2003 U.S. Tour ~ May 30, 2002 - July 5, 2003
Christian Kuschel from Germany sent in this great photograph of Dan at the Murat Theater in
Indianapolis, Indianna -- a perfect match for Jeff Kirk's photos, below. Click on the photograph
to see a larger version. Click HERE to see another great picture taken by Christian!
Photographs ©2003 Christian Kuschel
Wednesday, August 20th, 2003
Cindy from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has submitted her review of the taped concert in Chicago!
"Here is my feeble attempt at describing the awesome experience in Chicago:
8-8-03 early in the morning
I love this moment, the one where the smile can't be wiped off, as another adventure awaits. It follows mass quantities of Seattle's' Best (not) coffee. It comes after no sleep has been attained due to excitement. I am fastened securely to my seat on a flight which today takes me to the Windy City.
So what adventure awaits me this time? I'm off to a unique experience for a Dan show (don't I say that every time?). But it is! Tonight Dan will be taping a concert in Chicago for a program called Soundstage. It airs nationally on PBS. Well the whole summer band will be playing tonight, and 10 of us that I know will be among the 300 people in the audience. To ensure first row seating - we plan to arrive at 4 pm even though we already have tickets. Just like Dead Heads. As I sit here with my Dan shirt on, keeping tradition since I'm not allowed to wear it later, I just laugh at the absurdity and fun of it all. Gosh they will sure have fun talking about my adventures when I'm gone. I can just picture a funeral home filled with Dan music and my family rolling their eyes saying - "Well at least that's the last time we'll have to listen to THAT!"
We gather today - 10 friends - 10 different backgrounds, one common obsession. How wonderful to be alive to experience this. I'm going to take a break and enjoy another coffee.
8/9/03 - 6:45 AM Chicago time
I'm operating on 30 minutes sleep in 48 hours but it was SO worth it. Cool background guitars are playing as I sit on the return flight - another adventure behind me - with big grins and lots of happy times between.
We of course arrived hours before necessary, but that's much of the fun of it. I really did feel like those crazy (did I say that) people that followed Jerry G even long after he was gone! We stood in line and talked and laughed with anyone who would listen, and even if they didn't. We met Brian, who managed to supercede me in line, but didn't have a gold ticket. So I remained truly first as I had hoped. All the friends trickled in, each with their own adventure of how much they had gone through to get there. Traffic, stand by flights, long, long, long drives, ridiculous expense - we often wonder how and why we do it. Then when you are there in that moment, you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else. Sue pulled out her guitar and we all (ok the 10 of us), broke out in song - truly belted it out. It was so great - we even did an encore of Morning Skies with a resounding ending. I often wish the musicians could see this part - how what they do so well has brought us together to have so much fun. Dave even turned on the truck lights for Let It Shine!
After many hours where Brian coined it "WDAN - All Dan, All Day", they let us in. I was first in line and picked a seat just 1 off center to Dan's right so I could enjoy Dan and Robert jamming. As I looked around this small intimate venue, I realized wow - I'm right here - 5 feet from the traditional Southwest blankets. This place was so amazing with lights and booms and 12 cameras. I imagine my face reflected all I felt inside - such excitement, joy, anticipation, wonder, luck, gratitude, warmth, friendship and love. Yes - it was a pretty full face. Throughout the show, they would show a few tidbits of what the cameras were capturing - it will be of such high quality. The sound mixing was perfect. January will seem like forever!
The show began with an intro by the local station encouraging us to be very enthusiastic - like THAT was possible!! It was fascinating to watch all that went on - the set list was abbreviated, but the band sounded SO good and we did our part. The front row led the audience in giving them a standing ovation for every song. It was well deserved and I think that they were having a good time. I wondered if something like this feels a little different to the band, knowing that it was recorded. They were all dressed for it - new suits, shirts and shoes. Even Michael Hanna joked that he'd gone out and bought a new Zoot suit. Between tape changes, Robert did come over and talk with all of us. He said wasn't sure when his next work might be ready. Whatever it will be, it will be fun to look forward to.
We whooped and hollered and basically had a BLAST - I enjoyed every single note - even Old Lang Syne and the dreaded Roses. They also had a flute /sax player to add to Power of Gold and Lang Syne. Just when Michael Hanna had gotten that simulation of the flute down for Gold! LOL - But honestly that just made it sound even richer. The quality of the every musicians playing and Dan's voice was top notch. The rest since the tour had enriched that. To think - preserved for all time and I was right there -front and center - oh boy - it will seem like forever until that show comes out. We're unsure what will happen with the songs they cut - hopefully we can purchase a DVD with everything. I asked and it depends on Dan and what rights he gives to the station.
I did have to laugh at Brian behind us who said they needed one camera just for me and my exuberance. I don't think one was enough! Tonight my whole focus was on the show - each of the guys and the close up view of the guitar playing. I didn't want to miss a single detail. The songs were great - an abbreviation of the summer set list. The rested voices sounded so excellent. Dan did an outstanding job singing his songs. The playing was masterful as usual. I did miss The Gambler as the ending because we were all set to lift our cell phones for "Let It Shine". But they closed with Blow Wind Blow. When it was done, I knew I had been part of something really great, unique and amazing.
After the show, we hung around, just not wanting it to end. Robert graciously did come over and talked with us all again. What a nice thing for him to take the time to do. He seems to appreciate our support and we appreciate his acknowledgement.
We all returned to the hotel, tired yet full of conversation and enjoyed our libations and buffet. As a group we were up until around 2, and then Sue and I stayed up until 3:45. 30 minutes sleep, then off to the airport to return home. I head home and we will immediately drive 14 hours to South Carolina. I know I'll come crashing down at some point, but I can't imagine it will be any time soon. I am really looking forward to that time to relax, unwind and reflect on all that was so very, very good.
I wish everyone who has loved Dan's music could have made up the audience. I hope that when the show comes out, you can feel just a little of the excitement I described above and know that it was a wonderful happening! Still now, nearly 1.5 weeks later, as I transcribe the handwritten notes I made, I can't adequately put it all into words, but I hope you all enjoyed my little (ok not!) story from "Along the Road".
Cindy from Pittsburgh"
Sunday, July 13th, 2003
Cindy from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has one more review for us: The much-anticipated Colorado review!
"Here is my little (ok not so little - but it is actually many pages shorter than my original handwritten) story / review of my trip to Colorado. Please feel free to post it on your Dan boards. Until next tour, all the best everyone! Cindy from Pittsburgh
Thursday July 3rd, 2003
My day began with a hectic cup of coffee and a realization that after only a few hours sleep it might take some time to ease into travel. I went running in Phoenix as the connect times were near and found my dear friend Sue from Michigan waiting for me. Yes - now I was really on vacation. There was a Ford Mustang shining bright silver awaiting us. Dan CDs soon were released although we missed having an open roof. How would the truckers hear us singing? We checked into our great hotel complements of Sue's husband - Thanks so much Dave.
We then drove to Silverton to Red Mountain Pass with its beautiful red-layered rocks. We even off-roaded a bit which was fun, and Sue and I figured out how to take totally unflattering pictures of ourselves together by holding it in front of us. We saw a beautiful waterfall cascading down the mountain and we transcended and negotiated a series of small switchback roads. Sue was glad I was driving (so was I - I loved it).
The sun makes for hot days, but the nights in Colorado are so cool. We had driven up more than 10000 feet and the stars are so FABULOUS here. I hope Dan gets inspired out here like we do.
Friday July 4th, 2003
Happy Birthday America
The skies are so so blue here with barely a cloud. Our live CDs from 1985 High Country Snows were blaring - the grins as wide as the continental divide itself
We drive over to Wolf Creek Pass and the 'higher we climbed, the more that we saw'. We stopped at Treasure Falls and walked up to a place near the top. The sun was directly over the pinnacle of the waterfall, its rays cascading across the ridge. The splashes at the top sprayed out a beautiful dance, the sound a roaring of gentle power falling then flowing on its decent down the rocks.
Next came the long anticipated reunion of four of us from three states who met last year in Utah. I could only dream and imagine a year ago as we folded up our "ceremonial blanket" and promised a reunion that it would ever happen. We first saw Michael from Nebraska near the entrance to the restaurant. Immediately a year was erased and the reunion/expansion began. Sue and Mike met and we all began our search for the others. I stood high on a walled bench like a monument. Suzie came up next with Mike and their friend John from Utah and Colorado. Laughter, hugs and greetings were made. A three-hour lunch would follow a combination of margaritas and great Mexican food. Next we debated between the hot springs and the river, and the river won.
We changed into swimsuits and we pulled out our picnic items. The original Fab Four, now known as the Fog Four, unfurled the ceremonial blanket. Numerous pictures were taken of the monumental event. It looked great - thanks to Suzie for protecting it. We sat a long time in the river, which was so refreshing (until the snake joined us). As we contemplated where the ideal location would be to watch fireworks, a colorful umbrella of magic dust lit the sky. We were already there! If I went home now, I'd feel it would have been worth it. But guess what??? I still have tomorrow and oh yes the concert!
Saturday July 5th - another glorious sunny day with no clouds in the sky in Colorado (just like Pittsburgh?) After a trip through time at Mesa Verde, we headed to Echo Basin Ranch for the show. It had to be a Woodstock want to be. It set so far back off the road. We began our quest for the perfect picnic spot. You weren't allowed any food, water or drinks in the venue, so we wanted to eat outside of the gate. We found a campground and spread out our picnic. It was a very relaxing afternoon. Around 4 o'clock, we went to the gate. I saw that my seat was second row at a nice venue (except for the cow patches). There were trees behind the stage. We hung out on the grounds for a while listening to the early bands. I've never seen anyone jam on a mandolin before. Around 7:30, I went down to my seat to listen to the last band before Dan. The sunset was going to be outstanding.
7:45 pm - I wish people could see this scene. The sun is setting behind the band. This is the first Fogelberg concert I've been to where the band before Dan was a Rock and Roll band, not a woman and guitar. There are heavenly nights and nights of heaven. Last year was the former at Red Rocks and I never expect to have a better evening than that. For tonight's show, I felt as though they were counting down the final set list. Name, play, check. But as the electric set came on, they seemed to relax and have some fun taking it less seriously. There were off notes and a few missed words and they just laughed. For the highlights, Michael Hanna played extremely well tonight. The flute sound was so well done; I thought maybe they had Tim W. hidden back there - best it has sounded. They did Blow Wind Blow tonight and Michael Hanna was on the grand piano. Dan kept making his voice more bluesy and low and the guys seemed to be egging him on and he seemed to be loving it. To watch musicians when they are having fun is such a gift. Robert continues to excel on the guitar. He and Dan on the dueling electrics is a show in and of itself. Mike Botts and Jim Photoglo were very precise and while they weren't featured, they truly made the songs sound so good. Jim did pipe in a little special phrase in Gold - something like "Gold baby" and they all laughed. The Gambler even had a cool little intro tonight. The audience sang along loudly for Let it Shine and Sue, Connie and I swayed together. Dan thanked the band and crew for all of their hard work. They really do an excellent job show after show. I did miss Nature of the Game tonight. Overall it was a fun show, not the best I've seen - I thought Harrisburg was the strongest of the shows I saw this year. I hope that the next tour planned gives the band a few more down days in between the city travels.
I do hope next year that Dan will continue to tour, celebrate his induction into the Red Rocks Hall of fame, that he'll travel with a band he enjoys playing with and that he'll mix up the set list. How many artists could perform a song for 30 years and make it sound so new? How many artists can showcase an ability to excel on multiple instruments and write and play a range of acoustic, electric, blues, ballads, bluegrass, folk and flamenco and rock and roll songs and sound good at every one of them. I hope Dan will continue to pick out old songs that he doesn't perform and make them new again. Last year was Changing Horses and Empty Cages, this year the Crow, the Raven Flies and Power of Gold. How about Ever On, The Innocent Age, Stars, Phoenix, River of Souls, the Sand and the Foam, Scarecrow's Dream or The River? I did find it a bit odd that the Full Circle tour only featured 2 songs from the new CD. How about Once in Love, Whispers in the Wind, Half Moon Bay and Reason to Run? So much great music on this excellent new CD. And perhaps it can be time to let a few of the hits take a rest and maybe this tour could be for all of us who know the words to the rest of the songs.
I'm so glad for Dan boards to help me know of the tours. I have been fortunate to meet some truly wonderful people. People who can appreciate every finely tuned and altered note and intonation, who can cry at Dan songs and remember how so many of those songs have walked us through our lives. And thank you Dan for being the reason we're all here.
Safe journeys to you all along the road.
Cindy from Pittsburgh
Sunday, June 15th, 2003
Cindy from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has written in again this year, with two reviews so far: One for the Fraze Pavillion in Kettering, Ohio, and another for the Forum Whitaker Center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
"Hello everyone - here are my reviews so far for the season. Feel free to post them on your boards. All the best, Cindy from Pittsburgh
Friday, May 31st - Dan at Wolf Trap
I wish I could contribute a review to this show. This year's tour season
started with a real disappointment for me. I had tickets for opening night
at Wolf Trap with my husband with a sitter all lined up for overnight. But
my daughter broke her arm and needed surgery that same day, so my tickets
sat unused with a very tired (awake for 40 straight hours!) and extremely
disappointed mom gazing upon them. So I impatiently waited for Tuesday to
arrive.
Tuesday, June 3rd - Dan at the Fraze
The day was dark and dreary with rain clouds stretching from Pennsylvania to
Indiana. My bags were packed with all of the traditional Fogelberg uniform
(this year black pants, 1991 Spirit of the West T-shirt, and the newest
acquisition, the Fogelberg Green zip down sweatshirt). I began my journey
across route 70 in search of a new Wal-Mart in which to buy the perfect rain
poncho to match the ensemble, as escaping rain tonight seemed unlikely. I
continued west through the rain to my next detour - that of the fine Greek
pastry shop in the North Market in Columbus, Ohio. Those of you who are
going to the show on the 14th must stop at this fine collection of culinary
treats and in particular I recommend Fidous where the finest array of phyllo
dough combinations awaits you. An hour later, I was rewarded at the end of
the trail with the delightful town of Yellow Springs, Ohio with open arms of
my dear friend Deann. We met several years ago at a concert in Michigan.
Truly these kinships are what makes these long journeys to far away concerts
worthwhile.
I entered her fine place with its wonderful collection of native American
blankets to hot tea and Full Circle (the entire CD trays of course filled
with a Dan collection courtesy of her husband who just knows). We caught up
with each other as the anticipation of the concert approached. Her wonderful
husband Neil came home and the teasing began. God bless all you husbands
out there who just go along with us during these times of mounting
excitement and who love us anyway. Next we were off to a fun dinner at a
local pizzaria. Another friend joined us there and before long Neil had
three Fogelettes on his hands just laughing away. I don't know if it was
all of the matching Fogelberg attire, but we no sooner sat down than
"Longer" began playing as the background music at the restaurant. What is
the chance of that?
The Fraze Pavillion is in Kettering (not Dayton), Ohio. That must be an
important distinction, because Dan would later make reference to it. It is
layed out beautifully with a pond and fountains. The venue is intimate and
there was a pretty full crowd despite the weather. We had seats in the
front section in row II. They were good seats. We sat and reviewed the set
list from Wolf Trap hoping we would be treated to the same show. We soon
noticed that Dan's guitars were being lined up on stage by a whole new crew
except for one guy from last year - Dan if I remember right? What's up with
that and where was Fish? Who was going to dust the piano? Anyway, this was
all unexpected, as there was supposed to be an opening act. No mention was
made of her or the change and before we knew it Dan was announced. He came
out alone as you all now expect from previous shows. He had on a shirt and
jacket which remained on all night due to the cold. Dan would make frequent
references to the temperature throughout the night saying that neither the
strings nor the tuner were working well because of it. Later he considered
asking North Face for tour sponsorship. It was a misty rainy blowing kind
of night - much like I imagine Maine to be. Dan said it was like the
weather when he wrote the Reach. He began with Nexus and Hard to Say which
sounded pretty good.
It was obvious from the beginning that the weather was wreaking havoc on
this show. Then he skipped the next four songs and I stopped hoping he had
perhaps rearranged the set order. Don't get me wrong, the audience LOVES
Leader and Old Lang Syne and Roses, but I had my heart set on many songs
from Full Circle or some "oldies but infrequenties" like Old Tennessee.
Then without skipping a beat, the band joined Dan on stage. With only a
canned introduction of the members by name and visit their websites (except
for Mike Hanna who has a two year old), they began with Part of the Plan.
The effect of the weather was evident during this song which was not quite
as perfect as I've heard before. The band played well, but it reminded me
of a studio performance rather than an interactive live act. We were so
spoiled last year with the tremendous group of musicians and their obvious
joy in playing together. I was feeling a little let down as I continued to
get wet, but fortunately there was some electric music which saved it for
me. The Crow, As the Raven Flies and The Power of Gold were very well done
and made the show worthwhile for me. I was glad that I was there to hear
it.
My next day was spent seeing Yellow Springs which is a cool little town that
I'd visit again. Its many artisans were all running the consignment shops.
I went into a used record store (yes the old kind - vinyl). They had a copy
of Netherlands and I bought it. I've had all of my original albums forever.
Netherlands was the first album I heard of Dan's in 1979. My husband had
it, but had lost the cover and had it in a Vienna Boys Choir case. I
thought it would help make my collection complete although I'm sure I'll
still keep the choir for sentimental reasons.
All in all, a great time, a good show and a continuation of a wonderful
friendship.
Wednesday, June 11th - Dan in Harrisburg
Sometimes I wonder (and my family and friends ALWAYS wonder), how I could go
to so many Dan shows year after year, traveling hours in cars or planes. I
always say - it's friendships, it's live and anything can happen. Maybe it
is because we all lead such structured lives and it is just fun to jump off
the merry go round and just let life happen for a day or two. Sue came in
from Michigan and we began our journey across the PA turnpike. With a full
backpack of Dan CDs, we opened the moonroof and sang outloud - probably much
to the amusement of the adjacent truckers. We met Sue's friend for dinner,
escaped the rain and headed over to the Forum a very cool piece of their
science center complex. I returned to see Tim who sells all of the
collectables this year who remembered me from Fraze and added two new items
to my collection. As I walked inside, my heart began to race as I realized
that for the first time in over 20 concerts in 7 states, I was going to be
front row center - right in front of Dan. I thought I might just jump out
of my skin! I actually wanted to run up on the stage and yell - YES!!!!
Sue was right behind me which facilitated us duly noting every additional or
modified note enhancement or voice inflection. We were treated to an
enjoyable couple called Naked Blue from Baltimore who were the opening act.
They are a husband/wife team who write and perform with a couple of acoustic
guitars. They were very good.
Then the guitars started to come out along with the three microphones and
then I realized that Dan mixed it up a bit. Fortunately, he was starting
with an acoustic band set. This made for a much stronger opening to the
show. They all sounded so much better tonight than last week right from the
start. What a difference a week made. Last week Dan wanted to secure North
Face as a sponsor, and tonight he asked for a fan. Dry guitars and warm
hands made for a great opening set. The set list has been posted and didn't
vary that much. I found Michael Hanna to be especially strong on the
keyboard tonight and Robert enjoying great jamming on the guitar. Michael
Botts and Jim Photoglo also seemed to be a little more into the show and
both played well. The interactions between Dan and the band were also more
evident over last week's show. Not the extreme smiles and obvious fun of
last year, but Robert and Dan came together on stage to jam more together.
The Crow and The Reach were the highlights of the first set. Then Dan came
out and rewarded the VERY appreciate audience with his hits. You could hear
a pin drop on every note. I loved the Nature of the Game. I hope Dan
includes this on a CD someday. It would be a shame to lose this song to
only those who have gotten to hear it live. At one point, Dan made a
comment about playing a song from the 70's and the audience cheered. He
joked about it and said he hoped we loved the 70's that much when we got
there. Dan finished up with Lang Syne with a delightful piano introduction.
It surprised me that he didn't promote his new CD with Half Moon Bay which
would have demonstrated his often forgotten abilty to take a piano to new
heights.
Anyway, then the band came back out and my favorite part of the show was
about to begin. Perhaps this is because I've had so many opportunities to
hear Dan acoustically in the last several years. But whoa - that electric
set... well they opened with a rocking version of Missing You. But the next
song was the pinnacle for me - As the Raven Flies. It was long, the jamming
of Dan was intense, Robert excelled and it was probably the most I've ever
enjoyed a live Dan song in years. All I could say was WOW! Power of Gold
followed and I thought to myself, I hope Dan plays that electric for as long
as he can, because he is so good at it. An encore of Gambler followed with
a little extra intro. When it was all done, I was reminded of just why I go
to so many shows - it's live, it's fun and anything can happen. I got Dan's
set list as a souvenier and gathered up my newly acquired mug and t-shirt
and couldn't wipe the smile from my face. I turned around to Sue, gave her
a hug of mutual understanding and just savored the moment. I thanked God
for my ears to hear the music, my eyes that I could watch it all take place,
and for hearts that can share these experiences with friends. After the
show, Robert gratiously came outside the bus where a few of us were standing
and thanked us for coming. Thanks for that Robert - we appreciated it. Sue
and I returned to hotel, relived the show, and I was serenaded to sleep by
Sue playing THe Gambler on guitar. We even sang it with our favorite
inflections. She started my next day with Nexus and we just enjoyed our
whole trip back.
As I look forward to Durango, I have a few items for the wish list. I wish
Dan would add a few more songs from Full Circle - especially Once in Love.
I hope Dan loves playing in his back yard and doesn't want to stop that
night. I hope he has fun playing with the band and finds that this tour
renews his belief in his talent and a recognition that his work is still
appreciated by so many folks all over the country. I hope that it is a
beautiful dry night with stars in the sky. I wish for the safety of all
those who travel there and back. Maybe he'll even close with our traveling
prayer - Along the Road.
Until Colorado, blessings to you all..."
And we are all looking forward to that Home State review, Cindy! Thanks again this year for sending in your reviews! Ever On...
Click on the picture to see a full-sized photo! (Turn OFF "Automatic Resizing" in Internet Options.)
Interesting note: behind Michael Hanna, on the far right, you can see part of the "power" behind his
performance: An Apple G-4 PowerBook Macintosh lap top computer! You can tell by how the icons
are laid out on the screen, on the right, Mac-style. Sweet! Click HERE to see another one of Jeff's
great pictures, and HERE too! Photographs ©2003 Jeff Kirk
Murat Theater
Indianapolis, IN
Wednesday, June 4, 2003
Jeff Kirk attended this year's concert at the Murat Theater in Indianapolis, and sent in the following review:
"Some of the most memorable moments for me of Dan's performance including a totally awesome rendition of "The Power of Gold", his guitar licks were incredible. It was obvious at that stage of the performance, which was close to the end that his hands were getting tired as I noticed his flipping his left hand off the guitar neck to stretch his fingers, but it never slowed him down.
Shortly before, he played "The Raven" at which time I closed my eyes for a few moments and it took me back oh so many years to the days of my youth when I was so much younger and of a more free spirit. "The Raven" sounded as good Wednesday night as it did the first time I heard it in concert back in the 70's, perhaps better.
My wife and I discussed Dan's stage presense after the show and both concurred that catching this show so early in the tour was a blessing for us. We last saw Dan last June in Merrillville, IN I think, later in the tour. It was an incredible show as well, but Wednesday night's performance was head and tails above last years. perhaps the release of the new CD and the invigoration of the release had him pumped, what ever it was, those who attended the show got thier money's worth and more. Dan was able to hit some of the high notes that he struggled with or lowered the octives on last year.
His interaction with the crowd was great, unfortuantely due to a partial hearing impairment, I have difficulty in hearing simple spoken words in a setting like that, but the crowds reaction to his interaction was obviously very positive. I would encourage anyone who considers themselves a Dan fan to catch him on this tour. I would especially encourage those who remember the days and the power of his early performances to go, relive a little of your youth, close your eyes and go back to those simple days of your life when every word of his music related to something in your life. I did, and it was a great feeling."
Thanks for sending in your review, Jeff, and thanks for those great photographs!
Keswick Theater
Glenside, Pennsylvania
Sunday, June 1, 2003 @ 7:30 PM
Debbie attended this year's concert at the Keswick Theater in Glenside, PA, and has the following review for us:
"A refreshing on-time start by openers Naked Blue, life partners and musical duo with WONDERFUL guitar work and delicate harmonies...original songs worth further listening.
The Diamond of the evening wore a black shirt with random colored stripes and a 'tuxedo' jacket that had a purple cast to it (VERY handsome), jeans, and fishermen’s sandals. He did his acoustic/piano set up front (different) with classic Dan (I know...an oxymoron). As he sat, he said, 'So, how’re you doing? We’ll start here (pointing to first row stage right) and work our way across and up (creating a visual path with his hand). I want to hear all about it.' Mid-way through the set a cell phone chose a 'between song' silence to ring. Dan courteously asked that all cells be turned off, explaining that it’s difficult for an artist to work with that going on.
This was my concert (#17) for detailed study of his hands. I’m a musician (piano) forever but a not-so-proficient guitarist and was convinced I could learn something by observation (well, forget it). The only thing I learned is that I have a looooong way to go, but I digress. Dan held the Guild 12-string and gave us Nexus, brilliantly. My audible comment was, ‘Way to open, Dan.'
As intent as I was to maintain a set list, I blew it (again). I get so caught up in the moment and the music that I discover holes in my list on the way home which, by that time, is too late to salvage from memory. The set, as I have it (with holes), was Make Love Stay, Hard to Say, Lazy Susan, Leader of the Band, Auld Lang Syne (which came with an interesting little story about Dan waiting at the bar for a table in a New Hope, PA, restaurant and someone walking in referencing ‘that song by Dan Fogelberg meeting someone in a grocery store and it just happened to me'). Dan took his bows and left the stage.
Within minutes he was back, sans jacket but with the 'lads.' They appeared tangled in each other – very cute – in a small space. At the top were the individual introductions with the same addition for each: 'a singer/songwriter in his own right. Check out his website,' and an abbreviated version for Mike Hanna for whom Dan added, 'He’s got a 2-year-old. He doesn’t need a web site.' Just before the first chord of Part of the Plan, Dan said, 'You can turn your cell phones on now. You’re not going to hear shit.'
He gave us Heart Hotel, Crow, Full Circle, Reach Haven Postcard, Run for the Roses, The Reach, Missing You, The Raven, and a great start on Power of Gold when Dan realized there was no sound from his black & white Strat. It may have been the longest intro. in history and I know now there isn’t enough money in this world for me to do the job of that tech. that night. Replacement cable was looped around his arm like a bracelet and plugs were flying in and out with Dan giving directions (still no Strat). Old Ratty was brought to the rescue and the band played on. As individual as the standing ovations were throughout the concert, everybody found their feet this time.
The single encore was 'There's A Place In The World For A Gambler.' The audience participation with 'Let it shine' was more than reminiscent of the 1992 Greetings from the West tour. Dan invited us to join in and smiled when he stopped and so did we (except for a few courageous souls). The blue lights on the overhead grid swiveled to shine out over the orchestra seats and Dan urged us to sing louder. It was a beautiful sound.
The song ended, in 1992, with 'Let it shine, people, ‘til next time. Thank you, God bless you, goodnight.' The 2003 version was, 'Thank you. God bless you. See you next time. Vote Democratic.'
He’s a class act."
Yes, he is. Thank you, Debbie, for that great review!
Wolf Trap Filene Center
Vienna, Virginia
Friday, May 30, 2003
This webmaster just returned home from Dan's opening show at the Wolf Trap Filene Center in Vienna, VA, and I have the following review for you:
"Let me start out by saying, 'wow.' This was quite a show! Wolf Trap has the best sound check that I have ever heard in any outdoor venue. It seats about as many people as the Chastain Amphitheater in Atlanta, Georgia (up to 10,000 with a full lawn), and there is not a bad seat in the house. The sound was incredible, and was just as crisp and clear from the lawn as it was from the orchestra seats. And no matter how loud the band played, the sound was never overbearing or uncomfortable -- it was just right. We were also blessed with the first night in the Washington, D.C. area without rain in over a month, which I'm sure the lawn patrons were thanking God for! It's almost as if that upper-level low-pressure system sensed Dan's approach, and moved on out of there! It was simply a marvelous evening! As the sun went down, a slight chill in the air set in, as I noticed some of the women in front of me putting on their jackets.
The opening act was actually good for a change! In fact, if I had only gone to see Sissy Spacek's daughter Schuyler Fisk perform, I would say that I had gotten my money's worth! The unexpected bonus for this performance was hearing Mom singing high harmony to her daughter's wonderful melodies. Ms. Fisk is an extraordinary singer-songwriter. Her unique style of upbeat country-folk-rock pulls you right in and gets your feet tapping in short order. She was also very personable, interacting with the audience in a relaxed, light-hearted manner. Oh yeah, one more thing... she is even more gorgeous than her lovely mom! The trio was complete with a great finger-picker whose name I do not remember. Although Schuyler plays a fine acoustic guitar, this gentleman had the nimblest fingers on the stage. All in all, a very good opening act, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
As soon as Dan's roadies had finished setting up the stage with the guitars, bass, and the old wooden chair, we knew that we would soon be getting our annual "Dan fix!" Dan came out, got a standing ovation before he even started playing, smiled "hello" at the audience, and, without saying a word, grabbed a guitar, sat down in the old wooden chair, and began playing. Surprisingly, Dan did not perform that many songs from the new album. He began the show with an acoustic set, opening with "Nexus" from The Innocent Age, without a synthesizer backing him up. I have to admit that I was expecting a lavishly-produced opening with Dan on piano playing "Half Moon Bay," performed "Aurora Nova"-style with the band kicking in for "When You're Not Near Me," but for the first half of the show, it was just Dan (no complaints there), making that familiar trip back and forth from the old wooden chair to the piano bench. This was the first time that I had ever heard "Nexus" performed without the string section, which gave me a chance to appreciate the song from an entirely different angle. It was quite a treat! And, as always, Dan improvised his way through the evening, shining a different light on the familiar, making for a thoroughly enjoyable performance. Although Dan's fingers took awhile to get fully nimble (a grim reminder of that boating accident that almost ended Dan's guitar playing days forever, had it not been for his determination to play again), those magic digits were working their charms on us in no time, as we all fell under Dan's spell. This webmaster's eyes were wet for much of the show. Ever since I lost my father, the tears always come when Dan plays "Leader Of The Band," but just being there seeing him play live (and that opportunity only comes around once a year) somehow keeps the eyes moist for most of the show. That, for those of you who are unfamiliar with Dan's music, is the power that is contained within his lyrics and melodies. Dan brings us closer to the Mystery while we are caught in his spell. That's why, when the show is over, some of us can't seem to tear ourselves away from the venue, even if we know it has a curfew. And as a performer, that is the greatest kind of encore call that you can take! For the complete set list, please see the Tour Dates page.
Dan and Robert McEntee both had some smokin' lead guitar solos. The last song, "The Power Of Gold," was much longer than usual, with Dan and Robert taking turns on the lead in an extended jam session. I think this is also the song where Michael Hanna got the spotlight for his ghostly keyboard solo that surprised so many people unfamiliar with his work. His solo was simply, hauntingly beautiful. (Which matches his visage: with his long, snow-white hair, fair complexion, and thin physique, he resembles some ethereal, floating spirit, as he dances with his keyboards.) A few of the uninitiated gasped in horror at his ghostly deviation from the flight path. One woman behind me said, "weird!" Perhaps one day these folks will learn to widen their musical palette and allow something new to enter.
A few humorous moments: As Dan was tuning one of his guitars, he said, "you use whatever works..." And, after tuning it and plucking a few strings, followed that comment up with, "and this doesn't..." At one point during the concert, a male fan yelled out loudly (twice, in fact), "I LOVE YOU, DAN!" (Yes, alcohol is served at Wolf Trap!) Dan played this off very well, with a simple double-take and a wide-eyed look of astonishment! I was hoping that the fan was just making fun of the girls, and not really in love with Dan! (Like he doesn't have anything else to worry about with obsessive female fans!) Another guy yelled out something loud but undecipherable, and Dan did another double-take, but this time he enhanced it by stopping in his tracks over on stage right behind Robert, looking all around for these voices he kept hearing!
After Dan and the band left the stage, they returned just to take a bow, for alas, Wolf Trap has a strict 11 PM curfew. Guitarist Robert McEntee threw his pick out into the audience as he walked off the stage the final time. Imagine being the lucky fan who caught that! Imagine also that you were a guitarist! That would be a truly awesome thing to have happen to you!"
Greg Hatfield
Webmaster, River Of Souls.net
30th Anniversary Tour ~ May 28, 2002 - July 3, 2002
Cindy from Pittsburgh sent in the following 4-part review: "Hey all - just returned from my journeys to see Dan 4 times. Detroit, Cleveland, Red Rocks and Utah. Ah stories from the road - so many, so unique...
Started with a tour to Michigan with my husband and my mom. A little too many orange cones, felt like Pittsburgh! From my previous trips meeting Sue, she invited us to her house for some wonderful Mexican. Then she pulled out her guitar and her son pulled up at the piano and we all sang Run for the Roses. It became this great night of all of our kids taking turns on the piano, playing their hearts out. Then we were treated to a drum set by her 2 oldest sons. Wow what a great family she has. The next day Sue picked me up at the hotel and we accompanied her to the "pre-show" waiting for her to meet Dan. As you know she did. I've never seen anyone flying so high as her afterwards. The show was really on - set lists have been previously listed. My only complaint is that Ticketmaster keeps selling the side seats first - what's up with that? We all enjoyed the show at Meadowbrook and went out to eat afterward, laughing and talking over the details.
My family and I then ventured over to Cleveland. We went to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - do we think we can ever get Dan in there? Cool place if you've never been there - really will take you back through your life...
My husband (of 20 years that very week) and I went to the Cleveland show. First time he's seen Dan for several years. We both enjoyed the show along with Cindy Bullens (visit her site). Just had these lousy side seats again. His set was shorter, but it was fun sharing it with my husband to show him how Dan's talent along with those other fantastic musicians still rock. His voice gets better every year - aging like a fine wine. We rounded out our Cleveland trip with a trip to the Science Center which is definately worth it. They had artifacts recovered from the Titanic - watch for that exhibit to come to your town.
After a week home, I began my solo western adventure. I flew to Denver and spent the afternoon at Red Rocks watching them set up. You really have to give this road crew credit - they have an incredibly LONG day every show setting up and breaking down. I saw that this show there would be reserved seating in the front and I had second row - oh yeah - still off to the side, but so close... I got dressed in my traditional Wild Places shirt from '91 and arrived early. I met Tom who writes his own music and was seeing Dan for the first time. Always great to watch that experience. Saw Joyce and Connie again so that was fun. This was the best show I've ever seen in over 20 of them.
Cindy Bullens opened up the show again. Then came Dan who was so ON that night. Each song with all of the other musicians on stage just seemed to get them all more electrified. When Dan is on, the shows are incredible and he was. And the other musicians - Robert McEntee - your blues and your guitar work - so good; Mark Andes - your interactions with the audience make us feel so appreciated; Mike Hanna - Realizing all you add to Dan's songs in arrangements, I'm really going to go back and listen for them in detail; and Joe Vitale - from Cleveland! - you rock on those drums - what a treat. Best of all, the musicians seemed to energize Dan in a way I haven't seen for a long time. There were more smiles, laughter and true enjoyment of performing or at least playing together. The night itself was perfect - stars and cool temps. Every song came to life. But when Firefall - from Colorado - reunited on stage, well you just had to be there... they all looked happy, excited, and nostalgic. Best of all Dan looked to be enjoying himself sincerely. And that makes it all...When the show was over, I could only stand there and just say Wow - Wow - so glad I was here to see this.
My travels next took me west on Rt 70 toward Moab, UT. Colorado National Monument and Arches National park were awesome. The beauty of our country never stops amazing me. Next the lonely treck northward (need to be sure you always have a full tank of gas when you see a station - cause it may be awhile). I went to Deer Valley and found out that this was first come first serve seating. When I asked what time she said 3:30 for a 7:30 show. Oh, I wasn't prepared. So I walked around scouting out where I would sit. I talked with a few of the stage hands and commented it would be hard to beat Red Rocks. They agreed that the tour was downhill from there. I was a little worried that the show would not be too good considering they already had that perspective. They commented that the sound was not too good there. But what the heck - I'd already driven miles to get there... So I went to Wal-Mart - bought a $5 Indian blanket to sit on, bought a book (sequel to Bridges of Madison County) and got in line. There were about 10 people ahead of me. Unfortunatly though, most were just locals who always get there early for any show, so it lacked the "Dan community" in-line jabber. When the gates opened, I rushed in and threw my blanket 2nd row to Dan's right (all my reserved seats had been to the other side - and I wanted to see that guitar). Then another 1 hour wait. But much to my surprise the show was short but quite good. The band and Dan all seemed pretty relaxed and the show was better than I expected. I wasn't displeased with the sound and I really enjoyed being able to watch all the musicians play their instruments so well. The audience was pretty engaged, so I think that made a difference. When the show was over, I went up to Cindy Bullens' table and said now that I'd seen her 4 times, I knew her words as well so it was time to finally meet her and buy her CDs. So glad I did. She is a very talented musician and has a wonderful friendly personality. Although she was surely exhausted and had to drive to Las Vegas for the next night, she didn't rush us at all. (www.cindybullens.com). Her Cds were really enjoyable. At the table I met Mike from NE and Sue and Mike from UT. We all started talking and before you know it we all sat in front of the lodge on what became our "ceremonial blanket" until 2 AM. What fun. I love the people and treasure these unexpected experiences at Dan's shows.
My trip was completed over the next day with a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. You really get a new perspective of the world from 12,200 feet! We are but a single stone... That park and its waterfalls are lovely. I even approached some elk who didn't seem to mind my close up pictures.
Returning home to Pgh, I realized many things and appreciate so many gifts - vision to see these wonderous sites and see performers in action, hearing that music that stirs the soul might be mine for the listening and remembering, and mobility that I might put on boots and walk these great trails of our beautiful country and technology that I might hear about the concert tours, that I may be able to know many of you, share my stories and learn yours. And that in times of mistrust and terror, that there are people I've met along the road who remind me that living in this country is a great gift.
I watched a beautiful RW&B firework display last night set to American tribute songs and it brought tears to my eyes.
God bless each and every one of you out there in Dan country on this 4th!
Cindy - Pittsburgh"
Thank you, Cindy, for that GREAT review!
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Denver, Colorado
June 26, 2002 Jeff Conley sent in the following review: "I flew out to Red Rocks from Washington DC to see and experience Fogelberg where he calls home. It was the BEST show I have seen yet and this was worth the plane fare!
Same play list, was wishing for Nexus and Illinois since he had a great and talented band with him. A pure highlight was when they got to the one Firefall song on the play list (which is incredibly giving to share the stage), he began talking about Firefall as a Colorado band and for the first time in 20 years, the band was going to play onstage. Out walks the other members! Seems Fogelberg used to hang out with them in Nederland, CO back when they too were popular. It was awesome! They had so much fun with Fogelberg. What an experience.
The concert was not a sell out which I was surprised. Would have liked to have seen a three hour show, but he had an opening act.
After the show, I was ready to jump in my rent a car and drive to Salt Lake to see the next show! What a rush. To the Morning, Gambler and Part of the Plan were at his best. See Dan at his best while you can!
Jeff Conley"
Thank you very much for your review, Jeff!
Keswick Theater
Glenside, Pennsylvania
June 5, 2002 Cathy sent in the following review: "Now.. this is the way to see a concert, from second row! As reported by many fans...Dan seemed happy! His energy was very high and the show was excellent! The band was in top form, and I have to say...I really enjoyed seeing Dan bopping and grinning and having some fun up there with the guys. A few surprises in the slightly changed tunes on a few songs. And Hearing "Empty Cages", and "Missing you" put a smile on my face.
He didn't do much storytelling, as I guess a lot of that is a filler for when he is doing a solo tour, but just the same he had a few funny combacks up on stage. Watching those hands on his guitar work, was simply amazing. I enjoyed the solos that were performed by Robert and by Mark.
Dan wore a white shirt, black jacket, jeans and cowboy boots. He later took off the jacket. The only comment that I have is, "where was Jean?" I would of liked to see her up there with him.
All in all, I totally enjoyed the show, and am glad I was able to join in with his 30 year celebration.
Thanks Dan, for a wonderful Night!! =)"
Cathy~
And thank you, Cathy, for sending in your review!
Photography by Christian Kuschel
Chastain Amphitheater
Atlanta, Georgia
June 1, 2002Christian from Germany sent in the following review: "Chastain... what a truly unique and wonderful place (which Dan still pronounces Shastain), especially in such great company. For those of you who´ve never been there or haven´t seen the Chastain website, I´m attaching a picture of the packed venue (the small guys in the spotlight to the right are you who-know-who and his band; for close-up shots please refer to my earlier Ft. Worth review).
About 6,500 people came out to the Atlanta suburbs, packed (like we were) with ice chests, wine, food and - of course - candles for atmosphere. Dan´s show began at 8.50, and - as band member Robert McEntee told us after the show - due to neighborhood noise restrictions was cut down to 20 selections (instead of the 23 we heard in Ft. Worth); missing from the setlist were "Forefathers", "Old Tennessee" and "Believe in Me".
We had been warned that some of the regulars at Chastain (we don´t really have comparabele places in Europe, but that also applies to the way they sell their tickets) might not have a clue who Dan was, but judging from the crowd reaction, if there were any ignorant people out there in the good seats, they were obviously as smitten by the performance as the real DanFans on the far-away seats.
A warm southern night under bright stars, slightly more than two hours of excellent music (great sound system for an open-air venue!) and even live video coverage of the stage events on two giant monitors up left and right of the stage - which certainly made up for being so far away.
I for one didn´t mind the on-stage choice shoes or shirts (even though I did wear boots and had left my sandals "home" for the occasion). As mentioned before, we also got to talk to Robert McEntee after the show (thanks for taking the time and getting the sharpie!) at length; he´s a veteran member of Dan´s band and has both played an Greetings From the West and the River of Souls album. I´m also including one of the snapshots he posed for.
So, all in all - even though the performance was a little a shorter than the first one we got to see, it was just as energetic and great. Dan had to work the crowd a little harder for sure, but at least there was no trace of audience noise or hassles. Great show, great audience (especially around selected tables to the stage right and middle, haha)! I´d love to see DF at that venue again for sure, almost as good as Red Rocks, and it´s definitely a lot warmer than up in the Rockies. But I guess we´ll fly over to the States (any state!) for any future Dan tour, and that includes Nome/Alaska." Thanks for your review and that great photograph, Christian!
Cynthia
Woods Mitchell Pavillion
Houston, Texas
May 29, 2002 Denton from Houston, Texas sent in the following review:Greg, here's the play list and my review of the Houston show.
Magic Every Moment, Heart Hotels, Hard To Say, Changing Horses, To The
Morning, Run For The Roses, Morning Sky, The Reach, Make Love Stay, Leader
Of The Band, Auld Lang Syne, Strange Way (an old Firefall piece), some
Robert Johnson blues, then a wicked instrumental guitar number, Empty Cages,
Missing You, Part Of The Plan.
Wonderful show. They had a few minor technical problems but handled them
really well. The music was great. I missed the sax on Auld Lang Syne
(McIntee did it on guitar) but loved the big piano. Dan, let them have the
electric pianos --those big grands sound awesome. I noticed he pulled out
"old ratty" (his old strat) for one number, and he did a wonderful acoustic intro to Changing Horses. Dan thanked everyone who had bought Home Free because it went platinum in December. "I'm serious! It took 30 years, but it meant a lot to me. So, to those of you who bought the CD, or the
album......or (scratching the side of his neck)...the 8-track...(howls of
laughter)....thanks!" When he cranked up the rock and roll he said, "If
it's too loud...you're too old." He played from 9:15 until 11:00 and said
the venue's noise curfew prevented them from doing the encores. (The Cynthia
Woods Mitchell Pavillion is an outdoor performing arts theater in The
Woodlands, TX, an affluent residential/business community about 20-30
minutes north of Houston and they shut things down at 11:00.) REALLY looking
forward to the new album. His voice has changed a lot but it's wonderful to
watch the man work." Thanks for sending in your review, Denton!
Photography by Christian Kuschel
Bass Performance Hall
Fort Worth, Texas
May 28, 2002 The following review is by Christian from Germany:
"Tuesday - May 28, 2002... a nice and warm evening in downtown Fort Worth, and more than 2,200 people crowd beautiful Bass Hall until each and every seat is filled for the opening night of Dan´s 30th anniversary tour. The opening act, (Brenda Something?, her name was hard to make out), in real life lead singer with the Dallas-based band Oestrogen, was accompanied by a solo guitar player and performed seven songs about relationships andS? well, sex. Praising Dan´s upcoming "incredible voice", she beat a retreat after 35 minutes.
When the house lights go down at 8.50 p.m., five shadows enter the stage to cheers and tremendous applause - but it takes about two minutes before everything is ready for that announcement we´ve all been waiting for: "Please welcome: Dan Fogelberg". Introduced by Joe Vitali´s solid drums, "Magic Every Moment" is tonight´s opening number. There are still a few sound problems during those first few minutes, and Dan seems a little nervous at the start, but a beautiful new a-capella bridge in the song brings the first mighty cheers from the well-mixed and highly appreciative audience.
And did we get a fantastic setlist that (opening) nightS? 23 songs, totalling 2 hours and twenty-five minutes! Dan (in cowboy boots, blue Levi´s and a white shirt with black jacket for starters, for those of you interested in such details) informed us early on we were in for a three-part show: acoustic with band, solo acoustic and electric. Keyboard player Mike Hanna (whom I got a chance to talk to before the show), a longtime guest artist on Dan´s studio albums, had just played the first notes of song number six that night when Dan stopped him, saying "Hold it, I want to talk to these people a little." He then praised everybody for buying his records, CD´s, tapes and eight-tracks, including - as an afterthought - those busy internet downloaders as well. "For the Morning" was then played as his "gift" to all of us, with a beautiful (first-time) band arrangement and some wonderful light effects. It got a long standing ovation, the first of five that Tuesday in Texas.
After about 50 minutes and nine songs, Dan took a first short break, asking people not to go away. Well, about half of them did, anyway - and had to rush back to "Make Love Stay", as Dan really took only about two minutes. The solo acoustic set included five songs, including a long introduction to all people mentioned and romantically involved in "Old Tennessee"S? "Well, those were the Seventies", Dan explained. He then went on to talk about the miracles and problems of "opening night", blaming himself for mentioning it the next minute, because that was when his tuner went on strike. An extended bluesy version of "Old Lang Syne" was surprisingly met with another standing ovation and endless cheers from the enchanted audience.
The electric part (after another two-minute break, and this time nobody dared to leave) began with bass player Mark Andes´ rendition of his earlier Firefall classic "Strange Way", with Dan singing harmony vocals and a verse, followed by a great instrumental jam that had drummer Joe Vitali playing a mean Weisberg-like flute, before native Texan and veteran band member Robert McEntee (whom we talked to in Atlanta, see next review) got to sing "Walking Blues". Dan let loose another four rockers, including a great version of "Empty Cages", before saying goodnight for the first time.
He seemed extremely relaxed, happy and cheerful when he re-entered the stage for the first encore, and Bass Hall agian stood as one to return the smiles. "Gambler" was a great treat, and then - surprise! - Dan brought his new wife Jean out to join him and the band on harmonies, dedicating his second and final encore "If I Needed Someone" to its recently died author and one of Dan´s heroes, Beatle George Harrison.
Of the five DF shows I´ve been blessed to witness so far, Ft. Worth was the longest, liveliest and most varied one so far. My girlfriend Sonia, seeing her first-ever DF show, was really impressed with the intimate solo acoustic part, but I thought it was great to experience him with a band for once (other than on video). Last year´s special concert on home turf in Colorado Springs was unforgettable for the great mood and witty jokes, but from a musical point of view, 28 May 2002 in Ft. Worth will be very hard to top for sure. There was no mention of the new album (unlike last year) or any new own material, though - but maybe this is just another sign we can count on a brilliant 2003 tour promoting "San Juan Blues" or whatever Dan´s new release will be called.
Here´s the complete setlist for Ft. Worth and three selected pictures; a reviewof the June 1 show in Atlanta plus the pics from that night coming up tomorrow:
Magic Every Moment
Forefathers
Heart Hotels
Hard to Say
Changing Horses
To the Morning
Morning Sky
Run For the Roses
The Reach
Make Love Stay
Old Tennessee
Believe in Me
Same Old Lang Syne
Leader of the Band
Strange Way
Instrumental Jam
Walking Blues
Blow Wind Blow
Empty Cages
Missing You
Part of the Plan
There´s a Place in the World For a Gambler
If I Needed Someone
Thanks Dan, for giving us these fantastic 2002 shows!
Christian"
Thank you, Christian, for that great review and photograph of the band!
Bass Performance Hall
Fort Worth, Texas
May 28, 2002 The following review is by Cindy from Keller, Texas: "In case nobody has e-mail'd you about how great last night's concert at Bass Hall was, let me do it. It was wonderful! I took my sister (also a 25-year Dan fan) as a early birthday gift to her and we both thought it was the best Dan concert we had seen. I've been to around 7 & she's been to 3 or 4. We also agreed that he looked great -- we could tell, even though we were in the balcony. We had good seats, center stage in the balcony. At Bass Hall there really aren't any bad seats. I didn't bring binoculars, so Dan looked really good to me. The picture in the paper didn't do him justice -- I saw some wrinkles for goodness sakes! He rocked like a 20-year old, but did have slight difficulty reaching the high notes from songs written 20-30 years ago. If he knew he would be singing these songs 30 years later, he might have written the notes a little lower (grin). I was happy for him that I think I saw a wedding band on his finger, and at the end of his encore he & a woman that sang back-up on only that last song, wrapped their arms around each other. I could be wrong, does anyone know if he remarried?
The Dallas Morning News ran an article by Matt Weitz that was extremely favorable. I e-mail'd him to thank him for that, because in the past some papers didn't even cover his concerts, or they were written by someone who didn't seem to have any knowledge of history of Dan & his music. If Matt didn't know about Dan, he sure seemed like he did. For those of you who can't pull this up, I'll share Matt's review:
'Funny thing about Dan Fogelberg; In the early '70s he was part of the highly popular country/folk/rock movement in pop, sharing space with the likes of the Eagles and Poco. By the end of the early '80s -- and after a string of best-selling albums -- most of his former contemporaries were in the dust, and he was an industry unto himself. Since then he's been a stranger to the platinum realm but has maintained a loyal core following that has allowed him to put out more than a dozen albums and stay in the business for 30 years. He celebrated that fact Tuesday night at Bass Performance Hall with a sold-out first show of his summer tour. Music fans have always been of two minds regarding Mr. Fogelberg. Some find him an insightful troubadour; others, an insufferable sap. Perhaps that has something to do with the '70s-era coming-of-age most of his fans share with him: those who regard listening to "Best of Your Love" with their sweetie in their mom's Nova as the last innocent period of their life vs. those who regard it as their dopiest. Judging by the crowd's reaction, none of the latter bothered to attend Tuesday's show. From the first notes of "Magic Every Moment," the audience was enthusiastically appreciative of Mr. Fogelberg and his work. His backing band reinforced the '70s memories, primarily in the presence of Joe Vitale (James Gang, Joe Walsh) on drums and Mark Andes (Spirit, JoJo Gunne, Firefall) on bass. Texan Robert McEntree on guitar and keyboardist Mike Hanna completed the roster. The show started out with nine of his mellower songs done with a full band, then an acoustic interlude featuring Mr. Fogelberg on solo piano and guitar. Following that was a rousing all-electric finale. The musicianship and production values were first-rate; the only thing was that in almost every instance, the older material was better. In the first phase, the sinuous "Changing Horses" and countrified "Morning Sky" (and especially the Carole King-like "To the Morning," which Mr. Fogelberg said he'd never before attempted live) put later tunes such as "Run for the Roses" and the clichéd "Forefathers" in the shade. In the acoustic section, the sad distance of "Old Tennessee" was much more nuanced than the sentimental radio hit "Leader of the Band." In the rocking exit, "Part of the Plan" (and, heck, even two blues covers) had more pep than the later tunes. Of course, it's all a matter of degree. Mr. Fogelberg was playing Bass Hall. Sunday night, Poison -- a band whose first and last albums are much the same -- plays the Smirnoff Music Centre. You do the math.
[for those of you not familiar with the Smirnoff Centre, it's much smaller than the Bass Hall, and it's also outdoors -- Dan's place was bigger and classier].'
Well, that's the review in the paper, hope you liked it.The crowd was the usual, people from their 20s to their 60s. I even saw a man with his 10-year-old son (I brought my boys up on Dan, too). Everyone is mature and laid back. I heard some women (or maybe it was just the one over and over again) shouting, "we love you Dan." And just as many guys screaming with enthusiasm. Some people think Dan is just a chick musician, but I beg to differ (can I hear from the men out there who like Dan?). I'd love to hear from those of you who attend any of his other concerts this summer, to compare. Dan was in his usual good humor -- he's very witty. He was really thankful to the fans for being so kind, heck we weren't faking it, we really had a great time!
I know this is very long, but I just had to share. He played for over two hours, closer to two and a half, we really got our money's worth. Please feel free to e-mail me at poohba@millennium-telcom.net
Take care everyone. Try to see this summer tour if you possibly can, you won't regret it."
Thank you, Cindy, for that fantastic review!
Along The Road 2001
Belterra Casino Resort
Vevay, Indiana
July 19 - 20, 2001 
The following review is by veteran DF fan David, who also took this stunning photograph of Dan from the balcony: "My girlfriend and I just returned from Vevay, Indiana where we saw both of Dan's fantastic shows on the 19th and 20th at the Belterra Casino Resort. I've been a BIG fan for 25 years and have patiently awaited the opportunity to attend a show. And man, I gotta tell you, it was well worth the wait. We got to the Resort around 6:15 on Thursday and there was already a considerable line of folk waiting in the lobby in front of the showroom since the seating was first come, first serve. We quickly joined them and my sweetie held my place in line while I went to pick up the tickets. We chatted with some great people in line, some of whom had driven as far as Memphis (a good 7-8 hour drive) and Dan's hometown of Peoria, Illinois to see Dan for their umpteenth time, confirming what I have always heard about the loyalty of Danfans. The tickets said the doors would open at 7:00 pm but they opened them 15 minutes early, evidently because there were so many people in line it was disrupting hotel business. I was glad to see a such a good turnout. Anyway, somehow in the frenzy for decent seats we were lucky enough to get in the 6th row on the aisle right in front of center stage. I was thrilled since the first four rows were roped off and seemingly only VIP's and/or high rollers would get to occupy those seats. As we sat and listened to Don Henley's End of Innocence CD playing over the sound system (I wonder if Henley plays Dan's stuff before his shows!?) I got out my digital and began to adjust the settings for lighting because the folks at the entrance said cameras were OK (I was shocked) when after 15-20 of the VIP's were seated, the usher (a thin woman who looked serious about her job) undid the rope and was allowing the two rows across from us to fill in the empty seats. I seized the opportunity and took off, leaving my camera and my girlfriend, almost, and as luck had it we ended up FRONT ROW, 3rd and 4th seats CENTER STAGE! Dan was no more than 10 feet in front of us! Thank heavens a nice gentleman found us and asked us if we had left the camera and returned it to us, an act for which we were/are eternally grateful. However, I soon found out that cameras were not allowed as I was reconfiguring the settings for the closer view. Security made me put it away and a guard kept an eagle eye on me for the entire show. I did manage to snap a couple towards the end with the help of a great fan sitting next to me who leaned forward to block the security guard's view of me. We kept promising to each other to exchange email addresses, but we failed to do it and I can only hope he sees this sight and catches the photos here. As for the show, AWESOME. Period. First the cheesy wannabe Vegas Emcee came out and plugged the Casino events, told a blonde joke (I know the blonde on my arm was real amused) and then announced that the show would end promptly at 9:30 so everyone could board the boat for gambling. Gambling? I was like, who cares about gambling? Anyway, soon after cheeseboy destaged, the flute music came on and one could sense the electricity in the air. Then, promptly at 8:00 the lights went down and the announcer, who I think was the guy they call "Fish" because he was tending to what looked to be a sound panel, said "Ladies and Gentleman please welcome Dan Fogelberg." And out he came with a boyish, almost embarrassed grin on his face, hands waving appreciatively in the air as the crowd cheered and rose to it's feet. He wasted no time in diving right into "Part of the Plan" on a beautiful Ibanez 12 string guitar. It was amazing to see his guitarwork that close. After his opener, he thanked the crowd for coming out and made a joke about Vevay and how he had to pull out his map to find the place. Then he did an Elvis imitation and jokingly sang "VEVAY, Las Vegas!" HA! He was warm and comical all evening as the crowd participated politely and appreciatively. While the audience was made up of mostly hard-core Dan Fans, there was surprisingly a lot of "white hair" in the audience (not that I don't sport a few grays, myself) and I came to realize that this was the feature show for the casino that night and many of these older folk were tourists and gamblers who most definitely got more than they were expecting because most didn't seem to know who Dan was, yet they were all smiles at show's end. Dan did "Forefathers" and dedicated it to any of us in the audience who had children, or grandchildren, and that delighted the older crowd. The stage presentation as far as lighting and sound were very well done and there didn't seem to be any of the sound problems that he was having at his previous shows, maybe in part due to a brand new state of the art facility with superb acoustics and seating. There truly was not a bad seat in the house, which looked to be just shy of a sell out both nights with only a few balcony seats empty. Dan even commented on the 2nd night, "It sounds great in here, doesn't it?" He played with the talcum powder, squeezing the bottle and saying "special effects!" as a white cloud of powder erupted from the bottle. He laughed at himself and did it again harder and the folks next to us got peppered with it! He apologized and laughed and shortly thereafter he asked his stage manager to bring him some fresh hot tea because he gotten talcum powder in his cup. He continued to play, going from guitar to piano every 3 songs or so with stage hands switching back and forth between two Martin six string guitars, the Ibanez didn't come back out. I must say, I don't know whether it was the piano or his mastery of it, but I was unprepared and unaware just how very talented he is on piano. The only problem was, on Thursday we couldn't see his hands on the keys, but his renditions of "Beggars Game" and "Paris Nocturne" were stunning. His voice was good the first night, phenomenal the second night. Same with his guitar playing. I don't know if he was tired or just not "on" on Thursday, but his guitar playing on Friday seemed to be much sharper. His tributes to John Lee Hooker with "Road Beneath My Wheels" and Chet Atkins with "Buckaroo's Midnight Ramble" were breathtaking on the 2nd night and his performances of "Longer" and "Leader of the Band" on Friday were flawless. I'm talking CD quality flawless. His voice was angelic and pure and he seemed to hit the high notes with much greater ease than the previous evening. Many were in tears during those songs, including my babe. Anyway, he closed both nights with "Auld Lang Syne" after telling us how it all came about. When he made reference to the convenient store on Abbington Hill, the lady fan from Peoria shouted out with glee and Dan said, "Ladies and Gentleman, Ms. Abbington Hill!" I know she got a kick out of that and by the way, Ms. Hill, I hope you found "Brett." Sitting at the piano before he played the song he said he would like to play more but the casino wanted him to wrap up by 9:30 so the gamblers could board the last boat and since the casino was paying him, he had better do what they wanted. The crowd was obviously displeased with this and we begged for more as he stood and thanked the standing crowd, smiling and obviously pleased. But he made a quick exit and the lights came up and his stage manager and stage hands were out on stage wrapping things up, making it evident to us that there would be no encore. Most of us up front were really disappointed as one guy who bore a striking resemblance to a young bearded Dan presented an original Netherlands album in plastic to his stage manager and asked if Dan would autograph it. He said that Dan was already in the car and gone. What a bummer. I caught his attention and asked him for the set list which was taped to floor at Dan's feet during his performance. He looked at me and said, "Man, do you have a wife?....I've been doing this for 25 years and I only give the set list to pretty ladies!" I quickly replied "Hell YES!" and pointed to my girlfriend next to me and he handed it to her with a smile. He then shook my hand and thanked me for coming out. Now my girlfriend won't let me have the set list until I propose. HA! What a night. The second night I told her (my girlfriend) that we should sit in the balcony so I could try to take some good photos without security breathing down my neck. Besides, I was lucky enough to sit up front the first night and I didn't want to deprive another long time fan of the same opportunity. We ended sitting with some super folks from Louisville with a great view and were able to see Dan play the piano that night. From my balcony seat, I saw Ms. Abbington Hill grab the set list after that show, which must have been identical to mine as he played the exactly the same songs. OK. That's enough. I know this has got to be the longest review ever and I could go on and on, but in short, if you are a Fogelberg fan and have been wanting to see him for years, you OWE it to yourself to go. I know I'll be going back next year and every year after that he decides to tour. I have never witnessed a finer musical performance anywhere, anytime. Thanks Dan. Thanks so much.
David"
And thank you, David, for the great review!
Greetings From The West
Fox Theater
St. Louis, Missouri
June 25, 1991 
Photography by Henry Diltz I did not attend any of Dan's concerts in 1991. I do, however, own the "Greetings From The West" DVD, and let me tell you -- it's like really being there. Since I have seen Dan perform live with a band (in 2002 at the Keswick Theater in Philly) I can tell you it is dynamic and engrossing. Dan really puts a lot of energy into his performances, and it is obvious that he loves what he does for a living! One of the things that impressed me about this concert was how energetic his performance was. By the end of the first set, Dan was so soaked with sweat that when he returned from intermission, his shoulder-length hair had been pulled back into a pony-tail. The song set was similar to his previous year's performances, with heavy emphasis on environmental and Native American themes.
Contributed by the author.
Waterloo Village
Stanhope, NJ
Sunday, July 31, 1988
8:00 PM.
Debbie from New Jersey went to this concert. Here is her review:
"I'm going to do the best I can to remember 14 years ago......not an easy task from someone who's 52 1/2 (I'm going to depend on the memory of a once 38-year-old).
First, a little geographical information: Waterloo Village is a fairly local, restored colonial community that hosts lots of wonderful things throughout the warmer seasons: weekend bluegrass festivals complete with camping areas and fiddle makers from around the country, a General Admissions field for big-draw artists like James Taylor, and a wonderful smaller tent venue with lawn seating. I want to say that 1988 was the first time I saw Dan at the tent at Waterloo (maybe the 2nd).
Once the season schedule was out, I took the 15 minute ride a few weeks ahead of time with a friend of mine to scout out the area in the daylight when no one was around. We found ourselves at the back (stage) entrance to the tent and she followed me around the semi-circular stage to the first row, first seat where, as I sat with my knees hitting the stage, I announced, "I'm going to sit right HERE."
The ticket office opened early on a Thursday morning. I made sure I was on the line an hour ahead of time and did, in fact, wind up with Row 1, Seat 1 (maybe the best karma I've ever had). As an aside, since my first Dan concert in '84 or '85, my partner-in-crime, best friend, and required Dan concert partner had moved to Florida. One gift (or incentive) of a round-trip ticket and the threat that I'd hurt him more than his 5-day-old appendectomy (and, of course, Dan) and he was flying north. The following Monday, when I took him to the airport, was the last time I saw him. He died in March of 1990. Every live performance of The Reach I silently dedicate to Jim.
Not long after the ticket purchase, I came across a greeting card that had no other purpose than to be given to Dan. See if you agree:
"I cannot write poetically, for I am no poet. I cannot artfully arrange my phrases so as to give light and shade: Neither am I a painter; Nor can I even express my thoughts by gesture and pantomime, for I am no dancer. But I can do so in sounds. I am a musician."
-Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
My karma was holding out.
My dear friend Mike, of the company's Graphic Arts department, enlarged the card text and matted it for me. I was armed and ready.
1988 was a solo acoustic tour for Dan, that evening adorned in a Hawaiian print shirt and rubber flip flops. It seemed to be an easier time for him.............he had no reservations about shaking hands and accepting tokens of appreciation before leaving the stage. His only request that night was 'no flashbulbs' which eventually evolved into 'no cameras.' I'm eternally grateful to my dear, dear friend Patty (now also deceased) who had taken that seating dry run with me weeks earlier and had the foresight to load her manual 35 MM with 1000 speed film.
By the time Dan got halfway across the stage, he was directly in front of me with roses already in his arms. Careful viewing of the picture shows him reaching for something in silhouette that is square................the matted copy. What I love most about the picture is the obvious direct eye contact we made as he took it from me. I guard the negative with my life and soon after had it blown up to poster size, sending one of the same size to Jim in Florida.
Fourteen years later and at the end of the 2002 tour I have 16 Dan concerts under my belt. The joke I've heard the most is, "I'm surprised he doesn't know you by name by now." That seems so unimportant...............what IS is that I'm still growing up (or aging gracefully) in the company of someone who has unknowingly complimented my life with wonderful music and memories."
Contributed by Debbie.
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