Jeff Beck up close and personal.

Wow, I just got in from one of the most incredible evenings seeing Jeff Beck up close and personal from row 16.  As many of you know I seriously dig my rock and roll music.  As a matter of fact a trip to New York a few years ago The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame concerts got me started on my blogging hobby.

Jeff Beck in Winnipeg

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Night Two

Visibly worn down and physically exhausted from everything we had experienced so far in New York, Dar and I treated ourselves to a short nap before heading out to the second night of incredible music.

The walk to Madison Square Garden seemed shorter this time our tired feet almost seemed to know the way.  Perhaps tonight’s performance would be shorter than the marathon 6 hours of music we had rocked to the night before.

The event started out in familiar fashion, Tom Hanks addressing the crowd bringing out the still incredible Jerry Lee Lewis to open the show once again.  The elderly rascal belted out Great Balls of Fire in classic form.  Even going so far as to kick over his piano bench in a display of youthful enthusiasm.

Next up a red clad Aretha Franklin, took the stage with polished precision.
She rolled though a series of show tunes and a tribute to Atlantic Records co-founder Ahmet Ertegun, before bringing out her first guest of the evening.  Annie Lennox, bravely showing her support for Aids research wearing a black Tee emblazoned with the slogan “HIV Positive”.

Annie Lennox joins Aretha Franklin

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Night One..Part 2

After Simon and Garfunkel finished taking the audience on a whirlwind trip back in time another short break was required to prepare for the next act.

Stevie Wonder, was led to his electric piano to a welcoming applause, the house lights dimmed and his backing band filed in behind. Everyone was ready for a rocking ride on the soul train.  Stevie assumed his standard pose behind the keys rocking rhythmically, apparently to himself.  Something had gone terribly wrong the man had no sound!  Time Passed as techs raced around the stage checking cables.  Stevie, visibly agitated, began tapping his mike listening for any hint of sound.

After what seemed like an eternity, Stevie’s Piano came to life.  He smiled as he brought the mike to his face.  “Aw Shit, Stuff Happens” he pronounced, his backing band still without power.  So being the true showman that he is, he starts in to Blowing in the Wind with what little back up he has.

Stevie Wonder with No Sound