I have seen a lot of groups, and the Ides of March were no doubt among the worst of the worst. Thanks for reminding me of their existence.
We saw Styx last Saturday and while JY’s voice has held up, Tommy Shaw’s is incredible. He looks and sounds 44, not 64. We were in the second row and danced for most of the concert, like everyone else.
I’m always amazed at any musician who can go on stage year after year and perform well. It’s got to suck. But some of them can still pull it off.
I just went to a Tony Bennett concert. He brought a nice jazz band with him along with his daughter who is a singer. He did a darn good job for being 92 years old. he knew his limits and played to them. It was an enjoyable evening that I would describe as a giant musical hug.
If you don’t enjoy playing music anymore it’s not a crime to move on to other things.
If you’re burned out and not living in your car then find something that fulfills your life.
Attended a SF Bay Area art festival this past weekend, and Eric Burdon and the Animals played a 1-hour set. (Free with admission to the festival. Crowd was probably 85% AARP-eligible.) The backing band was solid - I doubt it included any other original Animals, but who knows? On the other hand, Burdon can’t sing a tune to save his life any more. The guy is 77, so I’d like to cut him some slack. But he shouldn’t be out there any more. I left after about two numbers.
Despite Burdon’s troubles, much of the crowd seemed to be having a ball - singing along and dancing in the aisles.
If Paul Young can go out there and stink it up, but audiences with little expectations beyond reliving their youth enjoy themselves anyways, then maybe it’s OK?.. Nah, I don’t think so.