- Ten years ago tonight, Bruce played the 14th of his run of 15 shows at the Meadowlands Arena. It was by far the best show of that stand. The tour was still in its early stages and the band was mixing in new material every night. While many thought the following night would be the best, it couldn't hold a candle to this one. Tour premieres included the opener, Night (played for the first time since 1984), New York City Serenade (played for the first time since 1975), and the closer...an amazing version of 4th of July, Asbury Park...also known as Sandy. I remember sitting on the side of the stage in the first level (Steven's side). Fresh and Marc Schwartz were sitting right above me in the second section. They headed to the hallway during Land of Hope and Dreams. When Bruce started Sandy, I saw Marc emerge from the tunnel and I thought he was coming over the railing. It was the first time something other than Land of Hope and Dreams closed a show on that tour. Just a great, great show.
The following night, Bruce did open with Jersey Girl and closed with Rosalita, and Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Melissa Etheridge guested on Hungry Heart, so it wasn't exactly a bad show. On a more personal note, my great friend Ira brought a date to the show named Alyson. They had just met at a wedding and she was coming up from DC. I gave him a hard time for bringing her to the last show of the run as it was their first date. Well, today they are married and live next door. I guess it's a good thing he didn't listen to my advice.
- Today is also the 6th anniversary of the best show of the 2003 stadium tour in Philadelphia, but that's a story for another day.
- The Yankees four game sweep of the Sox was a lot of fun. They won a blowout, an extra inning nail biter, a pitcher's duel, and finally, a come from behind win. Best of all, the pitching and the bullpen really stepped up. This series makes me believe that the Yankees could have a team that is capable of success in October.
- I rarely get excited for football season as I am usually so wrapped up in baseball this time of year. While I am completely wrapped up in baseball, I am optimistic about the Giants. I know there are some question marks regarding the receiving corps, but if they stay healthy, the defense will be special, and the offensive line should continue to push people around. As always, "if they stay healthy" is easier said (typed) than done.
- The economy is taking its toll on sports. Basketball players aren't getting the free agent contracts they expected or deserve. Baseball players lived through it last winter and Alex Rios was just given up by the Blue Jays because the White Sox agreed to pay his salary. The Blue Jays received NOTHING in return, except payroll relief. With football and basketball heading towards the expiration of their respective collective bargaining agreements, we could be in for work stopages (incredibly dumb if they let it happen) and major changes in the existing agreements for each league. Here's hoping that they all realize that they are sharing MILLIONS of dollars and should just share the pie fairly.
- StubHub has changed the landscape of the secondary ticket market. You can buy tickets to many events up until 5pm the day of the event. In many cases, the tickets will be emailed to you almost immediately. It really is a great service.
- Why is there a Ticketmaster App for the Blackberry, but not for the iPhone?
- Speaking of the iPhone, it's just an amazing device and the apps are amazing.
- My daughter continues to amaze me every day. I could type forever about all of the cool stuff she does and how funny she is. Maybe next time.
That's all for now...
"It ain't no sin to be glad you're alive"
JN
