With another year behind me, it feels like the perfect moment to look back on my music experiences from the past 12 months. I didn’t make it to as many shows as I have in other years, but I still enjoyed some unforgettable concerts. In this summary, I’ll share the highlights, the ups and downs of going to shows, and how music continues to impact my life.
The two most memorable events for me were attending the last concert at “Rich” Stadium and seeing Sir Paul McCartney return to the stage.
Anyone who’s been to a show at what’s now Highmark Stadium knows how tough it can be to get in and out. I can’t complain too much, though, because I’m a Bills season ticket holder, so I’m used to the traffic headaches.
The George Strait concert in June drew a big crowd and was a fantastic show. Still, it seemed like a missed chance to mark it as the final concert. There were a few t-shirts here and there, but as everyone left, the ending felt a bit anticlimactic.
I took a few moments to take it all in and remember some of my favorite concerts there. It was an emotional experience, and I’m sure the last football game at the stadium will be even more moving.
As for Sir Paul, I considered it an honor to cover the show. The Beatles represent everything I love about live music, and Paul understands his unique responsibility to keep the Beatles’ legacy.
Interviews have been harder to pin down, which has been the case every year since the pandemic. I was able to connect with Grace Potter again, and it reminded me just how fortunate I am to speak with so many great musicians.
I think many artists are concerned that interviewers will seek sensational quotes. I don’t fall into that category, but I understand how their handlers must be extra cautious.
In terms of new music, while few records caught my attention, Holka-Rondinelli’s “The Gathering” and Bruce Wojick and the Struggle’s “The Hard Way” stood out. Knowing Bruce and Jamie personally, I feel proud, and their dedication to their craft and professionalism shine throughout both albums.
My longtime friend John Kelley and his band, Kelley’s Heroes, also released a fantastic album called “In the 21st Century.” John played a big role in my musical path, and I have fond memories of listening to jam sessions at his place. Hearing such a well-made record with great songs was a real treat.
And another great record, “Play on: A Raspberries Tribute,” came out earlier this year. I have never been a huge fan of tribute records, but my friends Fernado Perdomo and Ken Sharp assembled an incredible list of musicians for the project, including Rick Springfield, Lou Gramm, and Joh Waite.
I had a handful of negative experiences this year, related to bad concert behavior. I hope venues take steps to address situations where fans block other fans’ views. It is a hotly debated issue on social media, with one side saying, “I paid for a ticket, so I should be able to stand and dance.” The other side (including many shorter-than-average folks like me) is having its experience ruined. If seats aren’t assigned, people can move to get a better vantage point, but if you are parked behind a wall of tall, drunken revelers who are weaving and dancing, it’s pretty awful. Venues should designate seating and standing areas. That would eliminate a ton of issues.
I want to end by saying a special thank you to my readers. One of my columns last year led to someone sending me a wonderful gift. I always enjoy meeting people who read my column, and I reply to every email I get. Thanks for sticking with me for another year, and I hope the next one is great for all of you!