Category Archives: Classic Gigs

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band – Wembley Arena

Posted on April 18, 2020 by garylongden

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band – Wembley Arena 30th May 1981 I had been just too young to catch Bruce for his debut London appearance at the Hammersmith Odeon at which he had been billed the future of … Continue reading →

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Rolling Stones, Don Valley, 6th June 1999

Posted on March 31, 2020 by garylongden

  Unquestionably there are optimum times to see musicians live. My gig going started in the mid 1970’s, I was too young to catch the Rolling Stones in their prime. For me, their last decent album was “It’s Only Rock … Continue reading →

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The Clash, Live at the Lyceum, London,19th Oct, 1981

Posted on March 30, 2020 by garylongden

The Clash have now assumed legendary status from the Punk era. They were a remarkable band. Some of the myths surrounding them are at odds with reality. Many of their achievements are often under- appreciated. I saw them live twice, … Continue reading →

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Too Petty – Flowerpot, Derby

Posted on September 3, 2019 by garylongden

The age of the tribute band is upon us. As the greats from the classic rock era grow old, infirm, or die, the demand for their music remains. No-one goes to a Beethoven concert, then complains that Beethoven wasn’t playing, … Continue reading →

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Suede – Wolverhampton Civic Hall 1/11/94

Posted on October 26, 2018 by garylongden

A young family prevented me from swooping into the Britpop explosion. Early Oasis, Pulp, and Blur all came and went. But I did catch Suede, although perhaps just a couple of months after their high- water mark. The good news … Continue reading →

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Jane McDonald – Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Posted on September 24, 2018 by garylongden

Jane McDonald has crept up on me. As for many, my first glimpse of her was on the original “Cruise” documentary. It was immediately apparent that she was a star turn, glamorous, saucy, with personality, and crucially a very good … Continue reading →

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Lynyrd Skynyrd – Rainbow Theatre, London, 1977.

Posted on April 17, 2018 by garylongden

There is always a temptation to view one’s youth through rose tinted spectacles. To be of a view that a time that was special to you, was special to everyone. Yet with live rock music, there really is a case … Continue reading →

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Tom Petty – an appreciation

Posted on October 8, 2017 by garylongden

    The phenomena of public grief for public figures whom were not known personally to the mourner is not new, but often ridiculed. Tom Petty was one of a handful who caused me to double take, and to feel, … Continue reading →

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