tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65387025424956697022024-03-05T16:35:30.651-05:00Big Apple Jen ... It's My LifeI'm complicated .. get frustrated .. right or wrong ... love or hate it. I'm complicated.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comBlogger340125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-92189741838525393572012-12-24T12:03:00.002-05:002012-12-24T13:14:43.855-05:00Life + Music = Hope"...When the night has come<br />
And the land is dark<br />
And the moon is the only light we'll see<br />
No I won't be afraid<br />
Oh, I won't be afraid<br />
Just as long as you stand, stand by me..."<br />
Ben E. King<br />
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The healing power of music is undeniable. <br />
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Many, MANY of you reading this knew DavidsRosie. We are all still reeling from the news of her sudden passing at the age of 38 from a heart attack. She was a bright, positive light in an often chaotic and unfeeling world. Maybe it was because she gave so much of her heart that it wore out too soon. But, she wouldn't have wanted it any other way. She lived her life with such joy and she shared that laughter, enthusiasm and love with everybody she met. Her absence next tour will be felt by all. I especially send prayers of strength to her children and to her tourbuddy, Annette. xoxo</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithdP25DwIKgzMSMC22zIYM9Uk9rdSlsDhCo2lyB2QtYNOrbN7QA-3VVdO3eqawnbWHiC6Pe8zNWyE3yoebM43eLWYPHIzmRc5crWykany1eadj4-qGb4QyJXFvD6bFOKxlX39kqcKq3IO/s1600/RIP+Rosie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithdP25DwIKgzMSMC22zIYM9Uk9rdSlsDhCo2lyB2QtYNOrbN7QA-3VVdO3eqawnbWHiC6Pe8zNWyE3yoebM43eLWYPHIzmRc5crWykany1eadj4-qGb4QyJXFvD6bFOKxlX39kqcKq3IO/s320/RIP+Rosie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, last night -- with the hope that some music could help soothe my sad soul -- I headed to the Hope VI concert in Red Bank, NJ. I've attended this show almost every year and it never fails to put me in the holiday spirit. And this year, with the devastation caused by superstorm Sandy, it seemed everyone in the theater was longing for that boost of optimism.<br />
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With performances by Jon Bon Jovi, Southside Johnny, Gary US Bonds, the incomparable Ben E. King and a band of nearly every Jersey Shore musician I know, led by Bobby Bandiera, it was 2.5 hours of unbridled fun. Exactly what we needed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mt1lbhzhEhd-OSJK7EDq2tBAcRNLJuv-9UyW-w5RdHtWkydDslIh4TSqC2Oh5NcRD6MbmFFBv10_eSF3HtV4jqmpMbTrY1bWsKMi1LZ0-fshmkU79t24vXUO1E9MY2vUujEVvpiffuyt/s1600/jon+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0mt1lbhzhEhd-OSJK7EDq2tBAcRNLJuv-9UyW-w5RdHtWkydDslIh4TSqC2Oh5NcRD6MbmFFBv10_eSF3HtV4jqmpMbTrY1bWsKMi1LZ0-fshmkU79t24vXUO1E9MY2vUujEVvpiffuyt/s200/jon+3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon Bon Jovi</td></tr>
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Jon Bon Jovi (with David Bryan on keys) was on quite early in the line-up. His presence clearly energized the crowd as he sang Blue Christmas, Run Run Rudolph, The Letter and Who Says You Can't Go Home. As much as I deride the constant playing of that song, I can't deny its effect on people (yes, even me) because don't we all sometimes just want to hear "it's alright"?</div>
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After some great performances by members of the band (including favorites Layonne Holmes, Ray Andersen and Bob Burger), out comes Ben E. King..truly one of the greats of all-time. I loved Southside coming out to sing back-up on This Magic Moment, Spanish Harlem and Under the Boardwalk (#JerseyStrong, baby!) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfh7-OCIyh7cHYTHul5VGM_DGdFrBA1aAm68MeB7b83fbR4cM24euMy77wH2WUuwC1kqnCDDdohWAefXqLpEGs-M6z0Ko3EfZ0o2I-HELE555qqib7KL5U1dBe3gIRdNj_XzZ3Ehdr5xI/s1600/DSCN0348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfh7-OCIyh7cHYTHul5VGM_DGdFrBA1aAm68MeB7b83fbR4cM24euMy77wH2WUuwC1kqnCDDdohWAefXqLpEGs-M6z0Ko3EfZ0o2I-HELE555qqib7KL5U1dBe3gIRdNj_XzZ3Ehdr5xI/s200/DSCN0348.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ben E. King and Southside</td></tr>
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Next up was Gary Bonds, who always "brings it." I have been to <em>so</em> many concerts where Gary is a guest artist and he brings down the house. Southside joined him for an absolutely raucous version of Hold On, I'm Coming.<br />
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Then, Southside did his set. I love this man. End of story. <br />
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Perfect for the occasion, Johnny opened with Better Days (I once again reiterate, if you do not own <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Better-Southside-Johnny-Asbury-Jukes/dp/B000008KZO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356363886&sr=8-1&keywords=southside+johnny+better+days" target="_blank">this album</a>, your music collection is seriously lacking.) He continued with I Don't Want to Go Home (none of us did, by the way), This Time It's For Real, Hearts of Stone and Talk To Me. He sounded fantastic. He was having a great time..and so were we. <br />
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And, for a while, we almost forgot the pain and turmoil of the past year. The power of music.<br />
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This was basically Jersey's version of the 12.12.12 concert..and with a MUCH better ending -- everybody on stage singing Stand By Me, led by Ben E. King (and Southside dancing with Elmo!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeJR0d-E2nw51jkNzWrP4sAo2zXEYfu8Adlnsi-s47zxgLcywWUp7YEcQozWtgr9AKiK8mZ0BhZe4jHl_DKGqiBSMcuwDDtMPsoVXqTawjwDp6MJewUyknsI4_pRrXX8pw_3uv_Uh4NsL/s1600/DSCN0620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeJR0d-E2nw51jkNzWrP4sAo2zXEYfu8Adlnsi-s47zxgLcywWUp7YEcQozWtgr9AKiK8mZ0BhZe4jHl_DKGqiBSMcuwDDtMPsoVXqTawjwDp6MJewUyknsI4_pRrXX8pw_3uv_Uh4NsL/s320/DSCN0620.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Looking through the pictures this morning, it occured to me that it was truly a night of "American idols" and the singers that influenced them.. Ben E. King --> Southside Johnny --> Jon Bon Jovi.<br />
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Here are a few more images..<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southside Johnny, Ben E King, Gary US Bonds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlM-gjiPIUyW5wDklrMsYyjOOeBraZ-pVPPN1lzS7GUzJ6u6TkDWinvDRKp67vjZ-46XwMTVyDQOXZIFqYdrVHO1zTk9adCH-Vjqt-JMhjR-4HqOQDriegU_GCJR9OgO_JHbeVwds9X9dK/s1600/jon+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlM-gjiPIUyW5wDklrMsYyjOOeBraZ-pVPPN1lzS7GUzJ6u6TkDWinvDRKp67vjZ-46XwMTVyDQOXZIFqYdrVHO1zTk9adCH-Vjqt-JMhjR-4HqOQDriegU_GCJR9OgO_JHbeVwds9X9dK/s320/jon+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon Bon Jovi</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_mFBbENWEurZ-Lr3w6jWRM5_iSPNT0HBz2jbyFUcRvAv_oTolaX6r8fJ_EGf8vakiUYWHHcS9DYGH_jWByvdVnLVZazlL9ZdkhA6NjmRFWlu5h1SGwBJEov3I0TxKkxZziw2Z9I_tHUD/s1600/david.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_mFBbENWEurZ-Lr3w6jWRM5_iSPNT0HBz2jbyFUcRvAv_oTolaX6r8fJ_EGf8vakiUYWHHcS9DYGH_jWByvdVnLVZazlL9ZdkhA6NjmRFWlu5h1SGwBJEov3I0TxKkxZziw2Z9I_tHUD/s320/david.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
for Rosie</div>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9359WTRkL-K2lUFn2MrivplyNCaL-H__k1toPpLea-4qG72ZNFR73vM6mOrfR11TFoBHwYke2sNbDG8QgS45kAwcKdL2Ki1Kj-zGrNBMCWBKewJGcLRREOAyf6nQ8XaNlfEgvzUTf9Yj/s1600/DSCN0249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9359WTRkL-K2lUFn2MrivplyNCaL-H__k1toPpLea-4qG72ZNFR73vM6mOrfR11TFoBHwYke2sNbDG8QgS45kAwcKdL2Ki1Kj-zGrNBMCWBKewJGcLRREOAyf6nQ8XaNlfEgvzUTf9Yj/s320/DSCN0249.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon Bon Jovi and Lorenza Ponce</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcZ_egGy1Z9j8faldhHS3IitOI0_cw2R6fNQ0Y3b8Bo2k99GvmgBJKZOZuWxLoXAAaOxj3uSDQri-qpwVoscgYXIPdAGa6ckJMrkF_Lpe3mIPI4iMHp9-o78Nzb79Y9p2ue8BgkTGVr_J/s1600/jon+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcZ_egGy1Z9j8faldhHS3IitOI0_cw2R6fNQ0Y3b8Bo2k99GvmgBJKZOZuWxLoXAAaOxj3uSDQri-qpwVoscgYXIPdAGa6ckJMrkF_Lpe3mIPI4iMHp9-o78Nzb79Y9p2ue8BgkTGVr_J/s320/jon+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">okay..last one of Jon Bon Jovi..I promise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio2278yls32IEnVjgjHIQ1QgS1oWkr4VeZ3WaUoSKzUfKIHKxxMWhv_P6hmwm8bhiXMnLRoXXTIiNHMHNpbO4w94OGf_fZna8ral7Pirbtg0_2Ruvxvly5hhGG4X4PIrGZAikjUwQ5S9_Z/s1600/DSCN0293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio2278yls32IEnVjgjHIQ1QgS1oWkr4VeZ3WaUoSKzUfKIHKxxMWhv_P6hmwm8bhiXMnLRoXXTIiNHMHNpbO4w94OGf_fZna8ral7Pirbtg0_2Ruvxvly5hhGG4X4PIrGZAikjUwQ5S9_Z/s320/DSCN0293.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob Burger</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEqBaoTnDgySoV-SSp23ielCEFfr_lxGe6C3Mbdc6lD_UJxbuTNzQ_GqzfBaHv6Hz0rPCix8gu6GNxA95QrqWXE2bsC8_cqJHIxZgR2VoIo96OnpeSis43I4qW5u_Xa-O3JUxPfkFOlk_/s1600/DSCN0269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEqBaoTnDgySoV-SSp23ielCEFfr_lxGe6C3Mbdc6lD_UJxbuTNzQ_GqzfBaHv6Hz0rPCix8gu6GNxA95QrqWXE2bsC8_cqJHIxZgR2VoIo96OnpeSis43I4qW5u_Xa-O3JUxPfkFOlk_/s320/DSCN0269.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ray Andersen</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClRJ2Krmq3LHXbBNSmOMacC-kbIZHgIN8JnRDsSl_90js4C_rMPBLMwbBQAg-jcnAn7BagXhFD1huKhcIBvZzQa6kWZqD4dsoFlewiHXFdc-fmp9LPY6zoKsaBKgqDxCb4ksoDZ3AC6pT/s1600/DSCN0296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClRJ2Krmq3LHXbBNSmOMacC-kbIZHgIN8JnRDsSl_90js4C_rMPBLMwbBQAg-jcnAn7BagXhFD1huKhcIBvZzQa6kWZqD4dsoFlewiHXFdc-fmp9LPY6zoKsaBKgqDxCb4ksoDZ3AC6pT/s320/DSCN0296.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob Bandiera</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_JtYYYBAq_vaa_0ArLS7fvQp9rAWJx-Jb_os521s3NrFSMva7De9Gnu6u2Ei0jbpeaNXcAsASm8SahlZCZc2oijMewD7TIkgh_SMuAskta-65rL-SNY-RxNH2lWmsO_58PqW2zBIXGV2/s1600/DSCN0381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_JtYYYBAq_vaa_0ArLS7fvQp9rAWJx-Jb_os521s3NrFSMva7De9Gnu6u2Ei0jbpeaNXcAsASm8SahlZCZc2oijMewD7TIkgh_SMuAskta-65rL-SNY-RxNH2lWmsO_58PqW2zBIXGV2/s320/DSCN0381.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joey Stann, doing double sax duty..literally!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpCkIBQPaZV46FmsElVW9KVU4AxDxXFZa4MHJKcbg_trv6sEa4h2nkGDXexYKExA51YifMrHLeBvOpu2xcPMURBNbcS7QHvJoym15_J1u61i_1OxmJkFUS8kAXS3_6r8HRSFRF5ktBKds/s1600/DSCN0473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpCkIBQPaZV46FmsElVW9KVU4AxDxXFZa4MHJKcbg_trv6sEa4h2nkGDXexYKExA51YifMrHLeBvOpu2xcPMURBNbcS7QHvJoym15_J1u61i_1OxmJkFUS8kAXS3_6r8HRSFRF5ktBKds/s320/DSCN0473.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the ORIGINAL Jersey Johnny</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkN7sfPFBcn8G5hmIm7z4-YL1UaN-4_4aZomsS80UEiCZKv-YLaxYV9UYX5CLN5KjJ2CvqHIb46piKdP-lhlpJSsW69SBjR8UePqnNmSTTzh7kUDmKNfSNRioQ_XtPVtgf43T5ifJGMPyD/s1600/DSCN0582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkN7sfPFBcn8G5hmIm7z4-YL1UaN-4_4aZomsS80UEiCZKv-YLaxYV9UYX5CLN5KjJ2CvqHIb46piKdP-lhlpJSsW69SBjR8UePqnNmSTTzh7kUDmKNfSNRioQ_XtPVtgf43T5ifJGMPyD/s320/DSCN0582.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">..just don't ask..it's Southside LOL</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2CkbQMaBEkTJiUL3Iz3od68ITmvhJN_LLQLxpD4OISfNxLHJ2wad4eYqGQRjk8KPo6U_XH3flcjlH9UGORdJq6dsN9nvPLlsNIWlRmvRfIeV-kDZRehDwxk6k7wQRoqel9CmrMHFw-um/s1600/two+grinches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv2CkbQMaBEkTJiUL3Iz3od68ITmvhJN_LLQLxpD4OISfNxLHJ2wad4eYqGQRjk8KPo6U_XH3flcjlH9UGORdJq6dsN9nvPLlsNIWlRmvRfIeV-kDZRehDwxk6k7wQRoqel9CmrMHFw-um/s320/two+grinches.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Grinches - buy one, get one free! (Southside)</td></tr>
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As this post (and this year) comes to an end, I continue to believe that music is the ultimate friend. It can meet you any time of day, anywhere you are. It can comfort and inspire you. And, it can bring people into your life that can change you forever. <br />
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#RIPRosie<br />
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p.s. one of my goals for 2013 is to write more .. so watch out! Lots of stuff in the pipeline for the new year -- music, books, art, shopping, travel. </div>
Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comNew York, NY, USA40.7143528 -74.005973140.3291728 -74.65142010000001 41.0995328 -73.3605261tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-86678005450370235202012-09-17T21:53:00.000-04:002012-09-18T00:26:08.312-04:00Fools and Friends In The (not so) Windy CityThere are times when it just feels good to get back to what you know.<br />
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After spending the last five months in California*, I decided to get away this past weekend and travel to Chicago for a few days. The purpose was multi-fold ... to see Southside Johnny and the Poor Fools at City Winery, to catch up with some friends, and to simply visit the fabulous city of my childhood. The result was the realization that I'm not quite ready to leave the places I consider "home", including New York City.<br />
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I have <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-kind-of-town-chicago-is.html" target="_blank">written before</a> about my never-ending love for Chicago. It's always an emotional rollercoaster when I return, which is basically whenever my favorite bands are performing there and I have the ability to travel. Gratefully, it was an extraordinarily mild few days in terms of weather -- rather than the the stifling heat and humidity of the summer or the cold blasting winds of winter for which the city is known.<br />
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So, first up ... the show.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgqk8Oblkfb4i3mV2ItrkluWhi6RqDlVekmDVFs6XDtHpVTUV2yuqvacoB34eYR70xcxcRRSTer76-VRpKHiZ7_gKUSlvZIJb3zTcPiWnpJ2zxG2HF5UYf-cp92Joqdu5SUwSj95DxQrO/s1600/DSCN9716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZgqk8Oblkfb4i3mV2ItrkluWhi6RqDlVekmDVFs6XDtHpVTUV2yuqvacoB34eYR70xcxcRRSTer76-VRpKHiZ7_gKUSlvZIJb3zTcPiWnpJ2zxG2HF5UYf-cp92Joqdu5SUwSj95DxQrO/s320/DSCN9716.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://thepoorfools.com/" target="_blank">Southside Johnny and the Poor Fools</a> is an acoustic-ish ensemble made up of members of the Asbury Jukes that play a wonderfully eclectic song list ranging from Bob Dylan to NRBQ to whatever song they may have heard on the radio. Not kidding. The shows are generally pretty loose and sometimes slightly chaotic with musicians constantly changing instruments. (They don't have a regular drummer, so everyone takes a turn playing .. at times, with overwhelming enthusiasm. LOL )<br />
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Unfortunately (for me, at least), bass player John Conte is still touring Germany and was unavailable for this gig. I missed his presence, as that meant they were down one player and Neal Pawley had to cover the bass parts most of the night, rather than adding his usual brand of aural texture. Neal, however, is a pretty darn good bassist, actually better than many I've heard who call that their primary instrument! In fact, that is one of the things about the band I enjoy the most, the multi-instrumental ability of the players -- i.e. guitarist Tommy Byrnes is quite the capable piano player, piano player Jeff Kazee is a completely respectable drummer, etc. <br />
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As usual, the band did a nice meet-and-greet following the performance ... including signing special commemorative wine bottles available that evening. Surprisingly, I (a self-proclaimed wino ... err, I mean ... wine aficionado) didn't buy any as I'd have to then check my luggage on the way home. Oyy, the pains of modern-day airline travel.<br />
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Here are just a few pictures of from the evening ... <i>(don't forget you can click on pics to make them larger)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_rSz5gMcqQhlMT4A0XLRem4gdQViCMuUWmERbMYLTBpiTT4Mi8-l1lklqg5gf5-21UHBEjh-qr-hvA1d0MruCUyBneXWn7eRB_J3Xb-DNJF6rvafvqy7Sn9e1T97RddqmrnQnrc7N5u3/s1600/DSCN9880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_rSz5gMcqQhlMT4A0XLRem4gdQViCMuUWmERbMYLTBpiTT4Mi8-l1lklqg5gf5-21UHBEjh-qr-hvA1d0MruCUyBneXWn7eRB_J3Xb-DNJF6rvafvqy7Sn9e1T97RddqmrnQnrc7N5u3/s320/DSCN9880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15Gux-ZI4MDIMbHird2mYLP_SlVbf6Npdj6DLYFIhX54I9yNnV5cX2dGTiW3FnnPegvrj2LnnKIXGaOq4ns_zjVapaoboHQLJOXXnkpYCOKO9OPsqt2reDjgkP7ZLIS7MeysRXCahi4A4/s1600/DSCN9745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15Gux-ZI4MDIMbHird2mYLP_SlVbf6Npdj6DLYFIhX54I9yNnV5cX2dGTiW3FnnPegvrj2LnnKIXGaOq4ns_zjVapaoboHQLJOXXnkpYCOKO9OPsqt2reDjgkP7ZLIS7MeysRXCahi4A4/s320/DSCN9745.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalyKoXNRaZpqAVXTscaDmxFG86B_lZn3VAyBSkBaQG0j30dbPQP7lBD12u2oG2iFnF1XhOCa_nY56urC4-WW_4UhlYboXerHwn9x6HVratK87-tTgxSva3k8vvuOlSSNZ6dmzQsU6NEWk/s1600/DSCN9781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalyKoXNRaZpqAVXTscaDmxFG86B_lZn3VAyBSkBaQG0j30dbPQP7lBD12u2oG2iFnF1XhOCa_nY56urC4-WW_4UhlYboXerHwn9x6HVratK87-tTgxSva3k8vvuOlSSNZ6dmzQsU6NEWk/s320/DSCN9781.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyKDX2LGfF6o3r2hKl_ZmUznO_pxP6TgCjKNJ-6LPs24R5MrUO9IsyhXmCw9pcRw1Mf1RzCBZXUZa-fwzudiTzQ8TShyRJj9yzLf6uhW3KBS-O8qhweV3FylUkmW0x6AsEynAG03uysE3/s1600/DSCN9895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyKDX2LGfF6o3r2hKl_ZmUznO_pxP6TgCjKNJ-6LPs24R5MrUO9IsyhXmCw9pcRw1Mf1RzCBZXUZa-fwzudiTzQ8TShyRJj9yzLf6uhW3KBS-O8qhweV3FylUkmW0x6AsEynAG03uysE3/s320/DSCN9895.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, that is a purple plastic trombone. You can actually buy one of your own on <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jiggs-pBone-The-Amazing-Plastic-Trombone-Purple-Red-Blue-Yellow-Green-/261091116330?pt=Brass_Instruments&var=&hash=item3cca3e452a" target="_blank">Ebay</a>!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioExzuPSKbD6TPQIMaPFUZQ5RPDrbtOgHu0hdD8LHCH8BSnBLzVq0OBIKqTBnKLMNRe0bzlhRLYpAXLuol4utodE-Ysu7bA6JxJumPCC2Ne1JtpLT56csvUF0XH5oWIBduVaZEljjXbwvm/s1600/DSCN9925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioExzuPSKbD6TPQIMaPFUZQ5RPDrbtOgHu0hdD8LHCH8BSnBLzVq0OBIKqTBnKLMNRe0bzlhRLYpAXLuol4utodE-Ysu7bA6JxJumPCC2Ne1JtpLT56csvUF0XH5oWIBduVaZEljjXbwvm/s320/DSCN9925.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's hear it for teamwork! Haha.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvFuGSjkz8zTx3I9-4iFmIbN2Gl0qgYHUNLMFcLmt7vAz3G-jTckdHA64pUPEaqcPyFYeHpY1gY6szYHkg2gf56dDkkZsGv8ibJhgU4dVvuw8spPSMEWXTARLM2Io5S8WtnKdvLWgbOxO/s1600/DSCN9937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvFuGSjkz8zTx3I9-4iFmIbN2Gl0qgYHUNLMFcLmt7vAz3G-jTckdHA64pUPEaqcPyFYeHpY1gY6szYHkg2gf56dDkkZsGv8ibJhgU4dVvuw8spPSMEWXTARLM2Io5S8WtnKdvLWgbOxO/s320/DSCN9937.JPG" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southside trying some of Tasha's wine ... we chose a bottle from the "adventurous varietals" section of the wine list ... seemed the most appropriate thing to do given the personality of this band! </td></tr>
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Next up ... one of my absolute favorite places of my youth.<br />
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The Art Institute of Chicago is smaller than the major museums in New York, London and Paris, but not lacking in terms of variety. I rarely stay longer than a few hours when I visit a museum -- I truly believe the law of diminishing returns kicks in about hour 2.5 and one's mind goes into sensory overload. Given my recent return to painting, I was most interested in the impressionist and contemporary collections, but for a museum that I know inside and out like this one, there are a few works that I simply must see no matter what...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_p4X174fx7jdntsCf7Ft2ZfbMapdo6_oVuFBhlAI1SL5MzrBSoQuGiBu7L66pRagnX4KtWvMowoAmEE5U5g01OlS46tI4TM1zavF82Tkc4-wGoQb2C6bBlXRUdF2uzKUKt-_hE8grxRsr/s1600/Pollock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_p4X174fx7jdntsCf7Ft2ZfbMapdo6_oVuFBhlAI1SL5MzrBSoQuGiBu7L66pRagnX4KtWvMowoAmEE5U5g01OlS46tI4TM1zavF82Tkc4-wGoQb2C6bBlXRUdF2uzKUKt-_hE8grxRsr/s320/Pollock.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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...my absolute favorite Pollock *sigh*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5kuhHON_lCNuZYiVKLIm6WZZCDBDYsuyHD_Bh_EaOpM63rdbbaMSGc428dHlXwu0k0infGZfIE0RKBuXHyJ12BFj70mTDgFOs9AYvTyGcrgJUNxNK3gWo3dMHczlahJLcKWoY6G40eZk/s1600/buddha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5kuhHON_lCNuZYiVKLIm6WZZCDBDYsuyHD_Bh_EaOpM63rdbbaMSGc428dHlXwu0k0infGZfIE0RKBuXHyJ12BFj70mTDgFOs9AYvTyGcrgJUNxNK3gWo3dMHczlahJLcKWoY6G40eZk/s320/buddha.JPG" width="228" /></a></div>
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...the Buddha at the entrance that I used to call Esmeralda when I was a child <i> </i></div>
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<i>(don't ask...I don't know why, either. LOL)</i></div>
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...anything and everything by de Kooning</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0Qq92e3OSoa53GsnstNMRnb3If8aJSisVnK20mcnA_Nk6wv9vKegKShVVrZ2Ar0uZBK3E9ymkLYrB1_T-5N7KbvcDdXdyg-vdq57u2Mj_BwIT3Mt55d3OKh4_9QWC5jB55qz5Q4GuVgH/s1600/calder.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0Qq92e3OSoa53GsnstNMRnb3If8aJSisVnK20mcnA_Nk6wv9vKegKShVVrZ2Ar0uZBK3E9ymkLYrB1_T-5N7KbvcDdXdyg-vdq57u2Mj_BwIT3Mt55d3OKh4_9QWC5jB55qz5Q4GuVgH/s320/calder.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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...the miniature versions of the iconic public art pieces of Chicago by Picasso and Alexander Calder </div>
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<i>sidenote: I love Mayor Richard Daley's comment about these pieces when they were installed ... "what is strange to us today will be familiar tomorrow." How very true.</i> <br />
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...and the always-magnificent, timeless Georges Seurat </div>
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I could sit in front of this one for hours. I mean, just look at the layers and layers of paint used to create one small part of the scarf. (<i>definitely</i> click on this one ... insane!) <br />
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It seemed around every corner was a flashback to visits there with my grandmother (who loved <a href="http://www.artic.edu/aic/collections/citi/images/standard/WebLarge/WebImg_000134/177757_1399005.jpg" target="_blank">this Renoir</a>) and my parents. If you're ever in Chicago, definitely take a trip to the Art Institute - you can see most of the highlights pretty quickly and they have a kick-butt gift shop (go straight to the back to the sale section. *wink*) <br />
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Oh and upon leaving, be sure to look across the street at the Sears Tower (nobody, and I mean <b><i>nobody</i></b>, calls it the Willis Tower), the tallest building in the United States. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieq-o7bjufg1w1JqYmMB9NmPA29h3ZkyLujssgDHp47UVHzKEp6aoQ9NAGY3LwTHZv3mnlD59El3vGRtuUQ_FlTWEeoY-Hji7cJii-iXKsuccVEa2Ub9yR1xXIaYd1vaTYF4SHfH6uXdRb/s1600/sears+tower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieq-o7bjufg1w1JqYmMB9NmPA29h3ZkyLujssgDHp47UVHzKEp6aoQ9NAGY3LwTHZv3mnlD59El3vGRtuUQ_FlTWEeoY-Hji7cJii-iXKsuccVEa2Ub9yR1xXIaYd1vaTYF4SHfH6uXdRb/s320/sears+tower.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Afterwards, my friend and I took a nice stroll back to the hotel from the museum, giving me an opportunity to walk down memory lane -- landmarks like the Wrigley Building, the Chicago Tribune Building, the Marina Towers (which some affectionately refer to as the Wilco Towers because of their <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yankee_Hotel_Foxtrot" target="_blank">famous album cover</a>) and Paul Harvey Drive (named after the legendary radio man whose <i>The Rest of the Story</i> tales my dad could basically recite verbatim, much to my mother's chagrin. haha.) <br />
<br />
I will never tire of seeing these sights time and time again. It's just a few of those places that give me comfort and my sense of belonging somewhere ... something I desperately needed during this weird limbo in which I'm currently living (cue The Clash's "Should I Stay or Should I Go") <br />
<br />
Well, that's all for now. Looking forward to hearing Richie Sambora's new album tomorrow. Later this week, the ticket stress of Springsteen for the Oakland show. Man, I've missed ticket stress. LOL<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>* for those who follow me on Twitter, you've already heard a bit about my crazy California adventure ... more on that in the next blog post, "Stranger in a Strange Land"</i></span>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-10482959961176785012012-09-11T12:35:00.001-04:002012-09-11T12:35:55.090-04:00I (Still) RememberBack in 2008, I wrote this blog post... <br />
<blockquote>
"I remember like it was yesterday. It was the most gorgeous New York day. The sky was so incredibly blue. Today is actually eerily similar. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I remember that as I got off the subway at Columbus Circle, there was an announcement of no service south of Houston due to a police investigation. <br />
<br />
I remember the uncertainty in our administrative assistant's voice as his father, working at One Police Plaza, abruptly ended their phone conversation with the news of the second plane. <br />
<br />
I remember sitting at my desk in the office completely numb as we heard of the towers falling. <br />
<br />
I remember calling every friend and colleague that I knew worked in or near the World Trade Center. <br />
<br />
I remember going out to get a sandwich and Seventh Avenue being completely silent ... then the sound of a plane overhead, low and loud, and the quick moment of fear that flashed across people's eyes. <br />
<br />
I remember the collective sigh of relief as we saw it was one of "ours" ... they had started military fly-overs. <br />
<br />
I remember my boss wouldn't let us go home. I now realize that was probably the best thing he could have done. At least we were all together. <br />
<br />
I remember opening the door to our office and seeing our administrative assistant's father in his uniform, covered head to toe in soot, standing at the door ... a look of exhaustion and profound sadness in his eyes. <br />
<br />
I remember sitting on the subway going home and the incredible sense of connection between this random group of strangers. <br />
<br />
I remember the funerals. <br />
<br />
I remember." </blockquote>
Nothing has changed, four years later ... 11 years after that horrendous day. <br />
<br />
There are many more details from that day that I still remember -- like finally falling asleep on the sofa still on the phone with my boyfriend who couldn't get into Manhattan from his place in Brooklyn, the TV still on with images running over and over and over again. <br />
<br />
I still remember all the frantic phone calls trying to get/give information. And, worst of all, I remember as the names started coming in - a friend from my old firm, our concertmaster's father, a board member, our admin's uncle, and more colleagues from Cantor Fitzgerald, Marsh & McLennan and Sandler O'Neill than I could fathom. <br />
<br />
I try (quite unsuccessfully) not to get pissy when I see all the "Never Forget" stuff in the media. For anyone who lived through it, that little statement somehow seems ridiculous. <br />
<br />
For several years, I would pass the WTC site nearly everyday on my way to the office. I would watch the construction within that huge hole in the ground ... it seemed to perfectly reflect what was happening in our hearts ... slowly, methodically trying to sift through the pieces and rebuild. <br />
<br />
I don't know about others, but I still have a long way to go.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-71333146989041375782012-08-25T14:14:00.003-04:002012-08-25T14:55:41.469-04:00I'm Not Angry Anymore<br />
Happy Birthday, Elvis!<br />
<br />
Confession: When I was younger, I really struggled with the music of Elvis Costello. I kept hearing how he was such a genius, a brilliant lyricist and how all these other musicians looked up to and admired him. Blah blah blah.<br />
<br />
But, when I listened to many of his songs, I just got confused. He just seemed odd and all over the place and his lyrics would sometimes baffle me - like I was walking into a movie in the middle with no clue as to what was happening. I would try and try and then simply say "I just don't get it." It made me angry. It made me feel stupid (which I highly doubt was Mr. Costello's intent.)<br />
<br />
Then, something changed. Maybe it's maturity or experience or familiarity, but something clicked. I liken it to when you are forced to read Shakespeare too young and you fight so much with the vernacular that you <i>completely</i> miss the point. All of a sudden, I realized how honest (sometimes brutally) and direct Costello's words actually were. <br />
<br />
If you've never listened to his work, I recommend starting with "My Aim is True" ... an album in which Elvis (unlike Shakespeare) proves that you can say a whole lot in a short amount of time. The opening track, "Welcome to the Working Week," is literally 1:23 long
and is part of my Monday morning playlist while riding the bus to the
office ... <i>oh I know it don't thrill you, I hope it don't kill you</i>. <br />
<br />
currently playing on my speakers: Sneaky Feelings ... (song starts about 0:30) ... <i>I've still got a long way to go</i> ... <br />
<br />
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zR1zlM004XE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
I had the joy of seeing Elvis Costello last year in NYC ... you can read about it and see pictures from that show <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2011/05/elvis-elton-and-more.html">here</a>.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-47981337534721513422012-08-24T14:17:00.000-04:002012-08-24T19:35:37.867-04:00Blog 2.0You can turn the clock to zero, honey <br />
I'll sell the stock, we'll spend all the money <br />
We're starting up a brand new day. <br />
- Sting - <br />
<br />
February. Wow. It’s been a long time since I posted something here. <br />
<br />
But, just because I haven’t posted anything doesn’t mean I haven’t been thinking about it. <br />
<br />
It is said that the only constant in life is change. The last few months have certainly been a testament to that. More on this later. <br />
<br />
*********** <br />
<br />
I find it amusing – and somewhat puzzling – that the subject of this blog has been so singularly focused, especially given I often feel I’m one of the least focused individuals on the planet. <br />
<br />
My mom describes me as having a buffet mentality; my activities always seem to be intensely varied and totally non-related – a little of this and a little of that and a bit of that other thing. I tend to discover something, jump in with both feet and completely obsess about it, and then, just as quickly, move on to the next obsession. <em>(note: apparently, this doesn’t seem to apply to people. The obsessing I do just fine. It’s the moving on I have a problem with.) </em><br />
<br />
In any case, as a result of this “buffet mentality”, I’ve done some oddly diverse things in my time – like training for and completing the San Diego Rock-n-Roll Marathon (ok, that <em>might</em> have been a bit about the bling and the live band at every mile-marker) or getting engrossed for <em>months</em> writing/recording a full-length musical with some friends (unfortunate timing in the marketplace killed that one) … or taking a class in Hebrew just because it was around the corner from my apartment and I thought it would be interesting (it was.) <br />
<br />
This is not to say that <em>everything</em> in my life has been so short-lived. <br />
<br />
For example, my love of music always has been and will always be a mainstay in my life. The focus of my obsession will change but there will never be a time when I stop listening. It’s actually something that stresses me out … so much music, so little time. More on this later. <br />
<br />
Another constant seems to be a need to create things. Admittedly, for a long time, I didn’t really comprehend that whole “need to create” idea -- I thought it sounded rather self-indulgent and elitist. I no longer think that. More on this later. <br />
<br />
I’ve also always been a fan of the world. I truly enjoy going to new places and meeting different people from different backgrounds. As I’ve written before, I like living by the philosopohy of “have passport, will travel” which has led me to once visiting Iceland <em>and</em> the Peruvian rainforest in the same month. More on this later.<br />
<br />
All this is a way of saying, there’s a lot more to my life (and hopefully yours) than one or two bands. Sure, I will still write the occasional post about my concert travails. But, going forward, this blog will no longer be so narrowly confined. It will simply cover whatever I decide to share. It might be something about a book I’m reading … or a piece of art I’m working on … or a song I have stuck on repeat in my head. Just me writing stuff ... No Apologies. (hey, I worked in a Bon Jovi reference, afterall. haha.) I have no real “plan” at this point, which is foreign (and frankly quite frightening) to me. More on this later. <br />
<br />
Eventually, there will be changes made to the layout of this blog and even its name, perhaps. I thought about just deleting the whole thing and starting over … or not continuing to write at all. But, in the end, decided that wasn’t the way to go. Yes … more on this later. <br />
<br />
I understand that some readers won’t remain. But, I hope some do. <br />
<br />
So, stay tuned for … well … more ... (a bit later.) Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-58038944800599645482012-02-22T23:44:00.008-05:002012-02-25T00:17:18.369-05:00It's About Doing Good<span style="font-style:italic;">*file this post under: it's my blog and I'll write what I want to*</span><br /><br />Hey friends! Long time, no talk to. Sorry about that! But, I'm here now.<br /><br />So, I've been wanting to write this blurb for a while. And now, with all the singular focus on 'the self-destructive habits of musicians' (a phrase coined by Access Hollywood, Extra and TMZ), I finally feel annoyed enough to do it. LOL<br /><br />PLEASE don't get me wrong. I'm extremely sympathetic to the problem of addiction in the music industry -- and contrary to popular belief, the classical world is <span style="font-style:italic;">not</span> immune from these same issues. But, for every high-profile story you see in the media, there are scores of musicians (nice pun, huh?) that do good every day.<br /><br />Here are just three of those stories.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Trews</span><br />I was first introduced to this Canadian-based band when they were opening for Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes in the UK last October. On the final night of my trip, I had the pleasure of hanging out with Colin (vocals/guitar) and Jack (bass) in a hotel bar in Wolverhampton just talking music, sports and life. Great guys. Their latest album, Hope and Ruin, now plays on my system on a daily basis. They really need to get their tushes South of the border more often.<br /><br />Anyway, I heard the band do the song included below at an intimate gig here in NYC a few months ago and it just tore me up. Written and recorded for a lost soldier from their hometown, all proceeds from the song benefit the <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/highway-of-heroes-single/id371585877">Canadian Hero Fund</a>, an organization that supports military personnel and their families. No matter where you're from, the sentiment is universal.<br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ffCDwMRfShs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Christine Ohlman</span><br />Petite lady. Big voice. Even bigger heart. Christine is one of those people you just feel blessed to know. She is as gracious as they come and can sing the heck out of a song. <br /><br />Anyone who has <span style="font-style:italic;">any</span> connection to New Orleans knows that the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina hasn't gone away just because the news cameras have. For me, it's personal. I have family there -- some of whom lost everything in the storm. And, an innumerable number of musicians call that remarkable city "home." One of my favorite songs by Christine is included on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003Y1YWTW/ref=sr_1_album_10_rd?ie=UTF8&child=B003Y1YWXI&qid=1281387278&sr=1-10">"Get You A Healin'"</a> CD to benefit the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic. Christine continues to do extraordinary work on behalf of that organization. Musicians helping musicians. I like that. <br /><br />"...my darlin' New Orleans, where have you gone? Battered and bruised, all tattered and torn..."<br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hfFNwLL_3uM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jeff Kazee</span><br />Sometimes the greatest joy can come from helping an organization right in your own backyard. Take long-time New Yorker, pianist/singer/songwriter Jeff Kazee, who wrote, recorded and donated the theme song for the <a href="http://www.gardenofdreamsfoundation.ordg/">Garden of Dreams Foundation</a>, the philanthropic arm of Madison Square Garden. His song "Give Some More" is featured before every Knicks, Rangers and Liberty game in the venue. That's <span style="font-style:italic;">dozens</span> of times per year. Pretty cool to think how many people have heard it--especially now that people are actually <span style="font-style:italic;">going</span> to Knicks games. Haha. #Linsanity<br /><br />And...I would venture to guess that if you asked Mr. Kazee, he would say that regardless of his success playing with Southside Johnny, Bon Jovi, The Blues Brothers, and a host of other artists, that this is one of the true highlights of his professional accomplishments.<br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xFZIgnapvXg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />So, there you go. Whether it's writing a song, volunteering for a local organization, or making a donation of time, goods or money, we <span style="font-style:italic;">all</span> have something to offer society ... yes, Access Hollywood, even musicians. ;-)<br /><br />*jumping off soapbox now. splat!*Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-37743929588559829732012-01-13T12:43:00.004-05:002012-01-15T11:50:39.551-05:00NYC Hit Squad Kick Off 2012<span style="font-style:italic;">Location: The Iridium on Broadway ... via Memphis, New Orleans, New Jersey and ... Ireland?</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2zpFfK0Pkmtqsq5tk5nG3VHexhGxIlj8QGf8m8nUIaBOnMUhfSauo0RfOmNX7d_GBwGAuDq16n-uYRULZWwVXd2Q9EHOs2FmnJKNMJkB_YtBDDd-BRJzgbXY9Dm3H0KCMJqZLTAMKCqm/s1600/DSCN0793+%25282%2529+%25281024x732%2529.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2zpFfK0Pkmtqsq5tk5nG3VHexhGxIlj8QGf8m8nUIaBOnMUhfSauo0RfOmNX7d_GBwGAuDq16n-uYRULZWwVXd2Q9EHOs2FmnJKNMJkB_YtBDDd-BRJzgbXY9Dm3H0KCMJqZLTAMKCqm/s400/DSCN0793+%25282%2529+%25281024x732%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697159292621429858" border="0" /></a>A night with the NYC Hit Squad is always a riot. Bottom line, this is a group of super-talented musicians who all have/had pretty incredible day jobs and come together a few times a year to jam on some of their favorite tunes.<br /><br />My sense is that they don't rehearse and just basically go on instinct. And, regardless of Ricky Byrd's tongue-in-cheek comment "we've been together six years now and haven't gotten any better" they always sound pretty damn good.<br /><br />Their regular slew of great songs -- Soothe Me, Route 66, CC Rider, Tell the Truth (Who's Been Fooling You), Unchain My Heart, etc. -- was nicely implemented by a few that I hadn't heard them do before (I think) ... such as The Weight, You're My Girl/I Don't Want to Discuss It and a fabulous song by the late Howard Tate, Get It While You Can.<br /><br />As always, Christine <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ohlman's</span> "Remember (Walking in the Sand)" captivated the crowd. And in this season of award shows, she once again wins for Best Earrings of The Year. The woman has a style like no other. I'm very much looking forward to her show next Saturday night at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Stanhope</span> House.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTbu1D3zOiRW4uMGP5zKIP7BY11qwsVRIaKzAm773KLUXi3L-nq2Jst5XtHau2uiskyLcCM_ZjbaOqVzyWmdagiyFJwFCXAjlFuQbbuCjK68fKVAW3zMGrZdrXBWRNtXEZagSekXIiyqQ/s1600/DSCN0874+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 287px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTbu1D3zOiRW4uMGP5zKIP7BY11qwsVRIaKzAm773KLUXi3L-nq2Jst5XtHau2uiskyLcCM_ZjbaOqVzyWmdagiyFJwFCXAjlFuQbbuCjK68fKVAW3zMGrZdrXBWRNtXEZagSekXIiyqQ/s400/DSCN0874+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697160938219565922" border="0" /></a><br />Jeff <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Kazee</span> did his usual fun version of Van Morrison's Domino, this time highlighted by a perfectly apropos snippet of We're Having A Party in the middle ... amusing given that just about everybody on the stage has performed with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Asbury</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jukes</span> at some point in their career. He also had a nice turn singing "Delta Lady" by Leon Russell (made famous by Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Cocker</span>.) Fantastic keys throughout the show, not a surprise.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jqG2sqJcWFhKqv7SPO_Xupa52yCHR-uyxu_OoGLOmqMtvMIIexLzUbghvVLO_nL3Eq78EU6Z3fNEx-AS0uwLO6pQWX8ON5vRIHXSM9B7wyXZE0HNXW_LOlyvOVJGRX19GUKPIEBllUwt/s1600/DSCN0892+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jqG2sqJcWFhKqv7SPO_Xupa52yCHR-uyxu_OoGLOmqMtvMIIexLzUbghvVLO_nL3Eq78EU6Z3fNEx-AS0uwLO6pQWX8ON5vRIHXSM9B7wyXZE0HNXW_LOlyvOVJGRX19GUKPIEBllUwt/s400/DSCN0892+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697163889832169890" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Always a bit casual and loose, there was a hilarious "stump the Dude" moment with Ricky calling out nationalities with trombonist Neal <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Pawley</span> coming up with musical quips on the spot. Kudos Neal. Well done.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbDoV4wZF-zSuBs0qY9qWLpY8R57G5eIXDDIcH9hOTxsLakZljtdYL6RjhuaqZodEarKhxuPieYE84s-XJibL0ifYnpQQJp5Rglx-0BKU1ib8N4lshZg-0L8cKYdEcSNFrBsflSpYsDKp/s1600/DSCN0830+%25282%2529+%25281024x732%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbDoV4wZF-zSuBs0qY9qWLpY8R57G5eIXDDIcH9hOTxsLakZljtdYL6RjhuaqZodEarKhxuPieYE84s-XJibL0ifYnpQQJp5Rglx-0BKU1ib8N4lshZg-0L8cKYdEcSNFrBsflSpYsDKp/s400/DSCN0830+%25282%2529+%25281024x732%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697159937329260802" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Hmmm</span>...oh, and every time I looked at Muddy Shews, I kept thinking he was wearing a vintage Jon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Jovi</span> t-shirt ... #<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">justsaying</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsXM1Y28ZIGDQWIwCyhP8w5EpKJVTnyUzLUTQZt0HRF7ytbJ-e_QS3Th39m0uir2xNNMZHgg1jj8v6xQ1GJwyQ1h78AZ_tHF8HTYCTxLLwgCwEZnRrcmAJZ5GjkXES2q0Jbib2rrhFlci/s1600/DSCN0808+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsXM1Y28ZIGDQWIwCyhP8w5EpKJVTnyUzLUTQZt0HRF7ytbJ-e_QS3Th39m0uir2xNNMZHgg1jj8v6xQ1GJwyQ1h78AZ_tHF8HTYCTxLLwgCwEZnRrcmAJZ5GjkXES2q0Jbib2rrhFlci/s400/DSCN0808+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697165205764378226" border="0" /></a><br />p.s. in actuality, it was Keith Richards. Sorry. My bad. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">LOL</span><br /><br />It was a fun night with great music, friends and a bit of wackiness. I definitely concur with Ken <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Dashow</span>, radio <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">dj</span> (yes, they still exist!) for Q104.3 here in the city ... thumbs up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHCFc8ZE0D4VzAt_p2C5Z8j9QcuSSkvc9WBXAXHYmsJEnxxjdie1TmzSslmfjy8gGPpTHBz0Xfq0DCHTFL8JP00vUHdz6vJcr9punmJgJlhlZE3J6ZRwTyTxbdwvKyF24QXd2B_o9C3TP/s1600/DSCN0842+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHCFc8ZE0D4VzAt_p2C5Z8j9QcuSSkvc9WBXAXHYmsJEnxxjdie1TmzSslmfjy8gGPpTHBz0Xfq0DCHTFL8JP00vUHdz6vJcr9punmJgJlhlZE3J6ZRwTyTxbdwvKyF24QXd2B_o9C3TP/s400/DSCN0842+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697160488948808402" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I ended the evening with a little extra New Orleans style by stopping for a quick bite at one of my regular NYC hangs, Delta Grill. The place usually has some great music coming out of the sound system and <span style="font-style:italic;">something</span> with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">andouille</span> sausage coming out of the kitchen. *sigh*<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />(insert shameless plug)</span> ... and if you're ever in the REAL New Orleans, stop by family's place, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Buffa's</span>, located just off the French Quarter. Get my Uncle Chuck's Bratwurst Jambalaya. Wisconsin meets New Orleans. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">LOL</span><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Anyhoo</span>, a few more images...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HTQOtD-86julpLJZn18gIf5-9TEC_Mqm530T1QZhXbdhWWUJWjIkRpkVZpovoRW4ACzbHnDuuUi6pVdMyJHYCf_NDwuCagCuD0Mlt73QRaE0ACRpsvI_nyoESC3pYGVPW5OVvNVV3thg/s1600/DSCN0417+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2HTQOtD-86julpLJZn18gIf5-9TEC_Mqm530T1QZhXbdhWWUJWjIkRpkVZpovoRW4ACzbHnDuuUi6pVdMyJHYCf_NDwuCagCuD0Mlt73QRaE0ACRpsvI_nyoESC3pYGVPW5OVvNVV3thg/s400/DSCN0417+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697167086305336354" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVqEA1WbUW4fxeYOlX_rzzSXzYC3ysNVvErWFa298NLJXVsQnFqna4lYdLgTi0eYwVpaehcOnxULAvXqRtgMcFW57TiIzvFHwz8CpVKyGesxWJ2hHSXYNbQTEQIzbzUOrztIm3155LKjj/s1600/DSCN0691+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjVqEA1WbUW4fxeYOlX_rzzSXzYC3ysNVvErWFa298NLJXVsQnFqna4lYdLgTi0eYwVpaehcOnxULAvXqRtgMcFW57TiIzvFHwz8CpVKyGesxWJ2hHSXYNbQTEQIzbzUOrztIm3155LKjj/s400/DSCN0691+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697168244475594786" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckaNzZSSZ4sLNF5YNSbzU3-6haRyCb2ZvaTwfNxKvsH9T_008_mZ2Dz3xNhvwkYkhPKP2zRn0dIZcPYy1JJqExTHIQtxrddKxCQzqo3AJ-TFK_g70N0FGrOf2KGYSkdXdAIx5uaAqqWKT/s1600/DSCN0992+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckaNzZSSZ4sLNF5YNSbzU3-6haRyCb2ZvaTwfNxKvsH9T_008_mZ2Dz3xNhvwkYkhPKP2zRn0dIZcPYy1JJqExTHIQtxrddKxCQzqo3AJ-TFK_g70N0FGrOf2KGYSkdXdAIx5uaAqqWKT/s400/DSCN0992+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697168523958430050" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwuIG3cbZrZxSsEXvvB-eOjV-IHjlFazZJcECoQmNjz8vbg77MsDCO8ifogU9HoYbotpjF6tZ_nY6uNKmGkcp-Hq03iJAvgLR4rMia-l64I3JCSdBqF0OccXJHoTnZWDy8GpCzey6E_sql/s1600/DSCN0541+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwuIG3cbZrZxSsEXvvB-eOjV-IHjlFazZJcECoQmNjz8vbg77MsDCO8ifogU9HoYbotpjF6tZ_nY6uNKmGkcp-Hq03iJAvgLR4rMia-l64I3JCSdBqF0OccXJHoTnZWDy8GpCzey6E_sql/s400/DSCN0541+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697168797888879314" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3AWdR8cjkgQC58yjn4yr2ANhciDZD8wBYKySwhDYztyw_Icfgv3CJ4bCt4z0us4RvSytqwMM7SyYy33rQB_MHgTnM8t5jUG1s9XpNZWtexBJg5e4YUohyphenhyphenWn3yXF0g8yTAF93VfQIWBnk/s1600/DSCN0826+%25282%2529+%25281024x730%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3AWdR8cjkgQC58yjn4yr2ANhciDZD8wBYKySwhDYztyw_Icfgv3CJ4bCt4z0us4RvSytqwMM7SyYy33rQB_MHgTnM8t5jUG1s9XpNZWtexBJg5e4YUohyphenhyphenWn3yXF0g8yTAF93VfQIWBnk/s400/DSCN0826+%25282%2529+%25281024x730%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697168962076184818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFZ5uhI_jatssMSmWE9rOSaO0WMCc-7szHtMtAinU0tWfNgKHJzW1WCE_hBrefNkEBd373KY5SibZAqizGPcMNAqbR6R4tgw1N83ZQL-PTtoZSD0WSCapXaKFXDV7Tg2-B9UxLCt2msW5/s1600/DSCN0859+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFZ5uhI_jatssMSmWE9rOSaO0WMCc-7szHtMtAinU0tWfNgKHJzW1WCE_hBrefNkEBd373KY5SibZAqizGPcMNAqbR6R4tgw1N83ZQL-PTtoZSD0WSCapXaKFXDV7Tg2-B9UxLCt2msW5/s400/DSCN0859+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697169588483345282" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhU90lW5v3bu6OYIBKOALDEN_KGU8rX-ihGIanIE3FQMtes8VftxtCG_FY4hyDe4hELpjy9587P0tzVn_5Ti_X6eqebk8SaPvaIIMbZaJoO51K43saWEhMHqpfZhzgL1H8enHWekbjdU3/s1600/DSCN1002+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhU90lW5v3bu6OYIBKOALDEN_KGU8rX-ihGIanIE3FQMtes8VftxtCG_FY4hyDe4hELpjy9587P0tzVn_5Ti_X6eqebk8SaPvaIIMbZaJoO51K43saWEhMHqpfZhzgL1H8enHWekbjdU3/s400/DSCN1002+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697170211156241442" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfabx5oTyXmnpW4eZ-1jZVwm1jxHLdaWKd5AYDimgP4tae7REfrDhniW7ihXuHh3vI7ob0E549yPJmIGis2Wl0euPtKE21j17zXR1yRTB4Gz16tOkJerbFML1x9iFAukxHaTq6rh6h_V7/s1600/DSCN0636+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxfabx5oTyXmnpW4eZ-1jZVwm1jxHLdaWKd5AYDimgP4tae7REfrDhniW7ihXuHh3vI7ob0E549yPJmIGis2Wl0euPtKE21j17zXR1yRTB4Gz16tOkJerbFML1x9iFAukxHaTq6rh6h_V7/s400/DSCN0636+%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697170465355555106" border="0" /></a>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-22789765387425736382012-01-02T12:45:00.017-05:002012-01-03T00:15:56.720-05:002011: The Year That WasWith last year now officially done and over, it's time for a quick (not likely) recap of the musical highlights of the previous 365 days.<br /><br />According to my concert spreadsheet (yes, I'm a geek) and my debit card statement (ugh), I was blessed enough to attend well over 60 concerts this past year. Among other things, this included:<br /><br />- two trips to the UK (Jovi/Jukes)<br />- a 24-hour trip to Canada (Jovi)<br />- a wild and wacky trip to Chicago (Jukes)<br />- a slew of great benefit events (Baltimore, Starland, Best Buy Theater, Count Basie)<br />- a week of shows while trying to outsmart a hurricane (Jukes)<br />- a super-muddy night in Central Park (Wilco)<br /><br />...and so many buses and trains around the Garden State that NJ Transit should send me a personal, hand-written thank you note. :-)<br /><br />There were many memorable nights in arenas, stadiums, auditoriums, pubs, bars and clubs, but some simply stand out more than others. Trying to compare the diverse musical styles and diverse styles of venues is virtually impossible. So, in the end it really comes down to your personal musical experience.<br /><br />Here are 5 of my top shows of 2011...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Early Elton Trio (October, Rockwood Music Hall)</span><br />Sometimes you find just the perfect combination of material, venue and superior musicianship ... and the result is not a concert, but a journey. From the songs you know every word to (Tiny Dancer, Levon) to those deep cuts that just make you listen. (I am still obsessed with that performance of Madman back in January.)<br /><br />Good musicians cover a song. Great musicians make it their own.<br /><br />I hope 2012 will bring a few Early Elton Trio shows, but given the insane schedules of the three artists, it can't be easy to find a date that works for everyone. But, when they do ... I will be the first in line for tickets.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QvcNC2b9MLM" allowfullscreen="" width="480" frameborder="0" height="360"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2. Bon Jovi (June, Dublin - night 2)</span><br />Choosing just one of the 16 shows I went to was a challenge. I mean, really ... the Hyde Park show? Awesome. That Mohegan Sun show in March when Lorenza Ponce opened and then Bon Jovi took the stage with a set list that made me wonder if we had somehow been transported to Europe. (Hey God...in the States...was Jon delirious?) Oh, and that epic night at Madison Square Garden. Three hours. Eight encores.<br /><br />But, then there was Dublin. My 200th Bon Jovi show brought performances of Bounce, Never Say Goodbye, Love for Sale, Hey God, a cover of U2's Vertigo and the kick-ass combo of Damned/If Loving You is Wrong. We had a fun Q&A session with Jon before the show. And, because of the fan club trip, just about all my Jovifriends were there from Europe, the States and Canada. A good time was had, for sure!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kOlfIb6tg60" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="360"></iframe><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">3. Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes (November, Cranston, Rhode Island)</span><br />Same situation with the Jukes. I attended 23 shows this year and a number of them were truly special. There was that incredible night with Little Steven at the Stone Pony in July. There was a fantastic show in Bristol (UK) where Johnny improvised some of the best narrative I had ever heard. There was the intimate show in Chicago where every member of the band just played like they were possessed. (in a good way. LOL)<br /><br />So, why Cranston? Because there was a different energy that night. The first show after that preliminary run of Poor Fools gigs, maybe it was just everyone being back together...and Johnny knowing he wasn't going to have to play guitar. LOL The crowd and venue were great and it seemed the set list was designed to make me happy as can be (points to anyone who gets the reference.) I decided at the last minute to jump on the bus and go up for the show. Perhaps one of my best decisions of the year.<br /><br />Ok, there really wasn't a usable video from that show. (Jukesfans aren't quite as ... ummm ... fervent about videos/photos as Jovifans.) So, instead I chose this beautiful performance from the Stone Pony show. No, that gorgeous sky is not a backdrop. It really was that stunning.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Flth72C5OSI" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="360"></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4. Barry Manilow (December, Las Vegas)</span><br />Now, before you start making fun, just think...the man has a ridiculous number of hit songs. He is a born entertainer. This was his final show after a seven-year residency. It's VEGAS.<br /><br />Is it over-the-top cheesy? ABSOLUTELY. Does that make it any less fabulous? Not at all. Because none of that matters when he belts out Could It Be Magic, Looks Like We Made It, Mandy, Copacabana, I Write the Songs, and my personal theme for that trip, I Made it Through the Rain. Perfect.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VjJ9so-eETQ" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="360"></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">5. Outside the Box/Southside Johnny/Jeff Kazee (June, The Stone Pony)</span><br />Every once in a while, you are just lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. That's how I felt about one night at the Pony. First, Outside the Box did a set of their own material (if you haven't bought their debut album yet, do it now. <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/bridge/id448650818">Click Here.</a>) Then, they covered an Elvis Costello album. All that was great. <br /><br />But, it was the impromptu jam session that followed that made the night special. Sure, it was a bit messy. Maybe out of tune. Some words may have been missed. Didn't matter at all. To me, it was the embodiment of why people become musicians. Simply for the love and joy of music.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/R887vIVHTA0" allowfullscreen="" width="480" frameborder="0" height="360"></iframe><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />There you have it. A few thoughts on what shaped my 2011. There were good times. There were bad times. And, damn, there was some great music!<br /><br />So, what's the coming year going to bring?<br /><br />We shall see.<br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * <br /><br />p.s. <span style="font-weight:bold;">I CAN'T BELIEVE I somehow forgot about Paul McCartney at Yankee Stadium!</span> What the HECK is wrong with me? How was that not on my list? That was an INCREDIBLE night. Seeing a rock-and-roll ICON in a legendary venue. (okay, would have been better in the old stadium, but I digress.) I really wish I had my current phone that night (rather than my old trusty blackberry) because I could have at least captured a few more images as they were quite cranky about cameras. Also wish I would have splurged for a better ticket. In any case, Sir Paul ... my sincere apologies. Please forgive me.<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XRCV_2FahbA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-86934940614416904842011-11-01T12:45:00.002-04:002011-11-01T12:58:52.903-04:00Southside and the Jukes Rock the UK<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxllPJIYSPHel1F0Dan9lFdF2tsvmErzDCH3MnvjoB-obSyu8Vqc1xKp4LbjbIScD69428jiYXovvBJC-GW3VQeSUFZxlj6oxkyiqJoColjBEVQPmTPcA1JDSEUwUwkzvoaWCT1rYiZ6Hl/s1600/DSCN1897+%25281024x754%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxllPJIYSPHel1F0Dan9lFdF2tsvmErzDCH3MnvjoB-obSyu8Vqc1xKp4LbjbIScD69428jiYXovvBJC-GW3VQeSUFZxlj6oxkyiqJoColjBEVQPmTPcA1JDSEUwUwkzvoaWCT1rYiZ6Hl/s400/DSCN1897+%25281024x754%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670068557996202066" /></a><br /><br />So I return to NYC and what happens? It frickin' snows! In October! Geez ... the weather in the UK was better! LOL<br /><br />Speaking of my trip, you can read all about it over at Jukesnet. I still have one more entry to do, but the first four parts are posted: <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/10/24/jolly-ol-england-part-1-london/">London</a>, <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/10/24/jolly-ol-england-part-2-southampton/">Southampton</a>, <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/10/30/good-ol-not-england-part-3-cardiff/">Cardiff</a>, and <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/10/30/good-ol-back-in-england-part-4-bristol/">Bristol</a>.<br /><br />Top Ten Moments of the Tour (in no particular order)<br /><br />1. Johnny's brilliant narrative of what men must give up in the name of love (Bristol)<br />2. Getting to catch up with my cousin in London after 20+ years<br />3. Jeff Kazee's super-cool performance of "I'm A Man" (Bristol)<br />4. The St. David Spa and Hotel in Cardiff<br />5. John Conte's bass solo in Southampton<br />6. Spending time with my friend BJSunnynight<br />7. FINALLY getting to hear "Some Things Just Don't Change" (Wolverhampton)<br />8. Not getting killed while crossing the street<br />9. Shopping at Harrod's<br />10. UK fashion magazines (a subscription to UK Vogue in the States is like $100!)<br /><br />Here are a few of my favorite images from the shows.<br /><br />...oh those eyes...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2YfP0nz6KIjOCWvkyXDxytB6Nqi1mGaxDvzGI_DWDGyZQriTD7c8dXcL6JYye5MIavyxsqbvMv-TT-4_r6PQsc4Yn-T1Q1CTjFXz5K_5oCSthFNoiyCe-rwLLCJbPjUI20yZsU8diWnz/s1600/DSCN1865+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670065160550112578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2YfP0nz6KIjOCWvkyXDxytB6Nqi1mGaxDvzGI_DWDGyZQriTD7c8dXcL6JYye5MIavyxsqbvMv-TT-4_r6PQsc4Yn-T1Q1CTjFXz5K_5oCSthFNoiyCe-rwLLCJbPjUI20yZsU8diWnz/s400/DSCN1865+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfLe96W6RUBkzLjixz_TDCeDAAMgTrWmbTI9bb-qwQP8dCGibr9U2o8ixDYL-QbDc-9_VbVO024oU-YQG2j9yzrY1H5ouDnhJ7T6aU3JwRga90sjaYfzh5fV2OqvX1Y6Xj947Cpo8Mhfu/s1600/JK+bilston+2+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670065004859862322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfLe96W6RUBkzLjixz_TDCeDAAMgTrWmbTI9bb-qwQP8dCGibr9U2o8ixDYL-QbDc-9_VbVO024oU-YQG2j9yzrY1H5ouDnhJ7T6aU3JwRga90sjaYfzh5fV2OqvX1Y6Xj947Cpo8Mhfu/s400/JK+bilston+2+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdunTIAGm6z2VVkvf8v1lnaEpPAFgawa3hAgYvSZuoXsvXFmxY69hJecPfTYEelIUrjx1INCsYmkifjswRuzau3O3LO_LBeXa1h5QIYH3ZllciN9IXnn7rouAXVEZt-mOn1VrOASwEBh-/s1600/DSCN9899+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670065413904016434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdunTIAGm6z2VVkvf8v1lnaEpPAFgawa3hAgYvSZuoXsvXFmxY69hJecPfTYEelIUrjx1INCsYmkifjswRuzau3O3LO_LBeXa1h5QIYH3ZllciN9IXnn7rouAXVEZt-mOn1VrOASwEBh-/s400/DSCN9899+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVb9hdOg96ELNvUEZkfJlNAv-9uJH8iokKevWuUs6d-vYT-rxcYHKzts8Jpg0SFaJJ_mjQyw6ZA7fxpSV9ViYwxjCj3dNakHbOr3fW78_gLIUYFuGLAE0LSX4ashn7oWWv9zEs5mk1L12/s1600/DSCN1913+%25281024x730%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVb9hdOg96ELNvUEZkfJlNAv-9uJH8iokKevWuUs6d-vYT-rxcYHKzts8Jpg0SFaJJ_mjQyw6ZA7fxpSV9ViYwxjCj3dNakHbOr3fW78_gLIUYFuGLAE0LSX4ashn7oWWv9zEs5mk1L12/s400/DSCN1913+%25281024x730%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670066228897304226" /></a><br /><br />..ok..not the best quality ever, but it was a very funny moment...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1I9j3PH1JRFD0KOxAfCTAnnt8KN5K_hAFViGJ8MUX-ntNSWUNo4NOv76g5hyphenhyphentOh7S6PZSXzQueiGCM86tjZ4FHfnfpwi7zySGKEWhrqSxPyG9auOv0KYHv-ojDSesmMNAm-eJjswv-OEb/s1600/DSCN2575+%25282%2529+%25281024x734%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1I9j3PH1JRFD0KOxAfCTAnnt8KN5K_hAFViGJ8MUX-ntNSWUNo4NOv76g5hyphenhyphentOh7S6PZSXzQueiGCM86tjZ4FHfnfpwi7zySGKEWhrqSxPyG9auOv0KYHv-ojDSesmMNAm-eJjswv-OEb/s400/DSCN2575+%25282%2529+%25281024x734%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670066430590162162" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnsNHk3lq0A4UVrnc2Bt-SbfnOpnSn0xZKMVwO4vDxmPYitJCClGEKCAcYlKrMUV1cpyWBxRRhW7YqvjUXu4EDf73j2GndNZJE_XqSd-JCzVhALhedHxDHkaMT5gR8zjmfHJw0QJQda1c/s1600/DSCN0113+%2528730x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 285px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnsNHk3lq0A4UVrnc2Bt-SbfnOpnSn0xZKMVwO4vDxmPYitJCClGEKCAcYlKrMUV1cpyWBxRRhW7YqvjUXu4EDf73j2GndNZJE_XqSd-JCzVhALhedHxDHkaMT5gR8zjmfHJw0QJQda1c/s400/DSCN0113+%2528730x1024%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670067119291384754" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hyYP9iYtSkBz84ZObiHaQBT1hz5oEwDthpiYTzJSfieRy6JW5AuteFAaNbOupm_TLA35XYK7J3tPlCMuCMys0Bvthlu98M7BmSXiJwXXje5MPyUnj2cCe3KowCIeLWmvFXvzdImfZuLe/s1600/DSCN0050+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hyYP9iYtSkBz84ZObiHaQBT1hz5oEwDthpiYTzJSfieRy6JW5AuteFAaNbOupm_TLA35XYK7J3tPlCMuCMys0Bvthlu98M7BmSXiJwXXje5MPyUnj2cCe3KowCIeLWmvFXvzdImfZuLe/s400/DSCN0050+%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670067708066827378" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-xuBn89FomjOZP265aSNf5NxjJyXrBajkJN8aaJSTa3_8Kt3K1MCbOXaCyenVqJvNs_8DIBS8VRShng8uZsSLOxCfUMhgngzePRa3h0nAaZGEvZnx1tIqNpHYAowWRMof3MfbbTNUp3k/s1600/DSCN1931+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-xuBn89FomjOZP265aSNf5NxjJyXrBajkJN8aaJSTa3_8Kt3K1MCbOXaCyenVqJvNs_8DIBS8VRShng8uZsSLOxCfUMhgngzePRa3h0nAaZGEvZnx1tIqNpHYAowWRMof3MfbbTNUp3k/s400/DSCN1931+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670067505874562658" /></a><br /><br />..man vs mic..<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlggCOgUePBzpGLHTrL63TJikaxIIM1kkjb7mZp2JC8L27KaTQL-zADP81uxwMlcrbB8pD9-RmINAWL4YdxDpduQgT5beJqQ7vmAyJVOs-fNW757WsljvRRnRlftMkI8vPG3zRLr8o7v2b/s1600/SSJ+drumstick+%25281024x732%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlggCOgUePBzpGLHTrL63TJikaxIIM1kkjb7mZp2JC8L27KaTQL-zADP81uxwMlcrbB8pD9-RmINAWL4YdxDpduQgT5beJqQ7vmAyJVOs-fNW757WsljvRRnRlftMkI8vPG3zRLr8o7v2b/s400/SSJ+drumstick+%25281024x732%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670068884458896162" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzYhQ-F8T_NzExfkIrCkBC2D8r4-XFw2NqcSTujQcYyl-Uwcyp1G83xqHr6p7ju3hhEQtelRAX0_lkoF4HlIzQfHj2PeXczuuDHFI06sQgywMEEd_-cg0Oqs81hu_Bo4iVkD3yls14KX9/s1600/DSCN9877+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzYhQ-F8T_NzExfkIrCkBC2D8r4-XFw2NqcSTujQcYyl-Uwcyp1G83xqHr6p7ju3hhEQtelRAX0_lkoF4HlIzQfHj2PeXczuuDHFI06sQgywMEEd_-cg0Oqs81hu_Bo4iVkD3yls14KX9/s400/DSCN9877+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670069124386944370" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVPkGCz7-XzbefAohHgj7najaY58LTvOjFpR_e1CpZlmHGJhSoFAYU2qr0DReLlNGoO7qxyqjLg96Ws6Wdf0G79Cbny5Qs3Fe9TCvXmFhNgTkQzO7IXaL92-Q2bXMsqCl6IR-n9e9FMC5/s1600/DSCN9889+%25282%2529+%2528729x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 285px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVPkGCz7-XzbefAohHgj7najaY58LTvOjFpR_e1CpZlmHGJhSoFAYU2qr0DReLlNGoO7qxyqjLg96Ws6Wdf0G79Cbny5Qs3Fe9TCvXmFhNgTkQzO7IXaL92-Q2bXMsqCl6IR-n9e9FMC5/s400/DSCN9889+%25282%2529+%2528729x1024%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670069310683891986" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2FdremDtPbCEey-neVUJ30PUeV_DRfhGxrowyN-EPMzPhwa4SEoDjWnV4eFT0ZWn1m6j7DJvnLWBaHG3YeeikHyBU5UUe_IsYmlpxFP64zEJfmXAlUqB1xpUllLPoJEpmBWG27Y9T0cA/s1600/DSCN0012+%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2FdremDtPbCEey-neVUJ30PUeV_DRfhGxrowyN-EPMzPhwa4SEoDjWnV4eFT0ZWn1m6j7DJvnLWBaHG3YeeikHyBU5UUe_IsYmlpxFP64zEJfmXAlUqB1xpUllLPoJEpmBWG27Y9T0cA/s400/DSCN0012+%25282%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670069980720257378" /></a><br /><br />With the Fall concert season in full swing, things are kicking into high gear here. Looking forward to concerts by Gavin DeGraw, Southside Johnny and the Poor Fools, Outside the Box, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and Audra McDonald this month. <br /><br />As I always say, "so much music, so little time."Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-6430279962830591422011-10-13T23:45:00.006-04:002011-10-15T10:16:02.021-04:00Two Great Nights - No Bus Rides Necessary!As if y'all didn't know ... I love living in NYC. *faked look of shock* LOL<br /><br />The biggest reason why is because on any given night, there are dozens of amazing concerts going on around this city. And as someone who lives and breathes music, I know that I will NEVER be without somewhere to go to listen and be inspired. But, that also means there is always the possibility that conflicts may arise. Such was the case this past Tuesday when my favorite conductor was at Carnegie Hall and the Early Elton Trio was performing at Rockwood Hall. <br /><br />Aries don't like to be forced to choose...<br />...and BAJ is a textbook Aries. *wink*<br /><br />So I appeased the "classical geek fan girl" in me and went to the CD signing with <a href="http://youtu.be/r71xgacQ3jI">Valery Gergiev</a> at Juilliard which left me free and clear to go experience the brilliance that is Jeff Kazee/John Conte/Rich Pagano.<br /><br />Sure, lots of singers and bands play songs by Elton John. But, that's not what this is. <br /><br />It's about that perfect combination of the material and how it's communicated. It's not about nostalgia, but about hearing a song you know and feeling like you're experiencing it for the first time. And it's about the performers inviting you to join them on an emotional journey. These guys do this in spades. <br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QvcNC2b9MLM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />I always come out of an EE show feeling mentally exhilarated and exhausted all at the same time. This show was no exception. I actually only took one picture during the entire show (which I tweeted.) Other than that, I just sat and listened and felt the music. Incredible.<br /><br />Not yet recovered from that show, the next night brought the Jon Bon Jovi and Friends benefit event for Poly Prep Country Day School at the Best Buy Theater. I <em>so</em> love going to that theatre -- it is about two blocks from my apartment. (yay! no buses! LOL)<br /><br />I had planned on attending this for several months as a friend affiliated with the school had purchased a ticket for me. They eventually opened it up to the general public -- as a result, it was nice to have the opportunity to catch up with many friends who I hadn't seen since the end of the tour.<br /><br />The show opened with a number of performances by students of the school. Some were actually quite good, including this 11-year old rocker girl doing her own songs ... and with the likes of Jeffrey Lee Campbell (Sting) and Shawn Pelton (SNL) no less. Lucky girl!<br /><br />As is the case with JBJ charity shows (and why I enjoy them so much), the set list was a mix of Bon Jovi songs and great cover songs like Start Me Up, Sympathy for the Devil, Twist and Shout, Under Pressure, The Letter (My Baby Just Wrote Me a Letter) and this one ... <br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/j1_bCU-tik4?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />It's always nice to see Jon truly enjoying himself when he does these events. And I was enjoying myself as well ... even during WSYCGH. Haha.<br /><br />Although I was sitting pretty far back, I did manage to take a few pictures.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVhf4AdRJfuKnOfUDgPdzy_THptc9xc7GMXjjX1224pmCYhRamUigPTUK2mlyRB2obXL0YlM8A4LCtIKqT9O7ulhBBiDaoFKF1_ZE_4cyZ5r2n4JNuz9JNR7qFaCj-KWN9GJ9r7VKKMcj/s1600/DSCN9719+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEVhf4AdRJfuKnOfUDgPdzy_THptc9xc7GMXjjX1224pmCYhRamUigPTUK2mlyRB2obXL0YlM8A4LCtIKqT9O7ulhBBiDaoFKF1_ZE_4cyZ5r2n4JNuz9JNR7qFaCj-KWN9GJ9r7VKKMcj/s400/DSCN9719+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663166469893688210" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9A9CEeoHc4CXQHhTh64ZxjjzID4Ejn16oFxpMN83InNc0GNcWExdFskK2iLXRPAAgILwRO3CXmWhRviDlOVbYt4bPlwDlevqyDgFB1zF4WFUHL4orKXVXI5OC0d3g-iRrcZPfw_pf9v3Z/s1600/DSCN9741+%25282%2529+%2528569x800%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 284px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9A9CEeoHc4CXQHhTh64ZxjjzID4Ejn16oFxpMN83InNc0GNcWExdFskK2iLXRPAAgILwRO3CXmWhRviDlOVbYt4bPlwDlevqyDgFB1zF4WFUHL4orKXVXI5OC0d3g-iRrcZPfw_pf9v3Z/s400/DSCN9741+%25282%2529+%2528569x800%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663166664298967618" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wDgBSkwjzkWQZopv83qkIgAZYEXDA8o8jf3ToL6fWdYwweLFa4hG0zl2Hert-Fp1FYulUlhRAbGnKzqHvPMb-tGjjeOuChhjns1jtWMJSwlQMe_xcJ80qBH34MoxzG2dnS7SmgC3FJvl/s1600/DSCN9768+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9wDgBSkwjzkWQZopv83qkIgAZYEXDA8o8jf3ToL6fWdYwweLFa4hG0zl2Hert-Fp1FYulUlhRAbGnKzqHvPMb-tGjjeOuChhjns1jtWMJSwlQMe_xcJ80qBH34MoxzG2dnS7SmgC3FJvl/s400/DSCN9768+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663167516198790082" /></a><br /><br />...as you can see, Mr. Bon Jovi dressed up for this one...nice jeans, Jonny. I wonder what his ringtone is. I'm thinking it's not "Living on a Prayer" like the woman who was sitting behind me. LOL<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80rFdUCbAVVRQXCZBNWdrqvVWtFmzQ45LxWiZ4k0DrL9Xk3r5hTqwhuWRs1V4NG_53o0lYNefF7jBcs_RINfecldxsIS0ve8HqjVjIei9YWfJ8GD0DLQ6GA6w-KW11GpGnMu6u-VNyTuC/s1600/DSCN9799+%25282%2529+%2528800x570%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80rFdUCbAVVRQXCZBNWdrqvVWtFmzQ45LxWiZ4k0DrL9Xk3r5hTqwhuWRs1V4NG_53o0lYNefF7jBcs_RINfecldxsIS0ve8HqjVjIei9YWfJ8GD0DLQ6GA6w-KW11GpGnMu6u-VNyTuC/s400/DSCN9799+%25282%2529+%2528800x570%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663170059620121842" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbpaR0-g16VkOBdPxGDyKLC0_2hn_6zmWcFETuMiJ2HnHyERx-DSUuQwvKpr8-8mv64NGd4aFXB57GNRRenOK37cJWZc66qxawr29XNYB34PvtDyFPCd7V05Q_mbjPFQ4sukf0mt65vvK/s1600/DSCN9795+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbpaR0-g16VkOBdPxGDyKLC0_2hn_6zmWcFETuMiJ2HnHyERx-DSUuQwvKpr8-8mv64NGd4aFXB57GNRRenOK37cJWZc66qxawr29XNYB34PvtDyFPCd7V05Q_mbjPFQ4sukf0mt65vvK/s400/DSCN9795+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663170407522589826" /></a><br /><br />...I love this one with Lorenza...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59VTuwP2nj6CL0FhwgDGrAMM_igi08GhjwYLJasgB8lOsLdmxgvBnCs3dcva4DxPS-Xr-dc4jfIH0Q_GzgxNgxdOylwWewSoAX8qkPIhTF4Mp5jSF4RrRumiFjJHVVuvkS9vfA8IgxLmv/s1600/DSCN9906+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59VTuwP2nj6CL0FhwgDGrAMM_igi08GhjwYLJasgB8lOsLdmxgvBnCs3dcva4DxPS-Xr-dc4jfIH0Q_GzgxNgxdOylwWewSoAX8qkPIhTF4Mp5jSF4RrRumiFjJHVVuvkS9vfA8IgxLmv/s400/DSCN9906+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663167161664890482" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsb4h68haIOzo7Yw7mbuFh37IqLfVv2R_fX9CAkfV66hESWf-vdcSMm7NFc6SpsvkKFatEAUIBvns6vpnC325zDf0sHuk5zFd9f1FnDWJXhCbDeUYJt4p-RobPqXEtmrkLGX8QN7eJdeW/s1600/DSCN9788+%25282%2529+%2528800x600%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsb4h68haIOzo7Yw7mbuFh37IqLfVv2R_fX9CAkfV66hESWf-vdcSMm7NFc6SpsvkKFatEAUIBvns6vpnC325zDf0sHuk5zFd9f1FnDWJXhCbDeUYJt4p-RobPqXEtmrkLGX8QN7eJdeW/s400/DSCN9788+%25282%2529+%2528800x600%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663187681850173042" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAol0VnL0GCjV_H-a6YDERwqmIQMcxeTR8zxRl6DJc9DjyX3RrrSVxQipVPYFku09U89usJXdWMcfstVbJ1G05IRrhuYdC2zBXfas6scbQH0wvjqMYNPZxrMeCd33IHmwEgegIC5n5x23I/s1600/DSCN9947+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAol0VnL0GCjV_H-a6YDERwqmIQMcxeTR8zxRl6DJc9DjyX3RrrSVxQipVPYFku09U89usJXdWMcfstVbJ1G05IRrhuYdC2zBXfas6scbQH0wvjqMYNPZxrMeCd33IHmwEgegIC5n5x23I/s400/DSCN9947+%25282%2529+%2528800x571%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5663187939769171666" /></a><br /><br />All-in-all it was a fun night. Certainly gave me my Jovifix ... at least for a while.<br /><br />And, hey! This week's musical fun isn't even over yet. Friday I get to introduce a couple of my Canadian friends to Outside the Box who will be doing a set or two at Bowery Electric.<br /><br />So much music. So little time.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-53268267746991709292011-09-28T12:05:00.004-04:002011-09-28T12:33:39.215-04:00Keeping Busy...As expected, just because Bon Jovi isn't on tour doesn't mean the guys (and me, too for that matter!) aren't still running around -- whether it's Jon shooting an Advil commercial (I'm assuming you brokered some sponsorship deal for the Soul Kitchen on this one, Jon. Yes?) or Tico hitting the links in support of a good cause (umm ... I could really use some help with my irons, T. Thanks.) As for me, I ran into one of the guys this past weekend at an event down in Baltimore. <br /><br />For the past nine years, the <a href="http://www.caseycaresfoundation.org">Casey Cares Foundation </a>has held their Rock 'N' Roll Bash. The event features an all-star band of musicians and raises a ton of money to help kids with life-threatening illnesses and their families. You know the truth about musicians is ... they spend a lot of time hustling for gigs, but are total softees and always the first ones to step up to do a benefit show. Seriously, it's true. <br /><br />Anyhoo, I knew two of my favorite people (Christine Ohlman and Jeff Kazee) were doing this gig and it's a cause that is important to me and it sounded like fun, so off on the bus I went.<br /><br />To say the night was a lot of fun would be a huge understatement. <br /><br />The band is led by saxophone superstar Mark Rivera who has been playing forever with Billy Joel and Ringo Starr. In addition to Christine (SNL band) and Jeff (Jukes, etc.), the line-up included Tommy Byrnes (Billy Joel), Anton Fig (Letterman), Jeff Carlisi (.38 Special), Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent) and Hugh McDonald (y'all know who he plays with, I guess.)<br /><br />They alternated sets with two tribute bands...High Voltage (ACDC) and Bad Medicine. I will admit, I had some great laughs watching the Bon Jovi tribute band. The frontman really did have some of Jon's moves down, including the Godforsaken "it's alright" section of WSYCGH. Haha.<br /><br />But anyhoo, the all-star band played three sets I think and covered a slew of songs like Hungry Heart, Brown Sugar, Some Kinda Wonderful, Born to Run and just about every song that has the lyrics "rock and roll" in it. LOL. I really enjoy watching great musicians who are obviously enjoying what they do. And these guys were having a blast. <br /><br />Master of Music Ceremonies, Mark Rivera<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IYOGs-EB-eeTSHZFxf0dZ8MKtQLYxh7ikmO6KjLdvzBjL5ThbULv7Ny3JkJwnuxJ3VP-RAr9qSTyBdYqTBfm20U5WYvIlxJjOWC_dHaLAiCKM4k67YxPuGHZwlS62BFS9K-Z30NnAae1/s1600/DSCN9766+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IYOGs-EB-eeTSHZFxf0dZ8MKtQLYxh7ikmO6KjLdvzBjL5ThbULv7Ny3JkJwnuxJ3VP-RAr9qSTyBdYqTBfm20U5WYvIlxJjOWC_dHaLAiCKM4k67YxPuGHZwlS62BFS9K-Z30NnAae1/s400/DSCN9766+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657422156670768850" /></a><br /><br />Mark, Tommy Byrnes, Hugh McDonald<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8a13J2yPY05KUIGMEMvYnLl6Rm66OYhOnXKa9jaghj5asCT0ITw1xtY3owMz8twQYz67VOBnBvs9uQHXqyudB1YTksbkTmHpxCqjbr5g-YFPd6Y3NVqZd9AqSnCmmBzlS-nn38Ro-cdnr/s1600/DSCN9720+%25283%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8a13J2yPY05KUIGMEMvYnLl6Rm66OYhOnXKa9jaghj5asCT0ITw1xtY3owMz8twQYz67VOBnBvs9uQHXqyudB1YTksbkTmHpxCqjbr5g-YFPd6Y3NVqZd9AqSnCmmBzlS-nn38Ro-cdnr/s400/DSCN9720+%25283%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657422627042215490" /></a><br /><br />Christine Ohlman (and the best earrings ever!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQRhhXzfRbMC5nO7kdNKz6wmiL1QcWxagh7WErrFbyq0c1ndNkJc9259UWBonApb9hAe1RosKJDhoEp4lSZljX5SP2PVsDyf6lsWYlqXuOHvIR1Tx0M6yEoNHE9x5fCj3mXA4VTGkpeK9/s1600/DSCN9805+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQRhhXzfRbMC5nO7kdNKz6wmiL1QcWxagh7WErrFbyq0c1ndNkJc9259UWBonApb9hAe1RosKJDhoEp4lSZljX5SP2PVsDyf6lsWYlqXuOHvIR1Tx0M6yEoNHE9x5fCj3mXA4VTGkpeK9/s400/DSCN9805+%25282%2529+%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657430952300713634" /></a><br /><br />Jeff and Tommy<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvv3wszY9I9VnmBfIAhFfrsJkVBn9pnlURzelTDRhmVy-Dtc0oM_MDy62ZuHb3ZSuiF8LAAyg3w6Q101MSS0Ml6LnEVZilwF25qvs1iz_Kkmnas-Xm39rdmdwyJZ9yT_U3V5IRAMxRDn9/s1600/DSCN9735+%25283%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvv3wszY9I9VnmBfIAhFfrsJkVBn9pnlURzelTDRhmVy-Dtc0oM_MDy62ZuHb3ZSuiF8LAAyg3w6Q101MSS0Ml6LnEVZilwF25qvs1iz_Kkmnas-Xm39rdmdwyJZ9yT_U3V5IRAMxRDn9/s400/DSCN9735+%25283%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657422393902665938" /></a><br /><br />Tommy and Hugh<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxJ516lJkXAt9rHFgE3yRQ5GFJ0_BYe_1pJ4FiDOhI1604dq5ItdBFZNCgxE6i3IIcVT76PJr97SP9NLZF_0mZXI7X9LpTeg2HjolW6fqo9hv-PYYJ7pt8ALjx6-2GGGNKT54ZQuMAMWP/s1600/DSCN0231+%25282%2529+%25281024x730%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigxJ516lJkXAt9rHFgE3yRQ5GFJ0_BYe_1pJ4FiDOhI1604dq5ItdBFZNCgxE6i3IIcVT76PJr97SP9NLZF_0mZXI7X9LpTeg2HjolW6fqo9hv-PYYJ7pt8ALjx6-2GGGNKT54ZQuMAMWP/s400/DSCN0231+%25282%2529+%25281024x730%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657431301345765426" /></a><br /><br />Jeff and Mark<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE9GXMkuFXa2777XeOBFszdnZlsaz1HeL7pKlZHDHT5ZABUgNHDTn8h4QtOvfSONj4mPnMRkPh1q2DTqiM4JzKSTU5iHSPA79SdlE2UVsICVVDOZbJ0dPrlJ4h3EY2Qd015waZFAXif9Y/s1600/DSCN9791+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE9GXMkuFXa2777XeOBFszdnZlsaz1HeL7pKlZHDHT5ZABUgNHDTn8h4QtOvfSONj4mPnMRkPh1q2DTqiM4JzKSTU5iHSPA79SdlE2UVsICVVDOZbJ0dPrlJ4h3EY2Qd015waZFAXif9Y/s400/DSCN9791+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657439035444128642" /></a><br /><br />Tommy and Hugh<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaU-DUPTZwFSqQqVsL8sdirY3QGEbOXs4DkzDoAwKfn5S8XcmY0yu70HWKme1t6Yf0OVWmiUFPeIC6CgCdb5AfbGVM5FMjySeSw6voepcsJwjlcXrOX7TgifgSlVIDMSGJn7KtNiezhKJ/s1600/DSCN9921+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTaU-DUPTZwFSqQqVsL8sdirY3QGEbOXs4DkzDoAwKfn5S8XcmY0yu70HWKme1t6Yf0OVWmiUFPeIC6CgCdb5AfbGVM5FMjySeSw6voepcsJwjlcXrOX7TgifgSlVIDMSGJn7KtNiezhKJ/s400/DSCN9921+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657442497255199922" /></a><br /><br />I loved Christine bringing up a ton of women on stage and doing Brass in Pocket by The Pretenders. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGXsoVf90r3p3MeCoAcy_JCmTu0lkbd4UPoySRWjM59sawRLVOmkWSRVSudBywXumCpbjmZpia13ZO8EuxvXJASh4Ot_-G_X82b1U6PfvFIgjVI3G_eAIDMDL2WntQAr9uLXzBnYL5EGA/s1600/DSCN9873+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGXsoVf90r3p3MeCoAcy_JCmTu0lkbd4UPoySRWjM59sawRLVOmkWSRVSudBywXumCpbjmZpia13ZO8EuxvXJASh4Ot_-G_X82b1U6PfvFIgjVI3G_eAIDMDL2WntQAr9uLXzBnYL5EGA/s400/DSCN9873+%25282%2529+%25281024x731%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657431561844414226" /></a><br /><br />And though I have seen Kazee do this song a few times, I think it was the best version of Van Morrison's Domino yet.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNn4Szh9t4EsWnikewci5srK-c1CxksblSZIEgwTg8O3kbQe5PiU32bUVV2-VoxmLIpIvZmlZ3BUYV3BEGLG2sYNGSrhhEcTsfsCp5zDBRbgIpWOxHsBfEAHX3jHSiKML6X85a3KVSimPP/s1600/DSCN9995+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNn4Szh9t4EsWnikewci5srK-c1CxksblSZIEgwTg8O3kbQe5PiU32bUVV2-VoxmLIpIvZmlZ3BUYV3BEGLG2sYNGSrhhEcTsfsCp5zDBRbgIpWOxHsBfEAHX3jHSiKML6X85a3KVSimPP/s400/DSCN9995+%25282%2529+%25281024x768%2529.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657425530435164402" /></a><br /><br />The band played for hours. There was open bar and buffet (including some kick-ass fried green beans!) The venue was really cool (the Ram's Head Live) and I met a ton of fun people of all ages who gave me a million suggestions as to what to see during my whopping two free hours in Baltimore on Sunday. LOL Pretty darn good night.<br /><br />So, I HIGHLY recommend if you're in the Baltimore/DC area, you should check it out next year -- it seems to usually take place in October. The ticket price is extremely reasonable (hey, we're Jovifans, no ticket price can shock us. Haha.) Oh ... and, if you don't live there, make a mini-trip out of it because there actually <em>is</em> a lot to see ... and the Inner Harbor area was awesome.<br /><br />What's next? October is insane - Early Elton Trio at Rockwood Hall (yay!), MEMPHIS opening in Memphis (and we say good-bye to Chad Kimball as 'Huey' on Broadway. *sigh*) Then it's five shows in the UK with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. But, I'm kicking off the month with the annual Light the Night walk for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I truly appreciate all of you who have given to this campaign. THANK YOU! Anyone who would still like to donate ... see the box in the upper left corner of the blog. <br /><br />Until later. Rock on!<br />xoxo<br />Big Apple Jen<br /><br />---------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />p.s. Thanks for all the messages in the last couple of days re: me vs the marble staircase. Outcome of bout ... stairs:1, bajg:0, wrist: -1. I'll be fine. Torn ligament. No surgery. :) No bassoon for 4-6 weeks, though. *pout*Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-60975199233078392272011-08-28T16:26:00.004-04:002011-08-28T16:37:00.782-04:00Forces of Nature Tour 2011<div>Greetings y'all ... hope you are well ... and safe. This whole Irene Hurricane/Tropical Storm has certainly walloped the East Coast of the U.S.<br /><br />I've been on a road trip around the Northeast (nice timing, huh?) with my friend Tasha ... 4 Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes shows in 5 days basically. You can find my reviews, pictures, etc. over on Jukesnet.<br /><br />But here are a few quick words on how things have gone so far...<br />1. War protest in Pittsfield, MA<br />2. Hurricane Emergency Kit ... beer and Slim Jims?<br />3. Kazee's Crossing Guard Service<br />4. Naked BBQ?!<br />5. Dog vs Pool<br /><br />...and we're only halfway through the slew of shows! LOL<br /><br />So follow these links to see what the heck I'm talking about:<br /><br /><a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/08/27/forces-of-nature-tour-2011-part-1/">Part 1: Pittsfield, MA</a><br /><a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/08/28/forces-of-nature-tour-2011-part2/">Part 2: Freeport, ME</a></div>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-10088721897281394422011-08-22T14:15:00.004-04:002011-09-28T12:39:15.087-04:00Black and White in Living Color<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >note: we take a break from our regularly scheduled Jovi/Jukes ramblings for this special report...no worries, I'll be back with more Jovistuff soon</span><br /><br />I will admit it. I am quite addicted to (most) pianist/singer/songwriters. They’ve always resonated with me. Not quite sure why … maybe it’s because I can actually play the piano and I can’t play guitar. Seriously! I suck. And, what’s <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> about? I can play the frickin’ bassoon – which admittedly most people can’t – and yet, the “every man’s instrument” that the average bloke can at least decently strum while sitting around a campfire totally befuddles me!? Ugh. Ok … rant over. Moving on.<br /><br />Back to the subject at hand.<br /><br />Yes, they get me every time – those black and white keys - from Elton John to Michael Feinstein, Billy Joel to Barry Manilow (oh, be quiet … they’re good songs!) And then there’s the “newer” generation of pianist/songwriters … like the fabulous (and quite adorable) Gavin DeGraw.<br /><br />But today I’m writing about one of my new favorite artists. I was introduced to <a href="http://www.jonregen.com/">Jon Regen</a> through the Jukes' Jeff Kazee (yet another pianist/singer/songwriter.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEUu5pwDMnmUHolgfvxc8TJKCQhQ_FbCNIBu_wpSrI2osi-VF_9SMCrvbOv4waHFMKocKeLtQRr-fkrayAutLlrJ8VJhgjqVqKusbn5BGbjJxKmRGv-3zEIOywl_s6IaSPl1_nArsxt9r/s1600/jon+regen+cd.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 400px; height: 324px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643742783609821602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEUu5pwDMnmUHolgfvxc8TJKCQhQ_FbCNIBu_wpSrI2osi-VF_9SMCrvbOv4waHFMKocKeLtQRr-fkrayAutLlrJ8VJhgjqVqKusbn5BGbjJxKmRGv-3zEIOywl_s6IaSPl1_nArsxt9r/s400/jon+regen+cd.JPG" /></a>If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you’ve seen me posting about Jon Regen’s new album, REVOLUTION. In a stroke of brilliance, he started streaming the yet-to-be-released cd in its entirety on his website sometime back. What a great thing! How often do you have the opportunity to listen to a full record before buying it? I liked the concept because it’s usually the obscure track (rather than the single) that you end up falling in love with … right?<br /><br />So after listening to it for a few weeks, I finally sent Jon a message asking when<span style="font-style: italic;"> exactly</span> I could buy it so that I could finally turn my computer off. Being the nice guy he is, he immediately drops a signed copy in the mail to me. Yay! Now, I could have “One Part Broken, Two Parts Blue” on constant repeat! (When you buy the album, you will, too. Trust me.)<br /><br />Born in New Jersey (what <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">is</span> it with me and Jersey musicians?! haha), to me, Regen’s music really just captures the feel of New York City so well. It's this great mix of jazz and pop, a beautiful way with words (check out "Spirits of the Soul" *sigh*) and a groove that just gets into you.<br /><br /><iframe height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rDvtOZnLPHc?rel=0&hd=1" frameborder="0" width="640" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /><br />Gotta love that line: You hold me close then you push me away...there's a doctor you should see about your split personality. :-)<br /><br />So, in short I'm telling you ... go buy this album. Period. <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/jonregen">Right here ... click right here</a>.<br /><br />And if you live in/near NYC, join me at The Blue Note on September 12th for the cd release show. You know how to reach me ... @bigapplejen on twitter.<br /><br />P.S. And well, since I did mention Gavin DeGraw… if you haven’t heard his new single “Not Over You” where have you been? It’s all over the radio. His new album is coming out in September as well. Yay! Check out this great <a href="http://youtu.be/chZZIdwr9jI">acoustic version</a> with him and Billy Norris. Glad to hear Gavin is recovering well and looking forward to seeing him back on the road.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-4476650862024866862011-08-14T22:02:00.004-04:002011-08-14T23:05:39.068-04:00Not Just Another Walk in the ParkGreetings friends! Sorry for the delay ... I've been looking for my writing mojo for the past couple of weeks now. If anyone sees it, please send it back my way. :-/
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<br />Regardless of my inability to string together words these days, I figured I better just keep plugging along or I'll be still writing about the Bon Jovi UK trip from June while I'm packing for the Jukes UK trip in October!
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<br />Anyhoo, on to Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park.
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<br />It seemed that everyone and their brother was coming to this show and it was fantastic to meet up with so many friends - from the Netherlands to Italy to Australia to Germany. Though entry was a bit of a disaster (NOT the fault of the fan club, but the local security who had no clue/care what the process was) I was lucky to get a spot in the third-ish row surrounded by some absolutely AMAZING ladies from the UK.
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<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(don't forget! you can always click on the pictures to make them larger)</span>
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJXT3J4_Ehs3__SLYMa4oLfB2MNIqY_FpTwK8VaoB-LVPm39T9u7wGxJf2L8zD96q_8Gq-4di0AfVhfmykaVQ1_iZTDcf4LGpJ7izV4AoU94agctNoB_FGOVoN3Haz8gvKkjKGL1Orkgd/s1600/hrc+2011+group+shot.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJXT3J4_Ehs3__SLYMa4oLfB2MNIqY_FpTwK8VaoB-LVPm39T9u7wGxJf2L8zD96q_8Gq-4di0AfVhfmykaVQ1_iZTDcf4LGpJ7izV4AoU94agctNoB_FGOVoN3Haz8gvKkjKGL1Orkgd/s400/hrc+2011+group+shot.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640879801576229826" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(yeah, that white arrow in front of Jon's mic stand ... that would be me!)
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<br />I will not lie. It was a long day. I hadn't really slept well since I arrived and was still quite sick at this point (as could be told from my food intake for the day, which consisted of three french fries and four cough drops.)
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<br />But, the weather was absolutely gorgeous and the sun was shining ... good thing, because the red jacket just isn't right without the Michael Jackson sunglasses (sorry, Jonny ... it's growing on me ... really it is. LOL)
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgj6j_DLdhVJ_SG9PPz-t9aKvsheJ-wacJtZsij8FHgKd2joDnf8cBiM5ubu2vgMUk5NVQM4YUhVR5n1ofYGLBNsUeStgUEaqf0eHws2_4MP9OLk3LzKzVf00qYS0xjRUO3bUtd7Fy90lm/s1600/DSCN3891.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgj6j_DLdhVJ_SG9PPz-t9aKvsheJ-wacJtZsij8FHgKd2joDnf8cBiM5ubu2vgMUk5NVQM4YUhVR5n1ofYGLBNsUeStgUEaqf0eHws2_4MP9OLk3LzKzVf00qYS0xjRUO3bUtd7Fy90lm/s400/DSCN3891.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635558957988452994" border="0" /></a>
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<br />But, before we get to Jovi, I must mention that helping the day to move along, we were treated to several other artists prior to "our boys" coming on stage -- including Vintage Trouble (who was the support act for every show I saw) and the legendary Ray Davies, among others. But, the artist that really grabbed me was an American guitarist/singer/songwriter named <a href="http://www.lissie.com/">Lissie</a>.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-W70PtUy0v08uHdCxhJApWPAsrVkIOpJix1L_qfwu9cBYosqV-S1vD8adep7eHvUaO0cv-6ygePGHjXueNimuNlDB6rROUTwa7op1Cupcw7wl4DpVKt5CX2IOaJJsNpb-Jh6mCgKBKf4B/s1600/Lissie.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-W70PtUy0v08uHdCxhJApWPAsrVkIOpJix1L_qfwu9cBYosqV-S1vD8adep7eHvUaO0cv-6ygePGHjXueNimuNlDB6rROUTwa7op1Cupcw7wl4DpVKt5CX2IOaJJsNpb-Jh6mCgKBKf4B/s320/Lissie.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640883814156593506" border="0" /></a>
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<br />I'm looking forward to checking out her stuff a bit more...an interesting mix of folk and rock...and definitely that "indie" spirit.
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<br />So, eventually Bon Jovi took the stage. By now, most of you have seen videos of the show, the special that VH1 Classic did on the event or listened to the live radio broadcast (either that night or since.) Therefore, you already know that it was a spectacular night. The crowd was fantastic ... of course it helped that you had all the fan club members together right at the front, which simply created this incredible singing force! :-)
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<br />And for a guy who was very much in need of knee surgery, Jon Bon Jovi was running around that stage, jumping and "dancing" (haha) for a good three hours. Richie's solos were on fire, Tico was pounding as hard as I've ever heard and David was ruling the keys with his blond curls blowing in the breeze. In some ways it felt like the Lost Highway Central Park show ... on steroids. LOL
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<br />Here are just a few of the ridiculous number of pictures I took during the show ...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNymd_H6cxMIuujxOqfkzp87VxBEwUlvJUf3b-7qBSZCGdUqPgJXRNYthS3KaQRada-6ZhorfSK9MPKj4bt3_hfJ0xe0XxtWSJaEgQSEiRJZq-rrxSpqmZMb2hiwIwsKuYW-lzU-ejb-li/s1600/hrc+stage.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNymd_H6cxMIuujxOqfkzp87VxBEwUlvJUf3b-7qBSZCGdUqPgJXRNYthS3KaQRada-6ZhorfSK9MPKj4bt3_hfJ0xe0XxtWSJaEgQSEiRJZq-rrxSpqmZMb2hiwIwsKuYW-lzU-ejb-li/s320/hrc+stage.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640889478798162450" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...the great Ray Davies (if you watch the VH1 Classic footage, you can see our friend @DavidsRosie rocking it out in the front row! Yay!)
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtGZRIxVvsbbwweyboqCRNGw06Rc-c-t28wWLmxid1COegIssdwhsUIbQC8x-TzNzCrmxrkY6ZBO7_q9oMcCmYprDwr8KUczmVrym_enxp3ehcFG15Lqu9rJf-tjx3GeAAjB-Yeb5-VY3/s1600/ray+davies.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtGZRIxVvsbbwweyboqCRNGw06Rc-c-t28wWLmxid1COegIssdwhsUIbQC8x-TzNzCrmxrkY6ZBO7_q9oMcCmYprDwr8KUczmVrym_enxp3ehcFG15Lqu9rJf-tjx3GeAAjB-Yeb5-VY3/s400/ray+davies.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640890147317155890" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...I never get tired of this shot...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4sXmJRLyjuitKC6DKCj6hrVw2p8OMQL-OXfuQLBZTxiFQUxyUEivrBLSbfRy1gvCjAJhBpMU9Bcgtuw6kySB0FO8qrR96nJxKskSHR-9LuQLGIsjrvd2NjPTisD4I0-CDyX_74dPdvL8/s1600/bad+name.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4sXmJRLyjuitKC6DKCj6hrVw2p8OMQL-OXfuQLBZTxiFQUxyUEivrBLSbfRy1gvCjAJhBpMU9Bcgtuw6kySB0FO8qrR96nJxKskSHR-9LuQLGIsjrvd2NjPTisD4I0-CDyX_74dPdvL8/s400/bad+name.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640889959587351362" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...or this one...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZX_dNEftvpgH44VzMDXxG10inVjXhP78eZEdPHAMA8j5Ok_sRAwMIt_PIkiI21f3JfLA0WsxVhP2ppgBYykzbxuiY2VLouMogz2O7eAYemRgotmbXjrdKVt7tMxmaDSJBfKVQ1fIVWl-/s1600/jon+solo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZX_dNEftvpgH44VzMDXxG10inVjXhP78eZEdPHAMA8j5Ok_sRAwMIt_PIkiI21f3JfLA0WsxVhP2ppgBYykzbxuiY2VLouMogz2O7eAYemRgotmbXjrdKVt7tMxmaDSJBfKVQ1fIVWl-/s400/jon+solo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640890526681841426" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...and the photo master, <a href="http://www.tourphotographer.com/">David Bergman</a>, at work...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinPYjoo4pcfVodW-XsV_ebtHEM3CN-315mhTyldIbqTxoayUgz5-L50wEmuqT-BiX8yih1xGKYAfVGtvLySQ1gJcWj6hD0eP_LkTWFdaeHxni55bbr-wvIbjZ9CQvo4FmU8C8qyb0-sTD/s1600/bergman.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinPYjoo4pcfVodW-XsV_ebtHEM3CN-315mhTyldIbqTxoayUgz5-L50wEmuqT-BiX8yih1xGKYAfVGtvLySQ1gJcWj6hD0eP_LkTWFdaeHxni55bbr-wvIbjZ9CQvo4FmU8C8qyb0-sTD/s400/bergman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640890714158258082" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...and the guitar master at work...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBf4Wew4dlbBwBKthzagPNGnAMqUlJIDyYyCS24I8zTaMpw1oDvI-a6rUdX3Ot4tm_OJEdOCN3Y-an5d_ptfQHAMmnCnU7e5Cwr7822l9XldjACky85gC_PKfBkbHWx5XWbfGA0Ie_SpW/s1600/richie.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZBf4Wew4dlbBwBKthzagPNGnAMqUlJIDyYyCS24I8zTaMpw1oDvI-a6rUdX3Ot4tm_OJEdOCN3Y-an5d_ptfQHAMmnCnU7e5Cwr7822l9XldjACky85gC_PKfBkbHWx5XWbfGA0Ie_SpW/s400/richie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640891054070441890" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...one of the absolute best moments of the night..."Hey God!" ...enough said...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvTTlmD0z_HzlDaaLtePW06pL0GNg-ilmMZLiYbVQFWjJFq1Pglcqi6S_mB-llhDeqHWP9I26IuH9aCCP0a5Km2VmAk7blXJWtKlcyV2LDQoZoaI4OyXxws_URZ_37ROOu79H__zBCFXf/s1600/three.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvTTlmD0z_HzlDaaLtePW06pL0GNg-ilmMZLiYbVQFWjJFq1Pglcqi6S_mB-llhDeqHWP9I26IuH9aCCP0a5Km2VmAk7blXJWtKlcyV2LDQoZoaI4OyXxws_URZ_37ROOu79H__zBCFXf/s400/three.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640891456901078354" border="0" /></a>
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<br />...an ELECTRIC performance of "Keep The Faith"
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr_VVOd_hX1FU0nfJa2YzB2UWV5q-yzd3ndqSGO68xeE7cElOzTlULJLHLcyFNR8jKZJqfi9dPwmHpXNPdRlnU_3toIUEzOymLPo0GLi6Wn81pd75VuByM56ljYSi0LPCbTOd1Hz_AHRp/s1600/DSCN5256.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr_VVOd_hX1FU0nfJa2YzB2UWV5q-yzd3ndqSGO68xeE7cElOzTlULJLHLcyFNR8jKZJqfi9dPwmHpXNPdRlnU_3toIUEzOymLPo0GLi6Wn81pd75VuByM56ljYSi0LPCbTOd1Hz_AHRp/s400/DSCN5256.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640891642243029842" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />Hey, Hugh...don't hide back there!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKFH1WhFVm6uRlfqSOI-MS3Fs6Q8I_nrERIe7RtqbqNi8JbCvqOKq46DVJxFEd515i5qrWthn0DlyZsP9_iXsiyMVY42PiPBgf-sGuPWWJtv-bc3QBAp25qYG0WWFt8Fyw2eD8TUKvsGY/s1600/triple+neck.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKFH1WhFVm6uRlfqSOI-MS3Fs6Q8I_nrERIe7RtqbqNi8JbCvqOKq46DVJxFEd515i5qrWthn0DlyZsP9_iXsiyMVY42PiPBgf-sGuPWWJtv-bc3QBAp25qYG0WWFt8Fyw2eD8TUKvsGY/s400/triple+neck.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640896017716674530" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />..ahhh, there he is!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mbdR4BH4U8f9Y0Uvd0YVkiLh2KcThd5SXz1FG-KjCRuwVKVRtOsMFC9Bfz2eGv6W_XVtscG3F-tQgtRGBglbcQ5SBjXV35cBx-cIXlhP8X4JjS0KLjqHCWo3mDtCqVrHwNlCyu9wCbFd/s1600/hugh.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mbdR4BH4U8f9Y0Uvd0YVkiLh2KcThd5SXz1FG-KjCRuwVKVRtOsMFC9Bfz2eGv6W_XVtscG3F-tQgtRGBglbcQ5SBjXV35cBx-cIXlhP8X4JjS0KLjqHCWo3mDtCqVrHwNlCyu9wCbFd/s400/hugh.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640896450247708802" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />Honestly, I haven't thoroughly reviewed the photos from the second half of the show, but flipping through, this one stood out for sure! Loved that vest, Richie!
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WeWLfgh5AaxKBRG1VSNaBZbBzUZd6tm5rChoEq7jG_Wp8XbfvQKAdMCnG-DkvvC-vm5XplChI90TTlfZjETmKCqebDOs5nNk3HitX6bJRM66GfzVAl3-H7JkHfxvVqK_NFvLBfr8GoKL/s1600/DSCN5451.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WeWLfgh5AaxKBRG1VSNaBZbBzUZd6tm5rChoEq7jG_Wp8XbfvQKAdMCnG-DkvvC-vm5XplChI90TTlfZjETmKCqebDOs5nNk3HitX6bJRM66GfzVAl3-H7JkHfxvVqK_NFvLBfr8GoKL/s400/DSCN5451.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640893004581142514" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />Richie really was just incredible that night ...
<br />
<br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/f99qggzZKKA?rel=0&hd=1" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="390"></iframe>
<br />
<br />...and Jon is right...that opening from Tico is all it takes. Speaking of Tico, a few shot of the elusive one ...
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMxK6F5K3NGjLZAApv3F89XqJ544ns8FRbqMMGpisyyGRsmIeO5WUvS4DiKXUpiucSZ3e3IBG075ihilOijsvSG55NBJwHaN9tcJSr2YLcp5CRvtXAJvPZB1mxp3wIL9_7z0Ga5-WvcBn/s1600/tico.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMxK6F5K3NGjLZAApv3F89XqJ544ns8FRbqMMGpisyyGRsmIeO5WUvS4DiKXUpiucSZ3e3IBG075ihilOijsvSG55NBJwHaN9tcJSr2YLcp5CRvtXAJvPZB1mxp3wIL9_7z0Ga5-WvcBn/s400/tico.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640894619611048722" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IY4QJS4TQnKUEqyDK2EbToWye1zI-RLENIupRdbInXwW6Fug8XiJDVpNPsspXSi_EC8t78wOBCNDlHD1jRJmJporqcsW97fYkAiD-lJkaeWGOPu4_qrO6Rd6iSzNYebeSiDm3BDpR914/s1600/david+and+tico.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IY4QJS4TQnKUEqyDK2EbToWye1zI-RLENIupRdbInXwW6Fug8XiJDVpNPsspXSi_EC8t78wOBCNDlHD1jRJmJporqcsW97fYkAiD-lJkaeWGOPu4_qrO6Rd6iSzNYebeSiDm3BDpR914/s400/david+and+tico.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640895079860056002" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />...they did play right up until the curfew or within the few minutes after (when they won't be paying hundreds of thousands in fines)...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAarWbMPY3VKU9uji8Z0SHD-SkZk6tJBY32cTmH_wTAKth4ILJ-Yawn_isw5G2KWT_pg5Rg_COlcyKv68EUpEpiPWsyzN5LtlZRfynb6U-dIXsXYIPSTYc-k-QWJxWd5IfN2emfWDthr-/s1600/DSCN5991.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAarWbMPY3VKU9uji8Z0SHD-SkZk6tJBY32cTmH_wTAKth4ILJ-Yawn_isw5G2KWT_pg5Rg_COlcyKv68EUpEpiPWsyzN5LtlZRfynb6U-dIXsXYIPSTYc-k-QWJxWd5IfN2emfWDthr-/s400/DSCN5991.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640895453398191378" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />...but even an amazing night like this one had to eventually come to an end...
<br />
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDapOIrbbQaRZctszmr6KzclddP7IUI-oUK8tGqD1HXWDkUoXkiyeTRLKb8w9zhIhiTyw-dF2rdiN-4_-2IZ_1X8dp60jcWVPjP_LwmqM8kHgdwqQabUIWDhPgfpEuwbDzQcGt5CQV1y3/s1600/DSCN5983.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDapOIrbbQaRZctszmr6KzclddP7IUI-oUK8tGqD1HXWDkUoXkiyeTRLKb8w9zhIhiTyw-dF2rdiN-4_-2IZ_1X8dp60jcWVPjP_LwmqM8kHgdwqQabUIWDhPgfpEuwbDzQcGt5CQV1y3/s400/DSCN5983.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640895689948050690" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br />I can't really describe the whole experience -- but it felt like you were part of history in some way. It is definitely a night I will never forget - watching a band I absolutely love along with my friends (both old and new) in a gorgeous setting on a perfect summer evening. *sigh*
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >
<br />Well, perfect until you try to get 65,000-plus people out of a park! But, that's a story for another time. LOL</span>
<br />
<br />I still have a lot to cover of my trip - there's Bristol and the two Dublins! So, come back ... I promise it won't be so long until the next post. *wink*
<br />Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-56177441738358092802011-07-24T17:20:00.002-04:002011-07-24T17:23:26.095-04:00The Great Chicago Fire of 2011Greetings friends! I have NOT forgotten about y'all ... just been busy. I promise to wrap up my UK/Ireland Bon Jovi trip (complete with LOTS of pictures) this week. But, in the meantime, if you want to head over <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/07/24/no-flames-but-a-whole-lot-of-heat/">here</a>, you can read about one hot night in Chicago.<br /><br />Be back soon!Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-77525727399936753882011-07-15T14:50:00.017-04:002011-07-15T17:16:23.473-04:00Day 3: Mission Impossible...?Now…where was I?<br /><br />Oh, yes. The <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2011/07/stop-1-edinburgh-via-paris-and-dublin.html">show</a> and <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2011/07/day-2-castles-whiskey-and-cough-drops.html">sight-seeing </a>in Edinburgh was truly wonderful, but time to move on to the next destination … LONDON!<br /><br />Besides the Bon Jovi concert in Hyde Park, I had only one goal for my time in this great city – to visit Wimbledon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYzWutcTcUe-kn71C1KyNDdrK0hUvulj1T_M59B30lub7Pwojy9aHHJSlBiCRllgTXV6A-EIXTRPtUeDYMUkP6XGl0BlZjDg7ojM8J_XvkNyeMezaZUEpFnw8jFUsuK3i_2XOxlxESoR_/s1600/wimbledon+logo.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 186px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629643043108536066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYzWutcTcUe-kn71C1KyNDdrK0hUvulj1T_M59B30lub7Pwojy9aHHJSlBiCRllgTXV6A-EIXTRPtUeDYMUkP6XGl0BlZjDg7ojM8J_XvkNyeMezaZUEpFnw8jFUsuK3i_2XOxlxESoR_/s200/wimbledon+logo.JPG" /></a>Growing up, there were two sporting events that were absolutely sacred in our house … The Masters (golf) and Wimbledon (tennis). As for tennis … living in New York City, I have attended the U.S. Open many <em>many</em> times. The excitement and energy of the hard courts in Flushing Meadows is incredible. Night matches there are simply electric. But, the grass courts of Wimbledon … that’s pure magic.<br /><br />After an utterly sleepless first night in London (it was midsummer during my trip, therefore it was totally light out at 4am. huh! who knew?! And remember, I'm still sick as a dog), I headed to The All England Lawn Tennis Club via the tube (which sounds much more refined than “the subway” by the way.)<br /><br />Though I had joked that I was up all night devising a plan to stalk Roger Federer, the truth was that I had no plan at all! All I knew was that I wanted to <strong>be there</strong>. And actually, on the train there were constant announcements that if you didn’t have a ticket to not travel to Wimbledon because the queue was extremely long (at least 6 hours to get in … if you get in at all.) But, being the insanely stubborn person I am, I didn't quite listen.<br /><br />Upon arriving, this is what I found...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWQLv582L_I2v4Ie4N97BWpkWw4e7rVD3B5epPz5BKrgd4y3_sx6yK3WCP-DxTt8U8TJ4K2LwTT16ugP9qcTzQVyngzzZ_pEr83X5QCJ9dQkhFEeoN9G7hIO_78ZDA3gozY2Rz-nQKZSt/s1600/the+queue+sign.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629624574926299282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWQLv582L_I2v4Ie4N97BWpkWw4e7rVD3B5epPz5BKrgd4y3_sx6yK3WCP-DxTt8U8TJ4K2LwTT16ugP9qcTzQVyngzzZ_pEr83X5QCJ9dQkhFEeoN9G7hIO_78ZDA3gozY2Rz-nQKZSt/s400/the+queue+sign.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoOU-EA0hfKPvvv4U4plNwoFXz3OrB2KhiHzuYtjUM6ljeP5TCn4t9-78aUq9RDDFicVZ9hCN8SvkquIhJdS5B2uzNlfxfG6LQ_2mDIdYL_-P7EIH0dKCeJLP2TVWLG6qcip9KSA7IN23/s1600/queue.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629624968358567378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoOU-EA0hfKPvvv4U4plNwoFXz3OrB2KhiHzuYtjUM6ljeP5TCn4t9-78aUq9RDDFicVZ9hCN8SvkquIhJdS5B2uzNlfxfG6LQ_2mDIdYL_-P7EIH0dKCeJLP2TVWLG6qcip9KSA7IN23/s400/queue.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...wouldn't it be great if it was this organized for Jovishows? #JustSaying LOL<br /><br />It was quite apparent there was no way I was going to get in ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofpGvkEdI_zfj03hFwjBj_o8bVk2vIbcItYCqx6L_neW9IQcoIiGFgzhPERsMhzwod90hfE5YS9t2Y7Y8NmjAQNExNNKzAzrrj0Hug4KtiqR9i0lZKx_MnwoH1qAhiZ-2fasm67kOxwdf/s1600/camping+out.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629636429455155218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhofpGvkEdI_zfj03hFwjBj_o8bVk2vIbcItYCqx6L_neW9IQcoIiGFgzhPERsMhzwod90hfE5YS9t2Y7Y8NmjAQNExNNKzAzrrj0Hug4KtiqR9i0lZKx_MnwoH1qAhiZ-2fasm67kOxwdf/s400/camping+out.JPG" /></a><br /><br />But I would be happy to just see the entrance ... or the souvenir shop ... anything! So, I walked up to one of the gates hoping for even a glimpse of the venue I have loved my whole life.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCaQBG82nhd-RsrQLFVVTXQnEFcUq3C4Bf_OhiZsFrdCePpMd6FSs96oDMcHhmBcnvBdeYvcPPyaLZ-pC4aY5SUHtWrZaqZbaa7qFGZEs2IRAXoYYYYZUJvO-dxFmlFoN5V5kaitGoerx/s1600/aeltc.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629638481339667138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCaQBG82nhd-RsrQLFVVTXQnEFcUq3C4Bf_OhiZsFrdCePpMd6FSs96oDMcHhmBcnvBdeYvcPPyaLZ-pC4aY5SUHtWrZaqZbaa7qFGZEs2IRAXoYYYYZUJvO-dxFmlFoN5V5kaitGoerx/s400/aeltc.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...there aren't any tickets available for MONTHS so not sure why they actually have a sign LOL...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvC_R4J5R7CxPWvoBPPTW7fzBIXeALnEzFxLX5inaECKhSBIMmu6MK9-ORqSyNvA-kPTVBB99m_Mv37JPgwbBzEWyLLzC4Yzi4LVL-FUSe14SZFgdnolb3_zkqqnPWqwNhXXf6uIK20C73/s1600/ticket+info.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvC_R4J5R7CxPWvoBPPTW7fzBIXeALnEzFxLX5inaECKhSBIMmu6MK9-ORqSyNvA-kPTVBB99m_Mv37JPgwbBzEWyLLzC4Yzi4LVL-FUSe14SZFgdnolb3_zkqqnPWqwNhXXf6uIK20C73/s400/ticket+info.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629672681826519042" /></a><br /><br />...finally, the guard says "Miss, your ticket please. You can enter here." ... ayyyy, NOW WHAT?!<br /><br />Well, they always say honesty is the best policy. So, I went that route. I told him I was from the States and didn't have a ticket. I told him that I have watched Wimbledon my whole life and to just be able to see it and breathe the same air was a dream come true even if I didn't get to see a match. He asks why I didn't get a ticket and I tell him that I wasn't sure if I'd be able to attend because I am traveling the UK going to Bon Jovi shows. His face lights up and he starts asking me all about the shows! (100 million fans can't be wrong!)<br /><br />Next thing I know, he opens the gate and let's me in! (that's the top of his hat ... don't wanna jeopardize his job ya know!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VabJRLVuhZ-lRCj7hVbvjRyw4E2zGpvTZH9xamMpkindPbowuvG1R-RcKx3D1ZMypNOTbP0mK4Isq0I6_LhOIJG33P1c9qG81lgQ5mS3PWh-YOWw-SNZdNnrL4em5MqNubRnq1LWJBmm/s1600/entrance.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629641621875638194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VabJRLVuhZ-lRCj7hVbvjRyw4E2zGpvTZH9xamMpkindPbowuvG1R-RcKx3D1ZMypNOTbP0mK4Isq0I6_LhOIJG33P1c9qG81lgQ5mS3PWh-YOWw-SNZdNnrL4em5MqNubRnq1LWJBmm/s400/entrance.JPG" /></a><br /><br />He tells me we have ten minutes and he can show me around a little but I can't stay for any matches (COMPLETELY fair as I don't have a ticket and people have been waiting days to get in.)<br /><br />OMG OMG OMG! I can't breathe ... this is awesome. So, he walked with me and shared a few of his stories about meeting different players. And my dream is realized -- I'm actually standing on the grounds of Wimbledon. My dad would be proud. *sigh*<br /><br />After my mini-tour, he takes me back to the gate where I shock the *&%$ out of him with a hug and thank him profusely. He tells me to sing extra loud at the Hyde Park show and off he sends me.<br /><br />Wow. That was pretty cool.<br /><br />I spent a little time in Wimbledon Village (which was complete chaos because <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Murray">Andy Murray </a>was due to play that day) and then headed back into the city.<br /><br />After walking around Covent Garden and grabbing a bite to eat...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU73Iqs9Xxo-ZeT8CLAivkIMhlG1GIesGYkXEOABAxiquLOVKB9b8s9i5gtZSTcCxCtnJnBEEQonC4Bo9tsxn87Y9xMD1VSRhNgCbWRCzdvBnWZakkyp_iLMRrKQrXmdlsEUDfn8GJQJus/s1600/covent+garden.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629647729744353778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU73Iqs9Xxo-ZeT8CLAivkIMhlG1GIesGYkXEOABAxiquLOVKB9b8s9i5gtZSTcCxCtnJnBEEQonC4Bo9tsxn87Y9xMD1VSRhNgCbWRCzdvBnWZakkyp_iLMRrKQrXmdlsEUDfn8GJQJus/s400/covent+garden.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyp1xDhl2oBaIqbgKBZ6ujQimE8Epq1cBcWntSGdehxwT5HvoqJKwY-fdIugxa-CWHaK6Tk2OdR5eQn5eWweTBOttX_AGaAHCJH4J_P6K91Gilhx0zfqUHucmwfq6Sr1u6HXZaTmAHh4f8/s1600/co.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629647902554458178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyp1xDhl2oBaIqbgKBZ6ujQimE8Epq1cBcWntSGdehxwT5HvoqJKwY-fdIugxa-CWHaK6Tk2OdR5eQn5eWweTBOttX_AGaAHCJH4J_P6K91Gilhx0zfqUHucmwfq6Sr1u6HXZaTmAHh4f8/s400/co.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...I headed over to Picadilly Circus, sort of the Times Square of London...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi54rHItDZNFFuawdcKQ-ynJDgq_cXqE7Pkepz6tCfB89hGq9Z6OW0vCHnb8-QKPYR_iAo9uldjV35Gc3CGPkBK74UVSYqrZnVXxyYPRGER6mulPfP66r5feUbf6KVVG34h-v6cQ8zpzrw-/s1600/Piccadilly%252520Circus.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629648785794821122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi54rHItDZNFFuawdcKQ-ynJDgq_cXqE7Pkepz6tCfB89hGq9Z6OW0vCHnb8-QKPYR_iAo9uldjV35Gc3CGPkBK74UVSYqrZnVXxyYPRGER6mulPfP66r5feUbf6KVVG34h-v6cQ8zpzrw-/s400/Piccadilly%252520Circus.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Not too surprisingly, I felt very comfortable in London. I'm a city girl. I just needed a lot more time there to explore. I'm looking forward to returning in October for the Jukes tour. <br /><br />I eventually made it back to our hotel to meet up with the girls for dinner and a bit of shopping for Saturday's grand activity.<br /><br />Next up: the BIG concert ... Bon Jovi/Hyde Park/Hard Rock Calling ... bring on the crowds!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3MORU5BB_6aO94-RKepAikxRUpQUBdXveLx-KrV-XtCzFdBJb_DE9L6aZGI-zvU8ebii8yDh50ydQpAogomMW8xoIiP8BQk6kZv2QWRBsWpatkq7HMbrhu6D4X8XFrL18NrXYEk8MJor/s1600/fc+sign+at+hyde+park.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629651825369868914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3MORU5BB_6aO94-RKepAikxRUpQUBdXveLx-KrV-XtCzFdBJb_DE9L6aZGI-zvU8ebii8yDh50ydQpAogomMW8xoIiP8BQk6kZv2QWRBsWpatkq7HMbrhu6D4X8XFrL18NrXYEk8MJor/s400/fc+sign+at+hyde+park.JPG" /></a>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-25996575809113659932011-07-11T13:25:00.012-04:002011-07-11T15:49:41.082-04:00Day 2: Castles, Whiskey and Cough Drops<div align="left"><em>...sorry for the delay in posting. Crazy, fun weekend. DJ3K!</em><br /><br />Okay ... onto Day 2 of my Bon Jovi UK adventure.<br /><br />The concert in Edinburgh had been fantastic. The crowd fabulous. The set list wonderful. The confetti ... EVERYWHERE! LOL But, unfortunately, it had rained ... a lot - cold, windy rain - and that wreaked havoc on my flight-weary body so that by the next morning, I was downright SICK ... yep, fever, cough, congestion, achiness. UGH!<br /><br />But the show must go on!<br /><br />Another lesson learned quickly while "on tour" ... there are two kinds of days: sitting ones (concert days - in the queue) and walking ones (non-concert days - sightseeing.) So, after a quick stop at the pharmacy to get me some heavy-duty meds, we got on the bus and headed off to check out the city and Edinburgh Castle, in particular.<br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zHoo5QeuEkOg8Jiw0PzkRIN7PKePQs1pURDzwMgi-buGeuz9QFyJf2oArKxenOjHZTjXQvEFL3lje0Kcx_Ly9uwq6OTV4J74ExyYcVbUR_Obkgu-mBiLYDjiItXhe4Ey74Qi5cJN3Njm/s1600/national+gallery.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628128053141749810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zHoo5QeuEkOg8Jiw0PzkRIN7PKePQs1pURDzwMgi-buGeuz9QFyJf2oArKxenOjHZTjXQvEFL3lje0Kcx_Ly9uwq6OTV4J74ExyYcVbUR_Obkgu-mBiLYDjiItXhe4Ey74Qi5cJN3Njm/s400/national+gallery.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJCRZi1hbkkuU1fiwNMLQgSZeEjkCcU5ERWqBmNo5C4wgmdpiWRg-8b03_G-o1Mmw71LRMATZ3dp3Q3FowB8WZc3bIwpg6aKt_WZUtX4lHSVpu0xjcBHBxe60e3_hMogBLnsBeFvaWThs/s1600/gardens.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628128211815120674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJCRZi1hbkkuU1fiwNMLQgSZeEjkCcU5ERWqBmNo5C4wgmdpiWRg-8b03_G-o1Mmw71LRMATZ3dp3Q3FowB8WZc3bIwpg6aKt_WZUtX4lHSVpu0xjcBHBxe60e3_hMogBLnsBeFvaWThs/s400/gardens.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSxKXVerLwZthyphenhyphenXXYn7h2mwLxdVnQ1ZilgH7CdetoekYzjBCO8645vpHFUbN7_zMQDLBBgpFKMZSEYi0CWlER3K_Xl8dXgv1OTUDQ4PLZCAWu-XXmnNs5QXoRhPozbEAg9BflSzRvWJbS/s1600/church+-+tourist+center.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628128414116016946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSxKXVerLwZthyphenhyphenXXYn7h2mwLxdVnQ1ZilgH7CdetoekYzjBCO8645vpHFUbN7_zMQDLBBgpFKMZSEYi0CWlER3K_Xl8dXgv1OTUDQ4PLZCAWu-XXmnNs5QXoRhPozbEAg9BflSzRvWJbS/s400/church+-+tourist+center.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-pW_bshamfVF5Jf50-oB6WMZh2t5uYw1ldcSYtBz-W_InXimQWmJ_gHcYjEKXHOJD_bGp4fseelcV-58ACO1DAcODVvgEtbWyCmm5PUy-NwnOjdY3gor11h1EgUTkoE2oZqewC0B5Ylv/s1600/castle+from+street+below.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628128885643152946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-pW_bshamfVF5Jf50-oB6WMZh2t5uYw1ldcSYtBz-W_InXimQWmJ_gHcYjEKXHOJD_bGp4fseelcV-58ACO1DAcODVvgEtbWyCmm5PUy-NwnOjdY3gor11h1EgUTkoE2oZqewC0B5Ylv/s400/castle+from+street+below.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuj0N8dI0VG5mBDspei4AB3A3YNIExcMkia1Fbsz1Z4yfY_QcWK9XKKL6KWGgepqm7lfZt73kbrIs3zCWBNO_JsSqHsCiz-yYKd4NZ38m3JvC4zngMyyKp3UgCOZtf_rIhPXKY_bwAOVJ/s1600/castle+-+far.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628129075761190194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuj0N8dI0VG5mBDspei4AB3A3YNIExcMkia1Fbsz1Z4yfY_QcWK9XKKL6KWGgepqm7lfZt73kbrIs3zCWBNO_JsSqHsCiz-yYKd4NZ38m3JvC4zngMyyKp3UgCOZtf_rIhPXKY_bwAOVJ/s400/castle+-+far.JPG" /></a><br /><br />..after walking the winding streets of the city (including meeting an extremely funny guy who was dressed up as <a href="http://scrapetv.com/News/News%20Pages/Entertainment/images-4/braveheart-3.jpg">Braveheart</a>), we finally made our way up to the castle...<br /><br />...the entrance...complete with quintessential moat! (no alligators, though, I checked. LOL)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2IFGjc392u9_O6BGtusU_9IUYddx18wg4XfrxsE96jFnP51YTAMgZlqymuR1J8lch7CJtYSct6Ucdl9ohx5jAUJGgCfiUBaKOzWCsqsyiWmX4bQBdoLeDBM6vyHO1FhFiqLXYoaMtEcp/s1600/castle+entrance.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628130764056164194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2IFGjc392u9_O6BGtusU_9IUYddx18wg4XfrxsE96jFnP51YTAMgZlqymuR1J8lch7CJtYSct6Ucdl9ohx5jAUJGgCfiUBaKOzWCsqsyiWmX4bQBdoLeDBM6vyHO1FhFiqLXYoaMtEcp/s400/castle+entrance.JPG" /></a><br /><br />They are in the midst of preparing for the world-famous <a href="http://www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/">Edinburgh Festival </a>so lots of construction going on ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDt-sEf-VDiQ45OK1wYdE268AyjlMlYObGHWaoF0_ssXoEIR0-poSQT_8wlTfbzeJml5jb9DBtd1fZWXu5PXJYeUZjaZ-_9JSHmtumBftb-nnSzQjMw2RQiW6IMd9hlf3reb0YdQH3Ts4d/s1600/tattoo+prep+sign.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628133581199355618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDt-sEf-VDiQ45OK1wYdE268AyjlMlYObGHWaoF0_ssXoEIR0-poSQT_8wlTfbzeJml5jb9DBtd1fZWXu5PXJYeUZjaZ-_9JSHmtumBftb-nnSzQjMw2RQiW6IMd9hlf3reb0YdQH3Ts4d/s400/tattoo+prep+sign.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6aNHqfvrYGAqT_dFA0g-jfRa_QfBv_u7VIPatXOGf5yx3Eu5NRXvyry78Dsuon7SP9hQXocU9wg4HGjaHi0LINOpWACcFZmzRSa3MF0W9Zb0VmWK7ePLto79196qhjhDMmzxSiV-u_RTg/s1600/tattoo+prep.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628133684625959042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6aNHqfvrYGAqT_dFA0g-jfRa_QfBv_u7VIPatXOGf5yx3Eu5NRXvyry78Dsuon7SP9hQXocU9wg4HGjaHi0LINOpWACcFZmzRSa3MF0W9Zb0VmWK7ePLto79196qhjhDMmzxSiV-u_RTg/s400/tattoo+prep.JPG" /></a><br /><br />I would love to be able to come back to experience the military tattoo ... must be an amazing sight!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXI-pN8uUQdmi7wYLh3-jRq45OHEsu5oraMb_kz8IGq9TWmht5INSYmvEhjFqqPN21YfMDq2OUtxbWGSQvrJufi3NN9EZNm-9XEcAHEc7djUi-pIDmoz8Fc4d1Fl2giqk-XIChq1MT-BMr/s1600/EdinburghTattoo.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628134479908226994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXI-pN8uUQdmi7wYLh3-jRq45OHEsu5oraMb_kz8IGq9TWmht5INSYmvEhjFqqPN21YfMDq2OUtxbWGSQvrJufi3NN9EZNm-9XEcAHEc7djUi-pIDmoz8Fc4d1Fl2giqk-XIChq1MT-BMr/s400/EdinburghTattoo.jpg" /><br /><p align="center"></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(obviously not my picture. haha)</span><br /></p><p align="left">After all that walking and picture-taking, we just had to stop for a drink, yes? And what better place for a slightly-ailing American than <a href="http://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/index.php">The Scotch Whiskey Experience</a>!? We opted out of the barrel ride through the production facility and headed straight for the cafe.<br /><br />...ahh, it looks like an innocent cup of coffee, but ... woohee!<br /><br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qaY9RPzLVdl2apdLvOofr42I8e8ygfxeey0xb9DkYK-W_tIwaSZiqyiuJxW6WsAVn6853oqBoCLaLv_uyK_vnOzmVDO67Y088EWPCyvO7cdHCUO06bq8VKyHPTQJQuOVhzz1a-ggY_-r/s1600/whiskey+coffee.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628135805796845234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qaY9RPzLVdl2apdLvOofr42I8e8ygfxeey0xb9DkYK-W_tIwaSZiqyiuJxW6WsAVn6853oqBoCLaLv_uyK_vnOzmVDO67Y088EWPCyvO7cdHCUO06bq8VKyHPTQJQuOVhzz1a-ggY_-r/s400/whiskey+coffee.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Of course...we had to also try some straight whiskey...you know, for medicinal purposes! *wink*<br /><br />But, soon enough it was time to get back to the hotel to pick up our bags and head to the airport. I really wish I'd had more time in Scotland. The people there were incredibly kind and the city of Edinburgh had so much more I wanted to explore. I will be back!<br /><br />Next stop: LONDON...and a dream come true!<br /><br />p.s. Amusing side note: during the concert, Jon Bon Jovi mentioned that he wanted to move to Scotland...Jon did you happen to see this on your way to the venue? Look! Each of the guys could have their own wing! It was right across the street from our hotel. I thought it would make a really cool music conservatory. Can you imagine the heating bill for that thing?! But, still ... c'mon lottery numbers!! Haha.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA73_LBWELaj-E5rnYXWlAHjKeprSxP5e9BqUZ3Ryj7JB7eBWU7qMm1P1R5n-3BjkKkdJE25I7IDGLeVDtfAX7SaN74NDdM1gmtBUcC9snt59DnATpMFye2J9BP0cyGl7-AMwEGB7NT7in/s1600/for+sale.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628146879540883026" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA73_LBWELaj-E5rnYXWlAHjKeprSxP5e9BqUZ3Ryj7JB7eBWU7qMm1P1R5n-3BjkKkdJE25I7IDGLeVDtfAX7SaN74NDdM1gmtBUcC9snt59DnATpMFye2J9BP0cyGl7-AMwEGB7NT7in/s400/for+sale.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYaJXTaMb4Mp6-oJ6G9li1i9STHE3JEEuAJvbk7rWzRMaADLGTXcB4XvB_TMRrAf5iWZvin9WTlnY5sb0SFI43iYlRbKYUuMk2ixN6_POJ4Nm4ZjFC2e9ANOhiTqx5tbnfus161kdqnXh/s1600/college.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628147080204098434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYaJXTaMb4Mp6-oJ6G9li1i9STHE3JEEuAJvbk7rWzRMaADLGTXcB4XvB_TMRrAf5iWZvin9WTlnY5sb0SFI43iYlRbKYUuMk2ixN6_POJ4Nm4ZjFC2e9ANOhiTqx5tbnfus161kdqnXh/s400/college.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...oh, and just so that you don't forget what's still coming up...<br /><br />Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpCHuEQJ_0gtSTTjlcGjfa2vXDrtOUYco2anlF4YEm-3YBNmCpXhSPzVllTLIvhwtKXndAwf849azLk63bbVwxGRDeD-_h-b6r1XfkqC19V3Zsu5bhErlsCQPviUHMXm_FUPjs-RhXONU/s1600/hyde+park+1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628148349917397442" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpCHuEQJ_0gtSTTjlcGjfa2vXDrtOUYco2anlF4YEm-3YBNmCpXhSPzVllTLIvhwtKXndAwf849azLk63bbVwxGRDeD-_h-b6r1XfkqC19V3Zsu5bhErlsCQPviUHMXm_FUPjs-RhXONU/s400/hyde+park+1.JPG" /></a><br /><br />A rainy night in Bristol...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7uSNgIVMZZ9XBRgizKOw-8QDoKMRRNEBef5EKxVESTt5Anx3Ez74zNjUplghUI-NamWzeiT3hqxDuVAHUVu3P9gNF_DhxNuERfzLg0_G0wHleCj-FaVWm-6LcFb-qljHdTGQSlr56mcj/s1600/bristol+1+-+low+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628150574330341794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7uSNgIVMZZ9XBRgizKOw-8QDoKMRRNEBef5EKxVESTt5Anx3Ez74zNjUplghUI-NamWzeiT3hqxDuVAHUVu3P9gNF_DhxNuERfzLg0_G0wHleCj-FaVWm-6LcFb-qljHdTGQSlr56mcj/s400/bristol+1+-+low+res.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...and of course...the two Dublin shows.Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-40391746146882871632011-07-06T14:00:00.004-04:002011-07-06T15:01:08.498-04:00Stop 1: Edinburgh (via Paris and Dublin)<div align="left">So, where do I begin?<br /><br />Well, if it's Tuesday, this must be Scotland! (points for whoever gets the cinema reference! *wink*)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2b9gAIe3keMquNDDxHBDBnDJPsrXiWzgTWzeat5tZGfjiw9fafkja0o9u2RM3ypbggKE4Pqqyff1Bsv86k73YOWCEJmJROno-PM6ik92naJqQG2fc_UeXvrISK1W-R-SK-hWQlbLGvyuU/s1600/guinness1.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626256395431138978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2b9gAIe3keMquNDDxHBDBnDJPsrXiWzgTWzeat5tZGfjiw9fafkja0o9u2RM3ypbggKE4Pqqyff1Bsv86k73YOWCEJmJROno-PM6ik92naJqQG2fc_UeXvrISK1W-R-SK-hWQlbLGvyuU/s200/guinness1.jpg" /></a>I like to travel. Really, I do. And generally, I travel pretty well. But, admittedly, after three flights (NYC to Paris; Paris to Dublin; Dublin to Edinburgh) I was VERY happy to finally arrive at my destination.<br /><br />I think it was the 7-hour layover in Dublin that was particularly annoying -- THOUGH I did end up hanging at a pub watching Wimbledon (go Roger!) while drinking my first pint of Guinness. By the way, it is ABSOLUTELY true that Guinness in Ireland tastes infinitely better than Guinness in the States. Seriously, it's like two completely different beers.<br /><br />Nonetheless, I was relieved to finally land in very rainy Scotland (rain: that would become the ongoing theme of this trip) to the welcoming cheers from the crazy Gs. For those of you new to the blog, that would be my much-loved German girls with whom I've had many wild and wonderful adventures.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxfQlSkzaouJodhHr0neVJQ22Pxirlqoj_DAMphfqx_mhtqwnHU6kyM1sw5BByfN_26QGpQDRSh3v41Hoh2NCr1hxxRIaF5JdrR8uZIgQ-bFC5V4A2IT-5kYfBmb-PwgIq7oIGU1TzmQx/s1600/edinburgh+hotel.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626255753617579842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxfQlSkzaouJodhHr0neVJQ22Pxirlqoj_DAMphfqx_mhtqwnHU6kyM1sw5BByfN_26QGpQDRSh3v41Hoh2NCr1hxxRIaF5JdrR8uZIgQ-bFC5V4A2IT-5kYfBmb-PwgIq7oIGU1TzmQx/s320/edinburgh+hotel.JPG" /></a>We stayed at the most adorable bed and breakfast place, not too far from the concert venue (good thinking, Rike!) Contrary to the picture, no ... the place wasn't tilting, that was me. LOL<br /><br />After a traditional English breakfast the next morning, we headed over to Murrayfield to get our numbers and pick up our tickets. I learned quickly the importance of breakfast on show days ... because once you got in the queue, you more often than not didn't end up eating too much the rest of the day (as can be told by the Hyde Park show, when I basically had four cough drops all day. LOL) I also learned that from the hours and hours of waiting to get into the venue, fan club members overseas truly know and take care of eachother. Throughout this whole trip, I was happy to meet so many people I had known online either through the club, this blog or on Twitter.<br /><br />We finally were allowed to enter and I staked out my spot in the first row. I was blessed to be surrounded by some super-fun fans which certainly helped pass the time as we waited for the local band (<a href="http://local.stv.tv/edinburgh/news/20580-bon-jovi-support-band-winners-scottish-val-verde-tell-kirsty-stewart-klara-louise-dixon-about-their-once-in-a-lifetime-experience/">Val Verde </a>... who were great) and the support act (Vintage Trouble) to take the stage. At some point, it started raining (of course, this is Scotland!) and pretty much continued on and off throughout the rest of the evening.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0n-SSecH7BllAWBbTJYXFOcymFcwLnG16MHPPDR-wm-Iz-qp4n75ovhdV4vHDtpTFcMGy7baZgopcuEQe2I0Dk4q0zmRDy2Cg4sYoFAiu6pM3o-1EKb31IbitTqQPEh4QNa2rg93NHYQ/s1600/DSCN3306-lower+res.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626263286079860306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0n-SSecH7BllAWBbTJYXFOcymFcwLnG16MHPPDR-wm-Iz-qp4n75ovhdV4vHDtpTFcMGy7baZgopcuEQe2I0Dk4q0zmRDy2Cg4sYoFAiu6pM3o-1EKb31IbitTqQPEh4QNa2rg93NHYQ/s400/DSCN3306-lower+res.JPG" /></a>I was anxious to experience Bon Jovi in the UK, having heard all the stories about overseas fans and set lists, etc. etc. etc. I was definitely not disappointed. The show was fantastic ... the energy, completely different than in the States. I do still feel that having all the diehard fans together in the front (of either the diamond circle or the golden circle) makes a big difference. But, whatever the case, I was smitten from the first moments.<br /><br />Of course, I hadn't seen a concert since Jon Bon Jovi injured his knee in Helsinki so I was curious as to exactly how much he was able to move around. In true Jon fashion, nothing was slowing him down. And, the rain wasn't slowing the crowd down in the least. Oh, I FINALLY got to take part in the whole confetti/Capt Crash chaos -- I am pretty sure I'll be finding confetti in my stuff for months to come! LOL <br /><br />I had a blast joking around with David during Who Says You Can't Go Home (this became a nightly occurence as I was wearing my NY Yankees cap at every show. LOL) And, what a treat to get Wild is the Wind (have always loved that song) and a fantastic version of These Days. But, the utimate moment of the night ... hearing (in its original form for the first time since I think 95/96 for me) <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_AqA8q0ric">this incredible song</a>! (video by Deweyjovi - great meeting you in the pit that night! *smile*)<br /><br />Because of the rain, I wasn't able to take quite as many pictures as I normally do, but here are a few of my favorites ...<br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixU0aYuN1Dj6mHvdsFGt9htPBZs2IY_LuDgledifE25UT_CxecEark6Ffe_3qrSusKzE9nnWhk091yzm3OgoJqlg0zDL5oTOom69ITXF0zFGh2eUuWJxNctQS1d-xFSDZQmJJdt0G87N1A/s1600/pout+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626268249818661298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixU0aYuN1Dj6mHvdsFGt9htPBZs2IY_LuDgledifE25UT_CxecEark6Ffe_3qrSusKzE9nnWhk091yzm3OgoJqlg0zDL5oTOom69ITXF0zFGh2eUuWJxNctQS1d-xFSDZQmJJdt0G87N1A/s400/pout+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJi3gWUUVS6G35Mhb0T2iGGwbmWmfU_gOWNQS-ZXLWNplwEzFKQQjzjW5-MsNpzBSQ5TisekR_cUVmCwUpku_C-XPAHNJW-JjmBRlKqddjxih234hEi4NoqkHSgmpZkn6x34hjq4Pmyc3/s1600/richie+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626268425153646370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJi3gWUUVS6G35Mhb0T2iGGwbmWmfU_gOWNQS-ZXLWNplwEzFKQQjzjW5-MsNpzBSQ5TisekR_cUVmCwUpku_C-XPAHNJW-JjmBRlKqddjxih234hEi4NoqkHSgmpZkn6x34hjq4Pmyc3/s400/richie+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2ECttnyWLMymLBWr2VdNA6DpLtYqILq97oytBjS1dxWm-a2cJyuxGYU6XvFHgKgY3VlQ3Cdm6Xyogn74ZN40mMkuMylGRxUPO13j7t4ug-4s0pUKWsl828-18X0s2cpJ6ETIgUUyaVDj/s1600/jon+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626269604116266370" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2ECttnyWLMymLBWr2VdNA6DpLtYqILq97oytBjS1dxWm-a2cJyuxGYU6XvFHgKgY3VlQ3Cdm6Xyogn74ZN40mMkuMylGRxUPO13j7t4ug-4s0pUKWsl828-18X0s2cpJ6ETIgUUyaVDj/s400/jon+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626269912749713282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-z67OsRqXm-BhTj2V1dGE-T_ZF4bp7d_1Kj11CLM5-uMuvwQ2YumZ5cYlwf1u_XmCLu4mr5ZgR8TvtwCS7lSBekIqDDDxwqwAzsU_Ui_cLD4MOJvFVobJQu2XGqRSKbafTnjBzeN484Kh/s400/richie+jon+bobby+-+lower+res.JPG" /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><em><span style="font-size:78%;">(it's not perfect but I sort of like how Jon is clear and Richie and Bobby are blurred a bit)</span> </em><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyh7tOLv5iZ02PrnekG63SbFTzrDgUAmy8y0V4qjj7NGebiy8O_1vSsargp8CRksnYoB3YoUdsiP84wvti0AvC6qT9-yxxdtWQpVxFBpnjoG7-GhOrwA9uDmP_Jjl-xE1pfwaexEF0BTkB/s1600/richie+-+smile+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626270276159954882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyh7tOLv5iZ02PrnekG63SbFTzrDgUAmy8y0V4qjj7NGebiy8O_1vSsargp8CRksnYoB3YoUdsiP84wvti0AvC6qT9-yxxdtWQpVxFBpnjoG7-GhOrwA9uDmP_Jjl-xE1pfwaexEF0BTkB/s400/richie+-+smile+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br />...and here's the throw...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2IH9t9HOycSzNmlJ3lfpC2qzj3XQ6SyzBrtonB3QOSzi5E8vw0CxmPezsQSXXoD9a8UuftJXx8LBHXa61uoMeV2m6QFCrogoBQRk_cnlTIIeutqgNS6rQHlRsog2SaOUHx1PYwvfD9T3s/s1600/will+he+catch+them+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626276652408679778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2IH9t9HOycSzNmlJ3lfpC2qzj3XQ6SyzBrtonB3QOSzi5E8vw0CxmPezsQSXXoD9a8UuftJXx8LBHXa61uoMeV2m6QFCrogoBQRk_cnlTIIeutqgNS6rQHlRsog2SaOUHx1PYwvfD9T3s/s400/will+he+catch+them+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br />...another successful maracas catch! LOL ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIHsgxVjUJmYQp5ockCY95MItvKqDChmenY97V285PUJLTYJpuc0FgCHvRqI0hDdcPZrCU1IjKD_Z4rkq8Md6RFAJX8TrqYOUesrT4o1noXhWw32y3a6kbUgVIEDxoKfz_nnC6r1yOrKV/s1600/catch+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626271388924143058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIHsgxVjUJmYQp5ockCY95MItvKqDChmenY97V285PUJLTYJpuc0FgCHvRqI0hDdcPZrCU1IjKD_Z4rkq8Md6RFAJX8TrqYOUesrT4o1noXhWw32y3a6kbUgVIEDxoKfz_nnC6r1yOrKV/s400/catch+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8hlCgJT1IO9hytfc-1gqZKFi6K0iypjALBICBZ7J5dodOYVYvaDMe8hIhxCDG2_dTI0a9zT0fzHY_s9h9ezhHTAC0CXUCPnqjsRdiMqc0u6vuezuYHbbPVWKtzLLocMQHdgUjxwnAhkl/s1600/richie+and+jon+wanted+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626283016886210770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8hlCgJT1IO9hytfc-1gqZKFi6K0iypjALBICBZ7J5dodOYVYvaDMe8hIhxCDG2_dTI0a9zT0fzHY_s9h9ezhHTAC0CXUCPnqjsRdiMqc0u6vuezuYHbbPVWKtzLLocMQHdgUjxwnAhkl/s400/richie+and+jon+wanted+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKMVFQoKXSgFKV7UsUbPNj1g0vpy659EN2Av7KX_KXT_NQw6BsucPz_Es6NBCv4rYxw0EIvHBivI34XZ0FPp4UVFZ2VsEIznM8f6Rdekiwazykn83u8ZRa9LBBua6GhstHwtLFHiCXrynv/s1600/richie+2+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626294974525946946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKMVFQoKXSgFKV7UsUbPNj1g0vpy659EN2Av7KX_KXT_NQw6BsucPz_Es6NBCv4rYxw0EIvHBivI34XZ0FPp4UVFZ2VsEIznM8f6Rdekiwazykn83u8ZRa9LBBua6GhstHwtLFHiCXrynv/s400/richie+2+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeXJrKtpc-8g748BzU4JbljGQtPAZ9xXW1vnuppSj86r2IJAjHsumemG-PGPelf9NF9TPLr_OMayz2Z5p9jDISb68j6tVkosdVWucmAIGqiHcB5ZylRgDtLnEBYKBifWdLkMWClpN1mvp/s1600/bows+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626283351746804066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeXJrKtpc-8g748BzU4JbljGQtPAZ9xXW1vnuppSj86r2IJAjHsumemG-PGPelf9NF9TPLr_OMayz2Z5p9jDISb68j6tVkosdVWucmAIGqiHcB5ZylRgDtLnEBYKBifWdLkMWClpN1mvp/s400/bows+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br />...Jon encouraging the crowd to make even more noise...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqsOMYCiBa_Bw1z_KO9dNt9oAySRZSUAMuxuwswJEw44jJoqVcZj5PLzeG93GH4Y2jNx2GL0HVv6w6xydVY-yaEoYH9HpHv0kOo4lYitWLP0PwRAIuaqaKxM6XWbGeNtjOjyjgMTT6j-w/s1600/more+noise+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626283528884969154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqsOMYCiBa_Bw1z_KO9dNt9oAySRZSUAMuxuwswJEw44jJoqVcZj5PLzeG93GH4Y2jNx2GL0HVv6w6xydVY-yaEoYH9HpHv0kOo4lYitWLP0PwRAIuaqaKxM6XWbGeNtjOjyjgMTT6j-w/s400/more+noise+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a> </div><br /><br /><p>By the end of the concert, I had fallen in love with Bon Jovi all over again ... their energy, the songs, the brotherhood and, regardless of Jon being in obvious discomfort with his knee, the aura that just surrounds one of the greatest frontmen in the history of rock.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHTwCAEM_BZ31dEICpF04So3Oa1ejSHkaw6tNE2q5bRl3HRYlOlw8ROlAA3goIR-vQbxeT4YhlciYHS7eeIDNXehaQxVmv2K6sA7FIZXobygy97qGyFj8jqIkTrxx7LZgCHzy9LImqcU7/s1600/grimace+-+lower+res.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626294612734464130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHTwCAEM_BZ31dEICpF04So3Oa1ejSHkaw6tNE2q5bRl3HRYlOlw8ROlAA3goIR-vQbxeT4YhlciYHS7eeIDNXehaQxVmv2K6sA7FIZXobygy97qGyFj8jqIkTrxx7LZgCHzy9LImqcU7/s400/grimace+-+lower+res.JPG" /></a><br /><br />And, that was just day ONE of the trip! </p><br /><br /><p>p.s. I already thought of at least 5 things I wanted to put into this post ... so come back tomorrow. LOL #SoManyMemories!</p>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-69597185554077346642011-07-04T10:07:00.012-04:002011-07-11T14:09:18.802-04:002011...Halfway ThereGreetings fellow music fans! Happy Fourth of July to my American friends -- and happy Monday <span style="font-style: italic;">(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ayyy</span>...sorry)</span> to my other buddies.<br /><br />So ... I have returned from my crazy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Jovi</span> UK/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Eurotour</span> adventure. And what an adventure it was! I certainly will be sharing stories and pictures from the road over the next week or so. An unforgettable 10 days for sure.<br /><br />But, given that we are halfway through 2011, it's time for my mid-year pick for performance of the first six months. There have been some truly great evenings since we rang in the new year -- from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Kronos</span> Quartet at Carnegie Hall (awesome!) to Elvis Costello at the Beacon Theatre. There have been <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jukes</span> shows and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Jovi</span> shows, small chamber music concerts and big festival rock-n-roll shows.<br /><br />In the end, though, there were <span style="font-weight: bold;">TWO</span> shows that stand out. The first made it in just under the wire on June 30<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span>. Yes, I'm talking about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Jovi</span> in Dublin night 2.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNS5dUX7sMPA5VtfNEfpTxBLanix5gwFiApXb4y7LmvvoNLeokrYOo3V1hXXQxqqynwkyWdYi1C8CD0zuSBYDn7hzHITzfECrSMhYCIbelcR0GMY-M0NYcHP59en6wkyzB6Ognf93wykx/s1600/bounce+sign.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNS5dUX7sMPA5VtfNEfpTxBLanix5gwFiApXb4y7LmvvoNLeokrYOo3V1hXXQxqqynwkyWdYi1C8CD0zuSBYDn7hzHITzfECrSMhYCIbelcR0GMY-M0NYcHP59en6wkyzB6Ognf93wykx/s320/bounce+sign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625506139659507442" border="0" /></a>As many of you know, that was my 200<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span> show (I'm trying not to think about the $$$. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">LOL</span>) and more than anything I really wanted to hear Bounce. Jon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Jovi</span> will never know the personal significance that song has for me (some of you do) but it marks more than just a concert milestone for me and will always hold a special place in my heart. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Anyhoo</span>, I do believe Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Rockstar</span> may have been trying to screw with me a bit during the fan club event as when he said they were trying to decide between Happy Now and Bounce he just smirked at me. Stinker!<br /><br />Well, given that we all know he lies (heck, even he admits it, right?) ... I was pleasantly surprised that they opened the show with "my" song. Wanting to just enjoy the moment, I didn't record or take pictures during it. Luckily, many other people did ... here's a great clip by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Jovigirlfm</span> (who <span style="font-style: italic;">always</span> takes great video!)<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5cnDQI8fQog?rel=0&hd=1" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="390"></iframe><br /><br />But, it wasn't only hearing one of my all-time favorite songs that made this such an extraordinary concert. It was the incredible combination of the set list (Damned/If Loving You is Wrong, Love for Sale, Hey God, Never Say Goodbye all in the same show!!!), the venue, the crowd and the band at the top of its game. I can see now why <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">JBJ</span> loves Dublin so much. It's pretty easy to fall in love with the city, the people and the energy there. Between the perfect weather, a crowd hungry for as much as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Jovi</span> was willing to put out (and that was a lot), the concert morphed into one of those epic nights that just kept getting more and more unbelievable.<br /><br />Oh, and by the way, we got Happy Now as well *wink*<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vEWPH9N1Izw?rel=0&hd=1" allowfullscreen="" width="640" frameborder="0" height="390"></iframe><br /><br />This show was the perfect way to close out my five remarkable concerts in the UK/Europe ... a ton of friends, a great band, a fabulous crowd ... and a song from Jon. Doesn't get much better than that!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMu8CMbu_JNXpE5l2UrDZtEbxSaoEUAPNAHlD4rwvMzjYPQWDskKmA7cUpTr7CGLawSBeFCbeJ1kQdxlg9JLLuSM0E9DpdMAj4V0CbiXUwUZPcUZ4Zch_zEk5zuKggtbJr4pGDBcvIu3fc/s1600/jon+dublin+2+finger+point.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMu8CMbu_JNXpE5l2UrDZtEbxSaoEUAPNAHlD4rwvMzjYPQWDskKmA7cUpTr7CGLawSBeFCbeJ1kQdxlg9JLLuSM0E9DpdMAj4V0CbiXUwUZPcUZ4Zch_zEk5zuKggtbJr4pGDBcvIu3fc/s400/jon+dublin+2+finger+point.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625511467898537202" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br />BUT WAIT!</span><br /><br />...as I said earlier, there were <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">TWO</span> shows that defined the first half of the year. It would be criminal not to talk about the show that had a juggernaut hold on the "best of the year" performance up until the very last day of June.<br /><br />Where <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Jovi</span> can take an entire crowd of 60,000 on a ride, the performance by the Early Elton Trio of "Madman Across the Water" in January was that kind of rare musical experience where the listener is transported to a place where it is just them and the artist. I equate it to a film sequence where the main characters are in crystal clear focus and the entire world around them is a blur. That's what this performance was like. It is one of those feelings that can't really translate to video ... but here is what I suggest: maximize your screen, turn down the lights, use earphones so you can hear everything -- and when you get to the solo in the middle, just close your eyes and listen. Jeff <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Kazee</span> knocked it out of the park. Period.<br /><br /><iframe width="640" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NL0VBu0ZVkQ?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />So, there you go...the two stand-out concerts of the first half of 2011. Trust me, it wasn't easy -- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Jovi</span> in Hyde Park was really outstanding. I'll write more about that later. And that crazy, rainy night in Bristol wasn't too shabby either. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">LOL</span><br /><br />Until the next time...<br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">xoxo</span><br />Big Apple JenBig Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-81359401102830759352011-06-20T08:38:00.014-04:002011-06-20T10:51:07.116-04:00Ok..Here We Go!I know I have been a bit out of touch lately...sorry 'bout that. But, the time has come for...<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>Big Apple Jen's Bon Jovi UK Adventure</strong></span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1vARYkQE1ToFHgDgb7eqqFIaLfwdECbolt-PZYaIW-Pdnz4GV-uRMUopHuSm0kU1TmtCwRpPgUn_r0Qion7dtoL9ccEKLWe4af7M5Xbvocx8ROml3UHVONB-_AWAPKmZ73DPBz6sHCUW/s1600/delta_new_livery.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620292168937398594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1vARYkQE1ToFHgDgb7eqqFIaLfwdECbolt-PZYaIW-Pdnz4GV-uRMUopHuSm0kU1TmtCwRpPgUn_r0Qion7dtoL9ccEKLWe4af7M5Xbvocx8ROml3UHVONB-_AWAPKmZ73DPBz6sHCUW/s320/delta_new_livery.jpg" /></a>Yep, tomorrow I arrive in Scotland ... then it's off to London ... Bristol ... and finally DUBLIN!!! I'll be meeting up with the crazy Gs --- we had such a blast during my <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2010/11/jukes-eurotour-wrap-up.html">Jukes Euro mini-tour </a>last October that we just couldn't wait to do it all over again!<br /><br /><div><em>I think</em> I have struck a deal with T-Mobile so I will be able to tweet, text and post pictures/reviews without it costing an arm and a leg. So, be sure to stay tuned ... if you aren't following me on Twitter, you can find me at @bigapplejen.</div><br />So, I'm still trying to finalize what banner(s) I/we should make when I get there. What's in the running?<br /><br />1. "Hey Jon, I'm an American and I know the verses." <span style="font-size:85%;"><em>(I will refrain from adding "better than you do" as one of my tweetbuddies suggested. Hahaha.)</em><br /><br /></span>2. "Sorry 'bout the knee...but you can still <strong>sing</strong> This Ain't A Love Song."<br /><br />3. "200 Bon Jovi shows ... 27 years of joy. Thanks!"<br /><br />4. "I know every agent at Greyhound because of this band!" <em><span style="font-size:85%;">(LOL..c'mon, you knew there had to be some type of bus reference right?)<br /><br /></span></em>Well, then again, I'm not <em>really</em> a banner/sign person.<br /><br />Before I go, just wanted to give you the heads-up on a few things:<br /><br />First, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes are going to be playing the Montreal Jazz Festival at the end of the month. You can get more information <a href="http://www.clubsoda.ca/fr/spec-southside_johnny_the_asbury_jukes-470.php">HERE</a>. I'm bummed to miss this as I like Montreal...and am always up for a timbit from Tim Horton's. LOL<br /><br />Second, the <a href="http://www.earlyeltontrio.com/">Early Elton Trio </a>(which y'all know I just love) will be doing a couple of shows in the Northeast including Norfolk, CT and Northampton, MA. You can find more information on their website. Would have loved to catch the Norfolk show, I spent one of the best summers of my life as a fellow at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival. Lots of good memories, including hitting an in-the-park homerun off of Toronto Symphony Principal Clarinetist, Joaquin Valdepenas. Hehe!<br /><br />And finally, a big thank you to all those who made a pledge for <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/outsidethebox/outside-the-box-debut-album-0?ref=live">Outside the Box's Kickstarter campaign</a>. There is still time to pre-order their debut album. Word is that it should be dropping early-July.<br /><br />Ok...that's all for now. To my Jovifriends in Europe, I'm on my way! To the girls who will be flying over for the Dublin fan club trip, safe travels.<br /><br />Next stop: Edinburgh.<br /><br />p.s. ayyy...totally forgot...calendar alert! Lorenza Ponce will be playing The Living Room in NYC on July 19th. This is the only show of the summer, so make sure you don't miss it!Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-27147279272900521612011-06-02T16:22:00.003-04:002011-06-02T16:29:39.215-04:00The Stone Pony: Still (Rocking) After All These Years<em><span style="font-size:85%;">*blog title...don't you just love that Paul Simon tune?!*<br /></span></em><br />Anyhoo, another magical night at the legendary Stone Pony. You can read all about it <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/06/02/outside-the-box-inside-the-pony/">here</a>.<br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br />p.s. countdown for my Bon Jovi UK trip has officially begun. Even bought a new pair of concert shoes at ... get this ... a site called Shoebacca. Haha. Funny. <span style="font-size:85%;">(if you didn't get it, check out <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chewbacca">this guy </a>from Star Wars)</span>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-90158226677280984552011-05-31T14:28:00.003-04:002011-05-31T14:30:59.538-04:00With or Without JBJ, Jukes Rock The HamptonsYou can find the article/review I wrote for Jukesnet <a href="http://asburyjukes.net/2011/05/31/the-jukes-kick-off-summer-in-hamptons-style/">HERE</a> ... Enjoy!Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-73778375082371841302011-05-26T16:20:00.012-04:002011-05-26T17:17:34.828-04:00Elvis, Elton and More ...<span style="font-size:85%;"><em>*currently singing Loverboy's "Everybody's Working for the Weekend"*</em><br /></span><br />Greetings folks! Hope this finds you well. Here in the States we are all anxiously awaiting the weekend ... Memorial Day Weekend, the generally accepted start of summer. For me, this weekend means two things:<br /><br />1. Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes tomorrow night in Amagansett. Remember what happened <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2010/09/forces-of-nature.html">last time I went out there</a>? Luckily, we are not under a hurricane watch this time. As for an appearance by Jon Bon Jovi -- as fun as it would be, I'm actually more excited about possibly hearing "Some Things Just Don't Change" ...c'mon SSJ, you did it at least TWICE in Scandinavia, it's our turn!!<br /><br />2. The <a href="http://www.earlyeltontrio.com/">Early Elton Trio </a>out on Long Island on Saturday. I absolutely love these guys. It will be interesting to see them in a large-scale setting (outdoor park, picnics, fireworks, etc.) versus the smaller venues I've experienced. Jeff Kazee's version of "Madman Across the Water" at <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2011/01/put-me-in-cold-im-ready-to-play-today_17.html">the January show </a>still remains the single most amazing performance of 2011. Honestly, it's going to be hard for something to top that.<br /><br />So, bring on the weekend! Good music. Fun times.<br /><br />Oh! Speaking of good music, fun times ... many of you know I went to see Elvis Costello this week. A bunch of you asked if I took pictures. Is water wet? Is ice best served with vodka? Do you always get ketchup on yourself when wearing white? In other words ... yes! I took pictures. Here are a few.<br /><br />The fabulous Spinning Wheel used to help the audience determine the setlist. Wouldn't it be a hoot if Bon Jovi used one? Apparently, the Jukes had one several years ago.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIMZaCzAkek0Uhq6xFjEuflQIE9xZ45fJCduoZByUZ77Zkf4aSwnaaGAEthAdPMraGizN_FECtSWlOjcnHPI_SfVZL0yDg9T0aNRaezdapOQwFZg2j31x2hovhd-QqOnDj8lDQ6zCqIIz/s1600/DSCN3464.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611115029163823922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIMZaCzAkek0Uhq6xFjEuflQIE9xZ45fJCduoZByUZ77Zkf4aSwnaaGAEthAdPMraGizN_FECtSWlOjcnHPI_SfVZL0yDg9T0aNRaezdapOQwFZg2j31x2hovhd-QqOnDj8lDQ6zCqIIz/s400/DSCN3464.JPG" /></a><br /><br />...as you can see, it's a pretty big wheel! I'm not a fan of audience participation (as in "you come up here on stage and mangle the song") ... but THIS kind of involvement I fully support! LOL<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdqINsCxkG-uRQKGpg7brbpayRcjetdU7apHnmcRxvQmo7j0uB1dXDDwNhGcIcNnT2C-9DZ9HSUiM1YK53P7GSf_3pGi7Uhp7TYMwCCAm8ZTEYYWTXzBzdAnJYcJbQt7N47nqdPVY3cWP/s1600/DSCN3894.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 275px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611115576993666450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdqINsCxkG-uRQKGpg7brbpayRcjetdU7apHnmcRxvQmo7j0uB1dXDDwNhGcIcNnT2C-9DZ9HSUiM1YK53P7GSf_3pGi7Uhp7TYMwCCAm8ZTEYYWTXzBzdAnJYcJbQt7N47nqdPVY3cWP/s400/DSCN3894.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Elvis is in the building!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UBOlx745AAl0XuT3spSGP43Fgy3y2c9SL4-amqwiBKSiyYua30w8E2FVJuJZbstyLjAXxNcylSTbsxtHgvFvVUGc3jU6os-vVyHgQ9JEMlOM-CRhQIJo46f2X-8tsB3Te-xiNmNBFr7X/s1600/DSCN3475.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611117183530363170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UBOlx745AAl0XuT3spSGP43Fgy3y2c9SL4-amqwiBKSiyYua30w8E2FVJuJZbstyLjAXxNcylSTbsxtHgvFvVUGc3jU6os-vVyHgQ9JEMlOM-CRhQIJo46f2X-8tsB3Te-xiNmNBFr7X/s400/DSCN3475.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-FQqWxSKX_E1XWoGv-B9-gxxDPGOvVXWSvY21KRg0zEqXORj8wFPGZA7fwF6B6dJmH48EfVfqOzwSdVTTqO1QrcR-UAEsDm7vml5COBaTcMq3jCWH0bBmoHuf-I1wurqf6fCl07KkJdQ/s1600/DSCN3848.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-FQqWxSKX_E1XWoGv-B9-gxxDPGOvVXWSvY21KRg0zEqXORj8wFPGZA7fwF6B6dJmH48EfVfqOzwSdVTTqO1QrcR-UAEsDm7vml5COBaTcMq3jCWH0bBmoHuf-I1wurqf6fCl07KkJdQ/s400/DSCN3848.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611136712171562610" /></a><br /><br />...this was a shot I got when he walked up the aisle right next to me. Very cool.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81blHDm36WfGtm1ke0UDGpzpFAyG8BxOwqP8GZNhbZJ2rUnOzjPpBZsZ93dii8QBTmnWXAIkqwq-FeWoB38Kht_C9VA5MeLKb8XGiEK47lG4p1c2jJNQ0py1HwxpJ5vj9K-SYtO1Cfnrp/s1600/DSCN3654.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611118052250459682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81blHDm36WfGtm1ke0UDGpzpFAyG8BxOwqP8GZNhbZJ2rUnOzjPpBZsZ93dii8QBTmnWXAIkqwq-FeWoB38Kht_C9VA5MeLKb8XGiEK47lG4p1c2jJNQ0py1HwxpJ5vj9K-SYtO1Cfnrp/s400/DSCN3654.JPG" /></a><br /><br />Keyboardist extraordinaire, Steve Nieve.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tm9wLQ3arUjdFgqlDrfgQC_iT539gYz9pQbejU6zsSb6YEy4DQsvNzFa-mXlK4Ku-lTEIdTaD6QAkX51B26Xo_wIX5LF2jtmju_WmV2PJI6My1IQviURmDa0vnA3jKh-ikKBvAPnz9-0/s1600/DSCN3865.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611119449218799202" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tm9wLQ3arUjdFgqlDrfgQC_iT539gYz9pQbejU6zsSb6YEy4DQsvNzFa-mXlK4Ku-lTEIdTaD6QAkX51B26Xo_wIX5LF2jtmju_WmV2PJI6My1IQviURmDa0vnA3jKh-ikKBvAPnz9-0/s400/DSCN3865.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYM4Nptf_IVLkvPM5GGoQIg2fhrSd_s9euyoJs8uNC8AvtTHrmJgS5TAnnK3kyL-96J7fsoDCMfPpteKLjmw_9E3TTrzDkgrmFiXssn9giQNKUtLLuU6vpaysFfioeAME2o5vMnX-BFp2/s1600/DSCN3665.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYM4Nptf_IVLkvPM5GGoQIg2fhrSd_s9euyoJs8uNC8AvtTHrmJgS5TAnnK3kyL-96J7fsoDCMfPpteKLjmw_9E3TTrzDkgrmFiXssn9giQNKUtLLuU6vpaysFfioeAME2o5vMnX-BFp2/s400/DSCN3665.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611136978779802210" /></a><br /><br />...and you thought David Bryan's outfits were...ummm...interesting? Haha.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXORyjThLW9TxJnIlSZO-XfD9-OGKTi6awdK30kFc7PNmmoqqj5vOFOBzhjgE2vLQQO1K03uBMLfxjFcqsbXG0PNf0nCseF_Z7vz3VZnrI92x9yRaDPVFubhvFMe4VrTHzoHUnBp9cJaeG/s1600/DSCN3723.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611119939920746194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXORyjThLW9TxJnIlSZO-XfD9-OGKTi6awdK30kFc7PNmmoqqj5vOFOBzhjgE2vLQQO1K03uBMLfxjFcqsbXG0PNf0nCseF_Z7vz3VZnrI92x9yRaDPVFubhvFMe4VrTHzoHUnBp9cJaeG/s400/DSCN3723.JPG" /></a><br /><br />It was a truly fantastic show. Great interaction with the crowd. Wonderful playing. A TON of songs - I Want You (my personal favorite), Alison, Hand in Hand, Hoover Factory, Accidents Will Happen, Veronica ... of course (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace Love and Understanding <em>(still trying to process the video on that one)</em> ... and kick-a$$ covers of the Stones' Out of Time and Prince's Purple Rain. If you have never seen Elvis before, I highly recommend that you do! There is a reason why great songwriters cite Elvis Costello as one of <em>their</em> favorites. Brilliant.<br /><br />Okay...that's all for now. Will be back with thoughts on the Jukes show in Morristown last Friday, as well as Lorenza Ponce's "Apocolypse (Not Quite) Now" show at Stanhope House on Saturday.<br /><br />Til then. Keep rocking!<br />xoxo<br />BAJBig Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-60537310618182928462011-05-24T11:30:00.015-04:002011-05-26T17:12:52.198-04:00So You Wanna (Help) a Rock-and-Roll Star?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcKgzVnmd0J0w-cTpxgKtk4me6KXR3o8plkZzR-nSM7ET8jtO0d2po1_JxTfjsj6SRN1O97OuxWi-r8S0zT_C9of6Zwqm_ZQa9zKPARJjyIjs0G_DuNZIrESRMIQhFc3bvZlUVKAoCvxQ/s1600/OTB+3.bmp"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 265px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610313972055445330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfcKgzVnmd0J0w-cTpxgKtk4me6KXR3o8plkZzR-nSM7ET8jtO0d2po1_JxTfjsj6SRN1O97OuxWi-r8S0zT_C9of6Zwqm_ZQa9zKPARJjyIjs0G_DuNZIrESRMIQhFc3bvZlUVKAoCvxQ/s400/OTB+3.bmp" /></a>Ok...I've <a href="http://jovijunction.blogspot.com/2011/04/before-you-know-it.html">written about Outside the Box before</a>. Really, truly NICE guys. Talented. Smart. SO YOUNG (but that's not their fault. LOL) I was that young once ... I think. Yeah, I know -- "not old, just older."<br /><br />Anyhoo, they are in the process of completing their debut album (yay!) but need some help. Here's where all of you, my lovely friends, come in.<br /><br />How would you like to support this amazing band? You could get everything from a signed CD to concert tickets to dinner with the guys! And ... in the process, you'd be assisting in the development of one of the next great rock-and-roll bands! Every band has to start somewhere, right?<br /><br />Those who read this blog on a regular basis know my passion for music. I wouldn't write about something I don't feel 100% about ... and that's why I was the first person to jump on board to support them (as a diehard Yankees fan, I even overlooked their producer sporting a Cincinnati Reds hat in the promo video. Haha. j/k JK.)<br /><br />So, whaddya think? Will you join me?<br /><br />Step 1: Go to <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/outsidethebox/outside-the-box-debut-album-0"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">THIS SITE</span></strong> </a>to watch a great video on the project and pledge your support.<br /><br />Step 2: Pat yourself on the back for doing a good deed. :)<br /><br />Step 3: Visit Outside the Box's <a href="http://www.outsidetheboxband.com/">website</a> for more music, tour dates and pictures.<br /><br />Thanks in advance from me, the blogger formerly known as Big Apple Jovi Girl.<br /><br />p.s. and if you're in/near Asbury Park on Wednesday nights in June, you can check out OTB live at the Stone Pony! Be sure to let me know you're coming.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><em>*re: Blog title ... gotta love The Byrds*</em> </span><br /><br /><p></p>Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6538702542495669702.post-91051822721121970472011-05-11T14:45:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:46:55.533-04:00Bon Jovi in the Buckeye StateGreetings readers! Hope this finds you well ... sorry it's been so long. I'm ridiculously far behind on posting pictures and reviews from the last couple of weeks. Oops. <br /><br />Well, while I get my act together, I thought I'd post some images from the Columbus show last night. <br /><br />This show was all about seeing Bon Jovi with my mom. We hadn't seen a show together since the Blossom one (the Jukes *ahhhh*) So, given it was a couple of days after Mother's Day and this was the only other Ohio show, I knew I had to treat her ... I even <em>(only slightly reluctantly)</em> agreed to forgo pit tickets so my mom could see Tico close up on the circle (ooops - who knew.) But, we ended up with FANTASTIC circleside (non-package!) seats. THANK YOU to the Backstage with Jon Bon Jovi fan club. :-)<br /><br />I must say that Jon seemed much more playful than last Saturday night at Mohegan Sun. <em>(I promise. Those pictures will be posted soon.)</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM9xo5v4c9UK8Yn07SqaVb_aYD39hblKgpsaTl3dUHoOXe7NNlUQeomNVonagttUyPabDNdhFyOKNEMfE1-tpTUDRutCsD1E_7eCrZL5GxSlV7C0uxk43vvT_6mQBmA6vVj8jLAvWJCWN/s1600/playful.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM9xo5v4c9UK8Yn07SqaVb_aYD39hblKgpsaTl3dUHoOXe7NNlUQeomNVonagttUyPabDNdhFyOKNEMfE1-tpTUDRutCsD1E_7eCrZL5GxSlV7C0uxk43vvT_6mQBmA6vVj8jLAvWJCWN/s400/playful.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605554295786423810" /></a><br /><br />I tend to use the continuous auto-shutter mode during concerts. The only issue -- sometimes my subject goes missing while the camera is snapping away. LOL<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwpHSNhrqJh4mATUUljMCDenuotwNNFFfJGglx43MiWsfQE4Hos9DKZ0LpZucNuIqQE6w-aKeUyTxZecR8BFM-54TRvaP8ra7DN5ZE7hqtUhF4TecFhI9YbJM1ocWNIXhAENIMJooaVo5/s1600/gone+missing.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwpHSNhrqJh4mATUUljMCDenuotwNNFFfJGglx43MiWsfQE4Hos9DKZ0LpZucNuIqQE6w-aKeUyTxZecR8BFM-54TRvaP8ra7DN5ZE7hqtUhF4TecFhI9YbJM1ocWNIXhAENIMJooaVo5/s400/gone+missing.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605554651986750050" /></a><br /><br />With Richie's absence, only Jon has been coming out onto the circle these days. (I've been affectionately calling this the "Music Minus One" tour. By the way, if you haven't checked out videos with Phil X playing, you should. He sounds great.)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUNFYufqwgluBSxTMLXvaCU0KvPCzuaabAGpaL5VYhQ2KHjNmxaw64_kwusH1i9hRV9_GD9NGOV6d2FjhNMlo_4lnQ5-f5I14YkhYfcFTKiFvJ9Nc9GdIx8zFeMUVoNFRuUE1jyFSqSNa/s1600/on+the+circle.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUNFYufqwgluBSxTMLXvaCU0KvPCzuaabAGpaL5VYhQ2KHjNmxaw64_kwusH1i9hRV9_GD9NGOV6d2FjhNMlo_4lnQ5-f5I14YkhYfcFTKiFvJ9Nc9GdIx8zFeMUVoNFRuUE1jyFSqSNa/s400/on+the+circle.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605557467159367170" /></a><br /><br />As we all know, we love to have those special moments with the guys ... and we are blessed with loving a band that is happy to indulge us with those moments. I was grateful to have two wonderful moments this show. The first being during Bed of Roses when Jon sang a couple of lines to me and then sat down on the circle right in front of me. Here is the last shot I got until my camera decided to spaz out. UGH!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJONjO-_9mNpjOcnx4x_zPBQQhwLBtiMOS9E8nypgInkqUY5rnPiuT_p9dgq5muLAgh5SZRSJo6M1Js5Xa084tYf9UlBmjdKf3yNCsDUZeoLsCWr5h5WuDTfQtvgd3BpHaHKEyLP_HKdW/s1600/BoR+sitting.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJONjO-_9mNpjOcnx4x_zPBQQhwLBtiMOS9E8nypgInkqUY5rnPiuT_p9dgq5muLAgh5SZRSJo6M1Js5Xa084tYf9UlBmjdKf3yNCsDUZeoLsCWr5h5WuDTfQtvgd3BpHaHKEyLP_HKdW/s400/BoR+sitting.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605561045938608930" /></a><br /><br />I must say ... Jon on the circle + 26x zoom = *Sigh*<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDZNFVEg3R5ytanNKv0_wdqcBa1hpbdy4Qiagy0m3VQWk0OU4YEmMN7vEoZUEYL5cRSP2DenbHsYGolpWgAhPLvq8C2M5Mwu9VOkc9YGEc1u2TXNbhm51gTttWDLFeSR0GiKLygJ1uv7I/s1600/close+up.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDZNFVEg3R5ytanNKv0_wdqcBa1hpbdy4Qiagy0m3VQWk0OU4YEmMN7vEoZUEYL5cRSP2DenbHsYGolpWgAhPLvq8C2M5Mwu9VOkc9YGEc1u2TXNbhm51gTttWDLFeSR0GiKLygJ1uv7I/s400/close+up.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605565390326681042" /></a><br /><br />But why is it that no matter how many times I see the band, I still get a little shaky when Jon comes around? <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0j4e8UjcLY3Xcjy_CosCx6M0UYj2wmD4QXim61qv0_lMFiXP9pNoslCXv9Era0gx_37SP5sVLw2zdo7v2kPfDXDlV_f4GsTUsNwAzo4Wt21fzJwuDCYXYem6oiKLahWSqkWLIXQ62xhR/s1600/straight+on+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0j4e8UjcLY3Xcjy_CosCx6M0UYj2wmD4QXim61qv0_lMFiXP9pNoslCXv9Era0gx_37SP5sVLw2zdo7v2kPfDXDlV_f4GsTUsNwAzo4Wt21fzJwuDCYXYem6oiKLahWSqkWLIXQ62xhR/s400/straight+on+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605575883747219682" /></a><br /><br />I have always loved the lighting for When We Were Beautiful ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfLTRvysXv-EaFljuu8j7850sSEszvQBxDOO4mmnF6pCMJzepPTZG_f_-BByzwsVfLddJ_S5UZvzK7rt4E85rSQtz_wbZUfv6cXI696Ali642I9Gok_jZ3E0xQ6iuhHVU-UYHfaueZvLO/s1600/wwwb.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfLTRvysXv-EaFljuu8j7850sSEszvQBxDOO4mmnF6pCMJzepPTZG_f_-BByzwsVfLddJ_S5UZvzK7rt4E85rSQtz_wbZUfv6cXI696Ali642I9Gok_jZ3E0xQ6iuhHVU-UYHfaueZvLO/s400/wwwb.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605567700653783042" /></a><br /><br />Many of you have heard about "the dolls" already ... some fans in the pit had Jon and Richie dolls that Jon asked they throw up to the stage. The whole exchange was funny, but to me what stood out was the poignancy of the moment. Jon's love for Richie came thru at several points during the show including during the added lines of IBTFY and a reference during Blood on Blood. <br /><br />I can't even imagine how much he misses his friend right now.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqc2BKm-DtYnA-UqOTq2FPBgkgAJQcJpFc3dxx6M5CXhFswdGOQuqCmE89_uFKAzAT9xu4LjmQ-kOBbvv7v7igkvr2wUSuh6xRkFID9mckZs2zZUmu7crdIcFavPvmX6gQ1sl6zesSGjhx/s1600/dolls+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqc2BKm-DtYnA-UqOTq2FPBgkgAJQcJpFc3dxx6M5CXhFswdGOQuqCmE89_uFKAzAT9xu4LjmQ-kOBbvv7v7igkvr2wUSuh6xRkFID9mckZs2zZUmu7crdIcFavPvmX6gQ1sl6zesSGjhx/s400/dolls+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605566656197781282" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCewmC-3GyZEE-RKvn1hPm49iZW5j97O15_TnpLBQF6CTNIokkunwePQWkMhNYlq955zIDz-7Cf3XiqiIrP74cnKEH3AnyRJLoEwO-ZrrWBteSvQ-S71Y0j0j094YlWyA_Mkl5-DdEBRyJ/s1600/dolls+2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCewmC-3GyZEE-RKvn1hPm49iZW5j97O15_TnpLBQF6CTNIokkunwePQWkMhNYlq955zIDz-7Cf3XiqiIrP74cnKEH3AnyRJLoEwO-ZrrWBteSvQ-S71Y0j0j094YlWyA_Mkl5-DdEBRyJ/s400/dolls+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605566821402025826" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYZxgTe4OsxhiV8R-i1twtEGU6amxAKWm0vLDNNhwWLm08VE_ATpnCL3wRvfdcuY2SG5R847ggAhwpIeK5wgx1x2_5adyT88YPEjSGYjbaGgZDfaMn1OlA0WPzyjzS03P1xM6iipSw62/s1600/dolls+4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYZxgTe4OsxhiV8R-i1twtEGU6amxAKWm0vLDNNhwWLm08VE_ATpnCL3wRvfdcuY2SG5R847ggAhwpIeK5wgx1x2_5adyT88YPEjSGYjbaGgZDfaMn1OlA0WPzyjzS03P1xM6iipSw62/s400/dolls+4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605567190075932530" /></a><br /><br />...and how wonderful that he made sure "Richie" was sitting on his guitar, leaning against Jon's heart ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZqxX2TI7qBKiWeUP3ZqM5ODAuYusCLZ7RLDBjwnkVHQIxGpwzm9OoOc1gKtIPxAb_X_D3l48dIqbQc294mXQOyMhn3p9WT-k9KBGKxS9kklOmxT9_dkuRK11gFWayo7C7ASjCp3wb44d/s1600/dolls+5.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZqxX2TI7qBKiWeUP3ZqM5ODAuYusCLZ7RLDBjwnkVHQIxGpwzm9OoOc1gKtIPxAb_X_D3l48dIqbQc294mXQOyMhn3p9WT-k9KBGKxS9kklOmxT9_dkuRK11gFWayo7C7ASjCp3wb44d/s400/dolls+5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605567421880788322" /></a><br /><br />Jon came out onto the circle once again during Living on a Prayer. At one point, one of the robotic cameras got a bit frisky with him, focusing in on ... well ... let's just say, Jon exclaimed something like "watch it there, buddy!" Haha.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qPHluD6LhuNVj4qk5BTEnuuhBzbW14cb2UhtIxuEZrndnWz1lL92zKJgCXF7cJ5PV4CccuxxobaJbovcpzt9yxLqg3h71mlfHmOUZDiH2fQKWSJsmg-QllxP9K-D-H5UAwRM4vc7n1nF/s1600/watch+it+there.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qPHluD6LhuNVj4qk5BTEnuuhBzbW14cb2UhtIxuEZrndnWz1lL92zKJgCXF7cJ5PV4CccuxxobaJbovcpzt9yxLqg3h71mlfHmOUZDiH2fQKWSJsmg-QllxP9K-D-H5UAwRM4vc7n1nF/s400/watch+it+there.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605568146019201058" /></a><br /><br />He continued to make his way around the circle ...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KWKT4PKlLfQBWyMmrA56X50Xrurxk3ZhYvLUteoYxy-MKBDH742bUAdXZYLqGyDsLKZInQlwnlHSyg-6vJwZlwoIMDkmKjEK0q3BTwWiKynZsVG4yKqUPBmuTIEx-FP7rdY0MFaaCNes/s1600/prayer+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KWKT4PKlLfQBWyMmrA56X50Xrurxk3ZhYvLUteoYxy-MKBDH742bUAdXZYLqGyDsLKZInQlwnlHSyg-6vJwZlwoIMDkmKjEK0q3BTwWiKynZsVG4yKqUPBmuTIEx-FP7rdY0MFaaCNes/s400/prayer+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605568891081756866" /></a><br /><br />He then arrived in front of me and my mom. He looked at me and smirked and then offered his hand to my mom. *smile* A bit shy, my mom tentatively reached her hand out to him and he grabbed her fingers and held on ... tight. I give my mom credit for not saying "umm...this is nice, but can you go get Tico?" ROFLMAO. But, seriously ... it was a moment neither of us will ever forget. So, I may have bought the tickets, but it was Jon Bon Jovi who really gave my mom such a great Mother's Day present.<br /><br />Okay, folks...that's it for now. I'll be back soon with Mohegan Sun pictures and a write up of an amazing night in Asbury Park to benefit former Jukes keyboard player Kevin Kavanaugh. And then, get ready! The schedule so far for the rest of May/June? BonJovi 7x ... SSJ/Jukes 6x ... Outside the Box 4x and a show each by Lorenza Ponce, the Early Elton Trio and Elvis Costello. <br /><br />So much music, so little time!<br /><br />p.s. Yes, I changed my Twitter handle to @bigapplejen ... why? Because as much as I love Jovi (and I DO!), I also love a lot of other bands and musicians as well. (Also, a couple of the Jukes kept threatening to come up with a new Twitter ID on my behalf. Now THAT could have been scary. LOL)Big Apple Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04449453925068741036noreply@blogger.com