I think you can learn a lot about someone from the music they like. Music often serves as a soundtrack to our lives, capturing our emotions and memories in profound ways. With some help, I’m able to recall the live concerts I attended, each one a unique experience that contributed to my love for different genres and artists. Here is a list of my concerts in some chronological order, accompanied by cherished memories of each event. From the electrifying energy of the crowd to the emotional connections forged through shared lyrics, each concert experience is a snapshot of a moment in time that resonates deeply within me.
Dave Brubeck performed at the Rheingold Music Festival at Wollman Rink starting in the Summer of 1966. I remember being there alone, surrounded by the vibrant sounds of jazz echoing through the open air. I think I just walked into the venue at Central Park, where the warm breeze mingled with the soft melodies. I wasn’t necessarily a fan, yet I’d have heard of him and his music; his name was synonymous with innovation in jazz. It was enchanting to see him in person, watching as his fingers danced effortlessly over the piano keys, creating rhythms that seemed to weave stories of their own. The ambiance was electric, with fellow attendees swaying to the music, and I found myself caught up in the moment. It was great to experience it live, feeling the artistry and passion that flowed through Dave Brubeck’s performance, leaving a lasting impression on my memory.
I thought this was my first concert until I traveled in the “way back” machine to remember Dave Brubeck. Simon and Garfunkel performed at Fordham University, for Homecoming Weekend in 1966 and 1967. Both concerts took place at the Rose Hill Gymnasium in the Bronx, a venue brimming with energy and excitement as fans gathered to experience the magic of live music. I believe I was there in 1967. I had good tickets, close to the stage, which allowed me to soak in every moment of the performance. I remember I had to look up to see them perform, completely captivated by their harmonies and the way they connected with the audience. My date was Iris (Somebody), a woman I met at school, and it was thrilling to share this experience with her. I think that was the only date we had, a bittersweet realization given the electric atmosphere we shared that night. The other thing I remembered was I took the subway, 1.5 hours to pick her up, nerves and excitement bubbling as I navigated the city. Another 1.5 hours to the concert, filled with anticipation as the rhythm of the train mirrored my racing heartbeat. Then another 1.5 hours to bring her home and another 1.5 hours for me to get home. That still remains the longest concert date to date, a memorable adventure filled with musical magic and the thrill of youthful romance, etched in my memory forever.
The Night Owl was a vibrant nightclub nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, renowned for its eclectic atmosphere and lively performances. I only mention it because the Lovin’ Spoonful played there in their heyday, captivating audiences with their infectious melodies and unique sound. I did not see them in person, but their music resonated deeply with me, and I was an ardent fan who often played their records at home while dreaming of the lively scene at the club. I remember the night vividly when I bought my first cocktail; the air was thick with anticipation as I approached the bar. With a mixture of excitement and nerves, I ordered a Rum and Coke, watching the bartender expertly mix my drink while I soaked in the vibrant ambiance, surrounded by laughter and the enthralling sound of music flowing through the crowd.
Another almost concert was Woodstock. I was about 3-4 miles away at the Ten Mile River Boy Scout Camp in 1969, where the atmosphere was charged with excitement as music wafted through the air. I couldn’t hear the sounds of bands playing, and only imagined the energy of the crowd was palpable even from a distance. The camp was filled with a few older scouts discussing the legendary festival, sharing stories of the artists that were performing, and dreaming of the day they would join such an iconic event. The excitement and anticipation hung thick in the air, making it a memorable summer that I would reflect on for years to come.
The next 20 years were concert dry, a stark contrast to the vibrant music scene of the past. I had the unforgettable opportunity to see Fats Domino and Jerry Lee Lewis in 1986 at the Seattle Bumbershoot Festival, an experience that would remain etched in my memory forever. I vividly remember that Fats would bump the piano he was playing with his belly, showcasing his playful personality as he effortlessly moved it across the stage, captivating the audience with his spirited performance. It was very funny and brought smiles all around. Jerry, on the other hand, was a whirlwind of energy and talent! His wild antics on stage electrified the crowd, and I found myself completely entranced by his dynamic presence and the raw passion he poured into every note he played. Those moments were a testament to the power of live music, reminding us of the joy and excitement it brings to our lives.
The Rascals, Roger Miller, and The Beach Boys all graced the stages at Washington’s State Fairs in the 1990s, creating unforgettable memories for attendees. I had the unique opportunity to see them perform multiple times during that summer because I worked as a vendor at the fairs that year. The atmosphere was always electric, filled with enthusiastic fans who came to enjoy not only the music but also the variety of attractions and rides. Each performance brought a mix of nostalgia and excitement, and I remember the harmonious sounds of The Beach Boys perfectly blending with the warm summer evenings, while Roger Miller’s charismatic storytelling charmed the audience. The Rascals, with their energetic performances, added to the vibrant tapestry of entertainment that had visitors dancing and singing along.
Bette Midler’s concert at the Tacoma Dome in 1994 was another highlight. She truly lived up to her nickname “Divine,” delivering a spectacular performance that showcased her incredible vocal talent and engaging stage presence. Her ability to connect with the audience was captivating; every song was an experience, with her mix of humor, heart, and heartfelt ballads. The atmosphere inside the dome was lively, filled with laughter and applause as she took the crowd on an emotional journey through her greatest hits. It was a night to remember, full of joy and artistry that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be in attendance.
In 2002, Paul McCartney came to Tacoma, a city that was buzzing with excitement for his arrival. The concert on October 19, 2002, was not just another event; it was part of his legendary Driving World Tour, which featured an electrifying 35-song set that captivated over 16,000 fans. The atmosphere was palpable, filled with the energy of longtime fans and new admirers alike, all eager to witness the magic of a true musical icon. That was really a great show, filled with nostalgia and emotion. I’ve always loved the Beatles, even though there was only one of original group, their legacy continues to live on through artists like Paul. Memories of my youth are intertwined with their melodies; I remember sitting in my room, absorbing every note and lyric. Remember, I grew up with the Beatles, their music was the soundtrack of my childhood. I did my homework to their music, finding solace and inspiration in their harmonies. The early songs are burned into my memory and will always stick with me, evoking feelings of joy, rebellion, and youthful dreams every time I hear them.
The following are concerts I attended with Anne since 2015, in no particular order.
Andrea Bocelli has an angelic voice, one that can evoke deep emotions and transport listeners to a place of calm and serenity. His ability to blend classical and pop elements in his music creates a unique listening experience that resonates with fans around the world. Each note he sings seems to carry a piece of his soul, making his performances truly unforgettable.
In contrast, when Chicago was performing outside at the St Michelle Winery, the atmosphere presented a different challenge. While the beautiful scenery and ambiance of the winery set an idyllic backdrop, the acoustics proved to be a significant hurdle. The band struggled with the sound quality; the horns, typically robust and vibrant, came across as flat in such an open space. The essence of their music, which usually fills an indoor arena with energy and excitement, was lost to the inadequacies of the outdoor setting. It was clear that without the supportive walls of a concert hall, their powerful sound could not reach its full potential.
On another occasion, Mary Wilson of Heart was gracing the stage at the Snoqualmie Casino outdoors. With her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, she brought a different energy to the outdoor concert. Her musical journey has spanned decades, and her ability to engage the audience with heartfelt songs and stories made for a memorable performance. The beauty of the Snoqualmie area added to the experience, with nature serving as a magnificent backdrop. While the acoustic challenges might have been present, the spirit and passion that Wilson brought to her music shone through, captivating everyone in attendance.
Lionel Richie was also outdoors at Marymoor Park, delivering an unforgettable performance that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. His ability to connect with the audience is remarkable, and he showcased a mix of his classic hits along with some of his newer tracks. People were up on their feet, swaying to the rhythm, and by the end of the concert, we found ourselves dancing joyfully under the stars. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and nostalgia as Richie brought his signature style to the stage.
Meanwhile, Billy Joel’s concert at Safeco Field, now known as T-Mobile Park, was an experience like no other. The venue, typically home to the Seattle Mariners, transformed into a vibrant musical hub. I was astonished at how loud it was — it felt as if the sound waves were engulfing the entire area. My daughter Andrea and her husband were seated way up in the nosebleed section, and even there, the music resonated powerfully, which made conversations challenging. Despite the volume, the energy from the crowd was contagious, and everyone around us was singing along to their favorite songs, creating an electrifying ambiance.
The Eagles also graced the stage at T-Mobile Park, bringing their signature harmonies and timeless music to life. One of the highlights of the evening was witnessing Glenn Frey’s son, Deacon, performing alongside the band. He infused a new energy into the classics, and it was a heartwarming moment for many fans. The audience couldn’t help but join in, belting out lyrics that have defined generations, making it a night filled with camaraderie and shared memories through music. The blend of great tunes, lively performances, and an engaged audience truly made these concerts unforgettable events in Seattle’s vibrant music scene.
The Queen concert was the best I had ever seen. I had never been a Queen fan before the “Bohemian Rhapsody” movie, but that film truly changed my perspective on their music. They had been immensely popular during the mid-70s when I was busy with my own life, being married with children. My attention was focused on my cherished vinyl LPs of 50s and 60s music, and the Golden Oldies music that played on our local radio station. Unfortunately, I didn’t pay much attention to “new” music at the time, a shortcoming I now recognize.
As for Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, they held a special place in my heart. Songs like “Still The Same” and, of course, “Old Time Rock and Roll,” were staples that I enjoyed. In fact, “Old Time Rock and Roll” is so iconic to me that it is set as the ringtone on my phone. Over the years, I was fortunate enough to be gifted several of his cassette tapes, and this introduced me to more of his work, which I quickly learned to appreciate.
Fleetwood Mac was another group that I found myself enjoying quite a bit. Their harmonies and instrumentation brought a unique sound that resonated with many, including myself.
Neil Diamond, with his legendary voice that still captivated audiences, performed at one of the concerts I attended. He moved slowly around the stage, embodying the elderly gentleman he had become, but he still closed the show powerfully with “Sweet Caroline,” bringing the crowd to life.
Ringo Starr, of course, added to the memories I cherish. Being a member of The Beatles granted him a certain timeless appeal. I thoroughly loved his show, reveling in how his music still manages to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy.
Elton John is another musical icon I had the pleasure of seeing perform live in Portland. While the show was great and filled with excitement, I felt that the orchestration was just a touch too loud for my liking. For Sir Elton, the magic truly lies in his voice and piano skills, but on that night, the balance seemed off, and I craved more of his piano melodies.
You might think that attending a Lady Gaga concert would have updated my music tastes, but you would be mistaken. While I appreciate hits like “Poker Face,” during her show, she chose to perform 40s standards. We saw her in Las Vegas with friends, and her tickets, though quite costly, ended up being worth every penny for the experience.
Another memorable concert was the Beach Boys at the Washington State Fair, which I enjoyed alongside my sister Janet and her husband Richard. It was yet another fun evening filled with nostalgic sing-alongs that brought smiles and laughter. Following that concert, we took a cruise to Alaska, which added another layer of joy to those already memorable moments.
Throughout this musical journey, I’ve also enjoyed many symphony performances and attended around six operas. Although I didn’t experience the operas in person, I want to mention the operas since I partook in Saturday morning live simulcasts with The Met from New York City at our local movie theater. Those experiences served as a fantastic gateway into the world of live performances, allowing me to appreciate the artistry and talent of opera singers and orchestras alike.
Well, that’s me musically. My tastes span a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and indie music, which reflects my appreciation for diverse sounds and lyrical storytelling. There’s something magical about experiencing live music—the energy of the crowd, the atmosphere, and the sheer talent of the artists truly bring songs to life in a way that recorded music can’t replicate.
Have you seen any of these artists in concert? Each performance offers a unique experience, with artists often playing different setlists and connecting with their audience in personal and unforgettable ways.
What would be your concert list? Or your bucket list concert? This is such a fun topic to dive into; I’d love to hear what artists you dream of seeing live!
