Many moons ago I saw a “perfect” woman take the stage of FILLMORE EAST, something I was not expecting. At that moment I was a bit disappointed as a major shift of personnel for the band I wished to hear had drastically changed. A few weeks prior to this engagement I had purchased tickets to see (Peter Green’s) FLEETWOOD MAC and up until the days prior to that night I was wholly anticipating seeing one of my favorite guitarists and “his” band once again. Then, well…he disappears. On my turntable at the time was the album “Fleetwood Mac” aka “The Garbage Can Cover”. Back on November 22,1969 I experienced JOE COCKER with THE GREASE BAND, FLEETWOOD MAC (with Peter Green) and an opening act of KING CRIMSON at Fillmore East in New York City. This billing was a memorable one as CRIMSON blew the house down in the opening 35 minutes. Then, FLEETWOOD MAC topped it with its one hour plus set. While COCKER had the head bill he carried a severe liability. After FLEETWOOD MAC left the stage THE GREASE BAND was musically no match for either act. I was in awe of CRIMSON and MAC. I had to see FLEETWOOD MAC again.‘Black Magic Woman’, ‘Albatross‘, ‘Man of the World’, ‘Oh Well’ and ‘The Green Manalishi’ all rang in my head in great anticipation. But unbeknownst to me PETER GREEN left the band May 1970.
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: August 29,1970: SAVOY BROWN/ FLEETWOOD MAC/ FAIRPORT CONVENTION@FILLMORE EAST. Back to Fillmore East for what would be one of my favorite shows for the summer of 70. This one featured Savoy Brown, Fleetwood Mac, and Fairport Convention all British acts sharing the bill. Fairport once had Sandy Denny who was not in the band any longer but still had Richard Thompson on guitar/vocals. Fleetwood Mac was missing Peter Green (the main attraction guitar/vocals)which was a huge disappointment to me but this newer FLEETWOOD MAC now had Christine Perfect (John McVie’s wife) on board full time (keyboards and vocals) and they did some KILN HOUSE stuff which rocked. Savoy Brown was Kim Simmonds but Chris Youlden (vocals) was no longer a member. Lonesome Dave did the voice and shades of FOGHAT were born.
This new version of FLEETWOOD MAC, one of many more versions to come, had this new piano player, a singer who offered different styles of songs and rearrangements of older material AND she was a “looker” as was said at the time. As much as I was disappointed in not seeing PETER GREEN there was something about this new beginning to FLEETWOOD MAC that excited me.
CHRISTINE PERFECT McVIE became a permanent member of the band. The BOB WELCH version was up next with “Future Games” and then “Bare Trees” both lps moving THE MAC further from their original blues based origin but closer to what the band would become. Then,“Penguin” the band added BOB WESTON (slide guitar) and (IMO horrendous) vocalist DAVE WALKER (from Savoy Brown #7). The “Mystery To Me” era, WALKER is fired so vocal duties are split between WELCH and CHRISTINE. Its release has the band back on heavy radio rotation. However, the drama known as FLEETWOOD MAC rears its ugly head again as MICK FLEETWOOD finds out that his beautiful wife JENNY BOYD (George Harrison’s sister in law) is having an affair with BOB WESTON, BOB is ultimately fired and the band cuts the tour short moving back to England.There, as a four piece they record “Heroes Are Hard To Find”, a beautiful collection of tunes sung perfectly by WELCH and CHRISTINE.
Unfortunately, meanwhile back in the States…CLIFFORD DAVIS longtime manager of said FLEETWOOD MAC going back to their blues days (1967 in England) was upset with the band for cancelling the tour midway through. He decides to have FLEETWOOD MAC book a new tour of the U.S., a tour without any members of FLEETWOOD MAC participating. Unbeknown to the concert going public, we buy tickets.
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: January 26,1974, Academy of Music- FLEETWOOD MAC/KISS/SILVERHEAD. I’m there for FLEETWOOD MAC. SILVERHEAD, well I had no idea who they were, still don’t. KISS was on a return performance from their debut at the same venue on New Years Eve. That night their set was cut short as Gene Simmons set his hair on fire.This night, KISS set the entire venue of 3000 on fire, not literally. A great show with lights, fire breathing, fully costumed performers and ear drum shattering loudness. Then, FLEETWOOD MAC appears. I notice MICK FLEETWOOD is not on the kit, No John McVie, No Christine…strange looks all around the crowd, “Who are these guys?”, guys playing instrumentals and no noticeable MAC tunes. Boos start, getting louder by the moment. An announcement is made that refund vouchers are available at the box office, to which I took my two. This was a bogus FLEETWOOD MAC, a band put together by the alleged owner (a past manager) of the “brand name” FLEETWOOD MAC. This “band” hit the road while the true members were sorting out problems with alcohol, drugs, relationships, etc. Immediately after this, the true band members grab the reins, moves to The States (were the touring money was), BOB WELCH leaves and FLEETWOOD MAC hire Buckingham and Nicks, the rest is history, or…
The 10th album, recorded by the 10th lineup of the band in 8 years time, 1975’s FLEETWOOD MAC took one full year to finally run up to the top of the charts. February of 1977 “Rumours” is released, a true “pop” album. No shades of the original band of 67 existed any longer. However, CHRISTINE as a vocalists continues to shine. The album explodes, Number 1 for weeks/months at a time.
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: June 30, 1977- FLEETWOOD MAC @ Madison Square Garden. In my collection of memorabilia I saved John Rockwell’s NYTimes review of FLEETWOOD MAC’S “Rumours Tour” stop at Madison Square Garden, for what reason I don’t know. The show was great for its time but I longed for Peter Green’s FLEETWOOD MAC. This band was so much different. Overall I thought the show was pretty good.
(partial from Rockwell) FLEETWOOD MAC’s debut Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden—the first of two performances there—was a confirmation of its newly won status as this country’s most popular and best poprock band—except for, maybe the Eagles. And by and large it was a superior show to the group’s outing earlier this year at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, L.I. With one crucial exception.That exception was Stevie Nicks. Miss Nicks, along with Lindsey Buckingham, gave the three British veterans in the band the spark that lifted Fleetwood Mac into its current status. Miss Nicks composes wonderfully sinuous, mystically compelling songs, she is about as alluring a performer as rock can offer and, at her best, she sings with a huskily seductive individuality.
But she had two problems Wednesday. The first and less important had to do with her onstage manner. Always a languorous wanderer as a performer, she pushed her lackadaisical loopiness too far. She managed to come in on cue and to remember her words, but at her worst she looked like a glamorous female equivalent of Joe Cocker, and in general her slack meanderings were more a cause for concern than for fascination.
Far more serious was the state of her voice. Miss Nicks has nodes on her vocal chords, and her condition has worsened appreciably since the Nassau date only three months ago. The band canceled its sold‐out Syracuse concert Tuesday because of her throat, but it didn’t seem to help much.
It was at this point in time that I gave up all hope that FLEETWOOD MAC would be the MAC I remembered, this was a very different ensemble. My taste did not lean toward a twirling, spinning woman dressed in black. I preferred the blonde playing piano and singing off to the side. RIP, CHRISTINE McVIE.
(5)June 15, 1972: Led Zeppelin @ Nassau Coliseum was advertised as a 3 1/2 hour show and as I was still shaking from the MSG fiasco (9/3/71) less than a year ago so I had NO intentions of going to this venue to see Led Zeppelin especially in this new arena which made headlines by have the Nassau PD bust scores of concert goers in the parking lot for drinking (tailgating) and smoking before a GRATEFUL DEAD show only a few weeks before. BUT at the Todd Rundgren show only a few days before, my girlfriend found two tickets for LZ next to the gear box in my VW. Strange as it sounds she did not place the tickets there and to this day I still never found who or why, but we went to the show, with me looking over my shoulder the whole time. (Great review by Robert Christgau in NEWSDAY- see LZ website for setlist and review of this 2 night stand.)
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: March Madness with THE ALLMAN BROTHERS FAMILY and FRIENDS
A complete book could be written about my musical fascination with one band that became my obsession, THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND. It started in March of 71 when I saw them live for the very first time. I was speechless. They were that good and then some. Over the years I have been to hundreds of concerts seeing various bands of all genres, 50 plus shows (to date) have been ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND related. Not just the ABB per-say but ABB extended family and friends. I have numbered the show (I’m sure I missed one or several) and with the help of my handwritten notes, SETLIST.COM, some newspaper clipping I saved, and my trusty mayonnaise jar(s) filled with “tickets torn in half” I offer the following.
(Shows #1 and # 2)March 13,1971
My intro to the Allman Brothers was having their first album, sitting in the “A” pile of my record collection. I listened to it maybe twice by this time.Then, my college radio buddy was paying back a favor whereby I gave up my first row ticket for a Leon Russell show at The Capitol so that he could take a girl. He felt he owed me something in return so he invited me to join him to see Johnny Winter at Fillmore East. Our show was the 11:30 set. Dinner was planned for 7PM. By 8:45PM “my buddy” was a no show, and I was freezing just standing around in the cold waiting. Magically, some guy walks up to me handing me a free ticket for the 8PM show. Not knowing whether my buddy would ever show up I thanked the guy for the freebie, finished my cigarette and entered the sacred hall. ELVIN BISHOP was already “Partying Til The Cows Come Home” as I found my upper balcony seat. At the short intermission I grabbed a cup of coffee and a cigarette in the lobby then I sat down to hear the introduction that changed everything: “THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND”. In moments my eyes were wide, and a smile from ear to ear appeared across my face. Never before had I seen or heard anything like this band. Yes, I saw Fleetwood Mac with two guitarists exchanging leads, two drummers in THE DEAD, a bass player who had a bottom sound, yet here was a Hammond B-3 player who when he sang was angelic, Ray Charles like. After their set the crowd was roaring for “MORE, MORE”. One long encore, and it was over. After an equipment change the crowd was still buzzing about The ALLMANS. JOHNNY WINTER AND (THE McCOYS) took the stage but all I could think about was THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND.
The early show crowd was let out and I could still hear the raves outside about The Allman Brothers. Forget Johnny Winter, as I was excited at a chance to see The Allman Brothers Band again that night.I met my buddy with the ticket and told him of the band’s sound and the amazing guitar workings. After grabbing something to eat we headed back to the hall at about midnight. Elvin Bishop was tearing it up, had the crowd in his favor when we were met with the houselights rising and being instructed that we needed to evacuate the hall in a peaceful manner. Seems a bomb threat had been called in. As it was freezing outside we were promised we would be let back in as soon as it was possible. It seemed like an eternity outside but finally, back in, freezing, the house light dim and “Ladies and gentleman, Johnny Winter And”…. what? What about The Allmans??? I thought, geez. Johnny did a short 35 minute set, and as he exited the stage manager stated “The Allman BROTHERS BAND” would be up next. Thank goodness.
When The Allmans hit the stage an announcement was made that the band would be recording live. They played for hours, hours, yet it was not nearly long enough for me. The sun was rising as we headed for the door. It was an amazing set, as can be witnessed on the album, LIVE AT FILLMORE EAST. Note: a few guys I know went to the next night (Sunday) gig at Suffolk Community College.
(3) APRIL 27,1971:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND @ THE ACTION HOUSE, (aka Rock Pile) Island Park,NY A week night no less but to see the Allman Brothers Band at THE ACTION HOUSE, a small club would be a joy. A very late night, indeed, but worth it and not too crowded.(5 bucks)
(4) MAY 2,1971: ALLMAN BROTHERS @ Hofstra University. It was a Sunday night performance so school on Monday morn would be a drag and (Accounting 2 and Business Law) finals are beginning NOW.
(5) June 25,1971: THE FILLMORE EAST closes with the longest and best set (to date) given by the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND/ J. Geils Band and Albert King
END OF AN ERA:
The Fillmore East was closing it’s doors for good on Sunday, June 27, audience by invitation only. I felt I needed to be there on Saturday, June 26 for the late show. A few weeks prior to this date, I was speaking with a young lady who worked the box office. Somehow, we two had become friendly over the last few months. She got me a ticket for Saturday, in the middle section of the front balcony. Cool.
JUNE 25: ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND, J. GEILS BAND, and ALBERT KING at Fillmore East, called “the ALLMAN BROTHERS show to end all shows”. In the hall after midnight, we saw the most incredible set by Albert King, followed by The J. Geils Band. Then, The ALLMAN BROTHERS took the stage, introduced so eloquently by Bill Graham, and the band played what is rumored to be their finest set ever. The sun was up, 7AM, as we headed toward the subway on Second Avenue.
July 7, 1971: The release of AT FILLMORE EAST
(6) July 21,1971: ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND/ COWBOY @ shows at Central Park were an experience. In the park the sun was shining brightly as the ABB hits the stage and they finished hours later in the calm of an early evening. Duane was in his element. I took photos galore. With two shows that night,we had the early one. STATESBORO TROUBLE NO MORE DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING DONE SOMEBODY WRONG ONE WAY OUT MIDNIGHT RIDER IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED YOU DON’T LOVE ME REVIVAL
(7)August 15,1971: ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND show moved to Academy Of Music from Manhattan Center. This was a Sunday night spectacular with Dr. John opening. The ABB were becoming HUGE at this very moment due to the release of the FILLMORE EAST album. It was amazing to see this band and the effect their music had on the crowd. It was like a brotherhood.
Statesboro
Trouble No More
Don’t Keep Me Wondering
Done Somebody Wrong
One Way Out
In Memory of Eliz Reed
Blue Sky (debut for me)
Midnight Rider
Hot ‘Lanta
Soul Serenade ( In Memory of King Curtis)
You Don’t Love Me
Revival
A few nights later (August 26th,1971) WPLJ-FM did a live from the A&R Recording Studio radio broadcast of the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND. I taped it.
STATESBORO
TROUBLE NO MORE
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERIN
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
ONE WAY OUT
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
STORMY MONDAY
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
(SOUL SERANADE INTERLUDE)
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
HOT ‘LANTA
BAND INTROS
I wore my tape out listening to it over and over again, and again. It was so great.
OCTOBER 1971:Suddenly very wealthy and very successful some of the band and crew took a break to rehab from a heroin addiction. Duane, Berry, and roadies Robert Payne and Red Dog Campbell checked into LINWOOD-BRYANT HOSPITAL.
OCTOBER 29, 1971: DUANE ALLMAN DIES in a motorcycle accident. The album EAT A PEACH is incomplete.
FEBRUARY 12, 1972: EAT A PEACH is released and becomes an instant success.
(8) July 13, 1972: The ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND @ Gaelic Park, BRONX, NY /Captain Beyond opened. This was a strange show DUANE was gone and you could feel the loss in the music.I had to meander through the crowd having gotten there late due to the horrendous traffic in the Bronx and when I finally got entrance I couldn’t find my group of friends. Show ended early due to local curfew, in The Bronx?
STATESBORO
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE (debut for me)
ONE WAY OUT
STORMY MONDAY
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
WHIPPING POST
MOUNTAIN JAM (W/ GARCIA and WEIR)
Strange on this night listening to Gregg cry out during AIN’T WASTING TIME (first time I heard it) as it pertains to death, not only of the author GREGG ALLMAN’S brother’s death (Duane) but also about soldiers returning from VIETNAM.
NOVEMBER 11, 1972 The Death of Berry Oakley. On November 11th, Berry Oakley was taking a ride on his ’67 Triumph motorcycle along with friend Kim Payne, when he crashed into a bus on Inverness Avenue, only three blocks from Duane Allman’s fatal crash site a year earlier.
(9) May 1, 1973: ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND/ MARSHALL TUCKER BAND @ Nassau Coliseum I had to go, I was curious. The ABB opened with “Wasted Words”.Duane’s gone and so is Berry. Lamar Williams (bass) and Chuck Levell (piano)join the ranks,these are RAMBLIN’ MAN days as DICKEY BETTS takes over. The addition of Chuck is a stroke of genius. He mesmerizes the crowd. Years later I bought the cd recorded this very evening.
WASTED WORDS
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
STATESBORO
ONE WAY OUT
STORMY MONDAY
MIDNIGHT RIDER
JESSICA
COME AND GO BLUES
RAMBLIN MAN
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
TROUBLE NO MORE
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
LES BRES IN A MINOR
WHIPPING POST
MOUNTAIN JAM
(10) July 21, 1973 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND @ MSG The ABB even after the death of Duane and Berry were becoming a huge attraction on the circuit. This two night stand at MSG followed two sell outs with the Grateful Dead at RFK stadium , 80,000 seats each night.
WASTED WORDS
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
SOUTHBOUND- (CHUCK LEVELL IS AMAZING)
STORMY MONDAY
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
COME AND GO BLUES
TROUBLE NO MORE
RAMBLIN’ MAN
STATESBORO
ONE WAY OUT
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
LES BRES IN A MINOR
WHIPPING POST
MOUNTAIN JAM
(11)July 14,1974 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND/ GRINDERSWITCH @ Nassau COLISEUM- In my opinion not really a good time musically for the ABB but they are huge and the crowd roars acknowledging each song which was a total misrepresentation of what was being played up on the stage. The music to me was disjointed to say the least. I was heart-broken. (except for Chuck during JESSICA). My note: It will be awhile before I see them again, if I ever do.
WASTED WORDS
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
ONE WAY OUT
STORMY MONDAY
MIDNIGHT RIDER
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
STATESBORO
BLUE SKY
COME AND GO BLUES
TROUBLE NO MORE
JESSICA
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
LES BRES IN A MINOR
RAMBLIN’ MAN
WHIPPING POST
1989: DREAMS: The Box Set is released.
(12) March 18, 1992: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND @ BEACON THEATRE . Its has been quite some time (18 years) since I witnessed an ABB show. Not due to something with me but rather them as a band. They broke up a few times due to drugs, ego, etc, etc,and at some point I lost interest in their shenanigans, but I still loved their music. I was offered a ticket to celebrate my 40th birthday from one of my former students who thought it would be a blast to take me and 8 others to see this monster of a band I raved about for years. So with a free ticket, a seat in the upper balcony left side of stage, safely placed in my pocket the question is: why not venture out the night AFTER St. Patrick’s Day to see if the band (and me) still got it. Jaimoe, Dickey, Gregg, Butch are the heart of the band and now they added Marc Quinones (percussionist), Warren Haynes on guitar and Woody Allen on bass. The house lights dim a few minutes after 8PM and with “1,2,3”…Statesboro Blues is played with THOM DOUCETTE on harp. From my seat in the balcony I was immediately thrown back 21 years in time to FILLMORE EAST, March of 71, with a true twin guitar approach, Gregg in good vocal form and 3 drummers pounding out the beat. WOW.And they offer a few acoustic numbers making their set mesmerizing. Got home about 3AM and went to work a few hours later. I will be back.Note:This night was the very first time I heard the ABB play “Dreams”.
(13) Aug 9, 1995: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@Jones Beach. They opened with Statesboro, and later Chris Robinson from BLACK CROWES joins in for SOUTHBOUND. Funny, I waited a few tours from the 92 show before I jumped back in, I was afraid of being disappointed. Tonight was the same line up as my last viewing (92) but the outdoor thing loses me a bit.
STATESBORO
MIDNIGHT RIDER
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
BLUE SKY
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
THE SAME THING
DREAMS
SOUTHBOUND
END OF THE LINE
BACK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
HOOTCHIE COOCHIE MAN
NO ONE TO RUN WITH ANYMORE
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
ONE WAY OUT
RAMBLIN MAN
1996 THE ABB SELL OUT 13 BEACON THEATRE shows.
(14) March 9,1996: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@The Beacon. The 7th show of the 13 night run and according to the press Gregg has been erratic in his performance. The first few night he bowed out for a few songs and even missed the entire second set one night. Tonight he was strong in voice and on stage for the entire show. It was pretty good.This line up is great as Warren and Woody do command some attention. And we heard some new tunes.
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
GOOD CLEAN FUN
RAMBLIN’ MAN
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
TOMBSTONE EYES
MIDNIGHT RIDER
STAND BACK
END OF THE LINE
CHANGE MY WAY OF LIVING
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
ITS NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
HOOTCHIE COOCHIE MAN
BLUE SKY
I KNOW I OUGHTA LEAVE
BACK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
ONE WAY OUT
WHIPPING POST
(15)July 21, 1996 THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND/ GOD STREET WINE @ Jones Beach. They open w/ Statesboro and for me it’s always STATESBORO that grabs me. Sitting at the top of the expanded amphitheater with a guy I finally convinced to attend a show with me, we are seated amongst college kids, drunk guys who conned their drunk girls to go topless. And it rained.
STATESBORO
MIDNIGHT RIDER
BLUE SKY
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
WHAT’S DONE IS DONE
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
CHANGE MY WAS OF LIVING
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED DREAMS
HOOTCHIE COOCHIE MAN
BACK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
ONE WAY OUT
6.
1997: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND SELL OUT A DOZEN SHOWS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH @ THE BEACON
(16) March 16,1997:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon-A SUNDAY NIGHT-THE FIFTH SHOW OF 12 NIGHTS and they open with HOT ‘LANTA. James Montgomery joins ONE WAY OUT, Duane Betts. Warren and Woody still there and smokin’.
HOT ‘LANTA
STATESBORO (DICKEY ON SLIDE)
SAILIN’ CROSS THE DEVIL’S SEA
MIDNIGHT RIDER
BLUE SKY
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
WHAT’S DONE IS DONE
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
THE SAME THING
DREAMS
BACK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
SOULSHINE(debut for me-amazing)
CHANGE MY WAY OF LIVING
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
HIGH FALLS
ONE WAY OUT w/ James Montgomery, Duane Betts
1998: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS SELL OUT 15 SHOWS @ THE BEACON. This round odf shows the band has a different line up as WARREN HAYNES and WOODY ALLEN are out concentrating on GOV’T MULE while also avoiding the craziness known as DICKEY BETTS.
(17)March 7, 1998: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS@ THE BEACON The 4th of 15 dates:Jack Pearson (guitar) and Oteil Burbridge(bass) join Gregg,Dickie, Butch,Jaimoe and Marc. An Acoustic set is a nice change of pace.Note:Gregg appears to be in “la-la land”.
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
CHANGE MY WAY OF LIVING DIMPLES
STORMY MONDAY
GOOD CLEAN FUN
HIGH FALLS
(ACOUSTIC SET)
PONY BOY
EVERYDAY
MIDNIGHT BLUES
COME ON IN MY KITCHEN (OUTSTANDING VERSION)
MELISSA
MIDNIGHT RIDER
(ELECTRIC)
NOBODY KNOWS
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
encore
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
(18) Oct 31,1998: GREGG ALLMAN @ Westbury Halloween night and what better way to have some fun then see THE GREGG ALLMAN BAND perform. I must say it was quite different from THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND, yet still tasty.
1999: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND sell out 18 shows at THE BEACON.
(Taken from a clipping I saved) “Through that second set, the trademark twin-guitar attack of Betts and new guy Jack Pearson (who replaced Warren Haynes last year) soared as they first would cut heads trying to outdo each other, and then ultimately would play in well-rehearsed, parallel harmonies”.
Note:At the end of this run JACK PEARSON leaves the band.
(19)March 6,1999: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon, these run of shows in March are now known as THE RITE OF SPRING/ MARCH MADNESS and of the 18 sold out shows I have two sets of tickets, one set for MARCH 6 (orchestra left side) and another for the second night MARCH 19, front row center.And a new buddy joins in my madness for the first night.
March 6,1999 has an Amazing opening; the two tunes which open the debut album, the SPENCER DAVIS tune “Don’t Want You No More” and the band runs straight into “It’s Not My Cross To Bear”. WOW.
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
IT’S NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
STAND BACK
GOOD TIMES (DON’T FADE AWAY)
PLEASE CALL HOME
I’M NOT CRYING
ONE WAY OUT
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
J.J.’S ALLEY
SEVEN TURNS (ACOUSTIC)
MELISSA (ACOUSTIC)
SAILING’ CROSS THE DEVIL’S SEA
BLUE SKY
LEAVE MY BLUES AT HOME
STORMY MONDAY
LES BRES IN A MINOR
REVIVAL
SOUTHBOUND
WHIPPING POST
(20)March 19,1999: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon : My second show of this run (first row center) and I couldn’t find ANYONE available to go. Then finally at a St. Paddy’s Day get together I offered the ticket (free) to a friend, and after speaking to his wife he finally agreed. To this day he states it was the “best show” he ever attended. I must admit it was pretty good.Note: Similar setlist from the other night.
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
IT’S NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING
GOOD TIMES (DON’T FADE)
PLEASE CALL HOME
I’M NOT CRYING
STATESBORO
SOUTHBOUND
J.J.’S ALLEY
SEVEN TURNS (acoustic)
MELISSA(acoustic)
SAILIN’ ACROSS THE DEVIL’S SEA
BLUE SKY
LEAVE MY BLUES AT HOME
LES BRES IN A MINOR
REVIVAL
RAMBLIN’ MAN
WHIPPING POST
(21) March 10: 2000: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon This year is DICKEY BETTS’ last run. Last year
Jack Pearson left the band due to “tinnitus” and blamed Dickey being way too loud, Jack preferred the acoustic sets which in years past were amazing. A new kid DEREK TRUCKS is in on guitar and he is a show unto himself. Dickey is fired a few months later.THE RITE OF SPRING/ MARCH MADNESS continues with 13 sold out dates and all recorded for the collection PEAKIN’ AT THE BEACON.These tapes when played back found DICKEY to be out of tune, lost in songs, and WAY TOO LOUD. These recordings sealed his fate. My mother was in the hospital in a coma since mid February. I had my tickets and was going to pass on this year until Pop told me, take a night off from visiting the hospital, go to the show, a Friday night and my first time in the loge seats. Mom died 5 days later.
EVERY HUNGRY WOMAN
STAND BACK
SEVEN TURNS
DREAMS **** (yeah)
GOOD CLEAN FUN
BACK WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
IT’S NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
AIN’T WASTING TIME
BLUE SKY
RAVE ON
FEEL SO BAD
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
NOBODY KNOWS
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
(22) March 24,2001: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND @ Beacon – Nine sold out shows. WARREN HAYNES (guitar and vocals) is slowly taking command with Derek Trucks as the set list changes every night and special guests are added. Chuck Leavell (guest) does an amazing JESSICA.My crew is now a quartet and we are seated in the second row loge. Wonderful seats and a fabulous setlist.
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
STAND BACK
HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN
FEEL SO BAD / w Larry McCray,Ronnie Burrage
ROCKING HORSE
ALL NIGHT TRAIN(w/ Chuck Leavell)
DESDEMONA (oh my, this was so good)w/ Chuck
JESSICA w/ Chuck (the best ever)
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING
SOULSHINE(Warren shines)
WHO TO BELIEVE
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
DREAMS
THE SAME THING w/ John Popper,Jeff Potts
HIGH FALLS w/ Chuck
encore
SOUTHBOUND w/ Leavell, Popper,McCray, John Manning
(23) July 3, 2001: DICKEY BETTS BAND @ BB KINGS About 8 of us decide to go see what Mr. BETTS is up to. He is playing two shows at the much smaller than the BEACON, B.B. KING’s club on 42nd Street. Nice dinner at Conally’s, a short walk to BB’s. An after a few drinks at the club, DICKEY BETTS takes the stage. “ Sad” is all I wrote in my notebook.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11,2001: Our world changes.
(24)Nov 24, 2001: Derek Trucks Band @ IMAC, Huntington, NY This was one cool band, and a great night was had by the usual crew of 4.
(25) March 23,2002: 9 sold out shows THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon. We 4 headed over to the WHITE HORSE TAVERN for our pre-show dinner. So sad as we stood in the middle of Hudson Street staring at the downtown skyline and NOT seeing the TWIN TOWERS. We hugged, a group hug, shed a tear or two. Dinner and a quick cab ride uptown.
MIDNIGHT RIDER
TROUBLE NO MORE
LEAVE MY BLUES AT HOME
WOMAN ACROSS THE RIVER
HEART OF STONE ( a highlight)
GOOD CLEAN FUN
OLD BEFORE MY TIME
ROCKING HORSE
SOUTHBOUND (W/ Bobby Allende for Jaimoe)
STAND BACK
COME AND GO BLUES
HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN
FIRING LINE
JUST BEFORE THE BULLETS FLY
INSTRUMENTAL (untitled)
DESDEMONA
WHIPPING POST
MOUNTAIN JAM
(26) MAY 9, 2002: Dickey Betts GREAT SOUTHERN @ Mulcahy’s One might ask, Why would you go to see Dickey again if he was so bad last outing? The answer is simple: We got 10 complementary passes and it was local bar. Dinner at the WANTAGH INN, a short walk to the bar (it is a pretty large room but not as big as BB King’s) and DICKEY’S band wasn’t half bad, and Dickey was in good voice, too.Not too bad.
(27) Aug 13, 2002: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Jones Beach. Dinner at Wantagh Inn, tailgating at The Beach.
AIN’T WASTING TIME
STATESBORO
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
COME AND GO BLUES
WHO TO BELIEVE
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
WOMAN ACROSS THE RIVER
DREAMS
FIRING LINE
THE SAME THING W/ Danny Louis (Gov’t Mule) on keys
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING
ROCKING HORSE
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
INSTRUMENTAL
WHIPPING POST
1.
(28) Oct 31, 2002: GREGG ALLMAN BAND @ Westbury our second time seeing GA on Halloween. Geez, The man can sing. And his band is pretty funky. Jay Collins on sax.
(29) March 22, 2003: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon-Unprecedented, the ABB sell out 13 shows. March Madness continues as we get the same 4 seats we had last year, in the second row loge. We have the 8th show of the run.
STATESBORO
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
ALL NIGHT TRAIN
BANKS OF THE DEEP END (Rob Barraco(piano) Thom Doucette (harp)
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
PLEASE CALL HOME (horn section)
MAYDELL
ROCKING HORSE
THE HIGH COST OF LOW LIVING
I’VE BEEN LOVING YOU TOO LONG (amazing Warren) w/horns
END OF THE LINE
MELISSA
COME AND GO BLUES
THE SAME THING w/ horns
TROUBLE NO MORE
CHANGE IS GONNA COME w/ horns
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
ONE WAY OUT w/ Thom, Seth Trucks (drums),Richard Bolger (trumpet) Jay Collins (sax), Christopher Karlic (baritone sax).
(30) March 20, 2004: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon The third night of 9 sold out shows. Same seats as last year.
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
IT’S NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
EVERY HUNGRY WOMAN
THE NIGHT THEY DROVE OLD DIXIE DOWN
GOOD MORNING LITTLE SCHOOLGIRL w/ Thom
WASTED WORDS w/ Thom
STATESBORO w/ Thom
ROCKING HORSE
NO ONE LEFT TO RUN WITH
KEY TO THE HIGHWAY w/ Thom
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
THE SAME THING
NEED YOUR LOVE SO BAD
CAN’T LOSE WHAT YOU NEVER HAD
DON’T THINK TWICE (Susan Tedeschi- guitar/vocals)
DREAMS
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
ONE WAY OUT w/ Thom
(31) Aug 24, 2004: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Jones Beach, Wantagh aka THE NO FUN ZONE. This is a Tuesday night gig. We have 12 seats and a tailgate party pre show. THIS WAS AN AMAZING SHOW for many reasons, the first being the opening number, Dr. John’s “Walk On Guilded Splinters” and the encore “Layla”, both are first listens for me in an ABB concert setting. Derek did reprise his role as slide expert similar to when he played with Clapton so needless to say he nailed this one, as did Warren on guitar, and both GREGG and Warren on vocals was a treat. Even though we don’t like the Beach scene this was a great night with friends and family enjoying the ABB under the stars.
I WALK ON GILDED SPLINTERS
EVERY HUNGRY WOMAN
TROUBLE NO MORE
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
WOMAN ACROSS THE RIVER
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
MIDNIGHT RIDER
STAND BACK
DREAMS TO REMEMBER
WHO TO BELIEVE
STATESBORO
MELISSA
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
MOUNTAIN JAM
AFRO BLUE
MOUNTAIN JAM-REPRISE
WHIPPING POST
LAYLA
1.
(32)March 12, 2005: THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon The third night of 10 sold out shows and overall another amazing night. Warren is in complete control of the set list and invited guests. And the acoustic set is back featuring Derek and Warren (guitar duo), Gregg on a grand piano, and special added attraction-HUBERT SUMLIN. Wow.
REVIVAL
LEAVE MY BLUES AT HOMW
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
HOT ‘LANTA
JUST AIN’T EASY
END OF THE LINE
FORTY-FOUR BLUES (Hubert Sumlin)
SMOKESTACK LIGHTNING (Hubert Sumlin)
INSTRUMENTAL ILLNESS
acoustic set
ONCOMING TRAFFIC- Gregg solo on grand piano
PLEASE CALL HOME _Gregg solo on grand piano
THESE DAYS- Gregg and Warren guitars
DEATH LETTER -Derek and Warren guitars
electric set
SOULSHINE
DREAMS w/ Jay Collins (sax)
ROCKING HORSE
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
ONE WAY OUT
(33) March 11, 2006:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon The third show of a 14 night run of sold out performances, and ours was a goodie. Glenn joined us full time in our foursome and we have the same seats as in years past, second row in the loge. Glenn is a huge Skynard fan so one surprise guest made his night.Tonight was “The 35th Anniversary of the Live at Fillmore East Performances”.We also had PETER FRAMPTON as a guest guitarist in set 2 and the legendary ROY HAYNES on the skins.Too cool.Note: Over the many years and numerous ABB shows I saw ROY HAYNES with the BROTHERS 3 times.
DON’T WANT YOU NO MORE
IT’S NOT MY CROSS TO BEAR
EVERY HUNGRY WOMAN
WHO’S BEEN TALKING
MIDNIGHT RIDER ( Devon Allman-guitar)
GOOD CLEAN FUN
INSTRUMENTAL ILLNESS
I WALK ON GUILDED SPLINTERS
SIMPLE MAN (w/ Gary Rossington)
BORN UNDER A BAD SIGN (w/ Peter Frampton)
LES BRES IN A MINOR
MELISSA
KEY TO THE HIGHWAY
AFRO BLUE (w/ Roy Haynes(drums), Wil Calhoun(Living Colour-drums),Jay Collins (sax))
DREAMS
ONE WAY OUT
SOUTHBOUND( w/ Frampton, Collins,Calhoun)
(34)Dec 31, 2006: GREGG ALLMAN & FRIENDS @ Westbury Music Fair, Westbury, New York It’s NEW YEARS EVE and 3 couples have seats to see GREGG in a semi-round arena. Nice room, good seats, good friends, and great music. The horn section knocks me out and Gregg was in good voice. Highlight was THESE DAYS and MELISSA.
(35) March 24,2007:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon The 4th night of a nine sold out show run. Same seats as always, lucky us.But the noise in the crowd was Gregg was erratic and appears ill, again. Oh boy, this could get ugly fast. Warren to the rescue.
STATESBORO
REVIVAL
LEAVE MY BLUES AT HOME
ROCKING HORSE
SOULSHINE W/ Ron Holloway- sax
THE HIGH COST OF LOW LIVING
ONE WAY OUT
COME ON IN MY KITCHEN-W/ Luther Dickinson-guitar
DREAMS w/ Ron Holloway
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED- Oteil and Derek- bass duo, Kofi Burbridge-flute, Ron Holloway- sax
MOUNTAIN JAM
DAZED AND CONFUSED(yes, that song_-Warren amazing)
MOUNTAIN JAM -reprise
WHIPPING POST
(36) May19,2007: DICKEY BETTS/ GREAT SOUTHERN @ Westhampton Beach, NY- Why oh why did we go and paid a pretty penny for the right to see a legend in a sharp decline. Its been 7 years since DICKEY BETTS was fired from the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND and tonight I was so glad he hasn’t reappeared with them. He was drunk with slurred speech, could hardly stand, forgot words and stood idly by as his son took over when Dickey lost the lead on numerous songs. This was an embarrassment beyond belief. Now I know why they fired his fucking arrogant ass.
2008: The year of NO ALLMAN BROTHERS SHOWS at the Beacon. Gregg was ill and the band postponed their annual fest at The Beacon.
(37)March 21, 2009:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon
Its been two years and we were eagerly awaiting the announcement that the ABB would return to the stage of the Beacon. That announcement came the first week of January and as always I prepared for the resale, hoping for the same tickets, the same seats, as in years past.Bingo, this year the band scheduled 15 shows at the legendary venue and all 15 sold out immediately as this year marked the 50th anniversary of the birth of the band. The first few shows had many guests: BUDDY GUY, LOS LOBOS, JOHNNY WINTER, TAJ MAHAL, LEVON HELM, TREY ANASTASIO, BRUCE WILLIS (?), BOZ SCAGGS, STANLEY CLARKE, and SHERYL CROW. The special guest for Thursday and Friday nights performances (we had Saturday) was none other than ERIC CLAPTON, so it was anticipated that he / or someone of his stature would reappear for Saturday night. But alas, it was not to happen. Our guest(s) was the horn section from The ASBURY DUKES with BRUCE HORNSBY and SUSAN TEDESCHI. Overall, it was a blast but not a true ABB performance. Gregg was up front for the first few songs and disappeared for quite some time.
LITTLE MARTHA(tease)/ INSTRUMENTAL
ONE WAY OUT
STATESBORO
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
THE SAME THING (w/Jukes)
SOULSHINE (w/ Jukes)
LITTLE BY LITTLE (w/Jukes, Southside Johnny-harp,Susan Tedeschi-guitar/vocals, James van de Bogert-drums
DON’T THINK TWICE- Tedeschi- guitar/vocals
LOST LOVER BLUES- Tedeschi-guitar/vocals
STAND BACK-w/ Jukes/Tedeschi
GRANDMA’S HANDS (a Bill Withers tune) w/Hornsby-piano, Jukes, Tedeschi-vocals
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED W/ Hornsby-keys
THE NIGHT THEY DROVE OLD DIXIE DOWN w/Jukes, Hornsby
JESSICA w/Hornsby
SOUTHBOUND
with The Asbury Jukes Horns; Bruce Hornsby, keyboards; Susan Tedeschi, guitar & vocals
(38) March 13, 2010:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ UNITED PALACE,NYC
WTF. The Dolan’s, owners of THE BEACON (and other places) scheduled the ABB each year boxing out most of the month for rehearsals and gigs. I guess after last year they were not to sure of the status of the band so the master of scheduling rented out the space for the entire month to CIRQUE DE SOLEIL. The ABB found solace in the UNITED PALACE, a theatre/church(huge) on 175th Street in WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, as we say in NY, “way the fuck up there”. Not really sure what was taking place, we entered the pool for the sale of tickets hoping for the best. Eight shows over two weeks was the announcement. We got the third show, the first Saturday in the run. Seats way up top.
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
AIN’T WASTIN’ TIME NO MORE
STAND BACK
HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN
HEART OF STONE (UNBELIEVABLY GOOD)
NEW INSTRUMENTAL
GOOD MORNING LITTLE SCHOOLGIRL
WHIPPING POST
LITTLE MARTHA>
BLUE SKY>
LITTLE MARTHA
DREAMS
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
THE SKY IS CRYING
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED (W/ BRUCE KATZ)
ONE WAY OUT
(39) August 3,2010: GOV’T MULE@ House of Blues, Myrtle Beach,SC
It was pretty late but I finally convinced the bride to go to the show.We got there as JACKIE GREENE was finishing up. She agreed to stay for one set of MULE,even knowing that GM can play for hours. We stayed for two sets and all the encores. They were that good.
(40) March 12,2011:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND back where they belong@ Beacon 13 sold out shows with a host of special guests each night. Tonight we had DAVID HIDALGO joining the band.AND Tonight was the 40th ANNIVERSARY of the recording of AT FILLMORE EAST. So what better way to enjoy the night by the band playing the entire album in sequential order for the first set.
STATESBORO
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
STORMY MONDAY
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
HOT ‘LANTA
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
WHIPPING POST
MOUNTAIN JAM
TROUBLE NO MORE
THE SKY IS CRYING
DON’T KEEP ME WONDERING(W/HILDALGO)
GOOD MORNING LITTLE SCHOOL GIRL (W/ HILDAGO)
EVERY HUNGRY WOMAN
MOUNTAIN JAM (REPRISE)
NO ONE TO RUN WITH
(41) March 10, 2012:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon with 10 sold out shows. Ours was the second night and featured an acoustic set then RANDY BRECKER joined the band. It was delightful.(Note: Last show of this run was without Gregg Allman)
STATESBORO
COME AND GO BLUES
DOWN ALONG THE COVE
STAND BACK
SAILIN’ CROSS THE DEVIL’S SEA
BLING WILLIE MCTELL
BAG END
ONE WAY OUT-w/AJ Ghent lap steel
Second Set
(Acoustic)OLD FRIEND-(WARREN/DEREK ONLY)
DARK END OF THE STREET (Gregg, Oteil, Warren, Derek,Marc)
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG-Gregg,Warren, Oteil,Marc,Derek)
(Electric)
REVIVAL
HOT ‘LANTA>
ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER>
HOT ‘LANTA w/ Randy Brecker-trumpet
DREAMS w/ Randy Brecker(amazing)
MOUNTAIN JAM W/ BRECKER & James van der Bogert-drums
SOUTHBOUND W/ Brecker,Duane Trucks-drums, AJ Ghent
(42) September 22, 2012: TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND @ Beacon This is my first time enjoying the husband wife collaboration known as TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND and what better place to see them then a loge seat at THE BEACON. I saw Susan with her solo outfit a few years back when she opened for BUDDY GUY. I also saw the DEREK TRUCKS BAND a few times and of course as part of the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND .
LOVE HAS SOMETHING TO SAY
ISN’T IT A PITY (Geo Harrison tune)
EVERYBODY’S TALKIN (Fred Neil cover)
I KNOW (Trucks Band cover)
THE SKY IS CRYING (Elmore James)
THE NIGHT THEY DROVE OLD DIXIE DOWN (The Band)
MAHJOUN( Derek Trucks cover) w/ Marc Quinones
MIDNIGHT IN HARLEM
ROLLIN’ AND TUMBLIN’ (Hambone Willie Newbern cover)
SHELTER
ANYDAY/BLUE SKY(Derek&Dominos/Allman Bros)
THAT DID IT (Bobby Blue Bland)
OLD TIME LOVIN’ (Al Green cover wband intros)
UP TIGHT (Stevie Wonder)-truly spectacular
BOUND FOR GLORY
ANGEL FROM MONTGOMERY(John Prine)
SIMPLE THINGS
GET WHAT YOU DESERVE(Derek Trucks cover)
GIVE IT UP OR LET ME GO (Bonnie Raitt) w/Eric Krasno
(43)March 9, 2013:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon Sold out 11 shows, ours was #6 in the run and were at our usual seats in the loge.
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
MIDNIGHT RIDER
END OF THE LINE
WORRIED DOWN WITH THE BLUES
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
DUSK TILL DAWN (Bill Evans-sax)
JESSICA
STATESBORO(Davis Stoltz-bass)
YOU DON’T LOVE ME
ROCKING HORSE
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
STAND BACK
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED>
DRUMS>
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
SOUTHBOUND(w/Vaylor Trucks-guitar, John Ray-bass)
In January as THE BEACON run is announced, with it came the notification that DEREK TRUCKS and WARREN HAYNES will be leaving the band at years end.
Following the announcement three weeks ago that two key members of the Allman Brothers Band — guitarists Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks — would be leaving the group at the end of the year, frontman Gregg Allman has more bad news for the group’s loyal fans: It will stop touring altogether at the end of 2014.
In a new interview with Relix, Allman stated that he’s ready to move on. “This is it — this is the end of it,” he said. “Forty-five years is enough, and I want to do something else anyway. Everyone has their own real good perspective bands.”
(44)March 14, 2014:THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Beacon- Something is amiss as we keep wondering, “Is this really the last year? The last time?” We sensed the end is near and knew the announcement. However, the boys sell out 10 night, ours is the fifth show and a Friday night which is unusual as we traditionally get tickets for Saturday. But here we are in the loge again, just down to three of us, but we took Glenn’s ashes with us. (NOTE: Gregg Allman misses the last two shows in this run).
DONE SOMEBODY WRONG
COME AND GO BLUES
WASTED WORDS
DUSK TILL DAWN
I WALK ON GILDED SPLINTERS (amazing)
GAMBLER’S ROLL
TRUE GRAVITY
HOOCHIE COOCHIE MAN
AIN’T WASTING TIME NO MORE
MELISSA
BLUE SKY w/James vander Bogert-drums
BLACK HEARTED WOMAN
SEVEN TURNS
ROCKING HORSE
GET ON WITH YOUR LIFE
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED
ONE WAY OUT w/Duane Trucks-drums
Six OCTOBER shows-THE FINAL RUN- were announced for The BEACON. My desire was to obtain one ticket for the very last night. Prices for a regular ticket for the first five nights was extremely high and the last show was mortgage size, ridiculous. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be as the shows sold out in a matter of minutes and I was for once “out in the cold”.
From ROLLING STONE:
The only note of sentiment during the Allman Brothers Band‘s October 28th concert at New York’s Beacon Theatre – their last at that venue and anywhere else, at least for the foreseeable future – came after more than four hours of music: three sets and an inevitable encore, “Whipping Post.” The seven members of the group – the surviving trio of founders, singer-organist Gregg Allman and drummers Butch Trucks and Jaimoe; the long-serving guitar team of Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks; and often overlooked veterans Oteil Burbridge on bass and percussionist Marc Quinones – lined up onstage and took a bow: a first at any Allmans-Beacon show I’d ever attended.
(Con’t)
That work, it seems, will stay undone. During the intermissions, a curious message appeared on the large video screen behind the band: “The road indeed goes on forever. So stay calm, eat a peach and carry on . . .” The individual members of the Allmans will certainly continue to play in some form and combinations. There may even be reunions. As for the guitarists, Derek’s R&B juggernaut with his wife Susan Tedeschi, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, recently played a transcendant Beacon run in September, and Haynes’ group Gov’t Mule will make their traditional holiday stop at that stage on December 30th and 31st. I went to the former; I don’t want to miss the latter.
(con’t)
But it will take more than a peach to get me through next March. It was never spring, I always said, until I saw the Allmans peakin’ at the Beacon. Tonight was a generous, continually thrilling farewell. It will make the leaving that much harder to bear. (My sentiments exactly)
(45) December 30, 2014: Gov’t Mule @ Beacon I already miss the ABB and The night before New Year’s Eve in Manhattan is not a great idea but I had to see Gov’t Mule at The Beacon-loge seats of course and I was rewarded with a great show. I was with one of my ABB buddies who informed me on the way home that next year I was on my own for MULE in December.We got home after 3 AM. Okay, you win.
WORLD BOSS
WHISPER IN YOUR SOUL
STOOP SO LOW
FORSAKEN SAVIOR
STRATUS(Billy Cobham cover)-amazing
THE JOKER/GET UP STAND UP(Steve Miler/Bob Marley)
BIRD ON THE WIRE(Leonard Cohen)w/Better Half Singers
THE LETTER (BoxTops)w/Better Half Singers
DONE GOT WISE
BROKE DOWN IN BRAZOS
TRIBUTARY JAM
MR.BIG (Free cover) w/ Simon Kirke-drums (unbelievable)
THE HUNTER >(Albert King/Free-cover)w/ Simon Kirke
GOOD MORNING LITTLE SCHOOLGIRL >w/Simon Kirke
THE HUNTER (Reprise) w/ Simon Kirke
GAME FACE>BIRDLAND>MOUNTAIN JAM
THORAZINE SHUFFLE
FUNNY LITTLE TRAGEDY>MESSAGE IN THE BOTTLE>
FUNNY LITTLE TRAGEDY(Reprise)
HOT LEGS- (Rod Stewart cover)w/ Carmine Appice-drums
STAY WITH ME(Faces cover) w/Carmine Appice-drums
(46)October 3, 2015: Tedeschi Trucks Band@ Beacon I missed the run of TTB for the last two years. I needed to go for this one. And here I am in the lower balcony first row, not a bad seat with my bride for her first TTB show, which she loved. Tonight’s bill is two sets, no opening act.
ALL THAT I NEED
MADE UP MIND
IT’S SO HEAVY
GET WHAT YOU DESERVE (Trucks Band cover)
MAHJOUN (Trucks Band cover)
COMIN’ HOME (Delaney/Bonnie cover)- great idea
SOMETHING (Beatles cover)
IDLE WIND
THE LETTER (Box Tops cover)
KEEP YOUR LAMPS TRIMMED AND BURNING
LAUGH ABOUT IT
ANYHOW
LET’S GO GET STONED (The Coasters cover)
STICKS AND STONES (Titus Turner cover)
BIRD ON A WIRE (Leonard Cohen cover)
CRYING OVER YOU
THE SKY IS CRYING (Elmore James cover)
FIRE AND RAIN (James Taylor cover)
Instrumental Jam
THE STORM
I WANT MORE
MIDNIGHT IN HARLEM
I GOT A FEELING (Beatles cover)
WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS (Beatles cover)
(47)Oct 7 2015: WARREN HAYNES – Ashes and Dust Tour/w/ JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE@ The Space, Westbury, NY Strange set up in a small venue. We took the very last row in the seated area, near a beer only bar. Not too bad. Warren is playing with a few guys from CHESSBOXER and a drummer JEFF SIPE.
Guitarist Warren Haynes returned to the stage with his Ashes & Dust Band featuring members of ChessBoxer and drummer Jeff Sipe last night at the Granada Theatre in Dallas, Texas. The Winter Tour opener featured a mix of material from Warren’s Ashes & Dust LP as well as choice covers and other favorites from Haynes’ solo repertoire.
Warren Haynes and the Ashes & Dust Band kicked off the show with a double dose of Ashes & Dust in the form of “Beat Down The Dust” and “Is It Me Or You.” The evening’s first cover was a take on Neil Young’s “Revolution Blues” which was followed by Warren’s ode to Jerry Garcia, “Patchwork Quilt.” It was then time for a trio of covers as “Instrumental Illness” from Haynes’ time in The Allman Brothers Band led into Little Feat’s “Skin It Back” and the Allmans’ “Blue Sky.” After a run of originals the ensemble ended the main set with one more Allman Brothers classic – “Jessica.” Warren and the band said farewell with a “Two Of A Kind Blues” encore.
SPOTS OF TIME
REVOLUTION BLUES (Neil Young)/JERUSALEM RIDGE
PATCHWORK QUILT (Phil Lesh and Friends cover)
BLUE SKY (Allman cover)>
INSTRUMENTAL ILLNESS (Allman cover)
LAY OF THE SUNFLOWER (Gov’t Mule)
BLUE MAIDEN’S TALE
COMPANY MAN
DUSK TILL DAWN (Allman cover)
HATTIESBURG HUSTLE>
DRUMS.>
HATTIESBURG HUSTLE (REPRISE)
STRANDED IN SELF PITY/HOTTENTOT
IS IT ME OR YOU
SKIN IT BACK (Little Feat cover)
JESSICA (Allman cover)
I BEEN TO GEORGIA ON A FAST TRAIN (Billy Joe Shaver cover) w/ Justin Townes Earle
(48)DECEMBER 30,2015: Gov’t Mule @BEACON Took a buddy of mine and he was amazed at the performance. So was I.
BLIND MAN IN THE DARK
MR.MAN
ANY OPEN WINDOW
FAR AWAY
ROCKIN’ HORSE>THELONIUS BECK
BEAUTIFULLY BROKEN
DOLPHINEUS
PAINTED SILVER LIGHT/HERE COMES THE SUN-tease
SOULSHINE/VOODOO CHILD
UNRING THE BELL/LES BRES IN A MINOR
ENDLESS PARADE
BAD LITTLE DOGGIE
I’LL BE THE ONE/BLUE SKY
SUGAREE w/Jack Pearson,Jimmy Vivino,Steve Kimock
I SHALL BE RELEASED w/ Kimock,Pierson and Chuck Leavell
DREAMS w/ Leavell,Pierson, Vivino
(49) Sept 9 2016: GOV’T MULE/ZZ TOP @ Jones Beach Probably the shortest set ever and a bit disappointed and then ZZ TOP did an uninspired set of hits. Nah, on ZZ TOP.
BAD LITTLE DOGGIE
STEPPING’ LIGHTLY
MR. HIGH AND MIGHTY
INSIDE OUTSIDE WOMAN BLUES #3
BANKS OF THE DEEP END
KIND OF BIRD (Allmans cover)
THORAZINE SHUFFLE
(50) October 8, 2016: TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND @ Beacon The buzz was that Warren was there the night before. Oh my. Tonight No Warren but I had my bride with me again. She really likes this band.
ANYDAY (Derek Dominoes cover)
LAUGH ABOUT IT
IT’S SO HEAVY
DON’T KNOW WHAT IT MEANS
LEAVING TRUNK (Sleepy John Estes cover)
VOLUNTEERED SLAVERY (Rahsaan Roland Kirk cover)
I PITY THE FOOL (Bobby Blue Bland cover)
I WANT MORE
LES BRES IN A MINOR (Allmans cover)
IDLE WIND
CALLING OUT TO YOU
JUST AS STRANGE
WAH WAH (Geo Harrison cover)
LET ME GET BY
I GOT A FEELIN (Beatles cover)
ELENOR RIGBY (Beatles cover)
CRYING OVER YOU
HONEST I DO (Jimmy Reed cover) w/ Doyle Bramlett II
I WISH I KNEW HOW IT WOULD BE TO BE FREE (Billy Taylor cover)
SING A SIMPLE SONG (Sly/Family Stone cover) w/ Doyle Bramlett II
I WANT TO TAKE YOU HIGHER (Sly cover) w/ Bramlett
ANYHOW
WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS
(51)October 14,2017: TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND @ Beacon w/ my Beacon buddy and his bride
KEEP ON GROWING (Derek/Dominos cover)
MADE UP MIND
UNTIL YOU REMEMBER
SAILING ON (Toots/Maytals cover)
PART OF ME
MIDNIGHT IN HARLEM
DON’T KNOW WHAT IT MEANS
HOW BLUE CAN YOU GET (3 Blazers cover)
THE STORM
DON’T LET ME SLIDE
DO I LOOK WORRIED
CHEVROLET (Lonnie Young Jr cover)
ISN’T IT A PITY (Geo Harrison cover)
THE LETTER (BoxTops cover)
I WANT MORE
I WISH I KNEW HOW IT WOULD FEEL TO BE FREE (Billy Taylor cover) amazing
DELTA LADY (Leon Russell cover) w/Trey Anastasio
MOUNTAIN JAM (Allmans cover) w/ Anastasio
A SONG FOR YOU (Leon Russell cover)
BOUND FOR GLORY
(52) TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND (4th time) at BEACON October 5, 2018 with my bride and another couple we get the same exact seats as the previous year. When the band opens with a Jimmy Cliff tune, one which I love…oh my…
SITTING IN LIMBO (Jimmy Cliff tune)
DO I LOOK WORRIED
PART OF ME
IT’S SO HEAVY
ANYHOW
HIGH & MIGHTY
LEAVING TRUNK (John Estes tune)
VOLUNTEERED SLAVERY ( Rashaan Roland Kirk tune)
IDLE WIND
TELL THE TRUTH (Derek/Dominos)
DON’T DRIFT AWAY
LET ME GET BY
SWEET AND LOW
DON’T MISS ME (Derek Trucks Band cover)
MADE UP MIND
I PITY THE FOOL(Bobby Blue Bland tune) amazing Susan
BLUE SKY (Allmans cover) w/ Jimmy Herring
IN MEMORY OF ELIZ REED w/ Jimmy Herring
GOING,GOING,GONE (amazing Dylan tune) w/Doyle Bramlett II
GET WHAT YOU DESERVE (Derek Trucks cover) w/ Doyle Bramlett II
TICKET TORN IN HALF: FEBRUARY 17, 1971- FACES (listed as SMALL FACES) and SAVOY BROWN, THE GREASE BAND.
The Spring semester began only a few weeks ago and it is obvious we are not the same group as we were in September. Many of my cronies disappeared from campus. Some failed out, two got busted, one arrested on campus and expelled, others transferred, one left without warning stealing about 40 of my albums(another story for a later date)… so the “clique”changed. The radio station gave me more responsibilities as “record librarian” and more hours on the air. It seemed to be that they liked what I was doing. The time at the radio station combined with being “business manager/co-editor” of the campus newspaper, officer in the student government, and a member of the concert committee left little time for academics. Fortunately, my course work was basically liberal arts basket weaving thrown in with my business classes. Needless to say, I was having too much fun while still maintaining a 3.5 GPA.
I called a girl I reacquainted with at The Dominoes (Suffolk Community) out on an official date to see THE FACES. To my sheer surprise she said YES. We took the train in and arriving in NYC, it started to snow pretty hard so I thought it best we eat in a place closer to the Fillmore. Inside the theater The Grease Band was a disaster without Joe Cocker, followed by Savoy Brown without Chris Youlden, Roger Earl, Lonesome Dave, or Tone Stevens, so we had only one hope left , THE FACES. And, THE FACES did not disappoint, as a matter of fact they were one of the best, most fun, bands I had ever seen.My date agreed. Ronnie Wood kicked it off on pedal steel with SWEET LADY MARY, the band cranked it up with I DON’T WANT TO DISCUSS IT, TOO MUCH WOMAN(an Ike Turner cover),The Stones STREET FIGHTING MAN, Rod Stewart out did Paul McCartney on Paul’s new tune, MAYBE I’M AMAZED, followed by Ian McLagen, Ronnie Lane, and Kenny Jones playing their roles in IT’S ALL OVER NOW,I’M LOSING YOU, LOVE IN VAIN,AROUND THE PLYNTH,AN OLD RAINCOAT NEVER LET’S YOU DOWN, GASOLINE ALLEY, THREE BUTTON HAND ME DOWN and an encore of Elton John’s COUNTRY COMFORT. All while we were seated in the second row center with me taping the show on my trusty cheap cassette recorder. It was a wonderful night, and we lucked out in catching the midnight train back home. Unfortunately it was still snowing and the drive to get her home took longer than I had hoped, and then I still had to travel one hour back to my room in a heavy snow. Got settled after 3 AM with the snow piling up all around me. Micro-Economics Class at 8AM, followed by Macro at 9AM. Something has to give soon.
THE FACES became a favorite of mine to see live as one never knew what to expect. The FILLMORE EAST night had the band chugging MATEUS wine, bottle after bottle which littered the amp tops, keyboards, and drum riser. It has been said the FACES refused anymore engagements at FILLMORE EAST for the fact that “you can NOT get drunk twice in one night”, meaning two sets per night is one too many. So who are these guys?
It’s early 1968 and on the clear evening with a wire antenna attached to my AM/FM Panasonic radio I can pick up CKLW 800-AM-“The Big 8” a station serving WINDSOR,Ontario and DETROIT,Michigan. THE BIG 8 is said to be “the blackest white station in America” playing a unique integrated mix serving Ontario, Detroit and some (clear) nights heard in Cleveland and as far as New York. Commercials needed the disclaimer “Not available in Ontario”.The only problem is the station, a Canadian broadcaster, legally had to play 30% of music from Canada, which in some cases was good as we were introduced to Joni Mitchell and The Guess Who.
So… “ here’s the #1 Canadian hit single ITCHYCOO PARK” by a band I had heard about but never “heard” their music. I wrote down the name of the band, searched for the record and finally found the 45 RPM. It was wonderful. “Itchycoo Park/I’m Only Dreaming” 45rpm on IMMEDIATE RECORDS. A few weeks later I had the album… “There Are But Four Small Faces” a US only release. “My Way of Giving”, “Tin Solder”, “Here Comes The Nice”, all great tunes. In the summer of 68, SMALL FACES-“Ogdens’Nut Gone Flake” which is a blast is released. It is a precursor for HUMBLE PIE to be sure and “Happiness Stan” is one of my heroes. A few years later I played side two in its entirety on my college late night radio program and never got one complaint. Either people didn’t care or weren’t listening. Makes no never mind to me, I loved that album.
Then, STEVE MARRIOTT leaves to form HUMBLE PIE with PETER FRAMPTON, JERRY SHIRLEY and GREG RIDLEY. “PIE” was phenomenal after they dropped the acoustic stuff, so powerful they literally “Rocked The Fillmore”.
The SMALL FACES now left without a frontman picked up two of JEFF BECK GROUP (#1) alumni who are unemployed due to BECK’S car accident. RONNIE WOOD, a bass player for BECK and a guitarist by trade, along with vocalist extradonaire ROD STEWART join up after IAN McLAGEN assists in the making of THE ROD STEWART ALBUM. Fun ensues at the recording so “WOODIE and STEW” join the SMALL FACES as the band is (still) known in The States. At home they are “Faces”, no THE, no SMALL, just FACES.
“First Step” is released spring of 70 followed by an extensive American tour lasting through November.The band plays at both FILLMORE EAST and WEST, BOSTON TEA PARTY, many colleges, The Action House, Unganos, just about any size venue, anywhere… everywhere.
The summer of 70, “Gasoline Alley” the second solo endeavor for Rod Stewart is released and becomes a huge hit. Another FACES tour is planned to which Rod commits while also continuing to record solo works.
February of 71, a few night after I saw them at FILLMORE EAST, “Long Player” by The FACES is out making some noise in the charts and on the road they go for another extended tour.
All is smooth and fun loving until EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY (May 1971) hits the charts with the single “Maggie May” becoming a worldwide #1 hit. While “Faces” were playing on Rod’s solo albums, FACES as a band was a separate entity, a touring phenomena. Unfortunately to those new fans only invested in hearing “Maggie May” they had to endure “Faces”, an otherwise great live band. Constant calls for Rod’s hits lead to a bit of distraction to the band members not named Rod.
“A Nod’s As Good As A Wink To A Blind Horse” released in November 71 showed the skills of Ronnie Lane as a vocalist and songwriter. His song “Debris” is only one indication of their past and their future.
Unfortunately, I saw them November 26, 1971 at MADISON SQUARE GARDEN (FACES/CACTUS/BULL ANGUS) and wrote a scathing review of the show and the crowd. “Joshua TV” with its closed circuit video system was used for the first time giving those in attendance a close up of FACES.The other bands were not included in this aspect of the show. Bull Angus was hard to hear which was a blessing, CACTUS muffled, and FACES drunk. My review got negative feedback from the big wigs at WB Records. My “freebie” privilege was revoked.
Rod Stewart’s solo “Never A Dull Moment” hits the stores in summer of 72 and goes to #1with the single “You Wear It Well” topping the charts.
Many are now considering Faces to be Rod Stewart’s “backing band” to the dismay of founding member/bassist and once a primary vocalist, RONNIE LANE.
During the winter, back in England the band starts working on “OOH LA LA”. Rod Stewart’s new pop star persona makes him virtually disappear from the recording sessions forcing Ronnie Lane to take control of a band which was originally his. When the record is released March of 73 Rod Stewart bad mouths the record in the press infuriating Ronnie Lane who after the tour to promote the album quits. The FACES continued on for 2 1/2 years without producing another album, basically touring as ROD STEWART and THE FACES.
May 10,1973 at Nassau Memorial …Ronnie Lane, one of his last gigs with FACES. Jo Jo Gunne opens the show, consisting of a few guys from the remnants of SPIRIT. FACES were good that night, Ronnie Lane exceptionally good. In the late 1970’s Ronnie Lane was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) which had effected his mother and two siblings earlier in life.
Back to ROD STEWART, in October 74 he releases “Smiler” which basically sucks. But continues to tour as ROD STEWART and FACES until …1976 , Faces no more. Ron Wood joins the STONES, KENNY JONES drummed for THE WHO after KEITH MOON’S death in 78.
In a few weeks I’ll write my rant about “April Fool” a great collection by the none other best of the best, RONNIE LANE.…
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: BOB DYLAN AND THE BAND@ MADISON SQUARE GARDEN- JANUARY 31, 1974(If you like what you are reading please hit the button to “subscribe”. Thanks.)
I don’t know why any suburban concert goer circa 1972-1978 would ever want to attend a show at NASSAU COLISEUM… drug busts, arrest, the other night 10 arrest at the BOB DYLAN and THE BAND show. Geez…I refused to buy a ticket knowing the life style of a young man would be in jeopardy when confronted by the tactics of the Nassau County PD and the county’s notorious DA. So when the call came that my bride’s co-worker had two tickets for the same show but housed in the safety and security of New York City’s MADISON SQUARE GARDEN I was on the train in a flash.Being a Thursday night I had to call in “sick” for work. Of course my boss questioned my sudden illness so I nicely told him I’m going to see Bob Dylan so “freak you” but only in stronger words.He listed it as a “personal” day.
DYLAN hadn’t toured in almost 8 years, 1966 that is and I was 14 at that time. To boot, DYLAN hadn’t released an album in almost four years so this was going to be a “must” see event. Tickets were sold out in a matter of minutes in our area. Four nights, two at the Nassau piss hole and 2 night with 3 shows ( one matinee-4PM) at MSG.DYLAN had just released “Planet Waves” a few days before our show, an album made with THE BAND onboard.
So away I go, train ride in with a bottle of wine and my usual Marlboro Reds, getting primed before meeting up with my wife and another couple. A quick bite to eat, payment for the tickets, and into the show. Pretty good seats to the left of the stage, two levels up but close enough for my zoom lens to work.(Notes from my journal-“Dylan opens with MOST LIKELY YOU GO YOUR WAY and a few tunes before THE BAND does STAGE FRIGHT, Bob joins in, then acoustic BOB, then THE BAND, then BOB and THE Band closing with MOST LIKELY YOU GO YOUR WAY. Neat. I took a photo of YOKO, Albert Grossman and DICK CAVETT chatting during intermission”.
Setlist:
Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine) 2.Lay Lady Lay 3.Just Like Tom Thumb’s Blues 4.Rainy Day Women # 12 & 35 5.It Ain’t Me, Babe 6.Ballad Of A Thin Man 7.All Along The Watchtower 8.Ballad Of Hollis Brown 9.Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door 10.The Times They Are A-Changin’ 11.Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right 12.Gates Of Eden 13.Just Like A Woman 14.It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding) 15.Forever Young 16.Something There Is About You 17.Like A Rolling Stone — 18.Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine) 19.Blowin’ In The Wind
Village Voice Review
Madison Square Garden with the Band | January 31, 1974 Aside from some guest appearances (a Woody Guthrie Tribute; the Concert for Bangladesh; a Band show at the Academy of Music) Dylan was off the road for seven-and-a-half years and didn’t play a full concert in New York City for a very long time. That was a lifetime, an entire career in rock and roll back then. A lot would happen in between: military actions, protest movements, motorcycle accidents, Woodstock. But then he came back with one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll alliances on one of the most amazing tours ever. The ‘74 tour with the Band featured Dylan at the height of his Seventies powers, alongside Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, Garth Hudson and Levon Helm very close to the apex of theirs. This show at the Garden would amply showcase all of the above, and an audience at the height of Watergate roars like a jet engine as Dylan sings the “But even the President of the United States/Has to stand naked” line during “It’s All Right Ma, I’m Only Bleeding.”
TICKETS TORN IN HALF: October 9,1972-ELTON JOHN “Larry Legs Smith Tour” w/ Sutherland Bros and Quiver@ Nassau Coliseum.This is NOT the ELTON JOHN I saw last few times in smaller venues(Fillmore East twice and Carnegie Hall). He is ready for the big time with big time shows, this being one of those.
Then 20 years to the day, and oh, how things ELTON have changed…
TICKETS TORN IN HALF:October 9,1992-ELTON JOHN “The One Tour”@Madison Square Garden for 7 shows
Overall,I witnessed the act known as Led Zeppelin a total of eight times over eight years (1969-1977),from the first album through their last official tour of the US. I bought all the albums up to PRESENCE. After that record I stopped buying their albums until the recent (vinyl) re-mastered collections. Every time I attended their show, each one was a unique experience. This band of four changed musically throughout the years, gaining momentum and a rabid fan base with each new release. From a blues based band which rose from the ashes of THE YARDBIRDS, a band playing for recognition as a new unit and up to the mega-band which could sell out many nights in a row at the WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ARENA in a moments notice,they were truly something to behold, collectively.
January 12,1969: LED ZEPPELIN is released.I almost burnt that record out. It replaced JETHRO TULL’s “This Was” on my turntable.
(1)May 30,1969@Fillmore East: For me the first time and in the best place in NYC, FILLMORE EAST was THEE venue to see LED ZEPPELIN. The talk since late January was how this band from England, the undercard on the bill, destroyed IRON BUTTERFLY which was the headliner for this weekend of shows. The buzz was that Led Zeppelin left IB stunned in the wings awaiting to hit the stage,left only to play their hit IN A GADDA DA VIDA to the chagrin of many. The schism is now widened as a new sound is in town. One must know the background of LED Zeppelin to understand how this one weekend enchanted the NY crowd.
For those who only know of the power and popularity of Led Zeppelin of later days, let me take you back to a time before their very first album hit the stands.
Jimmy Page was one of the “three”, the Triumvirate of Rock Guitarist Gods who moseyed through a British band of some renown named THE YARDBIRDS. This band, legend states took their name from Charlie YARDBIRD Parker, was somewhat known in the USA, but more popular in their homeland of Great Britain. Without giving the long history of the Yardbirds let’s just say they got a CRAWDADDY (a club) gig when the spot was vacated by THE ROLLING STONES, a band on the move. Eric Clapton was the YARDBIRDS guitarist at that time, one who became uncomfortable with the band veering away from it’s blues roots by heading into a pop direction. Clapton leaves and suggest Jimmy Page take his spot. Page was the “go to studio guitarist” at the time and didn’t want to vacate that profitable role, so PAGE suggested JEFF BECK who took the gig.
With BECK’s influence the YARDBIRDS moved toward a psychedelic route with fuzz tones, feedback, and his overall guitar virtuosity. By 1966 JEFF BECK was voted Melody Maker’s GUITARIST OF THE YEAR.When the bass player drops out of The Yardbirds JIMMY PAGE steps in for a spell. When a new bassist is recruited PAGE stays on for a BECK/PAGE “new” dual guitar attack approach. Beck gets sick, misses a few gigs and ultimately leaves the band to Page.With the lead singer Keith Relf’s alcoholism and the band not having any more hits, as well as with the rise of CREAM and JIMI HENDRIX, soon most of The Yardbirds disappeared, leaving Jimmy Page with the name. To fulfill some contractual commitments,with a new manager PETER GRANT on board, the band hits the road as THE NEW YARDBIRDS.
Page had recruited TERRY REID as vocalist but he, with a new MICKIE MOST contract, could not leave. Reid suggested a friend, ROBERT PLANT who brought along his drummer friend JOHN BONHAM. Page called his studio buddy JOHN PAUL JONES for bass and keyboards and after a short tour of Scandinavia, the NEW YARDBIRDS hit the studio to record what would become LED ZEPPELIN’s debut.
The album is released January 12,1969. Some of the tunes hit the New York FM airwaves before but especially immediately after the band’s now legendary performance as the opening act for IRON BUTTERFLY at FILLMORE EAST January 31 and February 1, 1969. This is Led Zeppelin’s first US tour. My buddy Pete attended one of those shows that weekend. He raved about this new band who blew Iron Butterfly off the stage, leaving Iron Butterfly to play just one song, their hit IN A GADDA DA VIDA, and according to Pete, Led Zeppelin came back out due to the booing of Butterfly and the calls for “MORE” Zeppelin. I have never been able to verify that but Pete said it, so…it must be true.
It is now Memorial Day weekend of 1969, a new beginning for a group of us as we copped tickets (5 bucks each) to see Led Zeppelin at Fillmore East, the early show on a Friday Night of a Holiday Weekend.The crowd outside on line awaiting admittance to the sacred hall was a buzzed. Finally, in and seated, house lights go down and BOOM, Woody Herman’s Big Band was way too cool. Followed by DELANEY,BONNIE and FRIENDS with the beautiful RITA COOLIDGE, oh my. The JOSHUA LIGHT SHOW afforded a great back drop, something that I had never witnessed before. Then, “OHHHHH, I CAN’T QUIT YOU BABE” with a power chord which shook me to the core. This tune followed by Dazed and Confused, White Summer, How Many More Times, a drum solo, and the crowd cheering “MORE,MORE”… The encore was short, yet loud, COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN.(Contrary to any set list including on Zep’s website, the band did not open with THE TRAIN KEPT A ROLLIN’)
(Show #2)August 30,1969@ NYS Pavilion (Former World’s Fair Site
My END OF THE SUMMER celebration show was to finish the season where it started with Led Zeppelin exactly three months to the day of my first experience seeing the band live. Tonight would be LED ZEPPELIN, BUDDY GUY &JR. WELLS and RAVEN (August 30,1969). Originally to be held at The Singer Bowl this show was rescheduled for the opened air, standing room only, former site of New York State Pavilion at The World’s Fair. This night would prove to be a totally different experience for me. Standing Room Only, first come first in, no reserved seating and I was very reluctant. Yet, we got there early enough to be one of the first in line, standing outside prior to opening the doors, hoping to find a viewing spot in front, maybe at mid stage. When the doors opened, we got a spot stage right, in front of where I knew Jimmy Page would stand. RAVEN (not the metal band of years later) was as most opening acts would be, an opening act and forgettable when they finished their set but Buddy Guy/ Jr. Wells was a great addition to the bill. Buddy played angelically, and nasty as sin when need be. At one point a balloon from the audience was bounced to him mid song to which he captured and used as a slide on his guitar. To my amazement the balloon did NOT break. This spot where we were standing became dangerous as LED ZEPPELIN time grew nearer, and more so as the show progressed. About the time they performed MOBY DICK, I had had enough and was up stairs walking around the balcony area having given up our prime location. And yes, this IS the show where Bonzo collapsed on the drums to end the night. The set list was similar to the May show @ Fillmore East. NOTE: My ticket stub is featured on the LED ZEPPELIN website.
October 22,1969 LED ZEPPELIN II is released.
(Show #3)September 19,1970: Led Zeppelin @Madison Square Garden.One year later from when I last saw them and the boys have hit the big time doing an unusual afternooon/ evening performance with one show at 2pm and then another at 8pm. We had four tickets for the 8pm show, where they opened with IMMIGRANT SONG. Geez, the band was so good and getting bigger by the moment. With two albums under their belt, and the third LED ZEPPELIN III to be released a few weeks after this gig.
October 5,1970 LED ZEPPELIN III is released.
(4)September 3,1971: Led Zeppelin @ MSG This was advertised as a “2 and1/2 hour show with no opening act” and became a disaster of an evening almost immediately. SOLD OUT in a matter of hours. The show was marred by a huge protest mob (riot) developing outside due to “overpriced” tickets $5:50 – $7:50. Inside we were treated to a (dangerous) fireworks show as some idiot was tossing M-80’s from the upper balcony toward the ceiling in the Garden, each exploding just before it landed close to those seated below. Then the stage collapsed.Show over, lights on. Didn’t know if I wanted to experience that again.
November 8,1971 LED ZEPPELIN IV is released.
(5)June 15, 1972: Led Zeppelin @ Nassau Coliseum was advertised as a 3 1/2 hour show and as I was still shaking from the MSG fiasco (9/3/71) less than a year ago so I had NO intentions of going to this venue to see Led Zeppelin especially in this new arena which made headlines by have the Nassau PD bust scores of concert goers in the parking lot for drinking (tailgating) and smoking before a GRATEFUL DEAD show only a few weeks before. BUT at the Todd Rundgren show only a few days before, my girlfriend found two tickets for LZ next to the gear box in my VW. Strange as it sounds she did not place the tickets there and to this day I still never found who or why, but we went to the show, with me looking over my shoulder the whole time. (Great review by Robert Christgau in NEWSDAY- see LZ website for setlist and review of this 2 night stand.)
March 28,1973 HOUSES OF THE HOLY is released.
Rolling Stone: Gordon Fletcher (June 7,1973)
For me, Led Zeppelin began as the epitome of everything good about rock: solid guitar work, forceful vocals and rhythmic backing, devotion to primal blues forms, and most of all, thunderous excitement on stage and vinyl. But as superstardom came to them, so too came the gradual evaporation of those qualities from their sound. In the same way that the Rolling Stones evolved into a senior, “safe” bizarro-perversion band, Led Zeppelin has become a senior, “safe” heavy-metal band. But by its very nature safety cannot coexist with heavy-metal fire and macho intensity (or bizarro-perversion, for that matter), which is probably why Houses of the Holy is one of the dullest and most confusing albums I’ve heard this year.
So with that note by Mr. Fletcher for an album released a few weeks before we enter the HOUSES OF THE HOLY aka Madison Square Garden for my sixth time seeing LED ZEPPELIN, who are probably the most popular band in the world at this moment in time.
(6)July 28, 1973 LED ZEPPELIN @ MSG open with ROCK N ROLL and while my handwritten notes in my journal are limited this very performance was filmed for the THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME. However, this is the stop (NYC) on the tour where $203,000.00 was missing from the band’s hotel safe. Also MSG had decided it safer to sell all tickets for the 3 shows via Money Orders sent to the box office(SASE) rather than deal with the nasty crowds at the box office.
(7)February12,1975: LED ZEPPELIN @ MSG Opened with ROCK AND ROLL, No QUARTER, SONG REMAINS THE SAME,DAZED AND CONFUSED, STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN,MOBY DICK, WHOLE LOTTA LOVE, BLACK DOG, HEARTBREAKER
February 24,1975 PHYSICAL GRAFFITI is released.
March 31,1976 PRESENCE is released.
October 1976 THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME is released.
(8)JUNE 14,1977: LED ZEPPELIN (8th and my last time)@ MSG The NY radio station WPLJ gave away LED ZEPPELIN buttons celebrating the bands six (6) sold out shows.This will be a 3 hour extravaganza when it starts as we were delayed an hour before the band took the stage. In total they played 18 songs opening with THE SONG REMAINS THE SAME, had an acoustic set thrown in for good measure, the obligatory Moby Dick, Jimmy Page violin solo, Achilles Last Stand, Stairway to Heaven, Whole Lotta Love and closed out with Rock and Roll. This was the last US tour for the original foursome.
September 25,1980 Drummer John Bonham dies.
No matter how many rumors hit the streets, no matter how many times it might be said that LED ZEPPELIN is reuniting, I can’t or won’t go see that band. John Paul, Robert, and Jimmy playing with PHIL COLLINS hurts my ears, and Bonham,Jr… well no thanks. RIP Led Zeppelin and thanks for the memories.
TICKETS TORN IN HALF July 14, 1974 ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND@ Nassau COLISEUM- In my opinion not really a good time musically for the ABB but they are a huge draw and the crowd goes nuts with each tune. It will be awhile before I see them again, if I ever do.(But I do).
TICKETS TORN IN HALF July 14, 1984: SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES @ Beacon “Hyaena Tour”. This really was a trip as I did not know what to expect and was amazed at how good they were. Opened with DAZZLE, played CHRISTINE, ARABIAN KNIGHTS and encored with HELTER SKELTER.
TICKETS TORN IN HALF July 14, 2005:LUCINDA WILLIAMS @ Beacon. w/ ELVIS COSTELLO I gave my friend a copy of “Car Wheels On A Gravel Road” and he was hooked. “We”, he said, needed to see LUCINDA WILLIAMS, so here we are in the BEACON, loge of course, very near to my ABB seats.
She opens with “Ventura” and slowly has the band come out to join her…and later ELVIS COSTELLO joins the festivities.
VENTURA
FRUITS OF MY LABOR
HOW TO LIVE
DRUNKEN ANGEL
CAR WHEELS ON A GRAVEL ROAD
I LOST IT
REAL LOVE
WHAT IF
OUT OF TOUCH
RIGHTEOUSLY
CHANGED THE LOCKS w/ Elvis Costello(guitar/vocals)
COME ON
ESSENCE
REAL LIVE BLEEDING FINGERS
KNOWING
JAIL HOUSE TEARS w/ Elvis Costello (guitar/vocals)
intuneandintime 