Archives: April 2001

On behalf of Gerry and Dewey, I accept the car! I'll be there to pick it up in June ;)

Non sono seriosa, ma il tuo offrire e' molto generoso e simpatico! Mi piacerebbe a venire in Italia con il gruppo America!

Don't speak Swedish, but Italian -- a different story . . .

bombshell?

Articles:

Do we have awesome guys? Dewey ever!

Internet deee-lights! Meet our computer cuties!
(I plagiarized from Beech on this one.)

Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll?! Well, rock 'n' roll anyway!
How to practice safe concert-going.

How well DO you know the band? Take our survey!

Willie or won't he?
Surprising Lockeritz interview!

Brad Palmer Fashion Page:
Black Is Back To Stay!

Woodz Is A Dad!
Meet The New Little Guitar Player.

Plus a RIVERSIDE exclusive:
Who ARE Daisy Jane and Sister Golden Hair? Gerry tells all!

Robyn's mention of the "Highway" booklet's page 10 is the exact reference that I was referring to regarding what I believe was the name of the band that Gerry belonged to. Actually there is ANOTHER reference to the band's name as "Follow The Buffalo". I know the majority of us have read it but have merely forgotten about it. Doesn't anyone remember this other source?

Dan C, regarding your last post, YEOW!!!

Hello from America (the country), Bruno! Wow, what a nice offer to D&G and the thing is, I know you really mean it!

I believe the liner notes state that America was the "first band", the Monkees were hardly that.DanC.

Hmmm. In the "Highway" Booklet ( page 10) there is mention of Gerry "moonlighting" in a band called FOLLOW the Buffalo. Gerry, or somebody, please clarify this? ( thanks)

It's worth mentioning that I only intended to trash the arraingments on Perspective, not the songwriting, and CERTAINLY not Dewey's and Gerry's vocals.
It's true that most acts in the 80s relied on the Energizer Bunny/Ronco drum machine stuff. The difference is that America eventually recovered. Partially with Hourglass, and far more significantly with Human Nature (which IMHO is as good as most of their 70s material).
I respect those of you that stand up for Perspective, but I'd still love to hear those songs unplugged.

Andy

Found info today on the site artwalkinfo.com listing the time for Phobicman to play as 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29.
Anybody else besides Robyn trying to go?
ShariL in San Diego <><

"Saw on the Concert listings - June 7 in NJ America with Al Stewart. Now that is concert I'd like to see, especially if both would do long sets. Maybe I should plan a road trip. "

Amazing!!!!! After America, Al Stewart happens to be one of my all-time favourite artists!! In 1996, I drove from New York to Fairhope Alabama to see Al. (Okay, I was heading South anyway, but I totally re-arranged my schedule to see Al). Anyway, a combination of America AND Al Stewart is one of my ultimate dream tickets !! I'm speechless.
All that's left is to see America on the same billing as Sarah McLachlan, and I can die with a huge smile on my face. LOL

Andy

If America come in Italy I give (I make a present) to Gerry and Dewey (if want Gerry and Dewey I give really) my fiat "topolino"(little mouse)500 convertible of the years 1951. I give my antique car for joy and emotions that music of America cause.
ciao Regards to Steve, Yohnny Yee and to all fans
Bruno

I'm really not a Springfield (nor a Springsteen) fan but I do respect him for his accomplishments. I agree that his show is very flashy and theatrical but that's just Springfield, I guess. Cathy and I, both, left when Springfield came on stage after our guys finished. Well actually, I stayed for one-and-a-half songs and decided that was enough for me. I saw Gerry signing autographs so I decided to buy an America t-shirt and received a free "HumanNature" poster. Gerry autographed it while I asked him about his Number 29 necklace that he use to wear. He gladly explained what it meant to him as I gladly listened with attentive ears.

Back to Springfield, I bought around 100 cassettes as a package deal at a garage sale about 2 months ago. It meanly contained 80s music. Ironically, the artist that had the most cassettes among these 100, was Springfield! I listened to each one of his. Although his music isn't necessarily to my liking, I thought they weren fairly good and I can understand why he has a large following of female fans. I equate him to David Cassidy but there's a difference to me. I like the sound of Cassidy's singing voice.

Deb, Rick Springfield certainly has his legions of fans who understand and enjoy what he does on stage. I just don't happen to be one of them. I found it embarrassing and annoying. I won't even mention the comments from Saratoga's finest who were standing nearby me while we watched the drama unfold onstage. I love that America just comes out and plays the music I want to hear without explosions and other unnecessary displays. You go right on being a Springfield fan. I don't think you'll find many who are in this forum (with the notable exception of our Mr. Yee, of course).

Joke: How do you "Follow The Buffalo"?

Answer: Like in a parade behind the horses...very, very carefully!

JoY---------->Understands what ASC means.

The Monkees' first single (Last Train To Clarksville) went to number 1. Their first album (The Monkees) went to number 1 and stayed there for 18 weeks. Both were released in 1966. So while the King Biscuit CD does make the claim that America was the first group to have a first single/album go to number 1, I believe that is incorrect. The Monkees did it more than 5 years before America.

Saw on the Concert listings - June 7 in NJ America with Al Stewart. Now that is concert I'd like to see, especially if both would do long sets. Maybe I should plan a road trip. Anyone know of any conference in the area that I could "fudge" my way into to justify a trip to NJ from BC?

j
j

Perspective is to America what Mad Cow is to McDonalds.

KevinS.

Okay, okay, it's not THAT bad. But, while Perspective did start America's love affair with the Ronco drum machine, it did feature a few great songs, my personal favorite being Falling Off The World.

Thanks Alan, Andy and others re Perspective comments. As I have only returned to America's music in the 1990's, I did not have the benefit of hearing their '80's albums at the time they were released. I have to say that their latest albums impress me the most. I am gaining a deeper appreciation for just how good the Human Nature album is, both in melodies and lyrics. The guys just keep getting better! I also would like to see Dan back, but am more than happy with the way their music is presently shaping up into their 4th decade together.
Chris

The only closing Rick Springfield should be doing is the door as Dewey, Gerry & the boys leave. He couldn't act either, so I guess that made his head swell even bigger!

Tx Mark in KC for that report. However, the Beach Boys concert schedule still has them in Bonner Spprings on the 24th. Unless that is an afternoon show, I don't think they be at the Starlight. I'll call the Starlight & see what gives.

Where is the Swedish bombshell to liven things up?

Andy wrote: "For me, the 80s was a horrible time musically... Perspective was impossible for me to tolerate."

Andy, I couldn't agree with you more. I've always felt the 80's were a dark time musically. There are very few artists of the 80's I liked (Don Henley, Hewey Lewis, Bruce Hornsby, John Mellencamp - but of course all of these artists started in the seventies but because the majority of their music was produced in the eighties they are considered by most to be artists of the 80's).

I've always respected America for their ability to grow musically while at the same time not following the musical trends of the times. They always stayed true to their musical style. Perspective was a BIG exception to that trend.

Unfortunately, several other 70's artists that I really enjoy experimented with the "eighties sound" on one album (and all failed miserably IMO): Poco's album "Inamorata" (1984) and Gordon Lightfoot's "East Of Midnight" (1986) are a couple that come to mind. Even Dan Fogelberg (who I've always felt was something of a purist, musically speaking) used a drum program on some of the tracks on his 1987 "Exiles" album. Like you, I have nothing against any of the material on Perspective or these other albums. It's the arrangement of the songs that I have a problem with. It was 70's-style music trying to sound like the 80's and it just didn't work. And none of the artists I've mentioned (including America) ever tried it again. I think they realized what a disaster it was.

In America's defense, however, I remember reading a post quite a while ago suggesting that pressures from Capitol may have had a lot to do with the way Perspective came out. From the bio included in the Highway box set, I get the distinct impression that they didn't have a lot of say in a lot of things (choice of material, arrangement of songs, etc) during the Capitol years. Pressures from record companies to produce something a little more trendy may have accounted for Perspective and the other albums I've mentioned turning out the way they did.

I'd love to hear these songs played they way they were intended to be played. I think Steve L has mentioned that he's heard a couple of the songs from Perspective played live and said they sounded much better than on the album.

Alan

-Horse vs Tin, whose "heads" is it anyway?
-Summer Concert Schedule!
-Web Site Delights!

TkH<----been there....

Johnny,

I figured there must have been other performers since America to have both their first single and album go to #1. I guess I'm the only person that found the wording of it amusing: "To this day, America remains the first band ever to begin its career with both a number one single and album." It seems to me that no matter how many artists or bands have achieved or will achieve this since, America will always have the distinction of being the first to have done it.

asc <-------------- easily amused

Pardon me, Virginia, but Rick Springfield ROCKS....dont' forget, he is also an actor, so yes his stage show is theatrical too...

I would like to see the tape.

Re Jackson. He was touring behind his first album aka "Saturate before using" He did Song for Adam. It was magical. the fact that he is a local boy helped too I guess. His mother taught English at the High School my dh went to and she used his lyric to teach poetry. " That girl could sing" came much later.

Ok, it's official. Starlight in KC announced their summer concert schedule today. America is playing with the Beach Boys on June 24th. Tickets go on sale April 21 at 1:00 via ticketmaster.

firstly, i'm jealous of those of you who saw the guys with jackson browne. THAT would be a split billing worth seeing. heard "that girl could sing" on the radio today and cranked it. definitely my favorite.

anyway, i have an assignment in my graphics class to design a magazine cover. i'm to decide on the subject, title, teasers for the "articles inside", etc. my teacher said to pick a topic we liked so of course you know what i chose. i decided to name it "riverside". what do you think? any ideas for article titles?

Glad it arrived. That tape has been in the homes of several fans ( gee, it's better traveled than I am!) Please send it back when you are done, unless someone here has not seen the tape and would like to see it, let me know and we'll make arrangements for it to go onward.

Steve, right about "Swallow The Buffalo" as reported by John Corbett. By the way, I thought John was a professional writer because of the incredible job that he did on the "Comprehensive History" but he told me awhile back that he isn't.

"Follow The Buffalo" seems to make more sense to me than "Swallow The Buffalo". It may well be "Swallow The Buffalo", but I read that it was the other. I'll let someone else tell us all where "Follow The Buffalo" was reported as the band's name.

I don't know what happened to Silver (known for their 1976 hit, "Wham Bam") but we all do know something that pertains to America and one of the members of Silver. It's this: John Batdorf, a Silver member, co-wrote "Alibi" song, "You Could've Been The One". I have a 1971 LP called, "Off The Shelf", by Batdorf & Rodney. All the songs were written by Batdorf except one which he co-wrote with Mark Rodney. None of the songs, in my opinion, are near the quality of "You Could've Been The One" but perhaps that has a lot to do with Gerry singing the vocals. One of the members of Silver, I believe, died from an illness. I don't recall the specifics.

In 1975, our guys teamed up with a group called Captain. Several of the members are present in one of the photos on the "Hideaway" album sleeve. It's the one with David Cassidy in it. The guy wearing the cowboy hat standing next to Sir George was one of the members. The other member that I recognize is the guy standing between Willie and David Dickey. I believe he went by the nickname, "Raccoon". I'm relying on my memory from 1975 when they were introduced at the first America concert I attended. These same two guys are on the "Harbor" poster. The guy in the cowboy hat is the same guy on the poster left of the photo of Dewey holding the coconut. "Raccoon" is the one wearing the Dead Head shirt and holding the coffee cup. In the "Highway" booklet just opposite of disc three is a cool drawing (cream-colored) of Dan, Gerry, and Dewey. If you look very closely, you will see that the ad or pass (or whatever it is) reads, "AMERICA and CAPTAIN". You can see only part of the word, "Captain". You will also see "1975" and "GYM". That was the first America concert that I attended! It was May 23, 1975 at Johnson Gym on the campus of the Univerisity of New Mexico. By the way, in one of the music magazines in 1975, America had an ad using that same cool drawing of the trio. The only words on the ad besides "AMERICA" were the words, "In Concert".

Thank you Robyn! I opened my mailbox today and loudly exclaimed
"YES!" which reminds me of Phil Hartmann's imitation of Ed McMahon on SNL with Dana Carvey as Johnny Carson. And now I know why I recognized Gerry's "You are correct sir" on VHcom the other day. Phil would also say that as Ed.

Anyway, if you've seen Gerry and Dewey on television, did you feel like you were watching family? Or has my fanaticism mutated? I'm not ashamed to be a horse head, tin head, highway head, fuzzy ingrid samuels head . . . .

BTW, I know that I have some punctuation errors in "Life in the Slow Lane" (sure to help you keep your mind).

Wednesday evening.....

Ok hope to see some of you there. I can't stay long. dd has a research project and needs the 'net ( and the Mom who does research on a regular basis to guide her through the maze) Hope to see you there!

I have seen Jackson Browne, J.D. Souther, and Chuck Negron (3 Dog Night) open for America over the years. That said, I would most like to see Dan Peek share the stage with them now. (If ya can't join 'em... open for them!)

Take a listen to Dan's latest CD (Driftin') and you'll understand why that's my choice. Driftin' has helped me remember how much Dan brought to the band. Obviously, he wrote some great songs and played some memorable lead guitar, etc. However, the thing that jumps out at you in Driftin' are the backup vocals and vocal arrangements. Take a listen to: First Kiss, Blue Skies/Blue Eyes, and Rock Fever ... if that's not classic America, I don't know what is!

While I'm on a roll ... I like the mood and sound of "Coconut Tree" as well. It reminds me of Donkey Jaw for some reason. I suppose it's the distorted lead guitar. Yea, my vote is for Dan P.

BTW, don't opening acts sometimes join the headliners during the encores? I wonder if Dan remembers the chords to Horse?

Gee I don't remember who opened for the guys back in 1973!!!!! I did see them with the memorable pairing with Jackson Browne at the Hollywood Bowl. I also remember a band called "Silver" that I really liked, sometime around 1975, at UCLA Pauley PAvillion. Wonder what ever happened to them.

Alright. Let's make a TOUGH one now! I say New York Times strength!!
AND everyone MUST do it in pen......

TkH<--------blue ink.

ROFL!!!!!!!!

TkH<----faster, faster, my "eyes" are turning red...lol

My first was with Joe Piscopo (ick).........scary moment.

TkH<----still recovering

I agree on Three Dog Night. Saw them last summer at Hudson Gardens here in Denver and they were awesome. Couldn't help but think how great that pairing would be to go see. Too bad America doesn't hit New Mexico more often, maybe in the future. Thanks for responding.

My first concert was in 1979 (I think) at the Circle Star Theater in San Carlos, CA. The opening act for America was the comedian Gallagher. I thought that was a strange billing, but don't know whether they were touring together or if the venue put them together. The Circle Star - now long gone - was a great small theater with a revolving stage.

The only other concert I've seen where America shared billing was last summer when they opened for Rick Springfield at the Mt. Winery in Saratoga, CA. Erin mentioned this on the VH.com message board. I was so glad America played first. We didn't stay for the Springfield show, but watched the first song from up above the stage and seating area. Such theatrics, but his fans were sure into it! Instead I conned the sheriff's deputies into letting me hang around near the waiting vans, talked to Pete who suddenly appeared, and managed to get Gerry's signature on Highway before they all sped off into the night. That was soooo much better than watching Rick Springfield bash his fan's bouquets of flowers against his guitar.

According to John Corbett's Comprehensive History, it was "Swallow The Buffalo".

Ooops. I see that Virginia already explained it and you replied. Oh well...

No Howie, I believe it's correct:

#1 Homecoming
#2 Hat Trick
#3 Holiday
#4 Hearts

The first album was their eponymous album which started with an "A" not an "H" (even though it was often referred to as the "Horse With No Name" album).

Thanks for pointing out the possible misunderstanding, but I'm going to stick by my guns on this one (LOL).

Wasn't the name of the band Gerry was in, called "Follow The Buffalo" and not "Swallow The Buffalo"?

Red Oak, in '87, I saw America and Three Dog Night on a split billing. America performed first and I thought it was a good thing because Three Dog played an incredibly rockin' set. I was very surprised and impressed. Had America performed after Three Dog, I think it would have been a bit of a let-down because America's performance was mellow in comparison. America's set was mainly the greatest hits but it did include "Greenhouse". I remember Dewey saying that it would be on their forthcoming album called, "Two Car Garage". It was only my second time to see the guys in concert. The first time was in '75. And quite honestly, the '87 show was a disappointment in comparison. I think for several reasons. It was a shorter set; it was mainly the hits and very few of any other songs; I had crummy seats; and there's nothing like the "first time". The last America show for me was in '98 and it was great! It was much, much better than the '87 show. Better seats made a world of difference plus sitting with another fanatic, Cathy from Taos, made it a lot of fun.

After the '87 show, I bought an America t-shirt and spoke with the guy manning the sales table. I wish I would have asked him his name because I've often wondered who he is/was with the crew. I asked him why America performed first because I thought America was the main attraction due to being the more recent chart-makers of the two bands. He told me that America and Three Dog alternate performing first.

Regarding Eddie Money (either mentioned here or on VH.Com or both), I saw him in the early 80s and he put on an incredible show. So much so, that he had to take a break to change his sweat-soaked shirt. I think Randy Meisner was the opening act. He too was great. His solo song, "Hearts On Fire", was climbing the charts. I remember someone from the audience shouted, "Play 'Hotel California'." He replied with something like, "Sorry, not tonight but maybe next time." I remember thinking to myself, "I'm sure he doesn't ever perform that song since he's not with the Eagles anymore and since he didn't write it." He did perform his Eagles song, "Take It To The Limit", and did it superbly.

I saw a video of Dan as a soloist perform "Horse" after he had left America. I was very surprised to see him play it. He did a fine job!

I LIKE "Perspective!" I enjoyed the 80's. I liked shoulder pads.

Alan and Mark, I believe Dewey said in an interview that America was the first but there have been other performers since.

Forgot about that 1st LP not "H" named.
Threw me for a loop.
Thanks :0)

I decided to rewrite these lyrics to make them G-rated.

For Old Navy and Beechlady!

He was a very nice man
He was average-looking
And she was a very nice girl
On Saturday nights they'd go to the dance hall
And he would take her for a whirl

They'd have lovely conversations
With the local folks
Who'd talk of their children
And tell cute jokes
They had a lot of things in common
In their small town life
And one fine day
She agreed to be his wife

Life in the slow lane
Hard work and a clean mind
Life in the slow lane
Everything in it's proper time

She began to plan the wedding
With so much delight
She would have five bridesmaids
And she looked lovely in white
She said "Pastor, pastor"
"Can you be there on the fourth?"
He said, "Of course, my child,"
"I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Life in the slow lane
Clean living and a clean mind
Life in the slow lane
Everything in it's proper time
Life in the slow lane

Since the first album did not begin with the letter'H', Hearts IS the 4th to begin with that letter, even though it was America's 5th album.

Steve, I believe in 9 across. 4th album to be named with an H? which is Holiday! You meant to say, 5th album, right?. Answer that fits is Hearts!! unless I incorrectly read it.
Tsk Tsk!

"To this day, America remains the first band ever to begin its career with both a number one single and album."

Yes it says that, but I think they are mistaken. I believe the Monkees did it before America. Anybody know better?

Michael Murphy (King Biscuit Webmaster) and I have been playing around with a Crossword Puzzle Applet and we're ready to unveil this America puzzle to you fans. Most of you won't have any problems figuring out the answers, but if you get stuck the answers can be found somewhere on the America Fans web site.

America Crossword Puzzle

Many thanks to Murph (Michael) for making this happen. By the way, you have to have a Java enabled browser. Sometimes AOL browsers turn off Java by default but you can turn it on (or so I'm told).

--SteveL

Only if you get paid for it. Can't get blood out of a turnip, Pat!

Over on America's website Eddy brought up a good point about going to see America in Morton, Minnesota. The point was what would the fans tolerate as a concert partner with America. Personally, if I'm paying for the concert I don't want to hear another band taking away precious time from the sound of America. However, if it were Three Dog Night, Ambrosia, Little River Band, DFoobie Brothers or REO Speedwagon, then I would have to reconsider. What do you think?

Hey Beech, yes, you may be right regarding the illegal use of copyrighted songs without permission. This might mean that possible jail sentences and large fines await all of us who participated in the America Song Contest! I think we're in trouble!! Oh no, I hope Matt didn't mention anything to his dad about this! I wonder if he got dad's approval? If not, he's just as guilty as we are.!

LOL

"To this day, America remains the first band ever to begin its career with both a number one single and album."

Johnny, is this a typo or did it really say that? Unless someone invents a way to time-travel, I'd say it's a pretty safe bet that they will hold that record for quite a while!

Perhaps they meant to say "only" instead of "first" which makes a lot more sense, but I doubt they are still the only band to have that distinction.

Terry, you're right about HOW a synthesizer is used, as opposed to IF it is used. Many songs use them and they sound okay. Still, there are synthesizers and then, there are SYNTHESIZERS. I still think that the horrible mechanical, Energizer bunny sounding toy that was on Perspective has no place in recorded music. On the other hand, the synthesizers on all other America's material sound quite excellent. Isn't that some sort of synthesizer on Dan Peek's IT'S LIFE? Just before the part of the song that goes: "You fell through the Window..." I still wish I could hear Perspective's material unplugged.

Andy <---still detests the Energizer Bunny

After much thought (!?!?!)isn't it ILLEGAL to tamper with a copyrighted song without permission?????? I'd be willing to give my eye teeth in a bet somewhere that Don and Glenn weren't privy to the hackjob I heard in O.N.!!!!!!!!Think they'd like to make MORE money?

TkH<-------stirring

Wow Andy. Now tell us what you REALLY think...(lol)
Synths aren't bad. It's how they're used that can be pretty grating......I rather like the Moog on "Only In Your Heart" and the electric piano on "Woman Tonight". I'd be VERY willing to bet that there's more that a BIT of Roland substituting for the real thing on other songs too.......

TkH<--------synth fan

For me, the 80s we a horrible time musically. I still have a soft spot for the View From The Ground and Your Move CDs, mostly because they remind me of being a kid. Still, Perspective was impossible for me to tolerate. Those synthesizers !! Those vile drum machines !! UGH!!!!! The thing is, I can't say that the writing on Perspective is bad. It would be very interesting to hear those songs in an "unplugged" setting using only a few guitars and a piano. Maybe some of those songs could be salvaged.

Andy

Old Navy...you know what they say about a sailor's language. LOL

The offending store was Old Navy!

TkH<-------didn't see it---lol

I MUST comment on "Lullaby." It makes me swoon -- it's one of my favorite love songs. I actually have a framed copy of -- oh well, never mind! But really now, how COULD it go wrong with Dewey and Steve Perry collaborating on the writing and the singing? Steve may do a solo tour in the next year or two -- one can dream.

Blissfully yours . . .

WOW. I have never heard of that! My question: What was the name of the store? Perhaps there's a clue there, as in the ownership or management of said retail chain.

Private I., always on the trail of mystery . . .

Am I being followed AGAIN?! Have you been reading my personal journal?
Answers: Yes and when I'm REALLY, REALLY lucky :) How DID you know that?!

Just one small photo of Dewey and Gerry on stage (different than the cover photo). The text continues beyond what you have and talks about Dan leaving, the Capitol years, touring, and mentions the Rhino deal that produced Encore. It then has another story that talks about the old King Buscuit Flower Hour radio show. It then lists an America Discography from America in 1971 to Hourglass in 1994.

Mark, are there any photos in the CD cover leaflet? The 1999 version has a number of photos. There's ten. They are:

1 A collection of stage passes and concert tickets (Dewey's for sure)
2 Dewey and Gerry shaking hands after a performance
3 The 1982 "AKAMANJO" postcard with Dewey and Gerry
4 Dewey and Gerry playing acoustic guitars and singing on stage
5 Gerry with a smile and his acoustic guitar on his lap
6 Dewey and Gerry sitting on bales of hay (I think it's the
"America Live" promo picture put out by Warner. It's a good one!
7 Dewey sitting outside on a bench playing his acoustic guitar
and Gerry too but standing next to Dewey
8 A picture of Dewey singing in front of a mike and playing the
guitar with his eyes shut
9 The "Today Show" performance with Brad, Dewey, Gerry, and Willie
on stage outside and
10 The photo with Fuzzy???

Personally, everytime I hear "Life In The Fast Lane", I cringe because of the use of the "gd" word which leads me to wonder if Henley will be accountable for it each of the million-plus times it's been played. Wouldn't want to be in his shoes on Judgment Day to find out. LOL! I've got enough of my own problems! :)

(Chris, I bet Dewey has already seen your song right here on this folder.)

It is an abreviated version of the original 1995 release liner notes, with the exception of the line about Human Nature. Of course Human Nature hadn't been released when the first release of the King Biscuit CD had been released. In fact it was the strong sales of the King Biscuit Live CD which lead to Oxygen signing America for Human Nature.

Well at least I don't DRESS like I stepped out of 1984.....(shoulder pads, ugh).....I DID go up to the "management" to complain at said offending "store". I don't think the kid was BORN when "Hotel California" came out.......sigh.

TkH<--------programmed to receive

Since I don't own but this one version of the re-packaged Cuyahoga Falls King Biscuit CD (the one with the gray horse on the front cover), I'm not sure if the liner notes in this one are any different than the ones released before. Here are the liner notes. If they are the same, please forgive me for "repeating" them here:

Though America is rarely given credit for it, one has to place the and among the group of the earliest pioneers to explore the unplugged phenomenon.

When bands like Black Sabbath and Humble Pie were rockin' auditoriums at ear splitting volumes, America was showing music fans that acoustic music indeed had a place on the contemporary music scene of the time.

Few groups can lay claim to the success that America has enjoyed since its first hit in 1971. Originally a trio (with singer/guitarist Dan Peek), founders Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell have remained together for over 25 years, touring each year and continually recording. The group experienced commercial success on two record labels: Warner Brothers, and later, Capitol Records. This recording of America was orginally done for The King Biscuit Flower Hour while the band was on tour with Kenny Loggins, on September 4, 1982. Though the group also was recorded by King Biscuit earlier in 1978, this concert features hits from its years on both Warner and Capitol. "I remember we were always thrilled to do King Biscuit," says Bunnell. "It was exciting if you could hear a group you really loved live. We knew it was a pretty high prestigious thing to be on the Biscuit, and I think that was reflected in the energy of the show. It was also a validation of sorts for the two man version of the band."

As teenage Army brats, the three members of America first came together during the mid 1960s, at London Central High School, while their fathers were stationed at a US military base in England. Initially, they worked together in cover bands before the original trio came together in 1969. When a tape of theirs made it to Warner Brothers Records in Los Angeles, America was signed in 1971. The band instantly caught the music industry completely off-guard when the first single "Horse With No Name" and debut album skyrocketed to the coveted #1 position on the charts. To this day, America remains the first band ever to begin its career with both a number one single and album.

The early 1970s brought an incredible run of platunum singles and albums, and sold out tours. "Ventura Highway", "Tin Man", "Sister Golden Hair", "Lonely People", "Don't Cross The River" and other soft-rock anthems kept the band in constant demand. In 1974, the group teamed up with famed British producer George martin. The collaboration lasted for six albums, and marks the only time Martin worked on a long term basis with a specific act since the demise of The Beatles.

This recording of America on the King Biscuit Flower Hour serves as a live greatest hits collection. Classics like "Ventura Highway", "Tin Man", "Sister Golden Hair", and "I Need You", are balanced with the band's more contemporary hits such as "You Can Do Magic". The show climaxes with a blistering electric version of the band's early album nit, "Sandman".

America recently released an album called "Human Nature" and scored a Top 20 hit with the first single, "From A Moving Train." Bruce Pilato

Executive Producers: Steven Ship, Kevin T. Cain
Digitally Remixed and Remastered by: Gary Lyons
Liner Notes: Bruce Pilato
Photos: Collection of Dewey Bunnell, Karen DiGesu
Art & Design: Keith Alan Morris
Product Management: Karen M. Digesu
King Biscuit would like to thank: Larry Blake, Bill Crook, Pete Leonardo, Ray Tisdale.

1999 King Biscuit Flower Hour Records, Inc.

Well at least I don't DRESS like I stepped out of 1984.....(shoulder pads, ugh).....I DID go up to the "management" to complain at said offending "store". I don't think the kid was BORN when "Hotel California" came out.......sigh.

TkH<--------programmed to receive

Talk about brain damage...when 'they' mess with us like that, it's worse than the harm caused by the original lyrics or the substances sung about! Another sign that the end is near.

Hope 'they' forgot that Horse is about heroin. ;)

Just another case of the PC Police sanitizing our lives for us ( A George Orwell Moment in the Mall, Tery?)

There. I feel better now....lolololol!

TkH<-------what pay?

Tery needed a treat. Tery went to mall. Tery went inside large retail clothing chain. Tery listened to nice selection of classic rock songs. "Life In The Fast Lane" started to crank. Tery's ears perked, then started to pour smoke......"They knew all the right people,...(insert splice here).....they paid heavenly bills.....(insert splice here)......There were lines on her face...." Oh, MY GWAD. What is UP WITH THIS? Um, the song is "LIFE IN THE FAST LANE" for heaven's sake. I'm a "Mom" too! Of COURSE I wouldn't want my little (!?!) kids hearing an ode to lines of coke, pill popping and drag racing. If the lyrics are SO offensive to customers then just DON'T PLAY THE DAMN THING for Pete's sake!!!!!!! I think that splice job was more odious (ok, I suck at spelling) than the actual lyrics (I love that song, BTW).

Is the world REALLY getting this dumb or am I just getting too sensitive?

TkH<-------Another Try?

For anyone out there that's interested, I have some really lovely Billboard and cashbox magazine promo Ad's for various America albums which i'd like to sell. If anyone is interested, please email me and i'll send you a list of what I have. I also have some Australian singles for sale too.
hitachif@hotmail.com

Regards
Ian

Hahaha. Great site. The Kaczynski comment is classic.

Hahaha. Great site. The Kaczynski comment is classic.

Hahaha. Great site. The Kaczynski comment is classic.

Steve L - is it ok if I use the VH.com Bulletin Board to pass on my song to Dewey?

I don't see why not. It's a public forum.

ok - a break from writing lyrics - The next album to ponder is Perspective. With 'backhand' sloping title, a figure defying gravity on a skyscraper and D & G looking somewhat winsome at ground level.
I guess that gives it perspective, but once again no leads as to where the name came from??
Musically, the eighties were not my favourite America decade (not limited to America either). Lullaby is a great song, and a few others impress (mainly the GB written songs). It gave me another perspective
- on how good there other albums were!!
Any comments? Hit me if you like this one, I'll wear it.
Regards
Chris

Thanks Matt. Glad you are feeling better.

Touche Ingrid. But, I'm sure you will get great seats for the Aug shows in Reno right? Then there are the many Calif shows that you can see this summer, also. You always sit on Dewey's side of the stage don't you?

Johnny - ALIBI - inside sleeve.

Thanks from the mini writers guild of America.

I will keep writing as it is part of my life, much like America must keep travelling.

Johnny/Steve L - is it ok if I use the VH.com Bulletin Board to pass on my song to Dewey?

Chris

i've tried to clear up phobicman questions on both (walterphobicman.iuma.com) and (www.phobicman.com)


:)

mB

Ingrid, I think we better mention that your remark is in reference to a post on the "Message Board" on VenturaHighway.Com in case some folks are in the dark about it and think you normally make such a remark. LOL

Since Dan first mentioned Fuzzy Samuels (David Dickey's replacement during the "Holiday" tour) and the triv question was posted here on Steve's site, perhaps we should connect it with VH.Com by having the answer given there and maybe if we're really lucky, Gerry can answer a couple of questions regarding the photo. So, please check for the triv answer there.

Good one, Ingrid! That made me laugh!!!

LUCKY BASTARD!

Hot Damn, 2nd row center at the Paramount for June 22 in Denver. I'll get to break the camera when Gerry takes his picture of the audience. Life does not get any better than this!!!!!

Cool Shari! try their official site www.sonyartwalk.com Also there is a Artwalk magazine at YOUR Barnes and Noble Stores ( none in LA, I looked). We should make plans to meet, along with anyone else who is going.

I spoke too soon. After I posted I went to the San Diego Tribune website, SignOnSanDiego.com and went to Entertainment. Under the Arts, I clicked ArtWalk 2001, and there is a whole page with some description. It does mention there will be pop tunes of The Late Walter PhobicMan, but no times are posted there yet. Thought others might like to see the site, so that's why I'm giving so much info.
Robyn- I'll pick up a catalog at one of the places listed and let you know if they have times posted in there.
ShariL <><

Hey, Robyn, I've also been trying to find out about that. I can't find anything yet on the local web pages about the Art Walk, which is a little odd since they usually do a lot of advertising.
I'm planning to go (which Matt is already aware of). He told me before that the performers are usually the last to know. I've found that type of info on another web site before it has been provided to him as the performer.
When I get info, I'll email you and we'll make plans to meet.
Take care, everyone.
ShariL in San Diego <><

Very nice, Chris!

Our mini songwriting event gives me a greater appreciation for D&G's songs knowing it isn't easy, not to mention, how beautifully they put their words to music. I'm ready to leave it to the professionals. It was fun though.

No answer to the triv question from anyone? I'm surprised. Here's a hint: "The ole gray mare just ain't what she use to be."

I think perhaps that very few America fans own what I'm referring to.

The tape is finally on it's way ( hey , I even went to the Post Office on TAX DAY!) Please let me know when it arrives

Is anyone planning to go to the Sony Art walk? Hope we can meet if anyone else is going. Anyone know when tlWP is playing? the site keeps telling me to check back ( tehy don't seem to update regularly!)

ok - here is the rest of UNREAL CITY. Bear in mind, it was 1969/70 when I first wrote this - no music, I was the lyricist and couldn't write music - I had planned it as a protest/environmental song, but it ended up more of a poem - hope you like it anyway.......

UNREAL CITY

Sky, hazy hued, empty
As it falls toward earth is dirty
City, dark, damp, smells earthy
Concrete and steel jut arrogantly at the air
Feeble beauty, compared to sky, fails in despair

Lost birds wince and wing in retreat
Leaving unfeeling, stark, empty streets
At last warmed as white cuts into grey
A dead city struggles to awake to another day

Endless trains meander along iron rivers
Stopping only to deliver
A stream of fools quickly consumed
As the crowd flows forward, unamused

The river of people flows, so artificial
Now motionless, emotionless, so superficial
Green and red lights tell it - stop or go
Watches and clocks tell it - fast or slow

Unreal people arriving in an unreal city
While far away the desert sleeps without pity
Out there are mountains, not buildings, valleys not streets
There you will find true feelings in the people you meet

Chris

Thanks for the feedback on LOOK AFTER YOURSELF (post #16519). Yes Johnny, I like those lines too, and I also like:

Well there's new horizons
That you've never seen
You're just a prisoner
Of your fooolish dreams

This is very similar to Dewey's CATCH THAT TRAIN:

There's a world waitin'
Just for you to unfold
How are you to know
If you don't see, if you don't see

In fact, if you think about it, many songs on HUMAN NATURE also pick up this common theme about searching out new horizons. The word HORIZON itself is included in MOMENT TO MOMENT and OVERWHELMING WORLD.
It is also the basis of WHEELS ARE TURNING. The whole 'travel' thing is the basis of FROM A MOVING TRAIN.
Even Dan P is talking about the travel theme in his latest bio episode!! This wanderlust is something Dew and Gerry both have, and Dan says he spurned. I find it interesting that this theme is getting stronger in their latest works.

Are there any other contributors writing their Recurring Themes? I will post the rest of my first effort next - only because a couple of you asked for it!!
Chris

Glad to hear you are enjoying Driftin'. DanP saw this entry and asked me to reply. DanP particularly took note of your comments about hearing an electric rock or two on Dan's next album, and he has asked me to pass on this message, "Heard, Noted, and Will be Implemented!" You mentioned the America sounding "Blue Skies, Blue Eyes"... By coincidence, "Blue Skies, Blue Eyes" happens to be the first full length track on the new spotlight feature on Dan's website.
Muchos Regardos, Tom Peek

For most of the songs ................. I have nothing to base a guess on ......... would truly be a guess. But for 3 of them, I'll guess:

Tin Man: I'm guessing Tery ........... it sounds mystical!
The first listed, I Need You ......... going with Matt, there is a Beckleyish sound to the vocal
Wednesday Morning .................... It wasn't one of the choices, but I'm going with Robert Zimmerman .........(Bob Dylan).... I know it's not, but ..................it sure could have been!

Tim

Happy Easter to everyone. I received the following message yesterday and today received permission from Pete to post it. Cheers to Pete and all of the other UK fans out there!

"Like so many fans of America here in the UK, I first became aware of the band following the hit 'Horse With No Name'."

"Having said this, it wasn't until I got a copy of Ventura Highway that I fell so totally in love with the rich acoustic guitar sounds that now ironically play such a large part in the current music scene in good old Blighty."

"You only have to listen to the likes of David Grey and many of the so-called disco hits to discover that Britain is fast becoming a nation of acoustic guitar enthusiasts. A revival that as far as I'm concerned has been far too long in coming."

"The velvet tones of two/three acoustic guitars in unison or harmony has been my idea of musical heaven and America were the first band to introduce me to this."

"I will forever remain in their debt for broadening my musical horizons."

PETE FYFE

Just recieved my "autographed" copy (Thanks Dan) of Driftin' yesterday. I'm on the second listening as I type. My favorites right now are Driftin', Coconut Tree, the very America sounding Blue Skies,Blue Eyes and the very funky Froot Joose. I can't wait for the warm summer days at the pool when I can crank these tunes outside. Also got a nice compliment on the Peace T-shirt I was sporting last night that I received with my CD. Fine addition to my music collection. Keep up the great work, Dan. I really like the acoustic feel of the album but wouldn't mind hearing an electric rock out or two on the next one..... OK one more favorite has got to be Moonlight On Bodden Bay. It's getting better with each listen.DanC.

Just finished reading Dan's bio #37 called, "Getting Fuzzy". Here's a trivia question regarding Fuzzy:

Where can you find a photo that shows Dewey at the mike on electric guitar; Willie on drums; a guy playing the piano with a mike in front of him and wearing boots and a funky cap from the 70s (could well be Gerry since he's not shown elsewhere but the garb doesn't seem to match his style but who knows? If you do, please ID); and a guy on bass that fits Fuzzy's description?

Ok. WOW! (C=

TkH<-----still in yesterday

Oops. Reminds me, rather.

Excellent Chris Excellent!!! I especially like the lines:

You think you move mountains
With your love so true
But tell me what happens
When the mountains move you

Your song remembers me of Dewey's "Letter" and Gerry's "She's A Liar".

Good going!!!

Thanks Beech - You are right - I need all the help I can get!! But I have a lot of friends who aren't as far away as John L.
And don't forget, Nothing's So Far Away (As Yesterday), except John L..... just kidding John........ Chris H is as far away, believe me.
I'm your tomorrow and your still in yesterday >>> Happy Easter Saturday as I look at Sunday, and I hope you like my song for Dewey.
Night all
Chris

ok Johnny - seeing you posted a whole song, I'm looking for equal time here!! You have written a Gerry song, so I have decided to put something together for Dewey as an Easter gift.
Beech - I have expanded your themes (and msmith's) to cover an integral part of many of Dewey's songs - that feeling of moving on, seeking out new horizons.
Finally, I have had to enlist some help - and damn well stayed up all night for this one. Maybe Margaret will recognise this song??......
In it's original form, it was about the time of that first America concert she attended...........

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF

You've got worries
That's nothin' new
But the world won't change around
To suit you
You think you move mountains
With your love so true
But tell me what happens
When the mountains move you

You'd better look after yourself
Cause nothin' stays the same
If you can't play this game
You're gonna miss that train

Well there's new horizons
That you've never seen
You're just a prisoner
Of your foolish dreams
Yeah, you'll recover without me
Then you'll discover
That you're free

You'd better look after yourself
Cause I'm quittin' this game
If you can't turn it around
You're gonna miss that train

I can see behind your words
That you have no plan of action
I can read between the lines
That there'll be no satisfaction
So you'll have to look after yourself
Cause I'm quittin' this game
If you can't run with the tide
You've got yourself to blame
Whoa whoa

Yeah, if you can't play this game
You're gonna miss that train

Chris

Hi Margaret..your post touched my funny bone..having teenagers as well and being around lots of kids who wear their latest "fashion find" hip hugger bell bottoms. No one, however, has matched my fave pair of purple velvet ones with giant bells that flapped in the wind as I sashayed around in the 70's. (come to think of it..no one would want to!) Lol..On a kinder note, however, Prom is next week and the girls are showing me their dresses..I love the apparent return to elegance (and modesty)..Both my sons are going..Yep..two sons in tuxes on the same night..I may even get them to stand next to each other for a picture! (They are going in separate limos..actually AJ is going by horse and carriage..how romantic) :-)
Have a wonderful Easter everyone! Ingrid, send me another e-mail..I don't know what happened with the first one.
Janice

yes ingrid, that was the consensus on the folder as the dewey/kelly lange interview was discussed shortly after steve posted it. what a motormouth! she ruined it.

I have a relative like that-she just won't SHUT UP for even 10 seconds....I hear they say the greatest part of conversing is listening!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL, Oh WELL......sometimes people are on the radio just to hear themselves tawlk....

TkH<---------D.J. for 1 month

sorry'bout that.

sorry'bout that.

Ingrid, My neck of the woods is a ribbon of BC's coast called the Sunshine Coast. (It used to be called the Raincoast but they figured it wouldn't attract too many visitors so they changed the name..true story BTW). We live in a small community called Halfmoon Bay, 15 minutes from Sechelt, another 30 minutes to Langdale, and then a 45 minute ferry ride to Horseshoe Bay, and a 15 minute drive to downtown Vancouver. So, anyone who wants to come and visit, you can't miss it.
j

My neck of the woods is a ribbon of BC's coast called the Sunshine Coast. (It used to be called the Raincoast but they figured it wouldn't attract too many visitors so they changed the name..true story BTW). We live in a small community called Halfmoon Bay, 15 minutes from Sechelt, another 30 minutes to Langdale, and then a 45 minute ferry ride to Horseshoe Bay, and a 15 minute drive to downtown Vancouver. So, anyone who wants to come and visit, you can't miss it.
j

I was able to listen to all of the songs but briefly at the city library. Excellent work you all! I think a perfomer's name is missing though. It's song #8. Bob Dylan!!! Great! Wow, on all the performances!

Just a note before I leave for a week off (SCHOOL VACATION) to wish everyone a Happy Easter! Daisyjane/Lisa I will try to e-mail you, and maybe Bones too, when I get back to my school computer...to see if we can synchronize our watches for Mohegun Sun! Andy? LisaRose? Are you coming from NYC? Anybody heard from Gary H?

F.Y.I. - Bodden Town by Dan Peek will be playing on leakycanoe radio today (leakycanoe.com)...thanks Bill

Very funny comment, Chris, about the 7 concerts in a row. I felt like Erin was rubbing our faces in it a bit! (I write that with a smile Erin.)

That was a touching story Margaret; thanks for sharing it. I also feel sad when a concert is over.

Last night I started listening to the interview that Dewey did last April with Kelly Lange (Is this an awesome website or WHAT?!)
Was it just me or was she incredibly annoying? First of all, she kept calling him Dewey Bone-nell. Secondly, she kept interrupting him in mid-sentence with statements like "Oh, weren't those great days?!" I don't KNOW if they were or not Kelly! Why don't you shut up for 90 seconds and let Dewey finish a sentence so we can HEAR about them?!
O.K., I feel a little bit better now.

Happy Easter everyone.

Ingrid.

>>- almost starts sounding better than sex!!

No offense taken on that last post Chris, but YOU NEED HELP.......lolololol! Yikes.

TkH<-----------2 days and counting....

We've had a quiet day at home on Good Friday. A couple of interesting and coincidental conversations have transpired with our children. This morning my daughter showed me her recent clothing purchases. A pair of tweed trousers reminded me of some that I had in the Seventies. As well, I said that I had an overcoat at the time made of similar material. She asked if I still had it, (no), but I said that I had another from the era of our first America concert. She had shown no interest in it or the other clothing treasures I saved, either local or that I had acquired from places as diverse as London and Kabul. She said her tastes have changed and she will take a fresh look at them.
A few hours later, one of her brothers said he was going to a dress-up party tonight and he came out with a leather jacket to wear that has been in his wardrobe for years. My husband wore it in the Seventies. They cleaned it up, emptied the pockets and discovered tickets to the first America concert we attended! They said:
Paul Dainty Corporation
Present at the R.A.S. of N.S.W.
HORDERN PAVILION (Sydney Showground)
AMERICA IN CONCERT
Thursday, July 15, at 8.15 p.m.
STALLS Row No.
Sec. 9 E 7&8
How about that? I often wondered what happened to them. I will add them to all the other memorabilia that we have subsequently collected. I think it was back in 1976 and should be able to confirm this now that I have the day and date.
I remember that our seats were quite a long way back compared to the close seats we have been fortunate to have at more recent concerts.
We await concerts with the same anticipation described by Nanse and feel a bit let down when they are over.
This ties in with the recent discussions about favo(u)rite songs live. We get a thrill out of songs at the start of the shows such as Riverside and Ventura Hwy, more recent songs such as Never Be Lonely and From A Moving Train (which wasn't played on the last tour to Oz), but especially Sister Golden Hair. That is such a bittersweet experience, as we love the song , it now has extra layers of meaning because of all the memories we associate with it with our long list of concerts but we also feel a sense of sadness as it heralds the end of the show. Because we live so far away there is always the question of whether we will get to see America again. (The Oz dollar is starting to pick up value so maybe a promoter will take the plunge! We live in hope.)
If you are having a holiday now, enjoy the break.

...God He "give" me the best??? Should be "gave" of course. Help me Steve!

Yes Chris, it would be nice for us to be able to read the rest of your lyrics.

I look forward to hearing everybody's performance soon...by our talented friends!!!

So Chris, is there a melody as well? Have you recorded it? I don't think it would be boring at all to read the rest, and perhaps hear it? (Maybe Steve could post it as RealAudio.)

Fully agree John - but, hey what can you do when you're so far away??
I am also very nvs - hell, someone even saw them 7 nights in a row I see - almost starts sounding better than sex!!
It's been 5 years for me too John - you know that I mean since I last saw the guys!!
Hope this don't offend or .........
Chris

Wow - Gerry would be proud of that one Johnny! Send it on - I would like to hear it as a song!!!
You seem to have captured the Ger heart and soul - amazing stuff.
Thanks Ingrid, Beech and was it msmith who thought of this concept this week? Great idea.
Ingrid - I'll 'fess up to having a head start on my song lines as I actually first wrote the main theme when I was 18 - a couple of years
before Dewey reached that ripe old age. I only had to add the word 'fool' somewhere and it already had most of the elements. It was called "Unreal City" and the other verses kinda' attempt to compare man's work/civilisation to the beauties of nature - and of course mankind fails in comparison. At the risk of being profoundly boring, I might post the rest some day......... I had not noticed the similarities to Dewey's writing before.... might explain why I was hooked on America right from my first listening at the start of '72.
Chris

I've been a busy beaver tonight updating the America Fans web site (finally!). Check out the What's New section for links to the official Song Contest page, Ingrid Lundberg's bio, and information on a MIDI file floppy with 8 America songs. -SteveL

"The wa-ai-ting is the hardest part" (Tom Petty)
I AM sorry John! Where is your neck of the woods? I'm waiting 5 months between concerts for Reno and yes, Nanse, it feels like ages . . .
55

Thanks Ingrid! No, it's not autobio but it's nice to dream. Yeah, it even made me a little weepy!!! As you probably can tell, I'm a bit partial to GLB's love songs.

I am very envious of those of you who are able to get to concerts once, twice, three times a year. (or 7 nights in s row!!) It's been 2 years since I"ve seen them and about 5 since they've been to this neck of the woods. (this is where you all insert a big sigh).
j

i don't know if it is just me, but do you all just wait and wait until that time again when you can get to a concert and the wait time drives you crazy but the anticipation is great. I DO!!!!!!! this year there is so much on the east coast and not west. i guess we have had our chance out here in CA. There are a few coming up but i can't wait for RENO.......Lots of fun.......Trying to plan a gathering and will let you all know when we do....take it easy,,,,,nanse

Nice work, Johnny -- you've got a little bit of a tear-jerker going there. What I want to know: is it autobiographical?

I never cease to be impressed with the talent in this folder!!!!
(C=

TkH<-----obvious, ugh

Okay Beech, Ingrid, and Chris, here 'tis:

"Without A Doubt"

Without a doubt your love turned me around
Without you I was a train nowhere bound

Like a fool I played the world like a game
In return it only brought me pain and shame

Now it's not a question of win or lose
Without a doubt there's no one else I'd choose

When I'm in the middle of life's storm
You'll be here to keep me warm

Tomorrow, you will become my bride
And forever, we'll be side-by-side

When the time comes to put me to rest
I can thank God He give me the best

When your day comes you'll know it's true
Without a doubt I'll be there waiting for you

Cool Steve! I was hoping you would provide a list of participants, Otherwise the task would have been impossible!

At Terry's request, here's the link again for the 10 songs that were submitted:

http://www.rockandrollusa.com/america/amchat.exe?P16454

By the way, I have received an 11th track which I'll be adding to the contest. This is how I think I'm going to do it. I'll create a page with the 10 (soon to be 11) tracks in both MP3 and RealAudio format. Then I'll list the 10 (soon to be 11) artists in random order. Your job, will be to match the tracks with the artists. My intent is to get the page designed and posted this weekend (I think I'll have time). As soon as all of the artists have been correctly matched with the tracks, we'll let everyone pick their favorite tracks (1, 2, 3, or all 11) in the order that they like them. Howie will be able to tally the votes for the favorite tracks to see who comes out on top. There really won't be any winners or losers, because we all have different tastes. However, it will be fun to see which song or songs are the favorites for the majority of the fans. -SteveL

Hey man, I'm in Reno too. Maybe I'll get to meet some of you in August. Jami.

I prefer U2, Savage Garden, Sarah McLachlan, No Doubt. They're all good in the car.

Brad, I missed the chance to wish you a HAPPY BIRTHDAY on April 8. Blame the change in time, change in the weather or a change in my medication, I BLEW IT! So Brad, I hope you had the happiest of days. You ROCK.

Thanks to someone on the chat tonight we have not forgot Brad Palmers Birthday....just a little late..Happy Birthday Brad!!!

Thanks for the encouragement Chris and Beech. Chris, I was very impressed with yours. Are you sure you didn't lift them from an unreleased Bunnell tune? (Now THAT'S a big compliment!)
P.S. Mike: the lyrics only need to contain one of the words or phrases, I just wanted to challenge myself more.

Let's have some more entries folks!

Find thyself a CD-ripper and make the ultimate road disc! That way you could put (in YOUR ORDER) ALL the tunes you love!!!

BUT since you asked, I love Molten Love (the beat) even though it's mellow. Hey, in THIS day of road rage I think it should be canned in a spray form to spray in the faces of mad car/truck drivers like mace!!! Think of the benefits! I'd be willing to bet George would step in to make it a DRUG!!!! (C=

TkH<------lots and LOTS of matter!!!!

I petition that the guys play in Palm Springs or SOMEWHERE there's a spa. I get a vacation this year (wow, I'm being LET OUT on leave!) and really need that spa........nothing'd be nicer than having the music there for a night's entertainment!

TkH<-----------------mind over matter?

I think this has been brought up before...but I'm going to post it anyway. My boyfriend and I are heading down to Disneyland and the "new" Disneyland in a couple of weeks. Any suggestions for good road trip albums...both America and non-America....thanks!

Erin :o)

Yes, there IS some really nice guitar players out there!!!!!!!!! WOW!
MOST IMPRESSIVE young grasshoppers! ((((C=

(((C=

TkH<--------wishing,,,,,,,,,

Just listened to the 10 tracks...WOW!
SteveL, could you post that link again?

http://www.rockandrollusa.com/america/amchat.exe?P16454

It helped me understand the importance of a 12 string, and that there's a lot of talent out there.
Applause to Howie and all of you...above all, your love for the material is the main thing I noticed.

thanks nina for the info.

I will be attending both shows at mohegan sun too nina.if you want to e-mail me maybe we can set something up.Lisa

Re: Mohegun Sun...There are no tickets required for the Wolf's Den, it's free! America usually puts on two shows...at 8 & 10, if I remember correctly. Some of us try to get there early so we'll be in the front of the line to be seated first. Once seated, you can leave the enclosed area to get food or whatever. I've never gotten there later than 5:30 for an 8 o'clock show because the line starts forming early. Hope to see you there!

Nina

Nina

Please join me this evening for our weekly chat! Although the chat officially begins at 6 Pacific, I will be there after 7 Pacific( subway permitting!) Hope to see you there.

Every night...7 shows...All My Life...What a great week that was...

Erin :o)

holiday--pretty good, but you forgot to get "turned around".

Why thanks Beech - and yeah, well done Ingrid.
Sleep deprivation is now overtaking me as midnight approaches down here .........zzzzzzzzzzzzz I look forward to some more original lyrics tomorrow.
Chris

WOW! I'm impressed with the lyrics, Ingrid and Chris!!!!!! I promise to come up with some as soon as I'm over the cake hangover...lol!

TkH<---------3 down 2 to go....

Endless trains meander along iron rivers
Stopping only to deliver
A stream of fools quickly consumed
As the crowd flows forward unamused
Unreal people arriving in an unreal city
While not far away the desert sleeps without pity

yes nina; i'm planning on attending the show on may 5th. this will be my 1st visit to the mohican sun casino. are tickets needed or is the concert free?

Isn't it time for an East Coast Fan gathering? Mohegun Sun is only about a month away. (May 5th) Getting together is pretty "hit or miss", depending on the time you arrive and where you are located in the line. Is anyone close enough to the venue to make arrangements? Where's Gary H when you need him !!!

america did a week in reno last year. i believe that it was erin that attended EVERY night and was recognized by the boys at the show i attended for having done so. it was one show a night. ingrid, your post #16467 was pretty good!

No, Erin DiPietro from Reno -- SgtDrkness.
I'm pretty sure it's just one show each night at the Nugget. I saw the Bellamy Brothers there on Friday ("Let Your Love Flow" has always been one of my favorite songs) and they were playing Friday and Saturday, one show per night.

Irish and Dutch.

Both, guitar parts, Lazlo, and yes they tend to stick with me. "Sister Golden Hair" provided a connection point, musically, between my sister and me back in 1976, when I bought "History - Greatest Hits" and played it at home for the first time. When she heard SGH on the album, she immediately related as to who this group was of which I had become a big fan. She had the 45 RPM (God, I'm glad everyone on *this* list knows what that is)from when the single was first released. It's no mistake that this record climbed to no. 1 on the pop charts, and it remains one of my all-time faves, along with HWNN. And hearing SGH live is a treat -- Gerry really gets into the vocal.

Jim R.

I was in such pain when you boarded that train
I tried to act cool but I felt like a fool
You were homeward bound and I was turned around
Feeling like I'd never be found

"...location of "the middle" is so profoundly dull that I'm about to drop dead from profound boredom."

It seems that Gerry's "Monster" describes your condition, Lazlo:

Red and BLUE, I want to like a hole in the head
It slopes IN THE MIDDLE and is stopping them DEAD

Back to ya, buddy! :0)

MEMO TO JOHNNY: Yeah. Right. Whatever. Let me concede the argument to you. But only because the crucial question of the location of "the middle" is so painfully dull that I'm about to drop dead from profound boredom.

MEMO TO JIM RICCIOLI: Regarding the song which gives you chills with the opening guitar riff. Are you referring to SISTER GOLDEN HAIR's opening strummed chords with their downward trajectory? Or are you referring to the slide-guitar passage? Or both? What really impresses me are those descending strummed chords. And it's downright eerie that you should mention it. Because those chords have been haunting the back of my mind for the last few days.

Ingrid, I probably erred on the 2 a nites for Aug 17 & 18. Since, it's not listed that way on the concert list, I shouldn't have spoken. Maybe Erin could find out the answer to this dilemma. Is this the same Erin that works for Morey Management?

One day I'll learn how to combine everything I want to say into one message! (I'm brand new at this chat thing.) Anyway, both of my Reno posts are in response to red oak.

See y'all tomorrow. (Don't eat too much cake Beech.)

The only bad thing about the Reno shows is the length of each show. Now, granted one could go to both, but what songs are you going to hear. The best shows are AMERICA only and outside, where you get the LONG set. What's the other half besides Swedish?

Wait, are you SURE? Usually the Nugget has just one show per night at 8 p.m. That's what I remember from last year's America concerts there too. If it's two per night that's GREAT!

I've been a fan for 25 years but didn't see them live until April 2000. Since then I've seen them four more times. Yes on Reno, both nights, and Erin and I are discussing a "3rd Annual Fans Gathering." Any suggestions?

Half Swedish.

Chris, I really like your version! Clever!!! I see a minor location problem though, as discussed below.

Lazlo, regarding, "It's obvious that 'the middle' refers to the American midwest," I guess I'm missing the obvious. If Virginia is in the middle according to the original lyrics, wouldn't the middle still be in the South and not the Midwest? Perhaps one of the parties is living in the Northeast and the other in the South, like FL, GA, AL, or MS, making Virginia in the middle. I dunno! Do I need to fly back to Memphis???

Texas----->no state taxes.

As Mark mentioned regarding "train", here are the songs that contain the word or a reference to it:

VENTURA HIGHWAY
Wishin' on a falling star
Waitin' for the early train

DON'T CROSS THE RIVER
If you want, you can ride my train

CATCH THAT TRAIN

FROM A MOVING TRAIN

SLEEPER TRAIN

KISS OF LIFE (Gerry's song from VGG)
Like a slow moving train

OLD VIRGINIA
And you've been sTRAINin' at those strings
From mornin' till noon

PIGEON SONG
Had me a railroad down on the ridge

GOD OF THE SUN
Saw you wave goodbye down the railroad track

MITCHUM JUNCTION
Railroad smoke sifting

Regarding the word, "fool" or its form, I posted it in message #16343.

Another recurring theme or phrase is Gerry's great use of the word "game" and the phrase "in the middle".


JoY<------still needs to do his taxes. No JoY!!!

Go to the Reno shows and you can see 4 shows in 2 days. What a bargain, huh?

Monster-Matt Beckley

I wouldn't change a thing! ( Could they play twice???)

Howdy folks. It seems like I've been out of touch for the past several weeks and I've got a lot of catching up to do. Around the 22nd of last month Howard sent me a CD with the America Song Contest entries. Since then I've had a little spare time to digitize them but not to format them and put them out on the America Fans web site. I'm still extremely busy so I decided to post them here instead. There are 10 tracks and they are in MP3 and RealAudio format. Click on the links below to download the MP3 version or to listen to the RealAudio version:

MP3 Files
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Track 5
Track 6
Track 7
Track 8
Track 9
Track 10

RealAudio Files
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Track 5
Track 6
Track 7
Track 8
Track 9
Track 10

Here's how the contest will go. For the first week or two we'll let everyone listen to the songs and try to guess who the performers are for each track. You can post your guesses here or send them to Howard or me and we'll post them for you. No fair guessing yourself if you're one of the performers. As soon as all the performers have been guessed (or everyone gives up), we'll have a little competition to see which songs we like the best. Have fun!

By the way, I have also received a fan biography from Ingrid which I hope to get posted this week. Hang in there, Ingrid, it's coming.

--SteveL

Well, I never posted my favorite to hear, can anyone guess this bookworm's favorite? Pages. ( My Library actually had an ad campaign that said " Step inside the Los Angeles Public Library" It was before the song, I believe.)

I saw the AMerica/Jackson Browne tour. Jackson is a local boy. He was touring behind his first album and opening for the guys. Heck of a double bill, IMHO!

Ingrid, the tape will be on it's way as soon as I can get to the post office!

Tx for the response. I guess everyone else overlooked or ignored my post about the playlist. How many times have you seen AMERICA? Are you Danish or Swede? Will you be attending the Reno shows in August?

Hopefully by the time we're done we can cut and paste them together!

TkH<------WAY too early for cake

Hey! Lets make a new song lyric!!!!!! It HAS to have either the phrase "Turned Around" or the word "fool" or "train" in it!!!! I say it must be 4 lines but can be any length!

Go For It. I'll post mine after the birthday celebration!

TkH<------too early

LOL, Ingrid-well only if I can too, on occasion......hey. If someone is put off or "pissed" by chatters or posters-there always the next button or the IGNORE button!!!!! So you GO girl! (C=

TkH<----------proclaimed by "others" as Queen of Inane!

the following are recurring themes/phrases in america's songs.
1. getting turned around
2. fool
3. trains
i'm sure that johnny can tell us how many times each of these occurs in america's 190 songs, right, johnny?

I'd say:
Will you meet me in the middle, will you meet me in VA
Will you love me just a little, just enough to leave LA
Chris

I agree entirely Ingrid ...... with the "good on the EARS" part anyway
- I have said here before that Bunnell, Beckley and Browne would easily be my favourite trio (after B, B and Peek of course!)
I have grown more appreciative of Jackson Browne in recent years. Like America, he has continued to produce great songs into the 1990's, and more to come I hope.
I'M ALIVE and LOOKING EAST are great examples of his ability to reproduce fresh melody and lyrics to rekindle his great talents for new generations (and oldies like me).
I would love to hear B, B and B perform a song like "Some Bridges", or "Take It Easy" live. I'd like to hear them do ANY song really - come back to OZ soon, individually or together..........
Chris

Okay red oak, I can't resist a good survey. From the Fort Collins list I would omit "You Can Do Magic," "Three Roses" and "Lonely People," and add "Can't Fall Asleep to a Lullaby," "Cornwall Blank" and "Molten Love."

Dewey, Gerry, and Jackson Browne: My, my, my, is THAT a trio that would be EASY ON THE EYES?! Ears, I mean EARS! . . . Uh, okay, I meant eyes. Hey, it's not MY FAULT that they're talented AND beautiful! I'm just remarking upon the obvious; I hope that no one thinks that I am harassing or creating a hostile chat environment.

So, if "SGH" was originally:

Will you meet me in the middle, will you meet me in VA?

What line was next? I suppose the original but that doesn't sound right (sorry Ger, just a FANatic's opinion). I can understand how Jackson Browne thought it was "in the air". If "VA" was left unchanged, what would you put with it? I'd go with:

Will you meet me in the middle, will you meet me in VA?
Will you love me just a little, just enough to show the way?

Well, I tried to make it Sunday (to the chat folder), but I got too damn busy, so I set my sights on Monday and this question came up. Care to guess which song gives me chills with the opening guitar riff? If you want to join me, I'll meet you in the middle!

Jim R.

...except for some Beech Waves... ;)

Those opening open strings of Riverside. Hearing that live has so much meaning, like that we got to the concert on time!

tt <------- beyond the WINDow she WAVEs

I believe the lady said "one" song. With that in mind I will not be greedy and say "Here" is my choice. "Sandman".....DanC.

FROM BARRY ALFONSO'S LINER NOTES: "The song has a lyric revision courtesy of Jackson Browne: 'We toured with Jackson a couple of times, and we'd always play each other songs backstage. I sang 'Meet me in the middle, will you meet me in VA [short for Virginia]'. And he thought I was singing 'meet me in the air'. He was singing along, and he sang that line, and I said, 'Oh, that's better.'"

Frankly, I'm flabbergasted. I was heretofore convinced that Gerry had written "meet me in the air" as a deliberate religious allusion. But no. Gerry's original inclination was Virginia. And based on that informational tidbit, it's obvious that "the middle" refers to the American midwest. Well isn't that just marvy. Another perfectly good assumption shot straight to hell.

Thanks for the birthday advice, Ingrid!!!! The daughter is a little enamored of those "older" men right now (she's in LOVE with Dave Bryan of Bon Jovi at present......), man if she only KNEW....lol! AND as for the son, I've found out he's also in love with Shania, so I guess it's just the first peak of hormonal lust rearing it's lovely fangs.....lol. Hey at least it's girls!!!! ((((C=

TkH<-------spring broken

Ok, so DON'T asketh me HOW I did THAT....lol

TkH<------doing magic

yeah the one I DON'T get to hear is the one I'm SURE I'd be the most happy with.....Ladies and Gentlemen,,,,,,
Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,Windwave,

There. I think I've made my point....(snicker)

TkH<--------------got that hankerin'

Here's what I recall of the early history of Fleetwood Mac. They originally began as a British Blues Band. I have a double album of their's which was originally released in 1967. Besides the trio of John & Christine McVie and Mic Fleetwood, there were several other members who belonged to the band. There were Peter Green and Danny Kirwin among others. Bob Welch appeared on the album, "Heroes are hard to Find" circa 1974. This was the last personnel change before Buckingham and Nicks joined them. These two did have a solo (or duo) album by that name before joining FM. Interestingly enough, I did see Fleetwood Mac play warmup for Ten Years After in August, 1975 in Milwaukee. They had already released their debut album with Buckingham/Nicks but had not become really popular for at least another six months. Great concert by both groups. Please feel free to correct any erroneous details. I could check my FM LP's - if I could only find them in the garage somewhere......
Randy

My first America concert was at Rock-fest in Cadott, Wi, July, 1999.
My favorites there were:
1. You Can Do Magic
2. Woman Tonight
3. Wheels are Turning
4. Never Be Lonely
In addition to these, when I seen them twice last summer, it was great to hear them perform:
1. Windwave
2. Hangover
and also Sandman always rocks.
Randy

I know it's a Dan Peek song, but I'd love to hear "Today's The Day" live. Gerry would sound good on it.

1. woman tonight...the funest of the fun
2. another try
3. windwave

it still remains my goal in life to hear HAT TRICK performed live before i croak.

Using the playlist from the Ft Collins concert as a guide, what songs would you omit & what songs would you add to the list? I would omit THINGS WE SAID TODAY,AND FOREVER, and "MIRROR TO MIRROR. I would add YOUNG MOON, GREEN MONKEY, And MUSKRAT LOVE.

Forgot one...Wind Wave!! That one is GREAT!!!

Erin :o)

And Forever...I think I've only heard it once live, but it was awesome! What else...Never Be Lonely, To Each His Own, Another Try, Pages, and of course, All My Life.

One more...Sandman.
And if I could pick ONE song to hear live....Seargeant Darkness.

Happy Monday!

Erin :o)

No doubt about, hearing "Wind Wave" live last fall at Topsfield Fair was the most exciting "America moment" I've ever experienced. I also really enjoy the following live:

Pages
Wheels Are Turning
From A Moving Train
Another Try
Sandman
Green Monkey (although I only saw it "live" on a video, that song rocks!)

My "wish list" of songs to hear live includes:
Old Man Took
Cornwall Blank
Letter
Here
Moment To Moment (I know it's on their playlist, but I've never heard it live)

Of course, these are just a few of the many I enjoy/would enjoy live.

Alan

Regarding "musical birthdays," a belated Happy Birthday to Bad Brad Palmer! Rock On, Rock Long!!!

Sister Golden Hair
Hangover
Pages
California Dreamin
Horse With No Name

I also would like to hear Young Moon & Muskrat Love live.

One year I saw the guys play 'Young Moon' and 'Hope' live in concert in New York. I think both of those songs are GREAT live!

Don't worry too much Beechlady. I've liked Paula Abdul myself. At least she calls the boys into responsibility: "Are you really gonna love me forever, or am I caught in a hit and run? Is it gonna be you and me forever, or are you just havin' fun?" Uh-oh, I have a sudden INTENSE craving to hear the song "Rush." AND, if your son likes America, it's likely that he'll come back home to the truth! :) As for your daughter and Aerosmith, I'm a fan of a few of their songs but have to be in a certain mood for them. I like that Steven Tyler and Joe Perry talk openly about their decade plus of sobriety. As long as she not trying to DATE one of them . . .
In answer to your question of several weeks ago about your wallpaper on a laptop -- yes, everything looks great and I knew right away that it was "She's Gonna Let You Down." Thanks again!

Your "Who ARE you?" response to Muskrat Love was very funny! That's a tough question -- I can't limit it to one either: Ventura Highway, Tin Man, and Wheels Are Turning.

P.S.: Is the tape on its way? :)

I can't limit it to only one. They are: Woman Tonight, Tin Man, and Sister Golden Hair.

It's been too quiet here lately, so here is a question for everyone ( including all you lurkers!)

What song is your favorite to hear live? I don't mean what song do you want to hear live, but what song do you hope they are still including, what song makes you yell "YES!" when you recognize the opening notes? I will have to think about what one does that for me ( there are so many!) As an aside, at one recent concert, my dh leaned over and said he hoped they did "Muskrat Love" I looked at him for a bit and then asked " Who ARE you?" AH well, to each his own.

Me too.

Morning Beech - and early Happy Holidays to you, and all the America friends - can't get enough of these Holidays lately ..................
Chris

As I posted a while back, my daughter got a Bass, Amp and etc. for her 14th birthday......NOW my son has decided (two days before HIS) that he wants his boom box back (he got one a couple of years ago-BUT it wasn't the "big thing" he thought it'd be, so Mom and Dad "borrowed it"). Guess what he's ravaged from the CD closet? Paula ABDUL!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! Yes, now I'm worried.......sigh. So I have one in chains and leather (stuck in the '80's right now with Aerosmith----NOT a BAD thing compared to the other "stuff" she was "listening" too...lol) and a boy liking the girl toys........at TEN/ELEVEN none-the-less. Maybe I should buy HIM a guitar? Wha da ya think? I'm hoping that if I don't make TOO big a deal of this he'll OUT GROW IT!!!! lol.......watch, I've given birth to the "next big thing"..........BTW, he LIKES America, so I know there's hope.....

TkH<-------what to do, what to do?????

Thanks Johnny for the message re HOLIDAY. It's ok now - Dan has just posted a whole lot of HOLIDAY info with interesting comments about the making of the album and the UK scene at the time - ex-Beatles and all! I think he is also starting to get into the inner sanctum issue now - can't wait for more on this.................
Chris

Happy Passover, Early Easter, and SPRING BREAK (pick the one that applies to you and feel the love)!

TkH<-------pick a card. ANY CARD.

Robyn, I thought it was a good discussion between the two of us by phone and it's a good discussion here as well...absolutely no problem as far as I'm concerned.

I saw a Dell computer commercial on tv last night and it had me wondering whatever happened with D&G and The Generals and the song they all put together for Dell? Does anyone know?

(Hi Janice!)

Hope everyone has been well..won't even try to scroll back on everything I've missed! One thing that caught my eye is that the guys are coming to Peachtree City in September..Omagosh! Literally 10 minutes from my house. They played there a few years ago and I am glad to see they are coming back. Quiet weekend..kids in LA..I'm off for 9 days..(No..not fun stuff..spring cleaning time!). Glad to see the same ol' names still here..Oh..just fyi..I'll be putting 8 buddy passes in the fan hat this year..more on that later. Take care..Janice

......you can’t blame an artist for touring and collecting his share of the market....because of Napster, Bearshare, and others, I feel that the future for musicians and artists is making the buck on the road....that includes ticket sales as well as merchandise.....

Hello everyone,by all accounts Don Felder asked for an outside audit of the groups merchandising and tour receipts,which Azoff, Henley and Frey refused and was fired on the spot even though he is one third owner in the Eagles Ltd.(whats the betting its settled out of court).Fleetwood Mac were much better in their original line up,and Peter Greens guitar playing quite sublime.Have America parted ways with Oxygen? While the re-release of "America" and "Hat Trick" are most welcome its the new material were all waiting for.

Thank you young moon. I was incorrect. I enjoy the Eagles, I just can't afford to see them live! As for Beckley, Bunnell and Peek, I suppose there are THREE sides!

Actually, it was Buckingham Nicks. Yes Johnny we did have this discussion privately, but since you asked....

"These guys apparently can't sit in the same room together".....

Again Robyn, I'd have to disagree on this one. I was at the Staples Center for his last solo gig and as you might already know, Timothy Schmitt, and Glen Frey joined him on stage. They had a ball together....I understand that Don Felder isn't touring with them, but again, theres always two sides to a story....(as in the case between and I hate to bring this up...Beckley, Bunnell, and Peek.) Yes, I am a nice person, and from reading your posts here on the folder, you are too. Just another case of "two different views".

Jim, that sounds good to me. I'm not a fan of Fleetwood Mac. I like their hit songs though and have bought only one LP of theirs. My favorite member (rather former member) of Fleetwood Mac is Bob Welch. I believe he was a member very early on. He's best known for his song, "Sentimental Lady".

Chris, unfortunately, I don't have any magazine ads for "Holiday". I can tell you about "Cashbox" magazine's ad for "Hideaway" though. It merely has a colored picture of the front of the album cover with a turquoise-colored background. It simply reads: "America's Finest...'Hideaway'"

<<Fleetwood Mac had Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham but they were a duo previously "known" as Buckingham, I believe.>>

Johnny, if I remember my Fleetwood Mac history correctly, Stevie and Lindsey were the imports into the existing band, and that's when their success really began. Mick Fleetwood and John McVie (who joined in 1967) and Christine Perfect (later McVie, after she married John) started out together years earlier.

Jim R.

Johnny - do you have any "Billboard" or any other advertising material
on HOLIDAY from 1974 that you could post here? I would be most interested.
Also, I wonder if Gerry has a fav America album? Maybe we could post some of our fans' questions to a central register - Steve could vet them for 'political correctness'and we might get an update of the 'FAQ' section of the venturahighway page???
It's just a thought.......
Chris

Hmmm, Robyn, what you said sounds familiar to me. Oh yeah, we chatted about this subject one evening by telephone not very long ago.

I beg to differ. Most all of the bands that I mentioned had band members that weren't well known before. Yes, the Eagles were Linda Ronstadt's band, "The Stone Ponies" but they weren't anyone "famous" at that time. Same with the Doobie Brothers when it was Tom Johnston and Patrick Simmons as lead vocalists. Fleetwood Mac had Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham but they were a duo previously "known" as Buckingham, I believe. I can't think of anything they put out as Buckingham that was popular. The same with Mick Fleetwood and John and Christine McVie. Toto were first studio musicians. I can't think of anything the members of that band were well known for that would be recognizable by the music-listening public prior to becoming Toto. In my opinion, the ONLY group that applies that I mentioned is Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young.

Here's a few groups/duos that go/went by their last names whose member or two have had great name recognition and major success individually: LOGGINS & Messina; SIMON AND GARFUNKEL; ENGLAND DAN (DAN SEALS) & John Ford Coley; HALL & Oates; and of course CROSBY, STILLS, NASH, AND YOUNG.

It certainly doesn't guarantee, using the last names of its band members as the band's name, that more popularity will follow. I'm just saying it certainly doesn't hurt. It can, perhaps, help.

Pat, if I recall correctly, Journey was going to tour again but Perry suffered a major injury while hiking. It turned out that he had a bone disorder that had developed in his hip. He didn't want to have the major hip surgery that was required to get him, literally, back on his feet. In the meantime, all this was delaying the tour. Schon and Cain, his band partners, were pressuring him to have the surgery to speed things along. When Perry said no for the time being, his partners decided to move on without him. I believe I have the story correct.

Perry said during the "Behind The Music" interview, that he really never felt like he was a real member of the band. Schon and Cain said that was ridiculous (and I agree) because he was definitely a major member of the band. No doubt, Perry was feeling bad for himself. Steve Perry can succeed without Schon and Cain, I think. Whether the reverse is true, we'll soon find out. I have a feeling that they will.

Yes, but AMerica doesn't charge upwards from $150 per seat for the pleasure. These guys aparently can't sit in the same room together but are touring. Excuse my skepticisim here, young moon.Guess I am not as nice as you are :)

Robyn...I have to put in my two cents here and say that I do believe you are wrong on the Greed thing with Don Henley....as far as I'm concerned (my opinion), he is just sharing his new music with us on this solo tour of his, and then pleasing alot of people by touring again with the Eagles....I see your point Spurs, but there's always two sides to a story.
It would be like Gerry going out solo and sharing his own music with us and then getting back together with "America".....hint hint...it has to do with money, but remember, this is what these guys love and do for a living....we can't help alot of money comes with it....be happy for them......

Most of the other people you named were in other bands and their names had been around. Dewey,Gerry and Dan were a huge sucess right out of the box. This, I believe, contributes in part to their relative anonymity-name recoginition factor-wise. Maybe if they had had huge public blowups or made a great effort on focusing on the cult of personality rather than putting forth the best music they could create, everyone would know their names.

Hi everyone. I wanted to clear up a little confusion about the June 24th show in Kansas City, MO. This show is at the Starlight Theatre and not the Station Casino. Pollstar and a local radio station were listing this show incorrectly. We are in the process of getting both of those sites to correct their information.

Sorry for the confusion.

Thanks!

-Erin Edwards

For Steve Perry fans, his 1998 CD "Greatest Hits and Five Unreleased" is awesome. I like his solo work much better than his work with Journey. The Doobie Brothers have continued to record good music with new members, but having seen them live in three different configurations, they have never come close to their concerts during the Michael McDonald days. I also want to recommend Stephen Stills in concert live. He continues to write great music, as shown in his contributions to CSNY's 1999 CD "Looking Forward." Dewey, Steve Perry and Stephen Stills are my three favorite voices in rock 'n' roll. I saw Stephen S. live two months ago and it was more amazing than I expected.

I am unaware of the circumstances involving Steve Perry's departure (which, by the way is a name of one of Journey's albums) from Journey. Why do you suppose Journey replaced him with someone who looks and sounds so much like him? Did they do it for the fans? Does Journey believe that the fans may not miss Perry as much because he's replaced by a clone?

It will be interesting to see how Steve Perry's look-alike replacement will do with Journey. The band is suppose to release a new CD this month. I think they'll do well (but not with their hardcore fans, perhaps). "Behind The Music" showed the look-alike singing a Perry/Journey song. It was amazing how much he sounds and looks like Perry but with a perm.

Some bands have to have new blood to keep 'em going. It's mainly because they have to replace their lead vocalist. The Doobie Brothers are a good example of how well new blood added new life. Fleetwood Mac also did for awhile by replacing Lindsey Buckingham when he left. I believe they had a hit or two with their new male singer. Toto is another good example of new members coming on and doing well. And those other guys...ahhhhh, the Eagles. WOW!

I've wondered now and then how different it might have been if our guys would have been known as "Beckley, Bunnell, and Peek" instead of America. Maybe as "Beckley and Bunnell," D&G's duo music would have helped the music public to know them better. In other words, how many folks off the street can correctly name Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell, and Dan Peek as America? Maybe if they started as "Beckley, Bunnell, and Peek", they'd be (better) known individually today. A certain, very popular band comes to mind who are/were known by their last names. You know, that band whose one member sounded a lot like Dewey in the early years????

Journey without Steve Perry is NOT Journey, plain and simple.

There's only one legitimate reason for replacing a band member, and that's death, as in the case when Brian Johnson replaced the late Bon Scott in ACDC.

Although I am aware of the fact that fans will accept replacments as in the case of Van Halen replacing David Lee Roth with Sammy Hagar or Def Leppard replacing Pete Willis with Phil Collen. In my opinion, neither replacement was as good as the original.

Lazlo, thanks for the excerpt; I enjoyed reading it. I can't believe that people thought Dewey sounded like Neil Young! In my not so humble opinion, Dewey's voice kicks Neil's all over the place. I really like some of Young's music, but I've always thought that he sounds like he's singing with his nose plugged.

The Eagles controversy is irritating for fans no doubt, but imagine how loyal Journey fans must feel. Journey together again, but without Steve Perry (Dewey's bud). I always liked Journey and certainly Perry's voice, as well as the contributions of his famous Aerosmith brother, Joe, but I can't call myself a strong fan. Still, imagine America taking the same path as Jefferson Airplane/Starship, or even the Rolling Stones' changing cast. I'm glad we've got two-thirds of our America heritage intact, even if I'd prefer three-thirds.

Jim R.

>>Holiday conjures up some pretty weird H.S. memories for me<<

Actually Holiday is the album that got me through the tenth grade. Rough year for a number of reasons ( so thanks guys!)

As for the Eagles. What is this , the "Greed Takes Over" tour???? Sheesh, as if Henley isn't raking in enough for his solo tour, which JUST ended. Just my opinion, I could be wrong.

Yeah, Spurs! I agree on the timeless quality of the two, of course I'm partial to Hat Trick myself.......(Holiday conjures up some pretty weird H.S. memories for me....).....As for them Eagles? Wowzers. I guess you have to part the actions from the music (although it IS hard sometimes!!!)....I love Sting's music but the guy does seem like a tad arrogant sometimes....guess I don't know him personally.....guess when you've made millions you're entitled! (C=

TkH<----------watching the interest rates!

OH YEAH......lololol......duyh......toldja it was early....guess we've ALL got a heart (is that a veiled reference or what?)!

TkH<--------biAural

Hello everyone,"Hat Trick" is a smashing album and a great listen on those really hot days when its hard to move."Holiday" still sounds like a million bucks,an album that seemingly has no time period.Seems the "Eagles" will be milking the cash cow once again,and what a pair Henley and Frey are, big egos and firing Don Felder prior to another large tour,I'm not suprised Felder is taking court action when they they were reportedly on a million a man per show greed,control call it what you will but the whole thing remains on the unsavoury side.

[REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM *THE BUFFALO NEWS*. JULY 7, 2000.]

EXCERPTS FROM "AMERICA REVISITED" BY MARK SOMMER

Gerry Beckley is on the phone Saturday morning from a hotel in Oklahoma City. He's giving thoughtful answers to questions about his group, America, that's performing tonight in the Majestic Theater in North Tonawanda, when he pauses in mid-sentence.

On his TV, he explains, is a commercial for a "70s feelings" CD, one of those hodgepodge collections of songs that typically have the good, the bad, and, too often, the ugly. Among the titles scrolling down Beckley's screen is America's LONELY PEOPLE.

"It's strange, isn't it?" Beckley says, sounding as if he's had a momentary out-of-body experience. "Really bizarre."

LONELY PEOPLE is one of several hits America recorded in the 70s that have continued to make the group a classic rock mainstay. America was part of a second wave of folk-rockers that came after Crosby, Stills, & Nash. At the time, they and The Eagles shared the same management company, which then included future music mogul David Geffen.

"We were certainly inspired by what was called 'the California sound', says the 47-year-old Beckley...But, as Beckley points out, few practioners of that sound---like many Californians themselves---were actually from California.

"Neil [Young] was from Canada, Glen Frey from Detroit, Don Henley from Texas", said Beckley. "[The sound] was made up with immigrants."

America's threesome, who played guitar and harmonized together, chose their name while listening to a jukebox of American tunes. The group became an overnight sensation in 1972 with the Bunnell-penned single, A HORSE WITH NO NAME, and self-titled debut album. The song, as Beckley acknowledges, had more than a passing resemblance to Young.

"The story goes that his dad even thought the singer on the song was Neil. What people forget about the circumstances is that not only did it sound like Neil, but it knocked him out of #1 with HEART OF GOLD. And Neil's rise was a lot longer than ours. HARVEST was his fourth solo album. To have a single and album ousted after one week, the timing of that was just very bizarre", says Beckley.

(Ironically, Bob Dylan was reportedly upset when he first heard HEART OF GOLD, thinking Young was trying to sound like him.)

America's hits in the 70s included VENTURA HIGHWAY, I NEED YOU, SISTER GOLDEN HAIR, DAISY JANE, and TIN MAN. By 1975, the group had already issued a greatest hits collection, their sixth album, which would eventually sell more than 4 million copies.

The high-pressure period contributed to Peek's departure, Beckley says.

"It was definitely a tumultuous time, but more so for Dan. He was going through a lot of personal changes, and it was becoming harder and harder for him to make the commitment it took to be part of a trio. It was obviously a great loss because I really thought the strength of having the three contributors was invaluable for us."

"I always loved the George Martin years. They were really the highlight for me", says Beckley. "He is such a great man---that's the simplest way to put it. He was more like a father figure for us. With George you get far more than a guy who just produces a record. We also worked with [engineer] Geoff Emerick. We got this team that was there for some of the greatest moments in pop music."

Hmmm....maybe we should define what "trio" means. Is the third person supposed to be Dan Peek or Russ Ballard? LOL. Only kidding.
Hat Trick is an amazing CD, and the title track is my absolute favourite song that the group does.

Chris, Dewey said "Hat Trick" is his favorite. I'm not sure what time-period it was when he said that. I'm pretty sure I read that in John Corbett's wonderful, "Comprehensive History". I'm confident in saying it's Dewey's favorite from among all the albums that they recorded as a trio.

Hey Beechlady...that Wizard of Oz tie-in would make us "Straw Heads", not "Tin Heads"...(because Scarecrow had no brain)...although I get your drift!

I am enjoying Dan's bio, especially #35, "By George I think we've got it". With his easy writing style, Dan has let us all into some treasured glimpses of the trio times. I never knew the photo shoot was in the UK - should have checked Willy, presumably, sitting behind the right hand drive rag top.
I have always thought that Dan would have HOLIDAY near the top of his favourite America albums. At least we know it is his favourite front cover!! IMO, their most professional album package.
So, I was wondering, have D,G or D ever commented as to which is their favourite album?
Chris

I agree with Horse Heads too, (glad you liked Silent LetterHeads
Beech).
The thing with the "Parrot Heads" deal is that Jimmy Buffett fans get into it more for the concert participation factor and the escapist fun. Jimmy's view of it is that these fans are basically normal people with a touch of insanity! His own song line is "if we weren't all crazy, we would go insane".
Has anyone ever been to a JB concert? Me, I've only had the chance to see America once, and it's JB: nil - Rick, got a spare ticket man? Maybe I can get down to Key West too!!!!!!!!
Chris

As much as I LOVE the Wizard of Oz, I don't think I want the connotation (If I Only Had A Brain).....rofl!!!

TkH<----still searching

Thanks so much for your help you guys.Looks like i've got a few decisions to make.The boys have got a gap after the 29th of july so with a bit of luck a concert might pop up in California in the couple of days after (fingers crossed).I'm a bloody idiot because i booked the dates of my trip pretty much at random so i should have organised it so it matched up so i could have seen the boys a couple of times.I will be heartbroken if i travel that far and don't get to see my favourite band considering they're touring.If i do get to see them, my appearance will be like the guys on the back cover of Hearts, and if i don't, i'll look like the front cover of Hideaway lol
Thanks again guys
RICK

Ugh! Critics. Rash beginning. Much scratching. Stomach turning. Must...find...Pepto...

Jim R. (ROTFB) "B" is for barfing.

Let me get this straight. You want to see America (our boys) and the Mets. Well, considering my America belt buckle and (catch this Johnny) my Danbury Mint model of Shea Stadium), I could safely say I gotta meet you some time. Hey, don't forget Miller Park in Milwaukee, if your tour should take you close enough...

Jim R.

. . . is great! Costuming would be easy too. Upside down metal funnels on our heads! :)

That review was just some smarmy critic's attempt at proving how clever! how birlliant! he was. There are a gazillion songs that have similar themes. For me, "Another Try" is very special, for reasons I have detailed here before.

I have listened to both and don't think they sound that similar.

Hey beech, I am a s anxiuos for the weekend as the next girl, but without Wednesdays, I wouldn't have a payday and there would be no Wednesday night chat.

Everyone is reminded to join me in the chat room. I will be there at my ususal "after 7 Pacific" time!

Good Job, Pat B.! You had me laughing out loud! (...and we all know, there's no laughing in the classroom!) I'm kind of fond of "Sister Golden Heads". After all, they DO say that BLONDS have more fun!

Tin Heads

What a creative bunch! Thank you Pat, for your list. I've printed it out for further consideration. I figured that someone might say "Better the horse's head than the other end!" (Well, Tery alluded to that politely with "Horse Heads or Tails"). Lonely People Heads is way too depressing. Sister Golden Heads is good, and for costuming, blond wigs perhaps? Or someone suggested a nun's habit over a blond wig to visually incorporate the "sister." (Sorry!) You see, the NAME is only the beginning. . . . I also like Highway Heads -- maybe we could find some cactus hats. Now horse head costumes ARE available, but they're too hot to wear throughout a concert . . .

From Arion Berger in The Washington Post: "ANOTHER TRY, from 1974's HOLIDAY, flagrantly cops its lilt from David Bowie's LIFE ON MARS?, and even tells a similar version of dysfunctional misery from a teenager's point of view."

Personally, if they'd just DROP Wednesdays from the calendar it'd be MUCH easier for me......whether its early or not!

TkH<-----------The Chauffeur

I loved Chris's Silent Letter Heads, but I'm afraid no one out side of "fandom" would get that....sigh

Pat's Sister Golden Heads is fun and has the recognition factor, but alas, too long to just "roll off the tongue" (lol)

Horse Heads (no matter how unpalatable) sounds like the weiner in my book......

TkH<-------"NOT the mama"

Hi! Here are some suggestions:

First, I grew up near Shea Stadium. If you want to go to the game on the 4th, you should get your tickets now. You
likely could get them by going to the Mets Web site.

Second, it looks like America is playing on the 4th in Cooper River Park in Pennsauken NJ. This doesn't sound like a great venue, but it appears to be near Philadelphia and should be about a two hour car drive south of Manhattan. (Although there is often a lot of traffic on the 4th in the States so it could take longer). Check out www.maps.com and you can get directions to the park.

Hope this helps.

Rich

In the fannish realm of STAR TREK, you got yer Trekkies and yer Trekkers. (And yer Dreckers and yer Tripe-sters, to be perfectly honest.)

In the fannish realm of AMERICA, you got yer Ammies and yer Ammy-Whammys and yer Amsters. I prefer to be called an Amster, thank you very much. (I am in no way affiliated with Amstel beer. And in case you didn't know, many Europeans refer to an American as an *Ami* and to Americans as *Amis*.)

Thanks Steve
.......saying goodnight to Wednesday as you say goodmorning.......
Wednesday won't go away ay ay ay .................................
Chris

Silent Letterheads

How bout "Hangover Heads"

Ingrid, I like the label: 'Horse Heads'. Here are a few more suggestions:

1. Pigeon Heads
2. Am Heads
3. Highway Heads
4. Hat Heads
5. Heart Heads
6. Harbor Heads
7. Here Heads
8. Head and Heart Heads
9. Muskrat Heads
10. Hollywood Heads
11. Lonely People Heads
12. Miniature Heads
13. What Does It Matter Heads
14. Half a Man's Head
15. Sister Golden Heads
16. Can't You See Heads
17. Hideaway Heads
18. Letter Heads
19. Don't Cry Baby Heads
20. Hurricane Heads
21. Monster Heads

Ok, I know some of these are silly, but I actually like #15.

Hey here's an idea; Johnny you're always looking for a new contest, we'll have a new contest! LOL!

I got to go now and get a coffee.

Bear Valley is up above San Francisco, a mere nie to ten hour ( if you are lucky and the wind is with you ) drive from Anaheim! I wouldn't try it unless I absolutly had to! Good luck Rick

Now the real suspense starts. The Gig Guide on Venturahighway.com says they are playing with the Beachboys on that date at the Starlight. That seems like it could be true, except now you say they are playing a casino. By the way, when are tickets going on sale for June 24?

Could any kind folder members help me out?I'm travelling to the U.S in july to do a contiki tour from N.Y to L.A and i was praying that my tour coincided with cities that the boys were playing in.Unfortunatly at this stage the dates haven't been kind.We arrive in L.A for 4 nights on the 29th of july and i noticed they play in Bear Valley, i think it was,that day.Could anyone tell me how far a drive that is from Anaheim as me and my friend might try and make a mercy dash up there after the tour ends that day.
Also we are planning to go watch the mets play on the 4th july at shea stadium.Could anyone tell me which one of these applies to the chance of tickets selling out:definatly/probably/unlikely/no chance.
my new e mail address is rickysan@speedlink,com.au
Thanks so much for your help
RICK

So I had a bad idea. Jimmy Buffet fans are the Parrot Heads and Grateful Dead fans, the Dead Heads. I thought that maybe we could be the "Horse Heads," but that makes me think of the horse head in the bed scene in one of the "Godfather" movies. Oh well, any other ideas?

Steve and RedOak. You guys where questioning the location of the June 24th show in KC. The classic station's web site here in town (http://www.kcfx.com) says the show is at the Ameristar Casino (which used to be the Station Casino). This is a smaller indoor venue, 1500-2000 seats. Just thought I would pass this on. Mark (inkc)...

Which explains MY incoherent post of Saturday/Sunday-- it was THREE A.M.!!!!!!

Thanks for the info, David. I've been trying to find out for weeks (perhaps months) what's on that CD. I finally got a message from the label that distributes the CD saying they would send me some information (via snail-mail). So, I'm waiting for the information to arrive. I didn't think it would have any new material, but I wanted to know for sure. Thanks again. --SteveL

Yeah, it may be 8 a.m. when I'm posting, but is SURE FEELS LIKE 5 a.m.!!!!! LOL

TkH<---------feet,,,,,,,stuck,,,,,to,,,,,floor,,,,,,need,,,,,,caffeine

There's another compilation CD of America out called America--Hits You Remember Live, but it has the same tracks as the Live CD that came out last year--the 10 selected from the KBFH In Concert CD.

Memo to DanC: Tell it like it is, baby. I feel a certain special kinship with you. Because HEARTS is your fave America record.

From SCENES FROM AN ITALIAN RESTAURANT by Billy Joel: "Brenda & Eddie had had it already by the summer of '75. From the high to the low to the end of the show for the rest of their lives."

If I can find mine, I can dub a copy for you.

I have a well traveled tape, I can send it to you if you promise to send it back! Let me know.

On September 20, 2000, Dewey and Gerry were interviewed on "Live with Regis." Does anyone have a videotape of that episode or know where I can get one? I checked the "Live with Regis" and Buena Vista television sites and have also been searching television video transcripts and archives with no success. Thanks!

AMERICA has a MIDI diskette out. This has 8 songs on it, all arranged in MIDI format. They are music arrangements of 8 songs w/separate tracks for each instrument. If all you desire is to play the songs (no vocals) they will also play in most computers. Jim Nakao bought a copy from Sheetmusicplus.com. He says that the musical arrangements of AMERICA are excellent & fun to listen to. It can be used for Karaoke too - AMERICA style !! Has anyone else bought this package? FYI: Here are links to a photo of the package (courtesy of Jim) and also a sample MIDI file that you can download and listen to. Thanks for the info, Jim.

Photo of the package
Ventura Highway sample MIDI file

Is it really 5 am when you start posting??

FYI: The date and time that is associated with each post is the date and time where the chat folder server resides. Currently the chat folder is being hosted on the RockAndRollUSA.com server which is in California (Pacific Timezone). Tery (Beech) lives in Florida (Eastern Timezone) which means that it's really 8 am local time when she starts posting. --SteveL

Good answers: Beech - I forgot about Hideaway (both parts!) - Is it really 5 am when you start posting?? It's 10.30pm here in Perth as I post this.
Johnny, I hadn't thought of that one! So there are some more parallels - what about: They were both released in a year ending with '3'. The album names are both about games/sporting terms. The cover photos actually have nothing to do with the title tracks in both albums - otherwise the albums are like chalk and cheese!! I'll take HAT TRICK every time.
Chris

I wanted to say how much I enjoyed watching Matt perform. He seemed to be having a great time up there! The crowd was loving it too. I spoke with a woman who was going to leave after the jenerators. I said she really should stay for a bit of the phobicman set. She said she'd think about it. I ran into her at the end of the evening. She had stayed for the entire set. She was "sucked in" she said. Thanks again for the great evening!

Yes, you are probably right about that Johnny! ( my bad)

Robyn, I enjoyed the WP Show review, thanks! Perhaps Bill Mumy doesn't "technically" consider "Greenhouse" and "Hell's On Fire" as cover songs since he co-wrote them with Dewey and Robert Haimer. It's just a guess on my part, however.

First: Bruno, you are most welcome! All I did was merely forward your pictures (and articles) to Steve. He did all the work of putting them on.

Second: Today's April Fools' Day! For those of you from non-English speaking countries that don't know what this means, it's when people play absurd but, hopefully, harmless jokes. In observance, here's the following:

"NEVER BE LONELY" (Gerry's)
Never be lonely anymore
Turn away the fools from my door

"JET BOY BLUE" (Dan's)
You're a fool and you know it
Done your best not to show it

"DON'T LET ME BE LONELY" (Ballard's Sung By Dewey)
But I'm the one who plays the fool

"FOOLIN'" (Gerry's)
There's no truth in what you claim
So I think you better stop this foolin' 'round

5TH AVENUE (Gerry's)
How many times must I look up and say
What kind of fool am I

"INSPECTOR MILLS" (Gerry's)
Inspector Mills, is it any crime for a fool like me
Try to use your time 'cause I wanna see

"JODY" (Ballard's Sung By Gerry)
For I played it so darn cool
Is there a bigger fool

"Sarah" (Gerry's)
Am I a fool to think that something's strange
I think you've changed

Chris, this is my guess to your triv question: The title track to "Hat Trick" and "Your Move" are the first song on Side Two of each LP?

Glad you enjoyed the ad description for "Your Move".

Hideaway with Hideaway parts 1 & 2!

As for part 2 of THIS question, I can't think....it's WAY too early on a Sunday...lololol

TkH<------One more day and counting......sigh

Thank you jimnak, Alan and Johnny for the info on YOUR MOVE. I don't have the box set and remember, all America's "duo" albums are really recent to my ears, as I only started collecting them in the early to mid 1990's after I came across ENCORE. When I saw the cover, I started reading about a lot of albums that I had missed since HIDEAWAY.
So thanks all for the info - it helps to put it into PERSPECTIVE - but that comes next.
That was great to read the Billboard info on YOUR MOVE Johnny - much appreciated. I still think that Ballard's influence was positive overall, even though YOUR MOVE is my own least favourite AMERICA album. Thanks Alan - your info explains why the album seems unlike AMERICA. Yet, View FTG had MAGIC and JODY which I think are outstanding Ballard songs.
Now - TRIV Q: Is HAT TRICK the only other AMERICA album besides YOUR MOVE with a title track? Part Two: If so, what two (or more?) other similarities can you name between these two albums?
Chris

This review comes from me and my dh Alan.

First of all, we all had a great evening! arriving at the door, we were told we needed reservations! GEEZ, no one told me that! But the doorman said if we came back we probably could get in. Hey we drove about 40 miles for this show, thru major traffic. So we waited. Matt came out and we introduced ourselves. We got in to the SRO show ( the jenerators were great, they did two of Dewey's tunes " hell's on Fire" and "Greenhouse" Bill Mumy needs to be reminded that these are covers as he announced that they only do covers by dead guys!) Matt and his band ( he did not introduce them) were great. The set was very similar to the last Belly up show ( per the list on the website)the band was pretty tight, but the sound guy didn't mix the vocals well (especially the acoustic stuff) The large crowd was enthusiastic. My family and I spoke with Dewey, who was very cordial. My daughter and I spoke with Gerry, who introduced us to his lovely wife. Thanks to all of you for making this a memorable evening. Our daughter had her picture taken with Matt, which made her night!
Thank you all for taking the time to make this a night we will all remember. If the picture meets Kate's approval we will send it along!

Robyn and Alan

thank you thank you.
Hi Ciao All.
Bruno

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Last Revised: 2 May 2001