Since I haven't blogged in eons, here's one for the end of the year.
Concert going has been a favorite past time activity. I'm sure there are more in my future, but I wanted to point out a few that have left me with great memories for various reasons.

Sade (Sept 2001) ~ This is an artist who creates new music whenever she feels like it. At this point it's like once a decade. She's one of my top 5 all-time favorite artists, so I was determined to see her at least once in my lifetime. She toured in support of the last release Lovers Rock. It was definitely romantic, low key, visually stunning, and she sounded pretty much just like her does on cd. It was worth the wait.


Duran Duran (Sept 2003) ~ The original fab five together again, which I honestly didn't think would ever happen. The show was in SF at Golden Gate Park on an unusually hot 94 degrees day. Hearing hits like Notorious, Wild Boys and surprises like New Religion and finding solace in reliving my teens that afternoon was overwhelming. I left GGP burnt, hoarse, and on a high that I never wanted to end.


Third Eye Blind (March 1999) ~ It was more than just two nights of concerts, which was a first; it was more like an event. Meeting fans from online, hearing a great show while being close to the stage, and topping it off with meeting the band afterwards, and all the memories. It was the beginning of my foray into going to multiple shows, traveling out-of-state to shows, and semi-groupiedom.


George Michael (June 2008) ~ Who would have thought he would ever tour again? Well 19 years later and he did. The entire show including the stage layout exceeded my expectations. The band was strategically located on three levels of scaffolding. They were off the hook. He even performed a few Wham songs like my fave "Everything She Wants." I was clapping and dancing throughout, even in my seat in the beginning, but once he started performing Wham, I was on my feet, I was done with being considerate of the sitters.


Stevie Wonder (July 2008) ~ What can I say, He's a legend! His music was a big part of my upbringing. I missed him when he had toured the year before, and pretty much kicked myself. This time I was determined to see him. He covered all the hits, just think of them and yes he played them. I already had an idea about the setlist, but was pleasantly surprised when he played "Creepin," which was on my wish list. He knows how to interact with the audience and clowns around a bit. It was just a fun time, and a pretty jam-packed show.


Hall & Oates (Sept 2007) ~ About 25 songs including two encores and ending with "Private Eyes," made it one of the most satisfying shows I've ever seen. Blue-eyed soul like theirs shouldn't be missed. It was a fun and solid show throughout. The crowd also made the show even though it was much older than what I'm used to be in. They didn't stay in their seats too long.


Maxwell (1999) ~ I love me some Maxwell, musically speaking. He blew me away when he came on the scene. I saw him on my birthday for the first time, and the best way I could describe the experience is that it was ethereal, almost like dream. He can sing the alphabet and I would watch. Only unfortunate experience was getting my camera taken away for half of the show and not being able to take as many pictures as I would have liked.


Prince (2005) ~ He doesn't have to release a new album, but I'm glad he does more than others on my list. When Prince performs, you know you are seeing musical royalty. He may be cutting back on the splits, and some fans are mad that he doesn't cuss anymore, but his guitar work is worth the admission alone. Our Purple highness continues to reign in rock 'n roll. He's easily a must-see before you go.


New Edition (July 2006) ~ Actually they were one of the first concerts I saw back the 80's. Even though this was my 3rd time seeing them, the memories are tied more to this show. Hearing the hits as NE, BBD, and the solo efforts of Ralph and Johnny made the concert complete. They may be slowing down a little bit, but their choreographed dances are still great.


Earth Wind & Fire (1999) ~ For sentimental reasons this concert is included. It was the only concert I saw with both parents. I was pretty much weaned on their music, and they were a huge part of my childhood.