Archives: August 1999

COOL!! Goodbye Highway is my absolute favorite Van Go Gan song....can't wait to hear it!!

Erin :o)

Could the new bonus added VAN GO GAN be soon ready for domestic distribution ? Soon we HOPE.

I received a message tonight indicating that we soon will be privileged to hear a soundclip from Gerry Beckley's sporty new remix of his "Goodbye Highway" classic from Van Go Gan. Gordon didn't say exactly when we would get it, but he did say it would be soon. Thanks Gordon (and please hurry).

HI Cathy,
I have x-tra stickers if you would like a few, they are great to put on the windows of your car. Glad to see the chat folder up again!

the song meaning.

Joe, I got my ticket the other day for the Salem, VA concert. I think I'm in the 14th row center sec. Hope to see ya there. Steve thanks for working hard on the web site. Great Job!

you or the meaning of the song?

insomnia.

I hav always though it is about finding new love, and how it can make you feel like you have just stepped into the sunlight. Some of the lyrics are cryptic, but it remains one of my favorite love songs.

While we're on the subject of "Sergeant Darkness", what is the meaning of the whole song? I've always thought it was about a person fighting their mental demons. What does it mean to others of you?

Robyn, great job on the Newton-Under-Roseberry Topping!! It makes perfect sense...it being a place in England.

Just got my copy. Like you Beth, I am replacing my vinyl with cds. I just love the piano part on "People in the Valley" My cd collection is growing and I am appreciating once again, classic America.

Amber Cascades is wonderful.

Amber Cascades: Great song.
Harbor and Hideaway, classics.

KevinS.

Well, pooh, I didn't get any sticker either.... but then, as I not so subtly mentioned before, I'm not a "very important person" (=:

Hello & KUDOS to Steve for all the hard work he has put into this Chat Folder etc... A few weeks ago I think it was Johnny who asked for our thoughts regarding our favorite Love Tunes by AMERICA (or was it Joe B.-Sorry I'm not sure) After hearing all this discussion about "Sargeant Darkness" it made me realize that it is my favorite Love Song By Gerry. "I guess my dreamin' brought you here/ And If I wake tomorrow, will you still be near..." It remains one of my all-time favorite songs by ANYONE!!! It has to be the biggest oversight by a major record label in NOT releasing a particular song as a single. That has been proven by the unanimous agreement to the song's sheer staying power and impact it has held for US all these years. I'm surprised some other major artist hasn't covered it. I do understand record company ethics- "The title isn't in the lyrics"- but in this case I think a huge mistake was made. Yes Gentle Chat Folder Friends We all know about the incorrect judgements placed upon AMERICA's artistry over these years, at least WE know better!! They are the GREATEST!!! Keep On Smiling :-) TeeTee

I always thought he was saying "nibbling on the roseberry topping." It would seem to make more sense, maybe.

I read the message entitled "Sgt. Darkness" simply because it mentioned one of the songs on Harbor. After considering all the America albums I havew owned over the years I have to say Harbor and Hideaway collectively and each individually respresent what I consider to be the best work produced by America. Sure there are a lot of great tunes on many other tracks but these two albums show the effects of the guys working together for so many years. The songs are great and the harmonies are just unbelievable.

Heard tickets are going fast. AMERICA will floor 'em in Orem, who will maintain the decorum ?

Regarding those $19.99 ($10.99 for the basic) re-mastered Capitol disks sold by Thoughtscape. They are from the French division of EMI. The original French release of all of AMERICA's Capitol releases were very expensive & the quality was so, so. Of course for a long time the French edition were all that was available on CD until One Way & others finally came thru. These so called re-mastered discs definitely sound better, they have really cranked the bass on them, which seems to really add to ALIBI, that acoustic rock collection that should have be a no.1 LP. To really know AMERICA I think the Capitol years are a must & the sequence of the CD's is important to know the scale & breadth of their material.

"To every eye that cares to see, just working on the art of survival; where do we go from here ?" G. BECKLEY

Slowly but surely I'm receiving RSVP's from online America fans who are going to attend the Fan's BBQ this coming Saturday. The latest one came today from a fan who works at a medical center in the Salt Lake City area. He also gave me some information for any of you who are still trying to get tickets to this concert. He called SmithTix (like TicketMaster) to get tickets and they told him they were sold out. Then he called the Scera Outdoor Theater direct and they said they still had tickets for $16 a piece. However, they also told him he could get discount tickets for $12.50 at the Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo. So, there ARE still tickets available for those of you who still want to go (no matter what SmithTix says).

Thanks for getting the folder back up Steve!!! Couple of things...I ordered my tickets for the Salem Va show on Sept. 10 anyone else going? ( My 3rd Concert this year!!!!!
Also , Sgt.Darkness is my all time favorite Gerry tune followed closely by the live version of Never be Lonely....Joe K

Is the song Amber Cascades just about the smoothest damn song you all have ever heard or what??

Just finished the first round of varnish. Wonderful fun! My 14 years old recognized America when Political Poachers played. I missed the Sgt. Darkness track because I was putting my younger son to bed! My favorite Sgt. Darkness moment came about three years ago when I attended my first America concert. Those who've read the bio may remember if I mentioned it there. Gerry on the piano, singing to me I swear! (I was in 2nd row) I got goosebumps. I hadn't heard that song since my turntable died back in the early 80's. I came home and found this site, and thus, was able to begin rebuilding my America vinyl collection to CD! Yea!!!
Back downstairs for more staining (the door frame - which wasn't in when I did the first round!) Gonna jam more tunes!
Beth

Hi everyone! Glad to see the folder is back up...I missed it! I have no idea what the lyrics mean, but I just have to say that Sergeant Darkness is probably my FAVORITE America song. I love everything about it, and the name itself is just so cool!
I hope you all have a great week!
Erin :o)

Hi Matt,
I love S. Darkness, too. I also LOVE Sarah. Hay, I have some stickers, want some?

Maureen.

Can you elaborate on that,please Matt?

Hi Beth, Listen to Hat Trick carefully he IS saying Newton -under Roseberry topping! ( Gee after my brilliant dedction, how can you doubt it ;) )

I have no real clue about Sgt Darkness either. Just applying my Lit degree ( hey I have to use all that education somewhere, don't I? I worked pretty hard for that degree!)

i don't even have a Human Nature Sticker :(

as for Sgt Darkness (one of my fav's)
the first two lines are autobiographical, the second two are supposedly just in there to sound cool. (or something like that) but i love that song.

mB

Robyn, you got the credit for the Sgt.Darkness question - My mistake! Johnny, sorry about that.
Beth

Hi Everyone!
Robyn, way to go on figuring out the answer to your own question. As far as your next question re: Sgt. Darkness, I have not a single clue! At least I don't disagree with the lyrics, like I do with Newton-Under-Roseberry-Topping....

I'm heading down to the "lower level" (we don't call it "the basement" anymore) to do some varnishing. I will grab my Harbor disc and ponder...

Stay tuned!
Beth

I always though it was a take on a child's nonsense counting out rhyme you know "one Two, Button my shoe" but with a more scintillating inferrence.

Kevin,

I asked Scott that exact question in Iowa and he said, "well we ran out and we have been constantly on the move and I just haven't had time to restock"

Yes, it would make sense that if this is the "Human Nature" tour, which is suppose to promote this album by playing new songs in concert, you would think that THIS would be the cd for sale. I heard quite a few people both in Reno and in Iowa complain saying that they liked the new songs and were disappointed that HN was not for sale after the shows.

GaryH

Great to have the chat folder back. Okay, enough with the small talk.

Steve, I know this isn't your department, but why would there be Greatest Hits CDs for sale at the Orem concert but not Human Nature CDs? Makes no sense.

KevinS.

I was suffering withdrawl symptoms, honestly! In the interim, I researched my own trivia question regarding Newton under Roseberry topping. Turns out it is a place. Newton-Under-Roseberry in a village in the North York Moors ( think Cathy and Heathcliff) The Roseberry topping is cited as an area to visit. So, there you have it ( I arrived there via Stratford-upon-Avon and realized that it COULD be the name of a place) All those guesses about fig newtons just made me hungry!

I sure am glad the chat folder's back. I really missed it and everyone! Robyn was previously talking about the meaning of certain lyrics. What do you all think the following lyrics from "Sergeant Darkness" mean:

Once a miser, twice a son
Three's a devil, four's a lot of fun

Steve, YOU THE MAN!

Here's some information about the Orlando concert on September 26. The concert will be held at the University of Central Florida Arena. The phone number at the arena is 407-823-3070. They say that the only way to get tickets is to go to the box office at the arena or call and order them at 877-428-6960. I hope that helps for those of you who were trying to track down information about the concert.

I have been told that there will be America t-shirts for sale at the Orem (Scera Outdoor Theater) concert on September 4. There may also be some Greatest Hits CDs on sale but no Human Nature (bummer!). Hmmm, do you think they'll get upset if I bring my own stack of Human Nature CD's and sell them (at cost, of course)? I even have some Human Nature decals that I could give away with each CD.

I thought it might be the name of a pub that Dewey frequented in England { ;) } Pubs in England have the most unique names!

Very good Robyn. You got the final 4 answers. Those of you who don't have the 2 Honored volumes ought to consider getting them. I know that I enjoy them.

If I remember correctly, the Newton-under-roseberry topping referred to some kind of roseberry jelly/jam on top of a Fig Newton. Whether that's true or not, it's still a typical lyric by Dewey the wordmaster.

Helen Rogers is the vocalist. Nice voice. Howard YOU don't have this yet???

2( You forced me to listen to it again Steve!) The opening riff is Muskrat Love.

5-Sister Golden Hair
7- two of the members (like me!) have asthma)

Now, I have a question. I have been listening (with renewed appreciation!) to the Hat Trick ablum. on the title track, Dewey's section of the song has the lyric Newton-under-Roseberry topping
And it's cold and it's wet
And you feel like you're part of all time
WHAT does that mean? Does anyone know, or is it just Dewey the Master Word Necromancer practicing his Art again? Enlighten me, please!

Very good Kevin. Only 4 more to go.

#1. Ian Thomas's brother is actor Dave Thomas, famous for being one of the McKenzie brothers and also for his role in TV commercials as the founder of Wendy's.

#4: Original title to Muskrat Love was Muskrat Candlelight. I know this only because the answer was given on this very chat folder yesterday or the day before and my short-term memory isn't totally gone.

#9. Only song America recorded that was already a top ten hit: California Dreaming.

#10. First Russ Ballard song America recorded was I Don't Believe In Miracles off the Alibi album.

KevinS.

Hello! Test post from new computer!
Beth

Howard, you got them both right. However, you don't need the CD's to find the rest of the answers. You can listen to RealAudio sound clips from all 17 of the Volume 2 tracks and 1 of the Volume 1 tracks on the America Fans web site. While you're listening to them, you can read the liner notes which are also online by going to the following links. Good luck everyone!

Honored, Volume 1
Honored, Volume 2

Here are 2 answers since I don't have the cd's:
#6. Hobie (I think that was his name) from Baywatch
#8 Head & Heart (Homecoming LP) by John Martyn

I have digitized RealAudio sound clips from all 17 tracks on Honored Volume 2 so you can all get an idea of what's on the CD. I've only digitized one song on Volume 1 but I'll get the rest done as soon as possible. Thanks again to John Corbett for making these 2 compilations available. They really are great to have.

While I'm on the subject, here's a quiz from the Honored CD liner notes (it will give you something to do while you're listening to the sound clips):

1. Who is Ian Thomas's actor brother?
2. The opening riff from what America song was used as the foundation for the atmospheric track called "Honey"?
3. Who is the lead vocalist in Paul Hardcastle's cover of Ventura Highway?
4. What was the original title of "Muskrat Love"?
5. What is the song that is sung in Spanish by America and then sung in English by a Spanish group?
6. Who is Jeremy Jackson best known as (hint: think bikinis)?
7. How did Johnny and the Wheezetones get their name?
8. What was the first cover that America ever recorded for an album?
9. What is the only song that America recorded that was a top 10 hit before they recorded it?
10. What is the first Russ Ballard song that America covered (hint: it's not "You Can Do Magic")?

Good luck everyone and enjoy the sound clips. By the way Johnny, I'm going to disqualify myself from this little quiz.

Robyn can borrow mine, but on second thought, I'm often wearing it myself!

I love you too Johnny. Maybe I should get out my fool's cap from last Mardi Gras!

Initially, I was going to ask that Steve disqualify himself but he needs to have fun too, so I didn't. You killed us again, Steve.

Hmmm, how do I say this to my good friend Robyn? Here goes: Robyn, isn't it "crazy game" instead of "foolish game"? Plus, "Foolish Heart" is a solo performance by Steve Perry from his album, "Street Talk", I believe. I, too, find it easy to confuse Steve Perry's solo performances with those of Journey's since he's their lead singer. By the way, Journey's "Trial By Fire" is a fantastic CD. Okay, Robyn, it's your turn to correct me. Turnabout's fair play, right?

Actually, Dewey sang "Don't Let Me Be Lonely." But, alas, he didn't write it.

john

Right you are Steve. I bow to your superior intellect. I crossed over "Foolish Hearts" By Journey. Must be the Sun (LOL)

Sorry about that Virginia. I use the search engine all the time to find things on the web site because it is so big. FYI: There is somewhere around 110 megabytes of text, images, and sound clips on the web site so it can be tough to find things without a little help. I'll be more patient next time and give others a chance to guess (please forgive me).

Robyn, the "Daisy Jane" lyrics say "Playin' my crazy game" (not "foolish game") so I don't think I missed any.

ah, but he missed Daisy Jane (Playin' my foolish game)

Once again, Steve revs the search engine and beats out the rest of us!

Lyrics with "fool" etc:

1. Inspector Mills (already mentioned).

2. Jody (actually written by Russ Ballard but Gerry sings it).

For I played it so darn cool
Is there a bigger fool
To say I wanted to be free
'Cause now I know just what she meant to me

3. Sarah

Sarah, please
Where is the love you said you'd save for me
Am I a fool to think that something's strange
I think you've changed

4. Never Be Lonely (written by Gerry and Bill Mumy).

Got you by my side
I'll never be lonely
Got you by my side
I'll never be afraid
Never be lonely anymore
Turn away the fools from my door
Always wanna be your one and only
Never be lonely

5. Don't Let Me Be Lonely (another one by Russ Ballard sung by Gerry).

Here we are tonight
Both starring in the same play
But I'm the one who plays the fool
I've only one line to say

6. Foolin' (written by Gerry and Richard Fataar)

You let me follow you around
It helped your status in the town
Well I didn't know your name
There's no truth in what you claim
So I think you better stop this foolin' 'round

7. 5th Avenue

How many times must I look up and say
What kind of fool am I
But I can't turn my back on the times that we shared
No matter how I try

8. Jet Boy Blue (this was written by Dan, but I had to include it since it had "fool" in it).

You're a fool and you know it
Done your best not to show it
But it's all over
You're through
Jet Boy Blue

Regarding the King Biscuit CD that Rob mentioned, I think it's interesting that Gerry sings one of the lyrics from "Inspector Mills" with the word, "bills" as the plural to "bill" as sung on "View From The Ground". Here's the lyrics with the plural:

Inspector Mills is it any crime for a fool like me
Try to use your time 'cause I wanna see
You just send me the bills
Inspector Mills, Inspector Mills

Just from the lyrics, I can tell it's a song of Gerry's (verses Dewey's) because of the word, "fool". I've noticed Gerry uses "fool" in quite a few of his songs (and he does it so well). Here we go! Can you list the songs written by Gerry with the word, "fool" or "foolish" and give the lyrics?

Hats off to our friend, Karen at Oxygen. The new album artwork is worth the price of the disc alone. What I'm speaking of is the re-release of King Biscuit's America In Concert. Inside you'll find lots of great memorabilia (thanks, Dewey)and some great recent shots, such as one from the "Today Show" performance. As for the disc, my favorite moments are "Old Man Took" leading to "Daisy Jane" and "Here" which I considered to be a "concert highpoint" from years past. Also, if you haven't already picked up Dan Peek's new album from Thoughtscape Sounds, you're missing something. It's charming. It's one to one. It's clear he took some time to select some of his latest creations to include. Another great year to listen to our friends from "America".

Rob

Hey, Janice -
Wouldn't do Disneyland during Christmas vacation for ANYTHING. We were there the Tuesday after Christmas last year when my stepdaughter was here. What a waste of time and money. ONly got to go on about 6 rides all day, it was so crowded. (Weather was nice, tho.)
I would recommend that if you're coming out to the area, you consider KNott's Berry Farm. They've added lots of thrill rides (some I won't go on) and last fall put in the largest wooden roller coaster on the West Coast. We were there about a month ago and rode it four times (the kids rode it five). It's never as crowded as Disneyland, even on a busy day. In the past, they've had a Christian youth night on New Year's eve with some top Christian bands playing till (and I believe after) midnight. Lots of church youth groups go. Don't know if they're doing that this year, but I would bet they are.
You can email me directly if you want more info.
ShariL <><

Steve, ...I was sorry to hear that the Columbus Ohio concert was cancelled. I live 90 minutes from columbus and was planning on being there. Maybe the Cols. concert was a misprint and was never to be anyway.


Thanks again for having this chat folder.


Jeff Brink

Randy, it's funny you would mention the shuttle to Orem because today I was listening to a Salt Lake City oldies station and they're giving away 20 prizes which consist of 2 seats on a bus going from Salt Lake City to Orem to attend the America concert. Oh yeah, they're throwing in a couple of free tickets to go with the bus ride. The advertising for this concert has been amazing. There are signs posted all over Orem and it has been on at least two different Salt Lake City radio stations. Besides that, flyers have been sent in the mail (see the What's New section of the Fans web site to see one) and even Novell sent an e-mail to all 3000 of it's employees offering discount tickets to the concert (of course, I had already bought mine so the guys are going to get full price out of me). I'm guessing it will be a packed house.

John, I'd like to try some of that moose meat ... is it anything like buffalo meat?

Yah Steve..I make the best "yum yum chili" and carrot cake..would love to come but can't this year..to all who are going, have a wonderful time..I'm sure Steve will turn a mean burger on that grill.
Was surprised to see the New Years concert schedule..even a Year 2000 home page has them in Columbus...guess that changed..gosh..let's see..Ohio or Austrailia..hmmmmm...that was a tough decision for them to make..! As for us, we are on a WAITLIST..waitlist mind you to drop 2 grand on a 3-day stint at Disneyland..actually 6 waitlists if you count the day variances and 2 different hotels..hate crowds..but want to take the kids somewhere really special this year..any suggestions in case our WAITLIST doesn't clear?? disgusting. I really WANT to wear a party hat and throw confetti off the matterhorn. (yes, tongue is in cheek).

Won't be able to make it to your get together, Steve, but I'll send some good 'ol Canadian moose meat, eh.

Gee thanks Randy NOW I'm hungry

On the way to Utah,could the shuttle stop off in the Milwaukee area and pick me up? My local butcher makes some fantastic bratwurst,Italian sausage and some really hot hungarian sausage. Tell me how many hundreds of pounds of each kind we need and I'll place my advance order with him. wisconsin sweet corn is mighty tasty this time of the year. We can wash it all down with the local micro-brewer,Sprecher,beverages.They make some fantastic root beer along with the malted,fermented stuff. I just don't want people to think that I am a freeloader

I just recently picked up the "Silent Letter" cd.I agree with the comments about All Night.I also watched my laserdisc of the 1979 Central Park concert last weekend. All Night is on there as well.Nice to see and hear the live version of ot when Silent Letter was their newest (vinyl) album.

John,

I too like the Spanish Version of SGH ( also the version by Spanic, coulda done without the dance track in the middle, but like her cool vocal) I like B&B's I need you as well.

If we all liked exactly the same things, what a beige, beige world it would be!

I just received the confirmed concert dates for the guys on New Year's Eve. It looks like they'll be down under where it should be nice and warm.

12/29/99 Melbourne, Australia (Crown Casino)
12/30/99 Melbourne, Australia (Crown Casino)
12/31/99 Woolengang, Australia (Sterling Stadium)
1/2/00 Sydney, Australia (Starlight Theatre)
1/4/00 Gold Coast, Australia (Palladium)
1/5/00 Gold Coast, Australia (Palladium)

Robyn,

Thanks for the comments about the America songs. I'm not going to say that all the cover versions were perfect, because in doing so, that would imply that they were as good if not better than America's versions, which simply isn't possible. My personal favorites would be "Right Before Your Eyes," "Hope," "Honey," the Spanish "Sister Golden Hair," and the Barnes & Barnes "I Need You." And to Johnny, I'd have to say that Ramsey's version of "Muskrat Love" gives America's recording a run for its money. In general, I would highly recommend his 1972 self-titled album. Absolutely brilliant music. He could have been the next Jim Croce if he'd been given the chance.

john

It sounds great Live ???

Johnny, if you can't find your 8-track tape of Ramsey, John Corbett was good enough to include his version on Honored Volume 1. FYI: Ramsey didn't call it "Muskrat Love". He called it "Muskrat Candlelight".

Bob, I'd be happy to give you my credit card number. I hope it's OK if I use Netscape's encryption algorithm on it. Here goes: %&-!+@%%*$@(!~=+$$@@^@$. I don't remember if that's my Visa or my Mastercard number but I'm sure the bus line will know after you decode it. Have a great ride!

Bones-- I WISH!!!!! Schedule is starting to go nuts again. I don't know when I will see daylight. Everyone have fun and take lots of pictures. It will be ALMOST like being there. ( "ALMOST" only counts in horse shoes hand greandes and atomic weapons).

Steve,
good news, no great news. Found a place in New Haven CT that can run the shuttle bus for a slight fee. Just send me your credit card #. Maybe put it over the chat folder so as i'm sure to get it. Howard L., ride the bus with us, we need live music. Maureen from L.I., you up for the ride or what? This really could be woodstock III. Promise not to burn your house down Steve. I'll bring the corn on the cob. Robyn, are you going to be there?
Bob

Talking about "Muskrat Love", I listened to "Hat Trick" last night and came away with a new appreciation for "Muskrat Love". The background vocals are great. I heard sounds that I never heard before. Strange how that is after all these years. I saw Willis Alan Ramsey in Albuquerque years ago. He was a last minute replacement for the warm-up band for Hall and Oates. I can't remember if he sang "Muskrat Love". I would think he did. This was sometime after 1973. For those who aren't familiar with Ramsey, he's a mixture of country and folk. I might have his recording of "Muskrat Love" on an 8-track tape. I'll have to check it out this evening.

Steve, I live in the San Fernando Valley, where everything is bilingual. I, too, cringe at the "no puedo" pronunciation ( I didn't specifically mention it, thought it might be the Castillian pronunciation--lol). Gerry is more game than I. Although I understand Spanish, I will most often answer Spanish with German.

RE Muskrat Love. Not everyone hates it. Yes,it was a necessary inclusion. Thank goodness for the skip button on my cd player! The America Version, with it's lush harmonies is far superior!!!

Glad we played " it pays to increase your word power" ( just kidding Steve) Sad to say , I actually speak that way!

First of all to Alice, I appreciate your expression of gratitude. I feel and sense the same thing from many others, but it's kind of nice to actually see it in writing. You are all very welcome. I enjoy doing web sites and I'm glad I can do one for my (our) favorite band. I wish I had more time to spend on it, because there's a lot more I'd do. But it seems to get along OK as it is.

Howard, since it's hard to read the sincerity in your post, I can only assume that you REALLY won't be coming to the BBQ. However, I can just imagine you in your VW Micobus with all that equipment. It would be fun to see you drive up. There really are some fans who are going to be here, some from as far away as Texas. I hesitate to put their names here because they may not want it advertised worldwide.

Jim, I don't know that it will be Woodstock III, but it will be fun. I'm a novice guitar player but with a little help from my friends, we could probably sing a song or two. I figure a CD player with some vintage America would be even better

Robyn, I enjoyed your thoughts on Honored 2. I have a slightly different opinion on a few of them (but then I could be wrong-LOL).

9. I really like Ultramarine's "Honey". Something about it grabs me and won't let go. However, reading your description of that song taught me a whole new set of words.

13. Even though I don't like the fact that Captain and Tennille made it so that America won't play Muskrat Love in concert anymore, I do like their version and always have. John wasn't going to put it on the Honored CD but I talked him into it so you can blame it on me. I still like America's version better, but I do enjoy C&T's, too.

14. I agree that "Sister Golden Hair" in Spanish is a MUST HAVE. I lived in Colombia for a couple of years and I still speak Spanish a little bit so I get a kick out of Gerry's accent. He does a decent job but I twinge each time he sings "no puedo" and he pronounces the "d" like an English "d" (dog) rather than a Spanish "d" (like "th" in "the"). Still, it's a great song and I'm glad Gerry was willing to give it a try.

17. I like Dan's revised ending of "Lonely People". It's not so abrupt as the original version.

--Steve

This may sound a bit corny, but I'm really grateful to Steve for setting up the website & chat folder for us fans. I don't know any America fans in real life, and it's so nice to have this place to "talk" to others who know as much, and more, as I do about them and their music.

So, thanks Steve!! :)

Alice

Hey Steve, count me in. Who's Coming? Or who shall I pick Up?

VW Microbus Tank all gassed up...
I got my...
12 string Takamine
6 string Yamaha
White Fender Strat
Black Les Paul
My 2 Amps, Mics, cords
Peace sign

Here we come..yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everyone to the Lowry estate ! Woodstock III ?

Has anyone else noticed how great Dewey's song "All Night" is? Did a whole lot of driving this weekend and all I had in the car was Silent Letter. I couldn't stop playing that song over and over again.

Everything rocks. Dewey's voice. Woods's guitar. David Dickey's bass. Willie does some awesome drumming. Gerry's harmony. Everyone was tight. Everyone was cooking. The lead guitar is genius.

Can't ask for a better song. Damn, when that band gets together, they can rock.

Sorry, I just had to share that.

KevinS.

First of all-- Kudos to John Corbett. I don't know where you get this stuff but I really appreciate the effort you put into this.

Let me begin by stating that none of the works equal the America version. That way I won't have to repeat myself....

1-- John O'Bannion, "you can Do Magic" Light jazzy in the Kenny Rankin style. Listenable.

2--Ian Thomas "Right before your eyes" I would probably have liked this effort better if I hadn't heard America's version. Lacks the wistfulness of Gerry's delivery. Nice though.

3--Kenny Loggins "The Last Unicorn" Typical Kenny. Nothing to write home about.

4--Russ Ballard "Cast the Spirit" If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, boy, is he flattering! Pale copy though. Lack the fire of the America Version, somewhat lackluster. He probably could have mailed this one in.

5--Pointer Sisters "See How The Love Goes" I like the Pointers. Nice vocal. Never heard the America version.

6--Meatloaf "Special Girl" Sounds like Meatloaf. His vocals always sounded like he was on speed. The vibrato gets to me about midway through the song.

7--Hope Intro. Nice inclusion!

8--Hope. Interesting to hear. America's is FAR more powerful. The sharing vocals doesn't allow the vocal to build to that nice crescendo.

9--Ultramarine "Honey" The last time my dog cornered a feral cat in the yard the resulting cacophony was easier on the ears.

10--Paul Hardcastle- "Ventura Highway" Dull. Nice vocal. A bit too long. I lost interest about the second verse (When they finally got to it).

11--Julian Lennon "I Need You" His version is just ok, about 30 seconds too long. He runs out of steam and gets lost.

12--Barnes and Barnes "I Need You" Decidedly twisted! Not your average tribute, if you know what I mean. The irreverence is refreshing. Nice inclusion, John!

13--Captain and Tawnily "Muskrat Love" ARGH! I used to break land speed records trying to change the radio when that song was being played! I keep remembering that they played that song for Queen Elizabeth when she was here. WHAT were they thinking?

14--America "Sister Golden Hair" A MUST HAVE! Geraldito sing en Espanol, muy bueno! He even rolls his "r's" Fun!

15--Spanic "Sister Golden Hair" The vocal is almost Celtic. You can only hear her Spanish accent faintly. Pretty good, not painful to listen to.

16--Mark Thorton "A Horse with No Name" I couldn't wait for the elevator to reach my floor. Dreadful.

17--Dan Peek "Lonely People" Dan turns his anthem into a hymn. I like a little more subtlety. It's nice that Dan has found happiness and wants us all to be as happy, but...

Now, as Dennis Miller says " That's just my opinion. I could be wrong"

TO ALL:
My intentions was NOT TO steal anything from anyone. If anything, Barb, should be VERY PROUD of the poem you wrote. Gerry and Dewey were very appreciative of the words. If you notice on the poem, I wrote your name first and then mine. I DID ask you/Barb if I could use her/your poem before I did the work.
So if anyone is offened, please forgive me.
That was NOT what I was doing. Thank You !!

Maureen.

Pity that private jet of years past is no longer part of the equation. It could be dispatched to pick us all up and then head for SLC (nearest airport?). I would've brought potato salad. I hope you get some takers, Steve.

Hi to All,

I was watching the Rick Nelson movie last night and "Where are you now" did a promo from the guys piece-It begins with the guys singing and then they ask where is Gerry Beckley now-and then you hear Gerry say I've been a chipmunk over the years- it said watch it Tuesday night at 10:00.

Steve,
I wish I could make it -I make some mean chicken Hot wings.Maybe if I listen to Tinman and buy a pair of red shiny shoes and click my heels three times I could wish it so. I love to dream................
But back to the real world.It such a nice offer to have fans at your home,I hope the guys can make it.I hope everyone summer is going well-I've been school shopping with my Kids-now thats Fun.
Steve please post when you get a chance after the show.Have a wonderful time.
Best to All-Take care, Joanne Meyers

Funny that you would ask that question, Bob. I was going to get a shuttle from Hartford but they weren't available that day (LOL).

Steve,
Is there free shuttle bus transpotation from Stamford, Connecticut to your place? If there is, count me in.
Bob

I can't believe the number of onliners that have contacted me requesting information about the September 4 concert in Orem (my home town) and suggesting that we get together. My sweet wife suggested that we ought to have them all over for a BBQ that afternoon prior to the show and I figured, what the heck, why not? So, if any of you are going to be in Orem that afternoon and would like to get together, send me a message and we'll make sure there's plenty for you to eat. This is going to be very simple and very informal: hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and soda pop. Above all, we'll get to visit with each other and get ready for the concert (which is only a few minutes away from my house). I'll invite Gerry, Dewey, Michael, Brad, and Willie although I don't know if their schedule will allow them to come. I know they're flying in from Richmond that day and I'm not sure what time they arrive. Who knows, this could be another fan get together like the one we had at the Planet Hollywood in Reno a few weeks ago. --Steve

Wow! I just caught up on all the latest stuff from the past week here in the Chat Folder. This Chat Folder truly amazes me...It has everything...History, Hair, Hostility, Humility, Honesty and Happiness! Incredible!!! Welcome to Rick B.- Learning the AMERICA tunes really helped my acoustic guitar & piano technique...keep up the effort. And to everyone else- I Hope all is well> I saw Olivia Newton-John last night and I have to tell you how absolutely tremendous her show was!!! I am still in a state of shock considering I didn't really want to go. Her voice is unbelievable- she gives all the current Diva's a run for their money! Her health is great and she looks like she's still in her twenties! Honest!!! Just wanted to pass along some info to anyone who may be interested. Keep on smiling...Oh bye the way Ken (kmar) I always thought it was Dan who played the bass part in TIN MAN. I don't know why, but for some reason in my mind I always pictured him playing that great bass line!!! See Ya..Tee PS- This posting has been brought to you by the letter "H"..ha ha ha ha :-)

Maureen Morrison sent me a photo and some other miscellaneous items from a 1980 concert in New Jersey. She also sent me some photos from the recent concert at Friar Tuck Inn. Thanks so much for sharing, Maureen.

hi all! enjoying morning coffee and reading the folder..catching up as usual. Great history lessons..Matt, gotta see a pic of your "new do"..causing quite a stir..school back in session for you yet? Steve, glad to read that you and your family are safe, and aside from the normal misunderstandings and apologies offered on the board, everyone seems to be doing fine..many of you have taken in a concert or 2 (or 3 or 4..) :) lucky folks..it has been a year for me! I keep my postings light and trite..guys look great with hair long or short..beards or no beards..and of course, the music..well..that's why we're all really here to begin with..what it is, what is always has been to each of us..have a wonderful weekend.

I was just listening to my fresh CD of 'HOLIDAY', after 20 years without, MINIATURE played - incredible- then TIN MAN. i asked myself who played the NICE bass. It has a melody of it's own within the song. just a thought.
PEACE
Ken

And for those who can't tell, I was being sarcastic. Don't take offense!

Hair? Beards? Did I stumble onto the Backstreet Boys chat folder by mistake? If I were a man in my mid-forties, I don't think I'd want to be referred to as cute. Babies are cute, puppies are cute. Middle-aged men? I don't think so.

Thanks for the welcome Joyce and howard. It will be nice to get to know some new America fans.

Howard, I do play guitar and I am currently taking piano lessons. My favorite song to play on the guitar is "Riverside" and I'm still trying to master Gerry's guitar lead. On the piano I'm working on "Daisy Jane" Oh! my aching fingers.

Tell you more later!

Rick

Yes, welcome aboard Rick !! New or old, America fans are always a welcome additon, Hope to see more post's from you soon --:)--JOYCE

<< I like long hair , period !!>> Robyn ME TOO !!! show me a guy with long hair, Black Straight leg jeans & beatle boots & LOOK OUT !! I am in HOT pursuit !! :)--hahaha.....have a nice weekened everyone ! -Love, JOYCE

I myself, would like to say that I like gerry's hair better longer on top, like in paul's photos !! He is cute either way, as only a girl could say !!!---:)----haha.....as for dewey I like him without a beard, although he looks good with one, he has a very cute face as well & should not hide it !!--:)--Buh-BYE--Love, JOYCE HALL~

<<EVERYONE here iLove you all>> MBlulight Matthew, YOU are too sweet ~ JOYCE--:) We LOVE you TOO--:)

I like the beard on Dewey, actually, he looks kind of naked with out it. I like longer hair. Period.

Gosh, Johnny this is a Friday type of question, isn't it?

Maybe Dewey has the same problem I did. My beard turned white so I shaved it off except for the goatee and now I dye it ...LOL I like their hair a little long as well
On another note I just ordered my tickets for the Salem Va. concert. That means me and Rick will be there ...Anyone else ??????? Joe K

I agree with you on both counts. Gerry definitely looks better with his hair longer and I love the picture of Dewey with his beard on Your Move. (I love that picture & album so much that it's the picture on my desktop on my computer!)

Alice

The computer was down for the 10 count for a couple of days so I haven't posted in a while. Last night, I caught up reading all of the posts. Man, there's been a lot of interesting messages posted. They sort of remind me of the Holyfield-Tyson ear biting match (LOL). I'm glad everyone can agree to disagree at times. I sure have missed our pal, TerryT. I might have to hire Inspector Mills to investigate Terry's absence. I hope everything is okay.

Like Joyce Hall, after viewing Paul Rentz' photos, I thought the same thing about Gerry's hair. I wanted to say something about it earlier but thought it would be a very goofy thing to mention (especially coming from another guy) so I didn't. But since Joyce did and I'm glad, I'd like to say that I like Gerry's hair at that length, too. Also, while I'm at it, I'll mention this second goofy thought of mine. I like the way Dewey looks with a beard. I think he looks best with it as he wore it on the "Your Move" LP. I told you they were goofy thoughts.

How about this for a topic: Which do you like better, Gerry with shorter hair as on the "Human Nature" CD or the length as in Paul Rentz' photos. There's not a whole lot of difference other than it's a bit longer in Paul's photos. Also, do you like Dewey better with or without a beard?

Hi everyone. I got a real nice message from Pete who hales from upstate New York. Here's an excerpt from his e-mail:

"I went to the America concert at Friar Tuck Tuck Inn about a month ago. Great concert and I got to talk to Gerry while I was there. Great guy, got one of his guitar picks and I use it only when I play out. I was offered would you believe $200 for that pick by another fan but my wife said no way. So I only use it when I play out and for some reason that pick really inspires me and just helps me get into it more and more. I play four songs from Human Nature and they are, From a moving train, Wednesday morning, Wheels are turning, and pages. The songs really go over great and people really like them. I get several request for them and I also play many other America songs. I just thought I would let you know that I'm trying to push the Human Nature CD as much as I can."

Thanks Pete!

Regarding the civil war discussion... it is important to remember that the winners write the history books...

Matt-- my dad always told me "Don't take life too seriously, you don't get out of it alive" as you can see I am a chip off the old block Glad to see your sense of humor is still intact.

Kyle Vincent is an accomplished writer/singer,who just came
out with his 2nd album. Connection is that he had Gerry sing background vocals not only his first album, but his second album as well.I have the song from the first album with Gerry. It's pretty good.
He's appeared on the AOL America chat board and even emailed
each other about music, etc. He's a great guy to know and appreciates any feedback, mail, etc. Alot of 12 string guitar
styles in there too. Give it a listen.hl

Matt:

Who is Kyle Vincent? I don't recall that name on credits to any America album.

KevinS.

steve, glad you're fine.
EVERYone here. ilove you all. and no offense was ever taken about the haircut. i thought it was only funny. i find most things in life (even if their not) funny. I don't know why, but I don't question it. it makes for an enjoyable existence.

what was the full relationship between Kyle Vincent and America?
(i dunno the answer, that's a real question)

take care

mB

Yes, Woodz's guitar lately seems to be producing more smoke than the always awesome performances he is already known for. Sometimes evolution jumps a few notches in shorter time. Thinking we should not talk about it too much, lest he decide on a solo career sooner than planned!

Blu, I read my post again and admit I sounded a little grouchy. I didn't mean it that way. That's not a good start. Sorry for not conforming. I've heard of Howard Jones, but who is Dave Schilling? Sometimes feel left out, like I was supposed to know, or that the post wasn't really for everyone.

Hopefully everyone has heard of the Beatles. I love THINGS WE SAID TODAY, an excellent blend of acoustic and electric. Know all the chords. The original MopTops recorded that song in one session, using the 3rd take. Paul overdubbed a double of his vocal and John added piano, but the piano was not used in the final mix although it can be heard faintly due to leaking into the other mikes. I bet Dewey and Ger both strum that A minor together on acoustic at the beginning, possibly with Gerry's 12 string, and Woodz does the electric "bll.....inng" chords, not to mention excellent bass and drums. Anyone who has details let us know if I don't make it to a concert soon.

not pouting
(;-{=~

Even though there's no welcoming committee,
I like to personally welcome you to this
chat folder. I look forward in hearing from
you about your experiences, your favorite songs, cd's
etc. Come take your shoes and get comfortable, relax
pick up a guitar and start strumming. hey are you
a musician by any chance??? I am. Anyway
welcome again and don't be a stranger.
Howard Lieboff

I'm not defending slavery. In fact I used words like sin and immoral when speaking of it. But I do maintain that slavery was only one of the issues that brought the nation to war, the highest profile and emmotional for sure. And you make a very valid point in that the few Southerners who owned slaves were in effect the ruling class. Just as the wealthy industrialists were the ruling class in the North. With very few exceptions, only the wealthy could afford to own and care for slaves. Throughout history the wealthy have in effect been the ruling class; and make no mistake, this continues today.

Things were different then. State governments were more powerful, by design of the writers of the Constitution. Loyality to your state was also more important. Most people who faught could care less about slavery, they were fighting because their state had chosen sides in the conflict. The Southern rulers sold the line that the Federal government was too powerful and was imposing their will on the South. Lincoln sold the line that if the South were allowed to secede, then the Union would fall apart and America would be finished (the country not the group). Most Southerners were fighting for a states' rights (to be sure slavery was included in those rights) and against what they saw as a ever more demanding Federal governement. Most Northerners were fighting to preserve the Union and save the nation.

We are very quick to judge people in the past by our standards and based on our knowledge. Whenever we do that, people in the past will usually come up short. When if we had been raised in the same situation they were raised in, we might have been "worse" than they.

Peace.

Hey folks,

I'm new to post on the chat folder but I've been reading and enjoying for sometime. I hope some of you have read my bio. I've been a fan since 1973 and continue to be dedicated. I saw the show at the Palace in Myrtle Beach, SC and it was great. the guys will be in Salem, VA on the 10th of September and I plan to be there.

I really enjoy reading the post and I plan to chat some and share stories in the future.

I'll write again soon.

Rick

Some of you are aware that the chat folder was down for a little while earlier today. I found out that the chat folder server is being upgraded and may experience some temporary outages through the end of Friday (August 20). We don't expect any problems, but we're dealing with computers and humans here so one never knows. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

The Salt Lake City tornado was about 35 miles north of where I live. It caused quite a bit of damage in the heart of the downtown area but it was very localized. The biggest problem was broken glass which was blown everywhere and cut a lot of people. Of course, the roof was ripped off the Delta Center (that's where the Utah Jazz play) and quite a few homes, but I don't think anyone got hit by falling roofs. All we got where I live was a brief, although very heavy, thunderstorm. So, we're all doing fine ... thanks for your concern.

Hi everyone,

I haven't been here in a while and I missed a lot! I just wanted to share a dream I had a few years back. I was in a used record store and I came across a Gerry Beckley solo album. I think it was ESP because it was around the time it was released.

Also, I'm really enjoying your posts, Matt. Keep 'em coming!

Alice

Steve,
When I heard about the Hurricane and saw the unbelieveable
footage of debris in the air, first thing I thought about was you
and your family's safety. Did you get hit by any of this? and if not,
how far was it from you.
hl

Yes we can all get along! We can even not think identically & be still getting along AT THE VERY SAME TIME!! What a concept!
I'm cool with Howard, I believe him when he says the same about me - no problem there.

Matt, don't think you have to explain the definition of sarcasm &/or humour to our little newcomer/OldMan of last night. Obvious to me anyway that he is already quite familiar with those terms.

To everyone else -- Hey out there! Enjoy your Thursday!

It's partly cloudy, about 90 degrees, and there's a slight chance of afternoon thunder showers here in Utah (hopefully, no more Salt Lake City tornadoes) ... and my Human Nature CD is sounding as good as ever. Have a nice day everyone! --Steve

People, People, in the words of a local boy who got himself in a world of dirt a few years back "Can't we all just get along?"

Matt-Keep posting what is going on with your endeavors. Hey I LIVE in SoCal, but Solano Beach is too far for me to just jump in my car for the evening. Good luck with that. As for the haircut, can't we kid each other,c'mon....

RE-the confederate thing... It is interesting to see that a war fought 130 years ago can still evoke such passion. No matter your position, we are all entitled to our opinion.

Yes this is an America Chat folder. Let me just say, I hope the guys and their wonderful road crew are taking a well deserved rest, before beginning the marathon again.

How about a live cd? ;0)

Easy to misinterpret your meanings I suppose when you use phrases like "how many of US" - "seems EVERYONE agrees with me", just 2 examples from the last couple of days. Then when someone (for example, moi) points out they may not - & respectfully so I might add - agree with you, are thus OBVIOUSLY not included in these terms of exclusion that seem to bother you so much but yet YOU persist in using -- then you talk about people getting bent out of shape, not being real, etc.
My turn then to point out that I can respectfully not agree with you always, still as a somewhat participant around here don't like to see that what I have said/think/feel discounted by someone else's views grouped in terms of "all of us", "everyone" -- & maintain still that disagreeing does not necessarily make me any more "disagreeable" or bent out of shape than the one with the different view. I just have a different view at times - & there's the possibility others might as well- THAT's ALL, sorry, no big vendetta against the Good Guy Howard.

While the North, South, East & West are fighting it out about territory,

Laura, laura...never on this board do I intend to offend or annoy
or bother anyone...EVER!!! Where in god's name did I say that everyone has to agree with or appreciate me or value my input.
For all I know everyone could hate me or don't like what I have to
say. So be it.

And for Pete's sake....stop with the We-Them-Us thing...enough!
I'm talking for me and me alone.

We should be talking more fun things on this board:
America chords,
America experiences,
America dreams,
America wishes,
America concerts,
America wants,
America desires.
America autographs,
America fans (old and new..welcoming them)
America's music (includes CD's)

THAT'S ALL!!!!! KEEP SMILING :0)...see ya on the flip flop (cb talk)
hl

In response to the previous post:

you're absolutely right. I fully expected everyone who didn't live in California to hop a plane (private preferably) and check out the local bands, studios and new mop tops frequenting the SoCal club scene.
Ed. Note: that was delivered with something we call "sarcasm." "sarcasm" is when you say something that you don't really mean in order to juxtapose the point you're trying to make, usually in a somewhat (although admittedly cheap) humorous way. it is the same thing much of those other posts of mine were written with.

I was however, honestly trying to enlighten those SoCal fans (of which there seems to be many) about a neat oppurtunity to be in a music video, and to address some of the same questions that I have gotten from different members of this chat folder in one post (rather then individual replies) in the name of efficiency. I honestly hope that through those posts I did not make you feel "excluded", or "left out" due to the fact that you could not be in Southern California for those events.

That is all the time I will waste on you.

mB

Good point, Mark. Seems most wars are territorial. Seems the few own (and try to run) the many. I can't really see how fear of losing their land (to whom and what?) would be the prime motivation for taking arms against their brothers. It's close, but how many went to war this century and died, even though their land was never obviously threatened? Orders were followed, and folks went with the political tide. Some of those fighting may actually have felt moral obligation. More on that later.

Matt, I'm as embarrassed as you are. Seems some posts are entirely devoted to plugging local bands, studios, and haircuts, with the expectation that we non-Californians will hop the next jet to Solana Beach in short notice. At least some of the "Civil War" posts at least mention the word "America"!

Don't let the bugs bite.

oh wait..., America, you mean the BAND!! oh, you know i thought it was the country's chatfolder.... boy was I in the wrong place. I'm so embarassed...

...and therefore the disucssion of the confederacy and the union lead us directly in to how good we thought Woodzy's playing has been of late...

?

Mark I have heard all of those same arguements so many times. While there were (and in a lot of ways , still are) 2 different cultures. Most of the clashes between Southern and Northern Congressmen and Senators concerned slavery. The arguements you used are the same ones the Southeners used to justify the war and slavery. The passion and the hate was fueled by slavery and the other issues were thrown in for good measure. You also mentioned that only 5% of the people in the south owned slaves. This may be true but that 5% was the ruling class of the times. They convinced the population that this was a fight for states rights when it was all about keeping slavery and keeping their ( the upper or ruling classes) way of life intact.
...................................Joe K

If Everyone agrees with you like you said, then who is it that gets bent out of shape when you have an opinion? Or is it the "we", "us", "everyone" thing again? For every we/us there's a "them" --- I just like to leave room for the "them", that's all. That's ALL. Them can be a GOOD thing, ya know, it IS within the realm of possibilities.

Can only speak for myself, thinking I might be one of those people to whom you refer, perhaps, & if so -- I think my shape's just fine (as in not-bent-out-of), always thought I was real, God knows I'm human. Howard, everyone doesn't have to agree with you 1000% on every single thing to appreciate you & value your input. Just speaking for myself again, but I always like to click on your name & see what you have to say -- certainly, CERTAINLY never mean to offend or annoy.
OK?

OK, here's my attempt at a history lesson...

Which state is the only Union state to have a monument dedicated to Confederate soldiers? (hope those nuns in grade school were right!)

Michelle

Thanks for the history lesson. Only a week and a half left of summer vacation. Then school starts up again. Now I'm really depressed!!!
Right on Howard L.

GREAT PHOTOS !!!--Thanks for sharing them Paul ---:)--Love, JOYCE P.S. Gerry , your hair is looking GREAT !!!---:)

Mark and everyone-

Thanks for the history reminder. I wastaught that the war was not so much about slavery but the agrarian South versus the industrialized North. Even the much touted Emancipation Proclaimation only freed slaves in state that left the Union,not the ones that remained. It was designed to keep fencesitters in the Union. So much for noble purpose.

Joe, sorry you had a bad concert experience. That seems to be atypical of this tour ( my own experience was GREAT- I want to see another show, SOON!) Hope you can see another show to get that "itchy" taste out of your mouth.

I understand your feelings Joe, but I would disagree. History has simplified the civil war as the war to free the slaves. While it sounds nice, and provides a noble rational that we can feel good about, it wasn't that simple. What you had was a clash of cultures. The primarily agrcultural South and the emerging industrialized North. While slavery was a key issue that helped polarize the nation, it wasn't the only issue. There were other issues of tarrifs, international trade, and sharing of power between the states and federal government. If you dig a little below the surface you will find some interesting and what I found to be surprising facts. Fewer than 5% of Southerners had slaves. In general only the very wealthy could afford slaves. The overwhelming majority of those who took up arms for the South were fighting for independence, not slavery. On the Northern side, it was a war to preserve the Union. Soon after his election, Lincoln had told the South they could keep their slaves if they would not secede. He didn't free any slaves until mid-way through the war (1863), and then he only freed the slaves in the states that were under Confederate control. His motive was to disrupt the South's war effort. Slaves in the states under Federal control (Ky, Mo, Md, and Del) weren't freed until after the war, by the passage of the 14th (?) amendment. In 1864, Lincoln met with the Confederate VP to try negotiate an end to the war. He told the VP they could keep their slaves if they would just lay down their arms and recognize the Federal governement. Jefferson Davis replied that the war wasn't about slavery, but about independence, so he rejected Lincoln's offer. In fact the Confederate Congress passed a law that any slave who would fight for the South would be freed. Many Northerners were just as racist as many Southerners. During the war many escaped slaves saught refuge in Northern cities. This lead to several race riots and lynchings. The Northerners may not have practiced slavery, but they su re didn't want any blacks around them. Another misconception is that all the blacks in the South were slaves. About 25 to 30% of blacks in the South were free. In fact a few of them acquired land and even owned slaves. While I believe slavery was and is immoral, the civil war and the south weren't just about slavery. In fact, the case could be made the the US flag is offensive because it stood for slavery much longer than the Confederate flag did. But I chose not to look at it from that perspective. Every nation or people has sins in its past (or present) to be ashamed of. The the question comes down to what you focus on. Do you focus on the negative in your heritage or do you focus on the positive. I believe the Civil War was God's judgement on not just the South, but the entire nation for the sins of slavery. Even then very few in the South were slave holders, some were even opposed to it, but they still took up arms in what they saw as a defense of their land. Nothing is as simple as they have it in the text books or on the TV. Who do you chose to remember, the few who were fighting for slavery or the many who were fighting for their land.

I was born in Mississippi, and raised in North Carolina. I don't think that the Confederate flag should be flown anywhere. It only brought misery to our state and our country. How many people died because of this flag? It goes beyond slavery and racism. It goes to the very core of our national existence. We almost destroyed our country because of this flag.What kind of heritage is that??? We must respect history, however, NOTHING good came from the flag or the Confederacy......Joe K

How cool...a Company Car video. I really wish I could be there. Think it'll ever be on TV?

Erin :o)

This chat about Confederate history is really fascinating. Actually, Virginia only partially seceeded from the Union -- western Virginia voted to stay with the North, and in 1863 became West Virginia. While I'm on a West Virginia roll, I salute everyone in Beckley, West Virginia. You've got a great namesake. (And also great food at the local Biscuit World.)

john

It seems everyone feels the same way I do.
But, it's amazing, everytime I have some negative or positive
feedback to post/discuss, some people get too bent out of shape
on this board. Let's get real.We're all human here.
Matt, thanks for the explaination. All things happen or are for a
reason. V.I.P. Hey, we should be considered the Ambassadors
for America. VIP's.? We're way above it people.
My 2 cents worth.

Just got back from a week or so in New (& Improved) Mexico with the family. I highly recommend the state to anyone.

So here's my 2 peso's worth on the VIP thing. As far that goes, I've been refused admission, ostricized, voted out, abandoned and just plain ignored by so many groups and organizations in my life that something like that doesn't bother me. Anything that helps bring in new fans, or bring back old fans, I'm all for.

It's like my bank is trying to get new customers, so right now it's offering free checking for three years for anyone new. I could cry foul and say, "hey, what about me? I'm already a customer. Why can't I have free checking the next three years?" And their answer would be, "too bad, that's just the way life works. Switch banks if you don't like it."

I've been with my bank too long. I've been with America too long. Besides, I already feel like a VIP because I've been one of the very few elite fans left who've stuck with the guys through thick and thin (and even though Hidden Talent and Hot Town). So I'm already part of an exclusive club: The Very Few People Who Realize America Is The Best Band Ever Club. Anybody out there who wants a pass to get in, just go to the local record shop and buy an America CD.

As far as the Confederate Flag thing is concerned, being a Yankee who moved south as I did from Indianapolis to Birmingham and now to Dallas, I understand where Joe B's coming from. I've always though that rather than fight the confederate flag, blacks should adopt it as a testimony to a lost cause. It would be like saying "Righteousness 1, Stupidity 0. We won."

KevinS.

Just got back from a week or so in New (& Improved) Mexico with the family. I highly recommend the state to anyone.

So here's my 2 peso's worth on the VIP thing. As far that goes, I've been refused admission, ostricized, voted out, abandoned and just plain ignored by so many groups and organizations in my life that something like that doesn't bother me. Anything that helps bring in new fans, or bring back old fans, I'm all for.

It's like my bank is trying to get new customers, so right now it's offering free checking for three years for anyone new. I could cry foul and say, "hey, what about me? I'm already a customer. Why can't I have free checking the next three years?" And their answer would be, "too bad, that's just the way life works. Switch banks if you don't like it."

I've been with my bank too long. I've been with America too long. Besides, I already feel like a VIP because I've been one of the very few elite fans left who've stuck with the guys through thick and thin (and even though Hidden Talent and Hot Town). So I'm already part of an exclusive club: The Very Few People Who Realize America Is The Best Band Ever Club. Anybody out there who wants a pass to get in, just go to the local record shop and buy an America CD.

As far as the Confederate Flag thing is concerned, being a Yankee who moved south as I did from Indianapolis to Birmingham and now to Dallas, I understand where Joe B's coming from. I've always though that rather than fight the confederate flag, blacks should adopt it as a testimony to a lost cause. It would be like saying "Righteousness 1, Stupidity 0. We won."

KevinS.

Wow, homerun Steve. You must have stayed awake in history class! You are correct, Kentucky and Missouri did not officially secede. Kentucky officially declared itself nuetral, which didn't last long. Both states were bitterly divided and ended up with two separate state governments, one pro-Union and one pro-Confederate. Which is why they were admitted to the Confederacy without every officially leaving the Union.

Another state that was divided was Maryland. Lee actually had Maryland units in his army. Lincoln kept Maryland in the Union by imprisoning pro-Confederate state officials before they had a chance to vote on succession.

History class is now over.

Two states have incorporated the Confederate flag into their state flags. Can you name them?

Georgia and Mississippi.

Bonus question, this is tougher. Name the 13 states that were officially admitted to the Confederacy.

I'm going to have to guess on this one Mark.

1. Texas
2. Louisiana
3. Mississippi
4. Alabama
5. Georgia
6. Florida
7. South Carolina
8. Arkansas
9. Tennessee
10. North Carolina
11. Virginia
12. Kentucky
13. Missouri

I don't think Kentucky or Missouri really ever seceded but they were admitted to the confederacy anyway. How did I do?

Joe,

Maybe you need a little education on Southern culture. Most Southerners consider the old Confederate flag to be a symbol of the South, not a symbol of racism and slavery. Yes I know the arguments, that the South had slaves and that the KKK uses the flag as a symbol. But don't assume somebody is a racist just because they have a Confederate flag, because chances are they aren't. People used to understand this, but anymore it seems that more people are walking around with chips on their shoulders just looking for something to be offended about. I'm not saying you are, but I just wanted to give you a different perspective. It has gotten so rediculous that in Virginia they let you purchase a special lisence plate for your car if you are a member of the Sons or Daughters of the Confederacy, but they dropped the small Confederate flag that used to be on the plates because it might be offensive. If the Confederate flag is offensive or bad, then why give a special lisence plate to an organization of Confederate descendents? Another stupid controversy is that the city of Richmond was restoring a mural downtown, and part of it was to include a portrate of Robert E. Lee. Now a group is threatening legal action to keep Lee off it. Lee's birthday is a state holiday, they have a huge monument to him on another street, his home is a major tourist attraction, and the city has the Museium of the Confederacy and the Confederate White House which are major tourist attractions. But it would be inconsiderate to include his picture in the mural. I guess logic has no place in our PC world. Sorry to preach.


BTW, here's some Soutern trivia for you:

Two states have incorporated the Confederate flag into their state flags. Can you name them?
Bonus question, this is tougher. Name the 13 states that were officially admitted to the Confederacy.

Look this VIP thing is just a marketing thing to try to promote the band. If they just opened it up to everybody then it wouldn't be much of a marketing tool. They have to make a living like everybody else, maybe this will help boost interest in the band, maybe it won't. Just let the guys explore different avenues to market themselves. It's not really anything to get upset about. I hope it works out for them.

"the jedi"

come to the Belly Up in Solana Beach on thursday night (8:15) to be a part of Switchfoot's new video "The Company Car". live concert footage will be shot during their show with Howard Jones. (BTW, Co. Car is my favorite song on the new album)

there should be a plethora of new releases coming out of BluLight studios by the end of october. Look for a new EP that will hopefully not suck, a score for a surf movie, a punk rendition of "To All the Girls I've Loved Before" and I've finally gotten Dave Schilling to agree to come in to the studio and record multiple tracks. all of this will only be available to VIP's however, which means each and every one of you, because you are all and individually very special and worthwhile people in your own special ways.

and thank you for the vote of confidence on the haircut, and I'm sorry we missed each other. and yes i've stopped being a Very Insecure Person and have decided to fully back up my haircut. I stand under it with confidence and pride.

mB
BluLight Studios
"Keepin it Fresh"

Kudos to Steve for having such a great site and for doing such a great job...It's hard for me to worry about the VIP section...who needs a VIP section? We've got Steve! Keep up the great work. I can't feel like I'm missing out on very much with this great resource.

When I first saw this new addition, I guess I thought it was going to be a peek at something the majority of concertgoers don't get to be a part of: backstage. Then when realized that only certain people would be privy to this part of the site, I felt the way Cathy, Robyn and others have expressed feeling. In other words, excluded. Let's face it, everyone wants to be part of the pack. My suggestion to make VIP available to all is this. Give out the VIP passes at the concerts. It is a good marketing ploy to grab the casual fan and make them aware of the site. For the rest of us hard-core fans who joined "The List" with our names, addresses, and email addresses, simply email us the code that will get us in. Even if what is posted there is just a few pictures and sound bites, at least no one feels like they are missing out on something. I don't know who makes the decisions regarding vh.com, but I thought I'd contribute my thoughts, for what they're worth.

Enjoyed seeing you play on 'Horse' at the Coach House, Matt. Passed you on the way out, but you were talking to someone, and we had to leave, so I didn't stop to say hi. I hope I get another chance somewhere down the line. I like your haircut. Did you give it a name yet?

Okay, back to lurking again.

have you heard of an upcoming country singer named Mandy Barnett? She's seriously compared to Patsy Cline, and as sacrilege as this will sound, she's better. Most wonderful, haunting voice I've ever heard.

Just received my copy! Burning question. Is Gerry considering changing his name to Geraldito? Very nicely done! (The Spanish version of Sister Golden Hair)

I do wish to say however that VH.com IS THEIR SITE, and they can and should do whatever they wish. This will not people from stating a viewpoint. Opinions make life much more interesting.

ok Matt, you idealistic dreamer you :)

um.
ok.
or maybe they'll be encouraged to make an effort to get a pass. and explore more of the site. and to learn more about the band. and then maybe go outside and take a walk in the park and say hi to a stranger in need of a random act of kindness. or worry about something like their kids or jobs or what they're going to have for breakfast. or if the fridge light really does go off when they close the door.

matt.

Hey You People,

The Itchycoo Fest was pretty much a joke, except for the guys and a few other bands. They expected a total crowd of 60 to 70 thousand folks from around the midwest/U.S.A. and ended up with only about 20,000 rednecks mainly from the Volunteer state. I haven't seen that many confederate flags since the movie "Glory". SCARY! Apparently no one's pointed out to them that it's 1999. The fest did have a great stage, sound system, jumbotron, and backstage area, but the camping part and the rest of the facilities were a travesty. Thank God I was with my girlfriend, sister, and brother-in-law. Otherwise I would have been afraid to go outside my tent. And I'm a hardened urban dweller who can take a lot. As always, the guys did a great job. The problem was they had all of 45 minutes to play. (Bad scheduling was one of many mistakes) They didn't even get to all the hits. However, it was a blast to hear "Things We Said Today" live for the first time. Thanks to a friend of mine from Chicago who's in the Buckinghams I had a backstage pass. I spoke briefly with Gerry, Dewey, & Woodsy but it was nuts!! They basically pulled up in the bus, unloaded the stuff, and were on stage within an hour. And out in just a few minutes after the show. They were off for a well-deserved 2 week break. Major kudos to Pete, Bill, & Scott for getting it together in record time. Impressive work! Christopher Cross was also there but he was plagued by major sound problems and never really got going. Too bad - it wasn't his fault. Also he called out some *%$hole who was standing on the side of the stage talking on a cell phone during the show. At least this rude idiot got booed into submission, left, and Chris was able to go on. Bad scene in general. I would not recommend it next year (if they even try again) unless there are major improvements. Other quality performances were turned in by Randy Bachman of BTO/Guess Who fame. He rocked. Styx sounded great and was lots of fun. David Clayton-Thomas and BS&T also was outstanding. And Felix Cavaliere of the Rascals was wonderful and in great voice. That's it for now. If I have any more Itchycoo flashbacks I'll add them later.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. Item from the Nashville Tennessean on Monday: The band "America" drew the festival's most enthusiastic daytime crowds.

Just one question, tho the intent was pretty cool, what about the fan who stumbles on VH.com the way most of us found Steve's page, via a search engine? Wouldn't they feel a triffle alienated when they couldn't get in? Just wondering

I received the following message from Paul about the Wyoming Festival Concert. It's another testimonial to the guys' professionalism and ability to adapt.

"There was a lot of rain that day, and it seemed as if it might be a wet concert. In fact we had our umbrellas out at showtime and it was still raining as the roadies readied the stage. But America pulled off some of their famous "Magic" and the rain stopped and clear sky came over just as they took the stage. This was a special night for me, because I was bringing along an old high school friend who had never seen them live before, but remembers many long hours of listening to America albums at my house!

"As we walked into the show, a van pulled up, and out came the band. They came to the railing by the stage to talk to some fans, and I managed to talk to Brad a while. He was proudly showing off his new haircut, and seemed to appreciate it when I said that it made him a real "chick magnet"! . I also said hello to Gerry and Dewey, deciding to forgo the usual autogragh routine. I then saw Willie walking to the stage, and yelled 'congratulations' to him, to which he responded 'So... you know, huh!'. Actually, the whole crowd knew shortly, after Gerry announced Willies' recent marriage!

"We thoroughly enjoyed the show, as usual, especially the new songs that were included. As it turns out, some of their instuments had been delayed in transit, and they had to use some replacement guitars. Gerry used a tobacco sunburst Takamine, and Dewey used an Ovation Adamas II. Even Willie had to improvise, by making his own maracas, using an empty Mountain Dew can half filled with sand! Gerry joked several times about using the borrowed instruments, and and hoped for some 'mercy points' for having to play on borrowed guitars (as if they needed to apologize!) Dewey also did a really stylish air-tamborine solo to the delight of the crowd, in honor of his missing tamborine!

"As usual, they performed a stellar show, particularly Woodz, who seemed to me to be playing out of his mind - nailing notes and rifs with a clarity and confidance that I had never seen him show before.

"They played each song with their usual high standard of musicianship, accurately and flawlessly. Thanks, America, see you soon!"

1) i really think everybody needs to relax about the VIP thing. it's VH.com's own unique thing that it does as a website, makes it a little bit different, lets it stand out a little, gives people a reason to visit. it is the band's site, and they're not trying to alienate everyone. Steve's site is the Fans for fans site. VH.com is the band for fans site. 350 tickets? is there even 350 different people that visit this chat board regularly. i'm sure there will be ways for all to eventually get to check it out.

2) about dewey's guitars: i think my dad might have somehow gotten the idea that it would be really funny to screw with the others amps during the middle of the set and see how quick they notice. I really don't know this for sure, but it sounds familiar. and obviously funny. keeping things fresh.

mB
BluLight Studios
"Keeping things Fresh"

Hi to All,

Hope everyone is having a cool safe summer.I thought of a couple of CD titles

Half&Half="combining two things or people equally"
Halfway="America Fans need 30 more years"

were ever Venturahighway.com goes I think we all should travel the same Highway,if it brings new Fans to the Web site Great,but don't leave any Fans without a ride.
Gary,great review- what a kick with the cell phone and Gerry.
Take care Joanne

Paul has made a bunch more photos (can you say 91?) from the 1998 Corvallis concert. Many of them are from the night concert which really look great. I'll be putting them on the America Fans web site eventually, but in the meantime you can go to the web links below where Paul has uploaded them. Thanks Paul!

Group 1
Group 2

I'm well aware both sites are shared chat folder(s) and linked together, and don't get me wrong, the more America websites, the merrier. I'm all for any new websites, sections, etc.. But I'm talking about VIP's first intial announcement, when it was at a concert that they first mentioned VIP, I'm sure everyone was quite puzzled (or kind of felt left out) by this VIP section. But as Steve explained and pointed out, that it was a way to attract more of the newer fans who are not aware of their websites. And hopefully people would share this so called password for all others to get in. I haven't heard a thing about it.
Sorry if I worded it kind of strange.
:0).............hl

Gary,
Thanks for the extensive review. AMERICA finally gets some time off. Those shows in Iowa were at a point of an extremely long leg of the lifetime tour w/very little rest. But as always they played like it was the only show of the year. Rest up AMERICA. The HUMAN NATURE tour continues.

Thanks for the great review, Gary. Your description was so good that I could just about visualize everything that was going on onstage. You're absolutely right that the guys are supreme professionals.

Howdy America Fans,

I just returned from Betterndorf, Iowa, and again witnessed four incredibly good shows. The guys are in great form and sounded absolutely "perfect". If this current grueling tour has had any effect, it sure hasn't showed up in any of the performances. The venue at the Lady Luck Casino is not too bad. It holds about 350 people and instead of the traditional cocktail table arrangement, there were rows of chairs set up in theater type fashion. The crowd at the Friday night shows, in my opinion, were a little mundane. I think this had something to do with the fact that there was a John Deere Tractor Sales convention at the hotel and a lot of these people were not familiar with the band however, I heard numerous comments from people as they were exiting the showroom such as "man, those guys are unbelievable" and "I didn't think America could rock, that Sandman song was awesome" and "when I get home, I'm going to the record store and buy some America CD's". So overall, everyone (including the tractor salesmen) were very impressed with the shows. At the first show during the lapse between two songs, a guy who was sitting in the front row answer's his cell phone and starts talking on it. Gerry walks over and says "Is everything ok?, can I start the next song?" The guy says, "I am talking to a lady that is a huge fan of yours". Gerry says, "hey let me talk to her". The guy hands him the phone and Gerry says" Hi this is Gerry Beckley. I really appreciate the fact that you are a fan of ours, but we are in the middle of a show right now. Could you call back later?" Meanwhile in the background Bradly and Woodzie are yelling "hey get off the phone Gerry" and "hey, you need to conduct your personal business off stage". Everyone in the place was just cracking up. Man that was funny! Anyway, the set list was basically the same as what has been played at the previous shows. Wednesday and Wheels were the only two songs played off of HN, and Never Be Lonely was replaced by the Beatle song, Things We Said Today. As was mentioned in another review of this show, Michael was absolutely awesome. I don't think I have ever heard him play this good. If he is tired, he certainly does not show it on stage. Saturday night's shows were a little more lively. Most of the tractor guys left Sat. morning and the crowd consisted of younger people. The place was rocking with people clapping and standing on chairs during Sandman and Sister. During the late show while playing Sandman, Dewey's electric Telecaster simply stopped making sound. I have never seen a more puzzled look on his face. He was shrugging his shoulders looking at Woodzie saying "help me out here" Dewey then, very smoothly and "coolly" grabs his 6 string acoustic Taylor and plays the guitar solo on it. Meanwhile, Gerry is absolutely cracking up laughing while Pete, the Equipment Manager, is frantically running all over the stage plugging and replugging cables with this look of horror on his face. I didn't think Pete could move that fast! Meanwhile, Dewey hasn't missed a lick on the vocals or on any of the guitar parts. Pete then yells to Dewey "it's ok" and Dewey puts down the Taylor and grabs the Telecaster. He starts strumming the Tele, but it sounds very strange and almost garbled. Dewey, again is about to reach for the Taylor and then Gerry, with this very evil grin on his face, walks over to Dewey's amplifier and turns a couple of knobs. All of a sudden, presto, Dewey's guitar comes alive and they break into this really rockin' jam that I have never heard before to finish off the song. After the song, Bradly is cracking up laughing and walks up to the mic and says "ooops". The crowd went absolutely nuts! Now THIS is professionalism at it's highest form! These guys are the consummate pros. The crowd was still geeked when the guys returned for the HWNN encore and received a thunderous ovation when the song was over. The guys stayed around and signed autographs and mingled with the fans for awhile. The people at this show were very impressed as was evidenced by the amount of t-shirts, hats and CD's that were sold. All in all, this might have been the best America show I have ever seen! Well, I didn't mean to write a book here, but I wanted to share this with everybody because this was just unbelievable.

Later,

Gary

Many of us here on the chat folder are regular America-holics, who probably know everything that could possibly be known about the group, and I'm sure the V.I.P. section isn't going to have anything that we couldn't live without. I think it's just a way for new fans to get excited about something about the group, which is a perfectly honorable purpose in my book.

john

Hi Howard!
Maybe you haven't thought of this - but remember it is now a "shared Chat Folder". An occasional new face around here just may be coming entirely by way of the vh.com website -- I would never want to make even offhand disparaging remarks that might insult their presence. Both sites have a slightly different personality, both very welcome in my eyes, & even though I did go on record with my dislike of the VIP aspect, I see ABSOLUTELY no benefit in going to a shared portion of both & pointing out which parent is BETTER (even acknowledging one as the founder & one a new parent at that -- shared IS shared afterall). I could just as easily find aspects of the earlier site that do not particularly appeal to me either - but no one brought that up for me to comment on.
So, since you asked Howard, some of the "us" out there, might just actually prefer www.venturahighway.com. Some might even almost exclusively go "there" to access being "here".

often, Howard, I go fairly regularly ..... who wouldn't want to see what Dewey has to say "from a moving train" or from anywhere for that matter. No like the VIP thing either, but otherwise it's a nice place.

I'm still here all, just trying to enjoy what's left of the very dry and hot summer and enjoying Bodden Town and all America CD's on my bus ride home. Hopefully trying to shoot for at least one America concert this year, maybe in October? This whole www.venturahighway.com , making more enemies than friends. If they would've told us of their intentions first, then we wouldn't have jumped to conclusions. Oh well, just me rambling on. Honestly, how many times have any of us went to this website since it opened. talk to ya. HL

Are we down again or is everyone just off enjoying their summer weekend?

Hi to All,

Cathy, I understand what you're saying. My initial reaction was that the gulf between the haves & the have-nots just gets wider still. IF you're lucky enough to see the guys in concert, well then, you just might be lucky enough to have yet another little special treat. BUT if you're part of the unfortunate ones, well then here's another thing to be envious of!
Though surely NOT the intention, it would appeal to my sense of unity to maybe throw a bone to that other segment, the ones too far, too poor to not be too far, the whatevers -- let them get a little cheap thrill & a look at what they're missing. Maybe let them feel like part of the circle, ya know?

Went last night to see the 8:00 show at the Lady Luck in Ioawa. As always a great show even though it was the short set. It was my 4th time seeing the band; the other times were in 1977,1983,1990; It was great to hear Things We Said Today as it has always been one of my favorite Beatles tunes. they did an outstanding job trading vocals and harmonizing on it. Of course Sandman was killer as always. The two new songd they played (Wednesday Morning & Wheels are Turning) were both fantastic and fresh. I'd also like to again thank Dewey right here for posing for the picture of myself and him. It was a highlight of my summer. I'd like to share that picture with you all but don't know exactly how to go about doing it. Anyway another fun night and the guys really sounded good as usual. I did miss Old Man Took and Here but like I said it was the short set. In case the band reads this I would also like to request that they do whatever it takes to come to Peoria Il. next year or as soon as possible and be able to play the long set. Just can't seem to get enough.

25 year America fan,
Dan

Cathy,
Just my opinion. Your thoughts are definitely understood. At the San Diego show, the guys who are managing the Web VIP thing, explained that it is suppose to be a simple cyber space promotion. The game plan is to pass out the pass codes at shows to help drive more traffic to the Web site, increase interest. In the Internet world, traffic to sites is important, especially if you are selling anything, including advertising space. This is not AMERICA sitting around attempting to create something weird. It's a marketing/promotion idea devised by the Web site handlers. This Web stuff is still in it's infancy. I am not even sure if any pass codes have been passed out yet. I know they don't want to allienate anyone, just add new friends & increase the reach of AMERICA's music. The VIP section was expected to just have a few fotos & perhaps a few sound bytes. Gee, I sure hope the new & bonus added VAN GO GAN appears for sale soon !

I wanted to take some time to respond to the new V.I.P. section of venturahighway.com.

In general, I'm not a supporter of exclusionary practices and I felt compelled to comment on this new aspect of the website. While I think it's great to incorporate concert events with the Internet community, and boost interest in vh.com, I don't like the idea of having an exclusive, private section of the site. It hints at elitism and goes against the grain of the internet itself.

It troubles me that only a few "very important people" (as opposed to the majority of us, who, I assume, are "not very important") will have access to information through a tool that, theoretically and ideally, allows access to all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, class, and relative importance.

I hope that venturahighway.com will reconsider this VIP idea. Although it may increase new interest in the site and in the band, it may do so by excluding dedicated fans who are no less important than the lucky few who receive the virtual passes.

What do you all think?
Thanks for letting me ramble
And, by the way, what is the advantage of joining "the list"?

Shari, thanks so much for the great review and the playlist. Too bad your camera ran out of film for the photo opportunity of a lifetime. I'm looking forward to seeing the guys three weeks from today when they come to Orem. They're they only ones on the bill so I hope we get to hear the long set. I AM a Beatles fan and "Things We Said Today" is just one of their many great songs so I look forward to hearing Gerry and Dewey's interpretation of it.

Matt, thanks for sharing your thoughts, too. I've only seen pictures of you but I always thought you looked 18 or 19. Does that mean you "doctored" the pictures (LOL)?

--Steve

P.S. Michael, hope you get feeling better soon. You're a real trooper to go out and play so well even when you're not feeling the best.

I've always looked 12, so 16 must mean mean that I'm looking older. though i'm not sure how perfect my hair was after 6 hours at the coach house. and the film thing was really funny. those things always happen to me. BTW still deciding whether to call it "early 80's sting" or "the jedi". all good haircuts need names.
and prof was plugged in, just forgot to stomp on woodz's pedals for his ripping solo (woodz was sick, didn't come out for the second encore) but did anyone else notice how good his (Michael's)playing was that night?!
it was awesome to see everyone that night, and the night before at humphrey's. to those who stuck around afterwards, thanx, it was nice to see you.

i hope everyone is having ripping summers. take care

mB

Sorry that last one was really long!
Riverside
Ventura Highway
You Can Do Magic
Don't Cross the River
Daisey Jane (their spelling of Daisey, not mine)
Mirror to Mirror (not crossed out, but NOT played)
Another Try was crossed out
Moment to Moment was crossed out
Three Roses
I Need You
Wednesday Morning
Pages
Wheels Are Turning
Tin Man
Woman Tonight
Only In Your Heart
California Dreamin
Lonely People
Moving Train crossed out, something written in that I think might be Beatle, as this is where they played the Beatles song
Never Be Lonely,
and of course, the encore of Horse
(with Matt and The Professor, who's guitar wasn't plugged in)

Hi, gang. This show was the start of our vacation and we just returned today, so here I am, a week late.
I was at the second show, supposed to start at 9:30. This was their third show in about 25 hours, and it seemed to show on Dewey. At first he faked it on the high notes to Riverside, then just stepped back from the mike later on ones he couldn't hit. Don't know if it was deliberate, but Brad's mike was really turned up during those times. I haven't heard his voice that much since he had throat problems quite awhile back.
I'll review, then I'll do the play list in a second post. That way people who don't want to read all my personal comments can see what they guys are up to.
This was the medium length set, supposed to be (according to Jim) about 75 minutes. Trust me, I wasn't looking at my watch once they finally came out.
There had been a show at 7:00, and this show was supposed to be at 9:30, telling us to arrive at 9:00 for the "dinner" portion. This place has apparently been around a long time, and is somewhat of a dive. Both shows were apparently sold out.
Anyway, about 10:05 the warm up band finally came out. As Jim mentioned, it was "The Professor" who played with our band early on, his band is called "Small Change." He played guitar and sang back up on one or two. They played at least two songs too many for me, altho they did have some following there. They didn't get off the stage until about 10:40. Probably 10 minutes or so before our guys came out to good applause.
Still love that long opening to Riverside. I have Gerry's play list (thanks again, Jim) Moment to Moment and FAMT are both crossed off (darn it!!!) They played Wednesday Morning, Pages, and Wheels, as they said, back-to-back-to-back, which I feel is a mistake. They lose some of the audience doing that. I think they should take three opportunities (or better yet, five!) to plug their new cd, and intersperse it more with familiar tunes to the masses.
We hadn't heard Wednesday Morning or Wheels live before, and both were GREAT!!! I have to admit Wednesday Morning is not my favorite, but it was great to hear it live. And Wheels was AWESOME! One thing I have to say about Wed. Morning was that you could really understand Gerry's lyrics, which is not always true in concert. He tends to eat the mike and slur a bit, which I guess is understandable when you've done the song thousands of times. But the new ones were really crisp.
I wish they would drop Don't Cross the River. Never really cared for that song, and noticed it got a fairly lukewarm reception compared to most others.
The new Beatles number is in addition to California Dreamin. Jim mentioned the name of it earlier, thanks Jim, cuz I wasn't familiar with it. He said it was called 'Things We Said Today.' I would have guessed it was called 'Lucky Guy' cuz that's sung several times in the chorus. I know I have heard this tune before, but wouldn't say it was very familiar to me, as I'm not a Beatles fan. But I have to say, it's a GREAT song for Gerry and Dewey's harmony. Yes, I also recall that they alternated verses, and sang harmony on the chorus. My husband mentioned to me he didn't remember them ever sharing a song like that before in concert.
Took some pictures, don't know if I was close enough for them to turn out. If so, I'll forward them to Steve. I was up taking a picture during the ZZ Top move on Horse, and when I got back to my seat, my husband told me he was about to thrill me to death. He got Gerry's guitar pick!!!!! Since I was walking back, I didn't even see it go!
Afterward I was looking for Matt, but didn't see him. Jim got me the playlist from Gerry's keyboard, and I saw Nancy from Temecula and went to talk to her for a while. My husband came to get me because he saw Matt come back in. I went to talk to Matt, and realized the guy standing near him in black dress pants, black patent leather shoes and an untucked undershirt was Gerry!! After I teased Matt about not ever singing into the mike during Horse, Gerry turned around to talk to him. I asked him if he would take a picture with Matt and me for Steve's web page. He very graciously said yes! So as I'm standing there with Gerry on my right, and Matt, who is well over six feet, leaning his head in next to me to be even with us, my husband realizes I am out of film!!! The picture opportunity of a LIFETIME and I wasted a shot on Wood-Z in his Beer Nuts t shirt! UGGHHH! (Sorry guys, the ladies will understand this one.)
This was about 12:30 by this time, and Gerry had really just come out to see Matt before he got on the bus to go to Arizona for a show the next, oops, by now the same, day. He commented that he was really tired and had to get on the bus, but he had already signed autographs and shaken hands with people before posing with us.
Needless to say, this was the best way in the world for me to start my vacation. The only thing that could make this better, (besides film) would be if I could see them on my 40th in September, but that won't happen.
Great night, great show, great fun.
Matt, I'm still thinking about your haircut. All I'll say right now is that I think it makes you look 16. Was great to see you. And thanks, again, Jim!
That closes this chapter in the book.
Take care, all. ShariL <><

Hello all,I would like to start with Germana Minniti's fan bio,one of the mosst beautiful and touching ones I've ever read.Secondly is Scotts Sparks review not only professional but written in a positive light, a refreshing change from so much negativity and snobbery that has surrounded this group over a number of years.And finally this brings me onto a brand new release here in Australia,Capitol EMI(AUSTRALIA)have put out The Best of America,a twenty tracker this may be the same as one mentioned on an earlier post.Wonderful to hear some terrific Capitol tunes on one CD,even The Last Unicorn makes an appearance, and the highly atmospheric My Dear is included.Only Game in Town is here (how was that never a hit)Tall Treasures,All My Life,One Morning,We Got All Night,plus six cuts from America in concert.Cover is smallish picture of the Your Move and on the rear is even smaller picture of View From The Ground,sounds great!!

I have to correct an error I made in the article that I read in "In Style" magazine. I mentioned that >> "Horse" would be played to promote CK jeans.<< In reading it over, it's not for designer CK, BUT just as distinguished a man "Michael Kors"....

wow, great review !! as it should be, america is amazing !! gerry & dewey are both great songwriters indeed !! they both have differant styles & are very good at what they do. they deserve all the praise they get & more !! I'll always continue to support them, as a fan & a freind. Take care guy's.--Love, JOYCE ---:)--P.S. Thanks again steve for all you do ~

Great review. I can already see the title of the new album..."Heycheckouttheprofessionalsparksconcertreview".

I like it.

Here are a couple more...

An album featuring classics from the 60's --- "Herman's Hermits"
An album cover featuring floral arrangements --- "Horticulture"
An album about golf --- "Hole In One"
An album featuring a deceased musician (ala Natalie Cole) --- "Haunted".
An album about food --- "Hungry" (or frozen dinners --- "Hungry Man".
An album about babies --- "Huggies"

I'll let you go now.

Shayne

Great review. Thanks for sharing it Steve.

Mark and Sparky, thanks for pointing out the need for a few minor corrections. I really feel dumb because Scott asked me to review the article before he posted it and I let those things slip right past me. I guess that's what I get for being excited about the article and reading over it so fast. Next time I'll be more careful. Anyway, I have passed your list of corrections on to Scott and he has indicated that he'll make them as soon as he can, likely today.

As Mark pointed out, however, it is overall an outstanding review and Scott went to a lot of work to get the facts straight (it's not his fault that I let them slip through). He is very impressed with Human Nature and America and looks forward to doing more articles about them.

Overall an outstanding review! Just a few minor corrections. As someone already pointed out, Dewey wrote Sandman. They have had 11 top 40 hits, not 9. He has Hat Trick confused with Homecoming. And he left Hideaway off the million selling albums list. But the gist of the review was great. He seems to be much more knowledgeable than your average Rolling Stone critic.

Good review, but really must say it's been mighty generous of Gerry to let Dewey take the credit for "Sandman" all these many years!

As for new CD titles, I still prefer Johnny's "Hear & Now", but just a few more before I go:

"Homefires"
"HellBent"
"Hex"
"Have-Nows" -- (as opposed to "Has-Beens")
"Hey! Listen Up!"

It is so nice to see in print a review such as this. It validates everything the rest of us have known all along. Thanks for sharing, Steve.

My boss celebrated her 50th birthday at the July 23rd show in Reno and was blown away how great America sounded.

I managed to get to five concerts in the last two months. The first was in Denver and I convinced my younger brother (a non-fan) to go with me. He recently emailed me the following note. "I listen to the Human Nature tape of America and I love it. First thing in the morning I'll listen to it in the car and it sets a nice tone for the day. I can't seem to get tired of it." There you have it- a new fan. Once again, big sister knows best!

Wow...what an awesome review!! Thanks Steve!

Erin :o)

There's a review of the July 31st concert in Sparks on the ROCK&ROLL.COM web site written by professional reviewer, Scott West. He loved the concert, he loves America, and he thinks Human Nature is one of the best CDs ever.

Scott told me that he's having lunch with Ian Samwell this week and he's going to do a story on how Ian discovered America and how the first album evolved. He also hopes to do a review of Human Nature and the new Beckley/Lamm/Wilson album later in the month. This is great exposure for America.

Firefall is still around? Maybe we can get Looking Glass back together.

Have fun Joe! We look forward to hearing about it when you get back. By the way, how is the job hunt going?

Hey You People,

Off first thing tomorrow to Manchester, TN for the camping/concert event. Sounds like it could be a real disaster - first time event, no real idea how many people will show, etc. The guys play Sunday morning at 11. Firefall plays at 10 and David Gates of Bread at noon, so it's gonna hafta be one quickie set (BOO!) Plus the guys will probably still be asleep. Fortunately it's a family event as much as a concert trip. Still might be kinda weird. I'll report back sometime next week.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. If the place goes up in flames on Sunday night, watch for me on CNN. (I'll be the idiot climbing the light tower in a lightning storm)

Virginia, you're right about Rick's America web site. In fact, it never did go offline. All he did was replace the first page with a message that says "Thanks to everyone who has supported the America Home Page and HorseWithNoName.com. These sites are now closed". However, if you have a link to one of the pages within his web site (like I do here and on the America Fans page), you can still look around at the old information. I believe he stopped updating it around the first of the year. At the same time, he discontinued his HorseWithNoName.com web site and that one really did go away.

Concerning Ike's web site, you're right that he hasn't added anything new since the Bodden Town CD announcement.

Although Rick's page is accessible, he is apparently not updating it anymore. You'll notice that all the info is old news. However, it is nice to be able to see the pictures and read the reviews etc. back to 1995. I think it's www.horsewithnoname.com that no longer exists.
On the same note, it seems that Ike Gauley is not adding any new pictures to his page, with the exception of the pics and info about Dan Peek and Bodden Town, and the link to venturahighway.com.
Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.

Rick's page is back on line. I just happened to click on the link for it on Steve's links page and it came up. Great to have it back.

Do you ever wish there's a way to delete your previously posted message? I'd do that with my message #7721. To Sparky: Oh! Thanks! To Shayne: Great titles especially the first one you suggested. It's great to hear from you again. To Jessica: The Beatles song, according to others, is "Things We Said Today". Ironically, it's from the Beatles LP called, "Something New". I only know that because I bought the album this year at a yard sale for only a quarter!! Man-o-man would I love to hear "The Guys" perform that song as well as "Penny Lane"! Maybe "PLane" in the future?

My America dream isn't weird or that worth remembering, but here it is anyway. I was to watch a show by the guys and the venue was my grade school - the playground. I went early, very early. I wanted the best seat/position possible so I went around the area trying out the view from all angles. I kept moving, wanting that perfect spot. Until finally, other people started coming in and I had to choose one. Then I was suddenly watching the guys perform from my chosen position and it wasn't the front seat! I was very disgruntled, especially when I kept getting blocked by those in front of me. All throughout the dream, I had this feeling that I can't ever get close to the stage and to the guys. Well, I am miles away - literally. LOL!

To John L.: well, at least you're not alone on this one. I also don't know that Beatles song. Well, maybe I'd recognize the tune when I locate a Beatles CD somewhere in the house and listen to it but right now I'm really clueless about this song.

I'm kinda partial to "Howcomenooneisbuyingthisreallygoodalbum". That starts with an "H". How about "How About"? I think it's time for a concept album. They can write an album about life on the road and call it "Hampton Inn" or "Hilton Hotel". Or an album about crime victims calling it "Hey, Come Back With My Wallet" (performed live in Central Park). They can do an album about getting older titled "How Do You Work The VCR?". One more (I promise). They can write about what it's like to play small clubs and call it "Hooters". Or a live album from Indianapolis and call it "Hoosiers" (okay that was two, but Hoosiers came to me after Hooters).

Any other ideas?

Shayne

my point exactly

Sparky, for some reason, I really like "your" idea of "Hear and Now" as the next CD title but you need to check a previous message. It's post #7684.

how about "HEAR & NOW" ?

Does that mean if it's titled "Hemorhoids", the song would be "Rear-Ends On Fire"?

Classic Dewey! ROFLMHO

"Hell's on Fire"... yet another nice H choice. I remember an interview with Dewey where he said that one of these days they'd be naming an album "Hemorhoids"... let's hope that day's far away!

Regarding Cathy's message about the "Human Nature" CD/cassette cover picture, the lyrics from "Hell's On Fire" is very descriptive of that cover:

"I walked to the corner, watch the world go by
HANDS IN MY POCKETS AND MY HEAD IN THE SKY"

I still think the cover picture of Human Nature should have been put with an album called "Heads in the Clouds"

Has anyone purchased the High-Definition CD issues of the five Capitol albums from Thoughtscape Sounds? I've seen them on there for some time, and I'm a bit intrigued to find out how good they really are. Anybody?? Bueller???

john

RE Dreams, I keep thinking " A dream is a wish your heart makes" ( What can I say. I live near Disney Studios and am nearly trampled daily by hoards of annimators as they exit the train in Burbank)

CD title redux-- Highway. The guys always seem to be on one.( I also favor Houseplant, that's my IQ about now JUST KIDDING!!!!)

A long time ago I had a dream that I met Dewey and Gerry. In my dream we were just standing around talking. Later in 1991 in Myrtle beach I got to meet them. It was more like a premonition than a dream. Its my only brush with ESP LOL....... Strange huh?....................................Joe K

Ok, I'll fess up to this one, too.... The one clear dream I recall is that I walked into a huge theater and the guys were on stage about to perform. But it was a show only for the disabled so, feeling out of place, I got up on stage instead and we were gonna do a play but the guys kicked me out! Go figure!

Howdy Everyone! Hope all is well! I just checked through the postings and I didn't notice this little tidbit mentioned- so if it has been mentioned, please forgive my redundancy....This past weekend on VH-1 they focused on Woodstock. They had a "Behind The Music" and a "Where Are They Now" that covered that magical, once upon a time moment in Pop Culture where people protested with a purpose. The "Where Are They Now" focused on Bands/Artists who were at Woodstock, but NOT truly remembered for being there. One Of the Bands was Blood, Sweat & Tears. The Band member they interviewed was Bobby Colomby. They explained that Bobby Colomby is still active in the music business, producing famous acts like AMERICA. At this point they flash to the photo of the inner sleeve of "Harbor" which (All Of Us Recall) shows AMERICA as a Three Man Act (Gerry, Dewey & DAN). I love that picture; the guys seem so....uh, relaxed. Anyway- Bobby Colomby Produced AMERICA as a DUO ("Right Before My Eyes") so good Old VH-1 did it to Gerry & Dewey again...The T.V. audience that isn't familiar with the Two-Man line-up is going to think that AMERICA is still Three Guys strumming Guitars and harmonizing. Oh Well- I am still psyched - after all any exposure is GOOD exposure!!! To John Corbett- thanx for understanding my "Perspective"- you nailed what I was trying to say right on it's proverbial head. Oh How's this for a New Title-"Hunger". "Horizon" was a Carpenters LP title (Good suggestion, though). I came up with "Hunger" for a couple of reasons: 1.) They are HUNGRY to achieve the success they deserve and 2.) I've lost 35 pounds so far on this diet I'm on and I feel hungry....oh well, gotta go...bye!

Spurs....look for them in December for the "New Year" !!!

Hi Everyone. Yesterday I received Volume 2 of John Corbett's Honored compilation and I've been enjoying it ever since. Just hearing Gerry sing "Sister Golden Hair" in Spanish makes it worth getting, but it's also fun to hear other band's interpretations of these great America songs.

I believe that John has about 25 or 30 copies of each Volume which he is making available for America Fans that read about it here. You can read about each volume by clicking on these links:

Honored, Volume 1
Honored, Volume 2

I'll be putting a few more sound clips from Honored out on the web site as soon as I can. But, for those who can't wait, I recommend you get in touch with John and see how to pick up your own copy.

That was one mighty wild dream that you had, Joyce. I've dreamed of "The Guys" several times. The most recent one was me playing the guitar on stage with them. The craziest thing about it all is the fact that I don't even know how to play a musical instrument (other than the radio). The other dream, years ago, was about me finding a new AMERICA album in a record store. It was a very exciting thing! I can remember buying it and hearing the new songs. I remember hearing Dewey, Dan, and Gerry's voices on this "new" album in my dream. I can still vaguely remember the album cover. It was somewhat like the photo on the album sleeve of the "Hearts" LP. I remember Dewey was wearing a blue jacket. All so very, very strange!

Wow...My dream certainly can't compete with THAT one!!! But I did dream once that I got to play drums for a couple of songs during one of their concerts. Willie had hurt his wrist and couldn't finish the show and it was one of those "Is there a drummer in the house" sort of things. So I went up and played a few songs. One of the songs was "Sandman"...don't remember the rest. I've also had a similar dream of sitting in with the Paul Shaffer/Letterman band...another pipe dream of mine!!

Jim...Erie, Pa

Hello all,perhaps the next best of ought to be called Heritage,and a new recording could be called Honour,because after all these years of performing and recording America has kept it's integrity while so many others have lost theirs.Fantastic to see the guys going hell for leather on a blistering touring shedule,how they do it will remain a mystery.Hope to see these guys down under in the not to dark and distant future.

John,
You are correct. Gerry and Dewey traded leads on "Things We Said Today". As I recall, someone asked Gerry what his favorite Beatles song was, and this was it. Mine, too, along with "Here, There, and Everywhere". That might made a good next CD title.

Johnny asked me who sang lead in the Beatles song the guys have just added to their play list. If I remember correctly they both did. Gerry did the first verse and Dewey did the second, both doing the chorus. I could be wrong as (I am going out on a limb here, risking excommunication from the group) I have never been a huge fan of the Beatles so I didn't know the song they were covering. I know, I should hang my head in shame and go to my room without my supper. Sorry.

If others have heard the "new" song in concert I'd like to hear if my recollection of who sang lead is correct.

Hey I don't know about any of you, BUT have you ever had a crazy america dream, that you can speak of that is??--:)--I don't know if I have had to many chemicals in my day but check this out?? Last night I had a dream that I was backstage at an AMERICA/BEACH BOYS concert & it was wayyyy past the time that the beach boys should have quit & america was to go on & I saw Beckley & I said what the hell? & he said well, LOOK!!!.....I peer in the dressing room & their sits WOOD-ZE & a whole news crew with a live report, they caught the Serial Killer of California & me & wood-ze make eye contact & he has that big grin on his face & I said to gerry what the hell is this all about? I never knew??? & gerry say's yeah & look, HE thinks it's funny, It's showtime!!!! & people are walking bye to see what the commotion is & gerry is greeting everyone like , HI I'm gerry beckley & thank you for coming to our show & I said gerry, what the hell are you doing? this is a serious matter & he said I know, I know, BUT we must greet everyone as if it's their 1st america show so they come back !! Great politician he is!!! hahahaha........& I look out to the stage & the Beach Boys are looking nervous going what is taking them so long?? & then someone whispers into mike loves ear, & he say's, you know, their was somthing always about that guy (wood-ze) I didn't like !!! & I said HEY wait a minute a**hole, didn't you ever hear of innocent till proven guilty??? SO their you go, Is this crazy or what??? I don't know what the message is hear from this dream, all I can figure is I really like Wood-ze & would defend him till the end !!!!hahahaha.....Oh man, maybe it's all that fresh-air I am getting riding around in my shiny red convertible??? By the way Thanks steve!! After all my bragging about the car. I hope you all like it? Take care & PEACE & LOVE, JOYCE HALL--P.S. I am not crazy !!!! well does anyone else care to step up with a wild dream as such????

Just finished watching "Time and Again" on MSNBC here in S.Cal.

It was a profile on parts of"Phil Hartman's Life and Career.
One of Mr. Hartman's many accomplishments was of course the cover of "America's Greatest Hits" album. They talked briefly on the gift he had in artistry, while showing the Album cover and, of course, playing in the backround was again..."Horse With No Name".

Mr. Hartman was a great friend of "America"....has worked on different projects with them and of course most recently with Gerry's "Van Go Gan" as a voice over/teleleVANgelist in "Playing God".

He gave so much of his life to us all.....he is missed !!!

Huh? Just my feeble attempt at levity, Roybn, although I think it would make a great title. Whimsical and inquisitive yet, yet, yet, yet...something. I can see it playing out in cd stores something like this. " Do you have the new America cd?" The 17 year old head banger replies, "Huh?" You say, "That's it." It works.

Horizontal Rain

Kelly...that is so cool!! Thanks for sharing!
Erin :o)

see all the familiar chat going on here..ventured out for the first time in awhile (still recuperating) and was furniture shopping to surprise my son who was out of town (re-doing his room)..and was treated to Ventura Highway during my escapade..made for a nice visit and put me in a "buying" mood! Joyce, have fun in NY..stay out of taxis at noon, subways after dark..and real NY cheesecake is a must.
Kids to back to school this week..wow..what a great summer..not. :(

Jeff, I haven't heard that the Majestic Theater concert on August 27 has been canceled but as we all know, the schedule is always subject to change. I'll check with Morey Management to see what they can tell me but the best bet would probably be to call Majestic Theater at 716/694-9772 and see what they say.

Steve, do know if the August 27 show at the majestic theatre(it use to be called melody fair) has been canceled. My sister lives near there and says that it has been postponed till next spring.

I was'nt at the concert at Jamboree in the hills but caught the last 5 songs on WWVA 1170 am radio out of Wheeling West Virginia and from what I could tell the crowd was enjoying the show. I was really surprised that WWVA carried the concert as it is a news/talk station. However, when I was growing up in the late 60's and early 70's it was the bastion of country music in the tri-state ....Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Va. jeff b.

Pretty clever John. But was that your h-related title or did you skip a groove?

Huh?

Well, after being away for the last 14 days on our trip from Halfmoon Bay BC to southern California, I am just now beginning to "come down". We were able to take in the 2 America shows at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles on August 5. I'm still pumped up about it as i type this in. First, saw 2 shows in one evening... very cool. Much shorter than their regular shows (only just over an hour) but they sounded great and the crowd was really into it. Heard the 3 songs from HN during the first show but they cut out Pages for the second. Finally got myself a tour t-shirt and cap...thanks to all of you who volunteered to pick one up for me. And... I got to meet Gerry and Dewey and have them sign my copy of HN. I still have this silly grin on my face. My only regret is that I had all of these questions to ask them if I got the chance and of course my mind goes blank... but there is always next time. They were most approachable and friendly being the true professionals they are. I also want to give a huge thank you to the couple who helped me to meet the guys. In the heat of the moment I forgot to ask your names so if you are "members" here please know how much I appreciated your help. America fans are the best!!

And for the added bonus...When I was visiting my brother he produced the laser disc of the concert in Central Park. Since I don't have the technology to play it he made a copy for me.

All in all it was a great trip.

I asked my kids when we got home last night what their favorite part of the trip was. My 5 year old said it was the Pokemon cards his cousin gave him. My 6 year said it was really close between Disneyland and the AMerica concert. " You know, dad, you don't always get the chance to see your favorite group at your very first concert. I think I'll have to go with America." (He was singing the whole way through the concert and wondered if Gerry and Dewey minded)

High praises indeed...

John

Young Moon, that's wonderful news about CK and "A Horse With No Name". Now, if only Chevrolet would see the big opportunity with "Ventura Highway" and their Venture van or Pontiac with their Trans Am. Plus, there's "Sister Golden Hair" with a hair coloring company. "You Can Do Magic" has HUGE opportunities for just about any product or service. It's a gold mine just waiting to be discovered!

Kelly, thanks for sharing that information with us. I may have to add some more tidbits to the Horse With No Name Tribute Page.

Just flipping through "In Style Magazine"...(The Look), and ran across an interesting tidbit...(pg.42)

"Frock 'N' Roll....."The ties between fashion and music have always been tighter than Steven Tyler's jeans. Now the synergy is even stronger"....."Calvin Klien has hired a whole new tour bus of musicians to promote his CK jeans line"...."No doubt he's hoping they make a sweet sound at the cash register"...."Under Classic Rock", none other than "A Horse With No Name" from History: America's Greatest Hits"..this is just a parcial read in the magazine regarding some of the music that's going to be played to promote CK jeans. This song has done wonders for "America" including finding new love.....and know fashion.....what's next for "Horse"?..."Congradulations" Dewey and Gerry !!

I might have missed it but what was the crowds response to America's
appearance at the country music Jamboree In The Hills? Thanks.

HolyGrail- because that's what it is to me (roflmho). Thanks Johnny

Hi everyone! I just had a fun time reading all the posts and catching up with things. I enjoyed the concert photos very much. Thank you to all the contributors. And thanks, Steve!

It's really great to find out how my favorite band in the world continues to make beautiful music and that my fellow fans are as enthusiastic as ever. Why am I talking like this? Because I just emerged from a week of heavy, nonstop rain and flooded streets and flooded whole towns! Gloomy, gloomy, gloomy! And that's why it's geat to be here once again.

As to which one America album I'd play to impress someone, I think I'd make a compilation (just like The Centenary Collection or History, but one which would include the songs from the recent CD's) because I believe that the strength of America is really how they go on making their own good music through the years and through the different trends or influences in the music scene. I'd make that someone hear how the guys' music had grown/matured from their early CD's to Human Nature. But - if I really must choose just one among the existing albums, then I'd go with either Silent Letter or Hearts.

Again, thanks for the photos and concert reviews. Keep them coming!
Oh and - GO LIVE CD!!! Definitely High Time for one.

Wouldn't it be a tremendous thing if there really were that opportunity to name the next CD? It would be too fantastic if Gerry and Dewey let us have a contest among us fans with them choosing the winning title! It's just a thought (hint, hint).

I, personally, like all the titles given so far and the reasons behind their choice. Here's mine. It's a play-on-words. I hope it's not too corny: "Hear and Now". If not that one, maybe: "Hopeful" or "Hopefully".

HORIZON

Ok Johnny, I have an 'H' title for you. How about HARMONIC?

One definition of the word harmonic is "of or relating to musical harmony as distinguished from melody or rhythem." Since Gerry and Dewey harmonize together so well, I think this would be the perfect title for an America album.

Gary H

Well, last week it was my kids who were sick and today it was my turn. But once I felt well enough to sit at the keyboard, I used the recuperation time to scan in some more photos and put them out on the America Fans web site. If you go to the "What's New" section you'll find links to a new Horse With No Name Tribute page, a photo from the Planet Hollywood fan gathering, and a couple of new photos from the Sparks/Reno concerts.

Joyce,
That sounds like a plan. I am pretty sure I will, too, be going to Atlantic City on the 1st & 2nd of October.

Where are you going to be staying? In the City itself ?

Well, we have time to set up arrangements to meet. Until then, stay well.

Maureen.

Oh man, I would have LOVED to hear the beatles cover !! I love that song & imagine they did it well, I wonder what prompted this??? --JOYCE

<<maybe, we can get together>> Maureen That sound's like an excellent ideal!! I have had to postpone the trip to New York for the last 2 weeks of Sept, for personal reasons, BUT However It seems like a better time to go, especially since America will play Jersey oct. 1 st & 2nd !!---:)--I will comtact you & howard before hand & yes let's get together for lunch, I plan on stopping at oxygen to meet Karen as well, Take care & peace my friends.........Love, JOYCE---:)

I submit that the next America CD should be a live CD released next year of the present tour . It should be called "History Plus 25 Years" as History was released in 1975.

Let's say you are given the wonderful opportunity to name the next AMERICA CD. With the "H" theme in mind, what title can you come up with? It can be one word or several just as long as it begins with the letter, "H". I have one in mind but I'll let someone else go first.

Regarding the Beatles song, "Things We Said Today", it reminds me of, "Which came first, the chicken or the egg." As you all may recall, about a month or so ago, we discussed if AMERICA were to cover a song by the Beatles, which would you choose? Like the chicken and the egg, I wonder if Dewey and Gerry decided to cover a Beatles song before or after our discussion? It sure would be interesting to know. Was it pure coincidence? By the way, who sang the lead vocal on "Things We Said Today"? This is a total guess, but for some reason, I can hear it being sung by Gerry. I would love to hear their cover of that great Beatles tune!

Actually, I have to agree with Tom. Quite a few people who aren't familiar with America's work actually seem to take to Perspective faster than other albums, perhaps because it had such a mainstream '80s sound. Some of my friends have gradually moved beyond Perspective to listen to other CDs, while some have never embraced much beyond that album. Go figure.

john

I was reading through the AOL chat folder this morning and came across the following:

Subject: Saw at Coach House, 8/7/99
Date: Sun, 08 August 1999 12:09 PM EDT
From: Tulipsky

Just saw America last night 8/7, at the Coach House, in Orange County California. I was with two friends, one who had seen them back in the 70's. He said they were just as good last night, as when he had seen them back then.

They, of course, did a bunch of their hits and they did some songs off the new CD. They did "Horse With No Name" last. The highlight was when one of the guys son's joined then on stage to play along on guitar. The place was packed - I am sure they sold out... It was definitely a fantastic concert.

Donna
http://www.donnagrayson.com singer/songwriter, upbeat pop/rock, indie CD fall 99

Of course, we all know that "the guys son's" was none other than Gerry's boys Matt and Joey. Way to go guys! Matt, we look forward to hearing what you have to say about it.

Hello to all! My choice would have to be "Human Nature" only because the response I always get is an element of surprise (that it's AMERICA) and that the songs feel like true HITS (ie: Wednesday Morning/ Wheels/ Overwhelming World). The one that may make some folks cringe in disgust (or become surprised) is that whenever I play my "Perspective" CD and the opening track ("We Got All Night") comes on everyone wants to know..."What new song/ singer is that? I like the beat"...etc..The Old American Bandstand Thang...It may surprise you but that tune ALWAYS gets a favorable response. That reminds me of the time the Rate-A-Record was "Only In Your Heart". Needless to say, the kids liked the other tune because it was easier to dance to. I can't believe I just had an American Bandstand Flashback-LOL! Nuff said- Thank God It's finally raining here in Connecticut! We Really need It!!! BuhBye..TeeTee

Cathy, I think the photos look great just the way you have them. Thanks for sharing. I have added a link to them from the America Fans home page. Jim, thanks for letting us know which Beatles song the guys are covering. Now I've got to break out my Beatles CD's and play that song imagining how it would sound to have Gerry and Dewey singing it.

I know I'm in the minority here but my choice would be Silent Letter. When I first bought that ALBUM back in 1979 I played for all my Air Force buddies who cared to listen. Every one that listened to it loved it. Sure am glad it came out on cd so I don't have to listen through the crackles anymore

Sorry about this!
That's the right address.... whatever, I'm still new at this!

The web address I gave doesn't seem quite right,
let me try:
http://laplaza.org/~mei/sanjose.html

Those photos from Paul Rentz are amazing!!!
I put some shots of the San Jose, CA, concert up at:
http://laplaza.org/~mei/sanjose.html

Steve, feel free to swipe and redo them better!

Ok it's Things We Said Today. Perhaps Shari can post after the San Juan 2 show bill. In fact the Professor is the opening act for the 2nd show, should be fun.

Jim,

Which Beatles song did America cover? I find that an exciting development, since outside of "California Dreamin'", America hasn't covered other artists' hits since their early days.

john

Hello all,I would hand out Human Nature as this is their latest,and not to mention a truly splendid recording, sublime playing with a string of top notch tunes on it.Secondly the other choice would have to be Capitols America in concert,here is living proof of just what a magnificent live act these guys are, blending older material with newer tunes a sensational album in every context.How about Oxygen releasing their first live recording in 78 or something.By the way does anyone know how sales for Human Nature are progressing? And when will our boys get the nod for a brand new recording to keep the momentum going.

A brief report:
AMERICA did another stunning show. In front of a sold out crowd at Humphrey's which is an outdoor venue, situated next to the boat harbor in San Diego, quite scenic. If you can just imagine this crowd, in excess of 1,200 (not counting all the boaters who tread water & watch) screaming fans along the harbor water, under moonlight w/all eyes on AMERICA. AMERICA did 4, yes count em' 4 songs from their new CD, HUMAN NATURE. WEDNESDAY MORNING, PAGES, WHEELS ARE TURNING & FROM A MOVING TRAIN. The crowd wanted more HUMAN NATURE, but there were other songs to get to. In addition they did THREE ROSES, MIRROR TO MIRROR & ANOTHER TRY besides the other hits. I think everytime DEWEY sings THREE ROSES, another Rose blooms, somewhere on earth. And by the way they performed a Beatles song also. Heck there were 3 BECKLEY's on stage for HORSE W/NO NAME. I am hoping that someone else will post their thoughts on this. Oh Matt ....
Until later, signing off. San Diego loves AMERICA !

Oops! I just found your description of each song under the list of the tracks.

John, I thought I'd ask this question about "Honored, Volume 2" on the folder here in case others are also wondering the same. I see that "Sister Golden Hair" performed by AMERICA is on the CD. Would you please tell us what is different about it?

Chalk up another depraved sicko here for the King Biscuit CD.

john

which - Hourglass

why - great display of fine talent

Michelle

Hey You People,

Anybody that goes out and drops another 15 bucks on the KB "America In Concert" CD just because the packaging has slightly changed is immature, financially irresponsible, obsessive, fanatical, and probably has deep-rooted emotional problems. Just my opinion.

Peace
Joe B

P.S. I'll be purchasing mine first opportunity I get.

Test

Johnny, tough question! I have always thought od "Homecoming" as a near perfect album, great music,not a dog in the bunch! But I think you are right, of the post-Peek era, Hourglass is superb. Can I give them both?

To answer my own question, it's definitely a tough choice, but I'd select "Hourglass". I think my friend or co-worker would be as impressed as I am with the beautiful sounds of Garden of Peace, Hope, and Young Moon. Plus, there's the great rockin' songs, Greenhouse and Everyone I Meet Is From California. With Call of The Wild and Mirror To Mirror, it's the perfect balance. With "Hourglass", I think I could recruit new AMERICA fans. I just wish I had a stack of "Hourglass" CDs to hand out.

The bad news is that all of my kids and grandkids were sick with the flu yesterday and I had to stay home from work to help take care of them. The good news is that it finally gave me some free time to go through the large pile of America goodies that were on my desk. Here's what I was able to put out on the America Fans web site yesterday:

1. An update to John Corbett's comprehensive history. He has added information to take us up through 1999 and has made numerous additions and refinements.

2. Concert photos from Duluth (thanks Eddy), Germany (thanks Andreas), Corvallis (thanks Paul), and a photo of the flier announcing the Orem (my home town) concert.

3. A fan biography for Suzanne Floth of Tustin, California.

4. New liner notes for John Corbett's Honored Volume 2 compilation. It's fun to read about the America songs that other bands have covered which John has compiled on this 2 volume set.

5. Johnny Yee sent me some photos of the "From A Moving Train" promotional CD and the new CD cover from King Biscuit's America In Concert CD.

6. And finally, I received several updates and venues to the America concert schedule. The guys will be playing at the Aztar Casino in Evansville, IN on September 18 and they've added a road trip to Brazil and Uruguay November 14-20. How do they keep it up??

I'm glad to report that my kids are on the mend this morning and I'm back at work. I hope you (and we) all have a great weekend.

I would give your friend Human Nature first, then after that I would give him the best of America.

Johnny:

I've actually done that a bunch of times, giving a different CD to different people who've asked about America to listen to. The one that seems to resonate most with people is Alibi.

KevinS.

It would be a hard choice between Hourglass or Human Nature, (depending on who the person is also)
I guess I would pick Human Nature, because it has alittle of everything on it. The more I listen to this CD, the more I love it, it's become one of my alltime faves!

Here's a hypothetical situation: Let's say a friend or co-worker who doesn't know AMERICA's music, asks you to borrow a cassette or CD of The Guys as a DUO to heard what they're all about. Which release would you select for them to listen to and why? You get to select only one. With this one selection, you're trying to really impress them with Dewey and Gerry's talent.

Ken, according to the concert list that I got from Morey Management, the Itchycoo Park concert begins at 11 am on August 15. However, things like that are always subject to change so I'd check with the people at the park to make sure. I've been perusing their web site and it doesn't give any information on concert times but it does list a phone number you could try calling (1-877-482-4989). I guess I would recommend that you arrive when they open that morning so you'll be sure and be there for the concert. We look forward to hearing about it from you.

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT TIME AMERICA PLAYS IN MANCH. TN?
I PLAN TO BE THERE. THE LAST (AND ONLY) TIME I SAW THEM WAS IN 1975. THE LIGHTS WENT OUT, "MINATURE" SOUNDTRAC PLAYED, LIGHTS CAME ON AND THEY NAILED US WITH "TIN MAN".
THANKS KMAR

Thanks for the Info Steve, As usual, you are a veritable font of information :) As it stands now, I have a snowball's chance of ever seeing that site. Anyone lucky enough better post detailed descriptions!

The new VIP page on VenturaHighway.com is a test production that should be really cool. 300 passes are being made as a test run and will be handed out at San Diego and San Juan Capistrano the next 2 nights. The VIP area will contain interviews, photos and a crew's eye view of getting ready for an America Show. It had to go live today to be tested in time for tomorrow. The passes DO NOT allow access to a real backstage. It is a VIP Virtual Internet Pass and gains access to the VIP area of the web site - which will grow over time.

As soon as Gerry and Dewey see the reaction and decide if they want to continue with the program, then sponsors will be sought and enough passes will be made to accommodate each gig.

With just 300 passes being issued, they might be worth something on e-bay, etc., although each pass is unique and only let's the original registered person use it - i.e. it's not transferable other than physically.

If any of you happen to get one of these passes, you'll have to let the rest of us know what's on the new VIP site.

--Steve

As I picked up my sons and was driving them home last evening, one of my (many) America mix tapes was playing in the car. My 8-yr old, Jordan, immediately began singing along to Wheels. Of course, I was singing along myself, and with the sound up fairly well I couldn't quite hear Jordan. (Unintentional, of course!) Jordan then was saying something to his brother, and then said, "Oh, shoot, I missed that part" (of the song) He said, "They don't sing that part again, do they?" I said, "nope, it's too close to the end" and my eldest son Justin says, "What part?" And Jordan then recites the lyrics by heart!! "Barking in the canyon, waking up the night, black crow with an indigo glow on the highway." I freaked!! I knew he was singing along, but the fact that he had the words dead on just amazed me! So, I'm doing something right with my kids! Jordan also made the comment, "I love this tape" :-> Yea!!
Stay tuned -
Beth

What is the VIP thing ( gee, I am so articulate this morning!). I take it that the area is in the process of being set up, as you can't click on anything that I can find ( maybe it's just my 'puter?)

Steve, thanks for all the work you've been doing. Is the king biscuit address more reliable than the nanocorp?

You're welcome, Cathy. No, King Biscuit isn't any more reliable than Nanocorp. They both run on computers and we all know that computers can have problems any time they want to.

FYI: The King Biscuit server is where the America Fans web site resides and the space is made available courtesy of Oxygen/King Biscuit. The Nanocorp server is where the Chat Folder resides and it is made available courtesy of Nanosoft Corporation (that's where my dad works). I'm grateful to both Oxygen and Nanosoft for making these available to us free of charge.

I just noticed that, too. Hope maybe if we have signed up to "join the list" we'll get the access code or something (=:

btw, Steve, thanks for all the work you've been doing. Is the king biscuit address more reliable than the nanocorp?

Political Poachers, Playing GOD
Tin Man, Only in Your Heart
Give it to me Live and give it to me Loud!!!!!

Hey, Anyone know what that VIP pass thing is about on the Ventura Highway website??? Looks interesting!

I need you Sister golden hair,,, High in the city All night

Sorry everyone that Concert is September 2, 1999 at the Hampton coliseum.

I just wanted to let everyone know that I am moving forward trying to get America into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I have contacted a few radio stations to see if they can help in any way. I have talked to various people, some from the Hall of Fame. A big pattern that I have noticed is that most people under thirty don't know much about America, but they recognize the song " You Can Do Magic" immediatly.

By the way if anyone is interested in seeing the America concert in Hampton, Virginia on September 3rd, the number to call is 703-212-9760. They can get you the vouchers that you need to redeem for tickets. The cost is $15.

Robert Burgess

If only poeple would tell you about gigs BEFORE they happen ( hey, I used to work for a band that was SO BAD at this, I would need to pick up the LA WEEKLY to find out where I was supposed to bring the equipment--and I had all their sound gear!)

Really wish I could've seen Switchfoot. I bet they're great live.

Erin :o)

First things first. The Old 97s will be on David Letterman tonight. Don't miss them. They're from Dallas, they have a great new single working its way up the charts and they're one of the few remaining hopes rock has left before rap and techno and teen-pop divas like Ricky Martin and Brandi and Brittany Spears totally take over. If you haven't bought the Old 97s new CD "Fight Songs" yet, then you are missing out on some of the best pop in a long time.

Now, onto something more important.

In the Dallas paper this weekend they had an article I thought might be of some interest to America fans. It talked about the resurgence of oldies acts on the radio and in concert.

"In Dallas, classic rock stations regularly trounce most new-music staions in the ratings. Nostalgic acts from Motley Crue to Earth Wind and Fire make up the lion's share of Starplex's (Dallas's outdoor concert venue) bookings each summer; of the next 10 shows slated for the amphitheater, seven boast headliners who haven't grazed the Top 40 in years.

"Nostalgia is also fueling scores of TV ads, as companies shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars to use such songs as the Who's 'Won't Get Fooled Again' that tap into baby boomer memory banks.

"Yet while listeners love to take sentimental journeys back, many musicians look at 'nostaliga' as the ultimate dirty word--especially ones who haven't produced any hits in recent years.

"'Nostalgia connotes an oldies-but-goodies type things...and I guarantee you'll never see Chicago on one of those nostalgia tours,' says Walter Parazaider, co-founder of the rock group Chicago. 'We've always been an act that wants to grow and be viable and continue to be creatively in touch.'

"Yet other artists readily admit their fans would rather bask in the glow of nostalgia than listen to their new songs that don't trigger any memories."

Anyway, thought this article brought up some interesting points and cetainly touches on a lot of the same situations America and its fans are going through right now. Radio programmers don't want to hear new stuff from oldies acts, their stations are more commercially vialble playing 25-year old songs.

KevinS.

Old 97s tonight on Letterman. Check local listings for the times in your area.

Freudian slip, Beth. Very funny!

Beth, that was one mighty Freudian slip there! (LOL) Robyn's got me started, too. Here's another pairing. Well actually, it's more than just a pair:

My Dear/Honey/Can't You See/I Need You/Here/Moment To Moment/And Forever?

Hi Matt,
Long time no chat. Hope all is well with you. I wish I could go this
weekend, too. Too long of a drive from Long Island !! I will be in Las Vegas from Aug 17-24, if the guys were in San Diego then, I would surely go. Maybe next time. Maureen.

Hi Joyce,
I live on Long Island, but I work in Manhattan. When you come to NYC where are you staying. Maybe we can get together you, myself and Howard. He works in NYc, too. Take Care. Maureen.

Should be at both the Humphrey's and Coach House shows. always fun to bring the friends.

anyone else see switchfoot play at hortonplaza on Thursay? (great show) and the Owsley cd is pretty neat. as is the new Chemical Brothers track. and yes the Blair Witch project gave me the creeps (and motion sickness)

take care all.

mB

Or maybe not? Meant to say "couplet deuce" not copulet! ? !
-b

Old Man Took / Daisy Jane / Down to the Water / = Woman Tonite
....okay, I know I'm too weird! sorry, Robyn, see what you started!
Beth

Well, since I have purchased a number of cd's via the web page, My fellow comuters on the subway and the Metrolink have not been able to talk to me. I have my portable cd player on MAX. Takes the stress right out of my body! I was dancing on the elevator today- I believe a little crazy behavior will keep you sane!

Shari--wish I were going to the Coach House. Schedules do not permit. :( Look forward to your review, and maybe some pictures?

Billy - Mid-life or not, who cares? I know what you mean because I do the same thing all the time in my Camaro Z-28 convertible. And in sunny southern California, my top is down almost all the time!
I'll ask again - who else will be at San Juan Cap. at the Coach House on Saturday night? Jim? Leakycanoe? Matt? Email me directly, if you wish. SOMEBODY I "know" must be gonna be there!

Joanne, it's funny you would say that because the server that had the problem really does reside in Houston.

Dan, you weren't dreaming - Brad took vocals on Woman Tonite when I saw them this past Feb '99, also. Great job! (Too bad the sound-man didn't catch it from the top...)

Robyn, I've been thinking of song pairings all day. The strangest one keeps going thru my head: My Kinda Woman / Half A Man
I know, I'm strange! Also, Are You There / Seargent Darkness
Okay, if I think up some more, I'll let you know.
Stay tuned,
Beth

Dear All,

Glad to see all is well on Our chat folder-I missed it.Thanks Steve !!
Take care, Joanne

I believe Dewey answers that question on the venturahighway.com web page in the F.A.A.Q section. You can get there through a link at the bottom of this page.

I've been in heaven since Saturday when I found Perspective and Silent Letter CDs at Tower Record. Of course I have the albums, but since I haven't had a needle for my stereo in years, I had forgotten how wonderful those songs were!!!! So I'm driving my 98 Trans Am with the T-tops off and blasting America all over the Washington DC area! That , my friends, is heaven!!!!!!! Or a mid-life crisis!!

Okay, I have read the comprehesive history. I am aware that the band continued to name the albums with an "H" word, as a running joke. What I want to know is how it began. After Homecoming and then Hat Trick, that could be even chalked up to coincedence, however, with Holiday it was intentional, to what was the deal, why H?

Hello!
I'm Francesco Lucarelli from Roma, Italy and I'm currently working on an
authorized book about Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

The book will also feature a section dedicated to all the concerts and benefits they played, so I would like to know if you have any archive which could be of help to find informations about gigs you played sharing the bill with Stephen Stills (I remember you toured together in 1986) or with any combination of CSN.

Also if you have any memory or anecdote to share about touring with Stills in 1986, that would be great.

Any help and information would be MUCH appreciated.

Please, reply to: lucarelli.f@flashnet.it

Thanks,
Francesco Lucarelli

Paul Rentz from Corvallis, Oregon has placed some excellent photos from the 1998 Corvallis concert on the Internet. They'll remain there for about 15 more days and then I hope to have them on the America Fans web site. The URL for the photos is: http://www.MyPhotosNow.com/i.asp?H=rl.asp&L=121&R=23056&P=55656&N=EN. Thanks Paul.

was i just dreaming or do i remember the band doing Woman Tonight with Brad on vocals the last time i seen them back in 90?

Dan,
It doesn't matter what they play, you won't be disappointed!!!!!
Erin - If I was able to see them 4 nights, I think my America hangover would last for about 3 weeks.
GIVE IT TO ME LIVE AND GIVE IT TO ME LOUD!!!!!!!

Joyce,
If you see any broadway shows, I highly recommend Titanic, and Phantom of the Opera. Both are wonderful. Have fun!

Erin :o)

Wow, Jim...I couldn't have said it better. Saw my last show Sunday night, and it ROCKED. I will never, ever get tired of hearing Wednesday Morning, Wheels and Pages live. They sound amazing. The crowd seemed to really get into the show every night I was there, which is a little unusual for a casino audience. (In my opinion, anyway) I'm not too good at writing reviews, so I just want to say thanks guys, for coming back to the Nugget. I wish I could have seen more shows (4 just isn't enough, especially when you live 5 minutes away!) I hope to see you back next year! Good luck on the rest of your tour, and I hope you all get some time to relax. You guys are the BEST!!

Erin :o)

are we going to here any old standards such as old man took or here when we see them on aug. 12 or 13? would love to hear someold chestnuts also. haven't seen them since 90 or so when they were touring for the encore album. thanx

Hello my friends, well I am VERY happy to report that after just a few short weeks home from Colorado, I am now jetting off to my very 1st trip to New York City! I will be their for 3 weeks. I am open to any & all suggestions on where to go/What to see while I am their. please feel free to suggest anything , as I am a firm beliver in trying anything once! I will give a full report. I sure wish the guy's were going to be their. & let me also say I am happy to see the chat board up & running again, I missed reading the posts. Love, JOYCE

Hello All - Just wanted to report all is well & busy here! Haven't been seen or heard from in awhile, so thought I'd check in in case anyone missed me - ? - :->

Have been busy picking rocks & mowing lawn at our new home! A strange phenomenon is overcoming me whenever I pick rocks - the tune "Fish Song" from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band goes thru my mind. Unbidden. But no matter what, there it is, and I am not at rest until I come in and turn it on the stereo. What is wrong with me?!! Why is it just that song? And why only when I'm out picking rocks? Can anyone else relate anything close to that?

Nice to be seen again - Take care & Stay tuned
Beth

AMERICA is near completion of a very successful 14 show engagement at the very fine Nugget hotel & casino. This hotel has accommodations for all ages, so plan on seeing AMERICA there if you can. A lot was accomplished including Willie's marriage. HUMAN NATURE songs were featured 3 times per show. DEWEY poured his all into WHEELS ARE TURNING & PAGES, 2 very difficult songs to do live. Cheers to DEWEY for such a great effort. GERRY's very melodic WEDNESDAY MORNING went over very well & his 12 string acoustic guitar sounded fabulous. AMERICA is looking forward to hitting the road again for some midwest & east coast shows as well as some more overseas work. We look forward to the domestic release of GERRY's enhanced VAN GO GAN as well as the release of the BECKLEY/Lamm/Wilson CD, which was 5 years in the making. Both of these are definite must haves. The lifetime tour continues.
Erin, anything to add ? By the way Erin smiled throughout the many shows she saw.

Paul Rentz from Corvallis, Oregon has posted some photos from the 1998 concert in Corvallis. They are temporarily at http://www.MyPhotosNow.com/i.asp?H=rl.asp&L=121&R=23056&P=55656&N=EN where you can view them or download them for the next 15 days. After that I hope to have them moved to the America Fans web site. Thanks Paul.

Steve, you should NEVER let the computer know you are leaving town again. When the cat's away the "mice" will play. (ROFLMHO)

Glad it's operational again.

Yes Robyn, it does work now. Thanks to Nanosoft Corporation (who graciously hosts this chat folder) for fixing this problem so quickly after it was brought to their attention. Everyone should be able to post to their hearts content. Let me know if you run into any problems.

--Steve

test

does this work?

Sorry everyone, but something happened to the Nanocorp server while I was having fun camping and hiking with my 8 year old son. Yes, we did get to see the famous Horse With No Name driving the old car and I'll have pictures of it for everyone later. Meanwhile, the guys at Nanocorp are working on solving the problem with the server. It appears that they've made it so we can view the old posts but we still can't create any new posts (unless you cheat like I did and use a special user name and password that they provided). I'll post something here as soon as it's fixed and I'll also send a message around to everyone that is registered.

Sorry for the inconvenience and thanks for your patience and understanding.

[July] [September]
Last Revised: 2 September 1999