Well I just returned to NYC from Las Vegas (my former home). It was my first trip back there since the winter time, and I had a blast at the Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend.

For those who don't know, rockabilies are basically people like the ones in the movie Swingers. The trend is not very big here in NYC, but there is a whole faction of these 50s-style hipsters in places like Los Angeles (are there other places that are anything like Los Angeles???) and Florida. Every year, they get together for their big convention in Las Vegas, and this year I was invited to attend.

I am a former Buddy Holly impersonator, for those who don't know. I toured the nation playing hits like "Peggy Sue" and "Maybe Baby" for many years prior to my discovery of my love for stand-up comedy. My first impression upon arriving at the VLVRW was that most of the people there looked like the chorus of the show I know well. It was nostalgaic and cool, like stepping into another world and another time.

The music was amazing! One of the best guitarists I have ever heard, some guy called Crazy Joe, was the highlight. There were also bands like The Buzzards, The Crop Tops and Deke Dickerson. Everybody seemed to close with a Stray Cats cover, which was fine by me.

One thing I noticed is that rockabilly seems to be a fashion more than a lifestyle. Most of these people are just like you and me except they have sideburns and pompadours. I was honestly a little disappointed that nobody called me daddy-o or even a square! It seems more a clothing choice than a lifestyle but it is fun to be around all these Grease extras just the same.

Rockabilly girls are hot, with their high heels, taffeta dresses, and glamorous makeup. And almost all of them had tatoos, which was clearly un-fifties. A little less Donna Reed and a little more Suicide Girls. My heart was racing :)

All in all, it was a great peek into a huge West Coast subculture replete with tailfins and cigarette holders. Here's hoping that tight fuzzy sweaters make a serious comeback here in New York soon!

Also, I won $900 playing poker. When I am in Vegas I always play at The Palms. Tell them I sent you ;)