One Night of Queen Rocks Atlanta

On the April 30, 2011 the UK’s hottest and most successful rock show ‘One Night of Queen’ which celebrates the music of Freddie Mercury and Queen is coming to the Cobb Energy Centre.

In 1985 following their appearance on Live Aid, Queen were Internationally acclaimed as the best live band on Earth with Freddie Mercury as the greatest live performer of his generation. Few performers could ever hope to match his unique talent.

Since winning ITV’s ‘Stars in their Eyes’ Gary Mullen has been recognized world-wide as the closest thing to Freddie. His voice, persona and portrayal send a shiver down your spine and leaves your hairs standing on end. He and his band ‘The Works’ recreate the excitement and atmosphere of a live Queen concert to unmatched perfection.

Nine years of touring has seen One Night of Queen build a reputation for regularly selling out large theatres and concert halls, across the UK, Europe and the World!

In the USA alone they sold over 150,000 tickets over 3 tours (2008, 2009 & 2010) where they sold out in more than 125 cities. Demand is such that they are already scheduled to return in 2011 to conquer even more states and cities over a 10 week, 50 date tour period.

One Night of Queen returned to Hyde Park ‘BBC Proms in the Park’ in September 2009 for the second time. This follows their 2005 appearance where they shared the stage with Andrea Bocelli, G4 and Simply Red. Being described as “the highlight of the day” and receiving rapturous applause from 45,000 fans, cemented One Night of Queen’s reputation as being “much more than a tribute”.

“Mullen brought legendary Queen front man Freddie Mercury back to life in a two-hour energy-filled concert that had toddlers to grandparents dancing in the aisles.” The Salt Lake Tribune

“We’ve seen a lot of Tribute bands in our lives, but nothing that in any way, shape or form, comes close to One Night Of Queen!” Out On The Town magazine, Pennsylvania

The show features fantastic hits such as ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘We Are The Champions’, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Radio GaGa’, ‘It’s A Kind Of Magic’ and many more.

This is your chance to see this phenomenal live concert.

If you like hot rock you’ll love ‘One Night of Queen’.
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Georgia Boy Choir Auditions Now Being Held

I received a press notice from the Georgia Boy Choir saying they're holding auditions. They sent a pdf file, which means I have to re-type it and I'm just basically lazy so I thought I'd write a short blog instead. Yep, I prefer to copy and paste, so shoot me.

It's for boys 5 to 12. I can see from reading the pdf that there are a lot of great benefits and opportunities. I'll let you go to the web page to read about them... The phone number for more info is 404-402-4083, the web address is...well, it's not on the pdf. Huh. Let's see if the 'register here' button works... yup, it works. It took me to www.georgiaboychoir.org/audition (no S after boy).

I've heard the Georgia Boy Choir and they are fabulous. If you have a boy in the age bracket who has a voice that more than just Mom thinks is good, give it a shot.

Here's a sampling:

Joe Bonamassa LIVE in Columbus, GA Nov 27

Joe Bonamassa (@jbonamassa on Twitter) is going to be at the River Center for the Performing Arts in Columbus, Georgia on November 27th. It is going to be a fantastically phenomenal concert... and I'm gonna be there!



Joe has been playing and touring professionally since he was a baby! His first tour was with B.B. King!!! I can't begin to imagine what it must have been like. Here's a snippet from his "about" page:

"A child prodigy, Bonamassa was finessing Stevie Ray Vaughan licks when he was seven and by the time he was ten, had caught B.B. King’s ear. After first hearing him play, King said, “This kid’s potential is unbelievable. He hasn’t even begun to scratch the surface. He’s one of a kind.” By age 12, Bonamassa was opening shows for the blues icon and went on to tour with venerable acts including Buddy Guy, Foreigner, Robert Cray, Stephen Stills, Joe Cocker and Gregg Allman."

I love his music! Here's a link to his website so you can grab your own tickets: http://jbonamassa.com/

This is one of my favorites on his new release, Black Rock:


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www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com

Wow, Handel's Messiah ROCKS!

...and it's going to rock out at the Fabulous Fox Theatre! I was just over on YouTube listening to a few clips and it's great. I was amazed at how they've taken this well-known classical oratorio and turned it into a fun concert that any age or music-type lover can enjoy. I think hearing Handel performed in a rock version is going to give some people who yawn at classical music a better appreciation. They definitely won't be yawning at this show!

Here's a sampling from a performance from a while back --- these might not be the same performers that they'll have at "our" Fox show, but it'll be just as good if not better!



Classic Music Meets Classic Rock: Handel’s Messiah Rocks @ Fox Theatre One Night Only: Sunday, Nov 21

“We are delighted to bring a glorious night of music to the Fabulous Fox Theatre with Handel’s Messiah Rocks on Sunday, November 21 at 7 pm,” states Christopher B. Manos, Producer of Theater of the Stars. “This groundbreaking musical event blends classical music with classic rock and breathes new life into George Fredrick Handel’s most performed oratorio. It is sure to be an unforgettable evening! Tickets are on sale NOW at Ticketmaster outlets, the Fox Theatre Box Office, by calling 800-982-2787, or online at www.ticketmaster.com.  And there are special group rates available through Fox Theatre... More

Ian McFeron and Alisa Milner Live at Java Monkey Nov 10

Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 – 8:00 pm (Free!)
Java Monkey, 205 East Ponce De Leon Avenue, Decatur, GA 30030 - (404) 378-1852

Seattle-based, singer/songwriter Ian McFeron has big plans for 2010. This year he is slated to perform over 200 shows, all while functioning as his own, independent record label, booking agency, and management company.

“The music industry and the economy at large are facing a lot of challenges right now and there is a lot of speculation about when things are going to turn around, and what that will look like. It’s left a lot of people in limbo, wondering which way to go. I figure that’s a good time for musicians to get back to basics and do what they’ve always done: travel the nation, inspire listeners, and build community.”

The age of digital sharing and declining music sales has been coupled with a receding global economy, hitting independents particularly hard as the middle class budget crunch leaves less disposable income for entertainment.

“You see a lot more people coming up in groups to buy cds, pitching in a couple bucks each to buy one album and then pass it around digitally. You hear a lot of the clubs say their attendance is down 30% or more.”

But when times get tough, musicians have always relied on their creativity to find opportunities in the midst of adversity.

“I know some folks that are excited about building an online presence through social networking; others talk about publishing revenue from the growing number of web stream music sites and how to get a buzz on YouTube. For me, music has always been about community and there’s no substitute for in the flesh live performance. I’ve always found that if I take the risk and get out there, if I play with sincerity and sing from the heart, the money works itself out somehow. If you can create those spiritual moments of intimacy with the audience they’ll encourage you to come back.”

With his first national tour under his belt, a full schedule of summer concerts and festivals, and another run of the nation planned this fall, McFeron estimates he will perform over 200 shows in 2010.

“There is something very blue-collar about being an independent touring musician, and that has always been comforting to me for some reason. I have a friend whose parents have a family farm outside Boise, Idaho, and talking with them I’m always surprised by how many parallels there are between what we do and what they do. When we break new ground in new parts of the country, I always feel like we’re out there sowing seeds, getting our roots going and nurturing strong, healthy stalks. And if we’re successful in doing that, we can come back through and reap the harvest. But you don’t get to escape the first part- you have to put your time in and take the risks and pour your heart into it first. Real success always follows some passionate gamble, I think.”

Ian McFeron takes the stage at Java Monkey on Wednesday, November 10th at 8:00pm, joined by long time musical partner Alisa Milner, a Texas-style fiddler, cellist, and harmony vocalist.

"Ian McFeron plays an earthy yet sophisticated blend of folk, rock, alternative-country and blues that belies the band's youthfulness. And it's danceable, too.” - Gene Stout, Seattle Music Critic
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Arts Across Georgia
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com

Joe Bonamassa with Eric Clapton, Further on up the Road, Royal Albert Hall

I tweeted this a little earlier, sorry to those who're seeing it twice (although it's worth seeing a hundred times!). Wanted to post on my blog... which feeds to Twitter... which then feeds to Facebook. So you're all going to double-dip. Wonder if there's a way to turn off the feed selectively on here? Hmmm... I'm not seeing anything in the post options. Guess if I remember I'll send a suggestion to blogger. I have the ability to turn it off and on in Twitter and Blip.

Enjoy Joe Bonamassa with Clapton. Quite a combo.

The Buckhead Theatre Presents Macy Gray

Grammy award winning, multi-platinum artist, Macy Gray will grace the stage of the Buckhead Theatre Wednesday, October 27th. For over a decade Gray has parlayed her utterly unique voice into R&B stardom offering a fresh alternative to mainstream soul. Gray’s most recent album, The Sellout, is her first album released in three years and proves that she hasn’t missed a beat. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Rd
Atlanta, GA 30305
www.thebuckheadtheatre.com

General Info: 404-THE-BUCK
Box Office: 404-981-6168

When: Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Time: Doors open at 8:00 pm
Cost: $26 General Admission in advance
Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com
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www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
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Review: The Rat Pack is Back at The Fred

Last night I went to see the Rat Pack is Back at the Frederick Brown Jr Amphitheater (The Fred) in Peachtree City, GA. The Rat Pack was the name given to the early 60's era singer/actors Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammie Davis Jr, Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop. The combo wowed the entertainment world and took Las Vegas by storm.


I missed the generation that was treated to the Rat Pack's music while live. I don't think there's a person alive who listens to music or watches TV who isn't familiar with the music though.

The show was fun. They came with a small "orchestra" that was excellent! Peter Lawford was mentioned, along with a few other 'names' from their heyday, but he wasn't in attendance! After reading a bit of the history of the Rat Pack, I can understand why he isn't a part of the show.

I asked some of the people who attended whether the Frank, Dino, Sammie and Joey captured the mannerisms, the tone, the music of the shows... and got a resounding affirmative from all. Some in the audience showed up wearing their Frank Sinatra hats. Most knew the songs well enough to sing them word-for-word. Those I talked with who didn't grow up in that era, and there were more than I expected, said they got a kick out of watching, had fun, enjoyed or expressed similar sentiments.

I got a kick out of the jokes and interplay between all of those on stage. I haven't seen that kind of engagement at any concert I've attended. Sure, the musicians sometimes share tales or tell a joke or two, but it's not the same as having four "huge" stars doing a show together, ad-libbing, engaging the audience, the way the Rat Pack did. How's that for nostalgia for something I've never experienced?

Although all were good singers, the best of the bunch, in my humble estimation, was Nicholas Brooks playing Sammie Davis Jr. Bobby Mayo get's my award for looking the most like his character, Dean Martin. Mickey Joseph as Joey Bishop was a great 'Joey'. He was funny, could sing, and handled the role perfectly. I have to admit, I don't think I've ever seen Joey Bishop on TV, so when I say 'perfectly' it just means I thought he was great whether he captured Bishop correctly or not.

What can I say about Lee Lankhorst as Frank Sinatra? Given an impossible task, he did it well! There are some 'stars' that we know so well that no matter how well you mimic their style, mannerisms or music, it won't be the same. Lankhorst caught the flavor, he has a "Frank" voice and I enjoyed his 'act'.

The Rat Pack is Back re-created an era of Las Vegas style show that I doubt we'll ever see again. It's a great trip down memory lane for those who were a part of the Rat Pack era and an excellent re-enactment for those of us who've only heard about it.

I had a hard time trying to find the names of the guys who played the different characters. I gather they change at times based on watching a few clips I found on their Facebook page, the Internet. It's possible there's a touring group and a Las Vegas group --- when I went to their website it shows them in Las Vegas now, not on tour. With those disclaimers on record: I'm not 100% sure that these are the names of the four I saw last night, but I'm sure someone will set me straight if I'm wrong: 

Frank Sinatra - Les Lankhorst
Dean Martin - Bobby Mayo Jr
Sammie Davis Jr - Nicholas Brooks
Joey Bishop - Mickey Joseph

More info: http://www.ratpackisback.com/

Joe Satriani (@chickenfootjoe) Coming to Center Stage Atlanta! (@centerstageatl)

I was just over checking out Joe Satriani's website and, of course, pulled up tour dates to see when he'll next be in Atlanta. He's going to be at Center Stage December 1st. Now, I know it's early, but friends, if you really love me, like me, you'll think about the fact that the date makes it a perfect Christmas gift (hint, hint, HINT).

Satriani has got to be one of the best guitar wizards ever! I can still remember the first time I heard "The Crush of Love". I was hooked forever. I immediately went out and bought the CD, and a few others.

Here's a link to ticket sales on his site: http://www.satriani.com/road/ He'll be on tour, so even if you're not in the Atlanta area I'd bet you'll find a concert in your area. Remember, concert tickets make a great Christmas present, especially since you can give them early and earn extra brownie points.

Don't miss out on visiting the home page just 'cause I sent you to a sub-page first. Very cool home page. Yep, I'm easily entertained... give me good music and something fun to look at and ya got me.

Satriani has a new CD coming out soon, Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards. Just the title alone makes me want it! Here's a link if you'd like to take a listen and / or buy: http://www.sonymusicdigital.com/joe-satriani/details/5602126.

And, just in case you've never listened to Joe Satriani, here's another of my favorites (I have a ton of them -- come visit with me on Blip.fm if you want to hear more of the tunes I like to blip).

Saw the coolest thing at The Fox Theatre Friday night...

I'd almost forgotten about this somehow. It popped back into my head as I was typing a tweet about today being the last chance to see RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in Atlanta. Hope that's the correct title of the show, I'm doing a quick run-by blog and don't have time to go all factual on you...

Anyway, the cool thing at the Fox Friday night --- I was waiting for my co-workers in front of the theater before going inside. Someone, and I missed who it was, handed the guy who stands out front greeting guests, opening doors, etc. two tickets and said he (or she) couldn't make the concert and they wanted him to give them away.

Wow. You know they could have stood there and sold the tickets to someone, I saw some hawkers doing that down the way. They could have made their money back at a minimum. But nope, they wanted to give them away. I suppose it's possible they were in a hurry and couldn't stand there, but they took the time to come to the theater to hand them to someone who'd give them away. Nice.

I was there long enough to see them given to a couple who really, truly appreciated the gift. I know they had a fantastic time. Everyone who saw RAIN seemed to have a great time.

One other time I was at a play, forget which one, and a girl came in at the last minute to take the seat next to me. She and I chatted while waiting for the show to start. She was SO excited. She'd wanted to see the play forever but couldn't really afford to see it. She'd saved up her pennies and had enough to buy one of the cheapest seats so made a last minute decision to bite the bullet and spend money. While she was standing in line a lady came up to her and asked if she'd like to have her ticket. It was a GOOD seat, in fact, one of the highest priced tickets. She was so thankful. Her appreciation and the kindness of the anonymous ticket-giver made me appreciate the play more than I normally would have.

Nice people go to the theater!