).

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