Title: Seismic Jolts On The Lower East Side
Description: Elliott Rocks the Bowery!
Description: Elliott Rocks the Bowery!
ramblerg - May 24, 2007 06:37 PM (GMT)
Ok, here we go....
Part I
Luckily I had a relaxing day and the weather was gorgeous - got some shopping done, some laundry done...
Spent the late afternoon on the phone touching base with Liz (from FlipSide) and my friend Thierry (Theresa) on when and where to meet up, then finding out the doors opened an hour later than what my tickets said so a re-coordination was in order.
I met Thierry at our *corner* at 91st and 3rd a little after 6pm - she keeps an apt. in the city (she and her husband live in Connecticut) just a couple blocks from my place - we sang together in Metro Mass Choir and we usually met at that corner to grab a cab when we had rehearsal. Hee! Good times!
We hopped on the subway and headed down to the Lower East Side. When we got to the Ballroom the line was already at the corner, we figured most people thought the doors were opening at 7pm. I went up and down the line and chloewannabe saw me and called me over - she made me an E-Train nametag with "RG" on it. She graciously offered us a place in line telling me she was saving me a spot, which was so sweet of her, but we were going to go get a bite to eat. Liz waved us down and said she was going to stay in line but would let us cut in when we got back from eating. Hehehe!
So Thierry and I hoofed it back to Spring Street looking for some place quick. The Bowery is skirted by Chinatown and Little Italy so you come upon tons of restaurants. We chose this nice little cafe and had some pasta and panini then headed back about 7:40ish. We were also waiting for another friend Peter who called on Thierry's cell and he was just coming out of the subway so he was minutes away.
We get back to the Ballroom and discover that everyone has gone inside. WTH? So we had to wait for Peter to catch up with us. Meanwhile I saw IBelieveToMySoul (elliott!fan) arrive with her husband (berniefan) and I called her and she recognized me right away. Total squee moment! They decided to look for something to eat so off they went. Peter arrived and we hurried in. Very strange layout - you go downstairs into a bar, which I guess is a holding area - THEN the doors that lead back upstairs to the Ballroom open at 8pm - aha! So we milled about for a few minutes then the doors opened and up we went.
A side note: Thierry and Peter and I all watched AI together last year and e-mailed/called each other after every show to evaluate and discuss. They both loved Elliott as well (though they weren't as obsessive as I was to join message boards) and were with me on my Elliott journey the whole way through. They would occasionally come to the Yaminions blog to check it out when I had stuff up there. The night Elliott performed A Song For You on AI we all got together at Thierry's apt. for a little dinner party - so awesome that it was on such a great night for him. They both called me the night Elliott was voted off. So having them with me last night for Elliott's first concert tour was quite meaningful.
I'm a little claustrophobic so I wasn't interested in mashing up to the stage and having to stay there for two hours before Elliott came on. The front of the crowd was only about three to four deep so there was a lot of room in the back 3/4. I found a bunch of E-Trainers that I knew from the Virgin Megastore signing, and there were some other E-Trainers that knew who I was but had never met. Very exciting! So we parked ourselves pretty much dead center in what I would consider the equivalent of the "king's seats" in the theatre - about 8th row center. Good sight lines, good audio distribution.
Josh came on at 9pm with his acoustic guitarist - much of his material is about former flames so there's a melancholy to his singing. I really enjoyed his set, he wails pretty good and his falsetto is nice. He's also quite the comedian, his story about meeting Elliott, like they were on a date, and admitting to being fanboyish when Elliott was on AI was hilarious. He thinks Elliott is "cute" and pondered that to the audience, which of course was met by screams of agreement. He went on to say he is the nicest guy you could ever meet - Josh said Elliott was nicer than his (Josh's) mother because Elliott never yells at him.
At one point, Elliott could be seen peeking out from the stage door and aiming his ever-present camera to take pictures. He took one of the audience as well! The first few rows went nuts.
Josh finished his set and got a rousing reception. Then we had a break before the *main act*.
I kept checking my watch every few minutes to see how close we were to 10pm. Finally, the time arrived and the house lights dimmed again....
Part II
I noticed the size of the crowd had increased behind me and as the lights went down everyone moved into position.
Elliott's band took the stage and moved into their positions, then fired off with that bump-n-grind beat of "Alright". Everyone began either dancing or moving in some way to that intro - the whole room was vibrating.
Elliott bounded through the stage door decked out in a dark grey t-shirt that had a statement about the Middle East emblazoned on it, grey pants and a ginormous blue belt with the end hanging loose.
And the Orioles cap was also in position! I chuckled heartily when I saw that on him.
The audience went insane - I can't remember the last time I was at a concert and the crowd screamed that loud.
Elliott took a moment to bask in the glory and dove right into the lyrics of his opening number. His voice live hits you like a sucker punch and I was nearly taken aback. I had been told by so many of y'all what a difference his voice was live, and you weren't kidding. As his singing soars up and out, you soar right along with him. It was pitch-perfect and exuded confidence, commitment, and sexuality.
After "Find A Way" the hat came off for the rest of the concert. I couldn't tell where he had put it down on the stage, but I wondered if someone up front was tempted to snatch that thing.
"One Word" and "I'm The Man" were particularly beautiful, those are some of my favorite hooks of his on the CD. "Train Wreck" was a masterpiece and you could tell how proud he was of that collaboration with Derek Bramble.
Throughout the set, he would stop to talk, to thank, and to acknowledge. His graciousness for his fans is continually endearing. There were also industry types there as well from Sony/ATV and RED, so they had to get personal kudos.
Elliott's brother Scott and his manager Monet Corso could be seen watching from the stage entrance. I was really touched to see Scott on tour with his brother - how exciting that must be for him.
I also got a kick out of the fangirly squeeing going on here and there. The occasional brazen solo shout of "I love you Elliott" was met by his raspy, come-hither tone of "I love you too sweetheart".
Most hilarious was this group of three big, buff gay guys behind me who were totally hot for Elliott. One of them managed to shout out "marry me Elliott!" Hehehe!
Get in line!
He brought Josh back out to duet on "Living For The City" which Elliott switched to "Living For New York City" for us. I swear he can own that song now - dare I say he sounded better than Stevie?
One thing I found odd was Josh's absence from singing back-up for the rest of Elliott's set. This actually didn't dawn on me until after the show, when I remembered the videos from Birchmere. I wonder if this may have had something to do with the venue?
Judy Garland once said, "I don't perspire, I just sweat! So unlady-like!" Elliott has raised the bar on sweating on stage. The top of his t-shirt from his shoulders to his chest was drenched within a few songs and he had to resort to sporting a white towel around his shoulders for the occasional wipe-down. At times, and in the moody lighting, it looked like the top cape of a royal robe. We were also a witness to several slick-backs of his curly locks which became plastered against the sides of his head before eventually succumbing to gravity and his exuberant romps around the stage.
Poland Spring water was set out in abundance for him, and at one point he poured the water down his back - and then turned and blessed us with it like the faithful flock that we are.
"I'm In Love With You Forever" sounded amazing - now I'm addicted to that on the CD! He closed with "Movin' On" and we went wild when he asked "Who's comin' with me?"
He threw that white towel into the audience before exiting. I couldn't help but envision folks slaughtering anyone who dared to be within a mile-wide radius of where that towel was headed. I gather one person was lucky enough to catch it - no fighting appeared to break out.
As he left the stage, the cheering continued and was joined by foot-stomping and chants of "Ell-i-ott" for what seemed like several agonizing minutes.
He returned to the stage with his keyboardist and talked about his audition for AI - and thus, we all knew what was coming.
He also informed us that he had "officially lost his voice" - but it still sounded like it was there to me.
"A Song For You" was the most beautiful and heartfelt I have ever heard him sing it. He switched the key lyric for most of the song to "...and I'm singing this song, to y'all."
He really does love his audience.
After a deafening ovation which nearly drowned out his words of gratitude, he waved one last time, and he was gone.
Thierry and Peter, who had not seen him perform since AI, were astounded at how great a performer he's become.
To those of you who have yet to see him, you are in for one heck of a ride. He pours every ounce of strength, heart and soul from that delicate frame of his into every note and lyric of his songs. His tone is rapturous and his trademarks that I've mentioned before: the growl, scats, bent tones and licks work beautifully. He owned that stage and moved through his set like an adored rock star. And now, he makes it looks so easy. The artist has arrived.
There is a Part III, but it must wait until later tonight - I have to get home and get some sleep.
Part I
Luckily I had a relaxing day and the weather was gorgeous - got some shopping done, some laundry done...
Spent the late afternoon on the phone touching base with Liz (from FlipSide) and my friend Thierry (Theresa) on when and where to meet up, then finding out the doors opened an hour later than what my tickets said so a re-coordination was in order.
I met Thierry at our *corner* at 91st and 3rd a little after 6pm - she keeps an apt. in the city (she and her husband live in Connecticut) just a couple blocks from my place - we sang together in Metro Mass Choir and we usually met at that corner to grab a cab when we had rehearsal. Hee! Good times!
We hopped on the subway and headed down to the Lower East Side. When we got to the Ballroom the line was already at the corner, we figured most people thought the doors were opening at 7pm. I went up and down the line and chloewannabe saw me and called me over - she made me an E-Train nametag with "RG" on it. She graciously offered us a place in line telling me she was saving me a spot, which was so sweet of her, but we were going to go get a bite to eat. Liz waved us down and said she was going to stay in line but would let us cut in when we got back from eating. Hehehe!
So Thierry and I hoofed it back to Spring Street looking for some place quick. The Bowery is skirted by Chinatown and Little Italy so you come upon tons of restaurants. We chose this nice little cafe and had some pasta and panini then headed back about 7:40ish. We were also waiting for another friend Peter who called on Thierry's cell and he was just coming out of the subway so he was minutes away.
We get back to the Ballroom and discover that everyone has gone inside. WTH? So we had to wait for Peter to catch up with us. Meanwhile I saw IBelieveToMySoul (elliott!fan) arrive with her husband (berniefan) and I called her and she recognized me right away. Total squee moment! They decided to look for something to eat so off they went. Peter arrived and we hurried in. Very strange layout - you go downstairs into a bar, which I guess is a holding area - THEN the doors that lead back upstairs to the Ballroom open at 8pm - aha! So we milled about for a few minutes then the doors opened and up we went.
A side note: Thierry and Peter and I all watched AI together last year and e-mailed/called each other after every show to evaluate and discuss. They both loved Elliott as well (though they weren't as obsessive as I was to join message boards) and were with me on my Elliott journey the whole way through. They would occasionally come to the Yaminions blog to check it out when I had stuff up there. The night Elliott performed A Song For You on AI we all got together at Thierry's apt. for a little dinner party - so awesome that it was on such a great night for him. They both called me the night Elliott was voted off. So having them with me last night for Elliott's first concert tour was quite meaningful.
I'm a little claustrophobic so I wasn't interested in mashing up to the stage and having to stay there for two hours before Elliott came on. The front of the crowd was only about three to four deep so there was a lot of room in the back 3/4. I found a bunch of E-Trainers that I knew from the Virgin Megastore signing, and there were some other E-Trainers that knew who I was but had never met. Very exciting! So we parked ourselves pretty much dead center in what I would consider the equivalent of the "king's seats" in the theatre - about 8th row center. Good sight lines, good audio distribution.
Josh came on at 9pm with his acoustic guitarist - much of his material is about former flames so there's a melancholy to his singing. I really enjoyed his set, he wails pretty good and his falsetto is nice. He's also quite the comedian, his story about meeting Elliott, like they were on a date, and admitting to being fanboyish when Elliott was on AI was hilarious. He thinks Elliott is "cute" and pondered that to the audience, which of course was met by screams of agreement. He went on to say he is the nicest guy you could ever meet - Josh said Elliott was nicer than his (Josh's) mother because Elliott never yells at him.
At one point, Elliott could be seen peeking out from the stage door and aiming his ever-present camera to take pictures. He took one of the audience as well! The first few rows went nuts.
Josh finished his set and got a rousing reception. Then we had a break before the *main act*.
I kept checking my watch every few minutes to see how close we were to 10pm. Finally, the time arrived and the house lights dimmed again....
Part II
I noticed the size of the crowd had increased behind me and as the lights went down everyone moved into position.
Elliott's band took the stage and moved into their positions, then fired off with that bump-n-grind beat of "Alright". Everyone began either dancing or moving in some way to that intro - the whole room was vibrating.
Elliott bounded through the stage door decked out in a dark grey t-shirt that had a statement about the Middle East emblazoned on it, grey pants and a ginormous blue belt with the end hanging loose.
And the Orioles cap was also in position! I chuckled heartily when I saw that on him.
The audience went insane - I can't remember the last time I was at a concert and the crowd screamed that loud.
Elliott took a moment to bask in the glory and dove right into the lyrics of his opening number. His voice live hits you like a sucker punch and I was nearly taken aback. I had been told by so many of y'all what a difference his voice was live, and you weren't kidding. As his singing soars up and out, you soar right along with him. It was pitch-perfect and exuded confidence, commitment, and sexuality.
After "Find A Way" the hat came off for the rest of the concert. I couldn't tell where he had put it down on the stage, but I wondered if someone up front was tempted to snatch that thing.
"One Word" and "I'm The Man" were particularly beautiful, those are some of my favorite hooks of his on the CD. "Train Wreck" was a masterpiece and you could tell how proud he was of that collaboration with Derek Bramble.
Throughout the set, he would stop to talk, to thank, and to acknowledge. His graciousness for his fans is continually endearing. There were also industry types there as well from Sony/ATV and RED, so they had to get personal kudos.
Elliott's brother Scott and his manager Monet Corso could be seen watching from the stage entrance. I was really touched to see Scott on tour with his brother - how exciting that must be for him.
I also got a kick out of the fangirly squeeing going on here and there. The occasional brazen solo shout of "I love you Elliott" was met by his raspy, come-hither tone of "I love you too sweetheart".
Most hilarious was this group of three big, buff gay guys behind me who were totally hot for Elliott. One of them managed to shout out "marry me Elliott!" Hehehe!
Get in line!
He brought Josh back out to duet on "Living For The City" which Elliott switched to "Living For New York City" for us. I swear he can own that song now - dare I say he sounded better than Stevie?
One thing I found odd was Josh's absence from singing back-up for the rest of Elliott's set. This actually didn't dawn on me until after the show, when I remembered the videos from Birchmere. I wonder if this may have had something to do with the venue?
Judy Garland once said, "I don't perspire, I just sweat! So unlady-like!" Elliott has raised the bar on sweating on stage. The top of his t-shirt from his shoulders to his chest was drenched within a few songs and he had to resort to sporting a white towel around his shoulders for the occasional wipe-down. At times, and in the moody lighting, it looked like the top cape of a royal robe. We were also a witness to several slick-backs of his curly locks which became plastered against the sides of his head before eventually succumbing to gravity and his exuberant romps around the stage.
Poland Spring water was set out in abundance for him, and at one point he poured the water down his back - and then turned and blessed us with it like the faithful flock that we are.
"I'm In Love With You Forever" sounded amazing - now I'm addicted to that on the CD! He closed with "Movin' On" and we went wild when he asked "Who's comin' with me?"
He threw that white towel into the audience before exiting. I couldn't help but envision folks slaughtering anyone who dared to be within a mile-wide radius of where that towel was headed. I gather one person was lucky enough to catch it - no fighting appeared to break out.
As he left the stage, the cheering continued and was joined by foot-stomping and chants of "Ell-i-ott" for what seemed like several agonizing minutes.
He returned to the stage with his keyboardist and talked about his audition for AI - and thus, we all knew what was coming.
He also informed us that he had "officially lost his voice" - but it still sounded like it was there to me.
"A Song For You" was the most beautiful and heartfelt I have ever heard him sing it. He switched the key lyric for most of the song to "...and I'm singing this song, to y'all."
He really does love his audience.
After a deafening ovation which nearly drowned out his words of gratitude, he waved one last time, and he was gone.
Thierry and Peter, who had not seen him perform since AI, were astounded at how great a performer he's become.
To those of you who have yet to see him, you are in for one heck of a ride. He pours every ounce of strength, heart and soul from that delicate frame of his into every note and lyric of his songs. His tone is rapturous and his trademarks that I've mentioned before: the growl, scats, bent tones and licks work beautifully. He owned that stage and moved through his set like an adored rock star. And now, he makes it looks so easy. The artist has arrived.
There is a Part III, but it must wait until later tonight - I have to get home and get some sleep.
realitymom - May 24, 2007 06:57 PM (GMT)
WOW! Now THAT is a recap! Man, I thought I felt some water spray me when reading about E pouring it on himself & then sharing it with the crowd! ;)
For those of us who are NOT able to witness the greatness in person this tour...what a blessing these recaps/pics/vids are. Thanks to all of you so very much!
For those of us who are NOT able to witness the greatness in person this tour...what a blessing these recaps/pics/vids are. Thanks to all of you so very much!
chloewannabee - May 24, 2007 07:10 PM (GMT)
Okay Rian, That's it! I am just not gonna read your posts anymore. Every time I do, I am reduced to tears, and once again, you've done it! I'm sitting here at work wiping tears from my eyes, cause you say so well, what's in my heart. I want to leave work right now, and start my drive to Philly , cause I can't wait to see and hear him again!
Matter of fact, I think I am going to print your post and make sure he gets a copy of it. Hope you won't mind if I do that.
Keep writing your inspired posts( even tho I will NOT be reading them) :rotfl:
:glomp:
love chloe
Matter of fact, I think I am going to print your post and make sure he gets a copy of it. Hope you won't mind if I do that.
Keep writing your inspired posts( even tho I will NOT be reading them) :rotfl:
:glomp:
love chloe
MistyluvsE - May 24, 2007 07:33 PM (GMT)
I agree Chloe! No more tear jerkers! ha ha ha!! : D
Loved the review!
cant wait to hear the rest.. :)
Loved the review!
cant wait to hear the rest.. :)
Rick1965 - May 24, 2007 08:01 PM (GMT)
Great review...makes mine look like it belongs in TIGER BEAT!! Is that thing still around?? If it is they should a special ELLIOTT YAMIN EDITION!!
I remember seeing you at the concert. I wanted to introduce myself because I had seen your Etrain tag, but chickened out after having some run ins with some bogus Etrainers!!
Can't wait to hear the rest.
I remember seeing you at the concert. I wanted to introduce myself because I had seen your Etrain tag, but chickened out after having some run ins with some bogus Etrainers!!
Can't wait to hear the rest.
wowhesgood - May 24, 2007 08:04 PM (GMT)
Loved reading this and I cannot wait for him to come to Denver!!!!!
georgiafan1 - May 24, 2007 08:13 PM (GMT)
As always, that was beautifully written. You really capture the spirit of your adventures and brings them to life for the readers.
Glad that it was such a great night for you. Thanks for sharing the experience with us.
Glad that it was such a great night for you. Thanks for sharing the experience with us.
chloewannabee - May 24, 2007 08:16 PM (GMT)
aww rick, they weren't bogus etrainers, just NEW ones perhaps. I gave out nametags to anyone who wanted one. One thing for sure, is that they were ALL Elliott fans
sherwood - May 24, 2007 08:22 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (ramblerg @ May 24 2007, 01:37 PM) |
| Ok, here we go.... Part I Luckily I had a relaxing day and the weather was gorgeous - got some shopping done, some laundry done... Spent the late afternoon on the phone touching base with Liz (from FlipSide) and my friend Thierry (Theresa) on when and where to meet up, then finding out the doors opened an hour later than what my tickets said so a re-coordination was in order. I met Thierry at our *corner* at 91st and 3rd a little after 6pm - she keeps an apt. in the city (she and her husband live in Connecticut) just a couple blocks from my place - we sang together in Metro Mass Choir and we usually met at that corner to grab a cab when we had rehearsal. Hee! Good times! We hopped on the subway and headed down to the Lower East Side. When we got to the Ballroom the line was already at the corner, we figured most people thought the doors were opening at 7pm. I went up and down the line and chloewannabe saw me and called me over - she made me an E-Train nametag with "RG" on it. She graciously offered us a place in line telling me she was saving me a spot, which was so sweet of her, but we were going to go get a bite to eat. Liz waved us down and said she was going to stay in line but would let us cut in when we got back from eating. Hehehe! So Thierry and I hoofed it back to Spring Street looking for some place quick. The Bowery is skirted by Chinatown and Little Italy so you come upon tons of restaurants. We chose this nice little cafe and had some pasta and panini then headed back about 7:40ish. We were also waiting for another friend Peter who called on Thierry's cell and he was just coming out of the subway so he was minutes away. We get back to the Ballroom and discover that everyone has gone inside. WTH? So we had to wait for Peter to catch up with us. Meanwhile I saw IBelieveToMySoul (elliott!fan) arrive with her husband (berniefan) and I called her and she recognized me right away. Total squee moment! They decided to look for something to eat so off they went. Peter arrived and we hurried in. Very strange layout - you go downstairs into a bar, which I guess is a holding area - THEN the doors that lead back upstairs to the Ballroom open at 8pm - aha! So we milled about for a few minutes then the doors opened and up we went. A side note: Thierry and Peter and I all watched AI together last year and e-mailed/called each other after every show to evaluate and discuss. They both loved Elliott as well (though they weren't as obsessive as I was to join message boards) and were with me on my Elliott journey the whole way through. They would occasionally come to the Yaminions blog to check it out when I had stuff up there. The night Elliott performed A Song For You on AI we all got together at Thierry's apt. for a little dinner party - so awesome that it was on such a great night for him. They both called me the night Elliott was voted off. So having them with me last night for Elliott's first concert tour was quite meaningful. I'm a little claustrophobic so I wasn't interested in mashing up to the stage and having to stay there for two hours before Elliott came on. The front of the crowd was only about three to four deep so there was a lot of room in the back 3/4. I found a bunch of E-Trainers that I knew from the Virgin Megastore signing, and there were some other E-Trainers that knew who I was but had never met. Very exciting! So we parked ourselves pretty much dead center in what I would consider the equivalent of the "king's seats" in the theatre - about 8th row center. Good sight lines, good audio distribution. Josh came on at 9pm with his acoustic guitarist - much of his material is about former flames so there's a melancholy to his singing. I really enjoyed his set, he wails pretty good and his falsetto is nice. He's also quite the comedian, his story about meeting Elliott, like they were on a date, and admitting to being fanboyish when Elliott was on AI was hilarious. He thinks Elliott is "cute" and pondered that to the audience, which of course was met by screams of agreement. He went on to say he is the nicest guy you could ever meet - Josh said Elliott was nicer than his (Josh's) mother because Elliott never yells at him. At one point, Elliott could be seen peeking out from the stage door and aiming his ever-present camera to take pictures. He took one of the audience as well! The first few rows went nuts. Josh finished his set and got a rousing reception. Then we had a break before the *main act*. I kept checking my watch every few minutes to see how close we were to 10pm. Finally, the time arrived and the house lights dimmed again.... Part II I noticed the size of the crowd had increased behind me and as the lights went down everyone moved into position. Elliott's band took the stage and moved into their positions, then fired off with that bump-n-grind beat of "Alright". Everyone began either dancing or moving in some way to that intro - the whole room was vibrating. Elliott bounded through the stage door decked out in a dark grey t-shirt that had a statement about the Middle East emblazoned on it, grey pants and a ginormous blue belt with the end hanging loose. And the Orioles cap was also in position! I chuckled heartily when I saw that on him. The audience went insane - I can't remember the last time I was at a concert and the crowd screamed that loud. Elliott took a moment to bask in the glory and dove right into the lyrics of his opening number. His voice live hits you like a sucker punch and I was nearly taken aback. I had been told by so many of y'all what a difference his voice was live, and you weren't kidding. As his singing soars up and out, you soar right along with him. It was pitch-perfect and exuded confidence, commitment, and sexuality. After "Find A Way" the hat came off for the rest of the concert. I couldn't tell where he had put it down on the stage, but I wondered if someone up front was tempted to snatch that thing. "One Word" and "I'm The Man" were particularly beautiful, those are some of my favorite hooks of his on the CD. "Train Wreck" was a masterpiece and you could tell how proud he was of that collaboration with Derek Bramble. Throughout the set, he would stop to talk, to thank, and to acknowledge. His graciousness for his fans is continually endearing. There were also industry types there as well from Sony/ATV and RED, so they had to get personal kudos. Elliott's brother Scott and his manager Monet Corso could be seen watching from the stage entrance. I was really touched to see Scott on tour with his brother - how exciting that must be for him. I also got a kick out of the fangirly squeeing going on here and there. The occasional brazen solo shout of "I love you Elliott" was met by his raspy, come-hither tone of "I love you too sweetheart". Most hilarious was this group of three big, buff gay guys behind me who were totally hot for Elliott. One of them managed to shout out "marry me Elliott!" Hehehe! Get in line! He brought Josh back out to duet on "Living For The City" which Elliott switched to "Living For New York City" for us. I swear he can own that song now - dare I say he sounded better than Stevie? One thing I found odd was Josh's absence from singing back-up for the rest of Elliott's set. This actually didn't dawn on me until after the show, when I remembered the videos from Birchmere. I wonder if this may have had something to do with the venue? Judy Garland once said, "I don't perspire, I just sweat! So unlady-like!" Elliott has raised the bar on sweating on stage. The top of his t-shirt from his shoulders to his chest was drenched within a few songs and he had to resort to sporting a white towel around his shoulders for the occasional wipe-down. At times, and in the moody lighting, it looked like the top cape of a royal robe. We were also a witness to several slick-backs of his curly locks which became plastered against the sides of his head before eventually succumbing to gravity and his exuberant romps around the stage. Poland Spring water was set out in abundance for him, and at one point he poured the water down his back - and then turned and blessed us with it like the faithful flock that we are. "I'm In Love With You Forever" sounded amazing - now I'm addicted to that on the CD! He closed with "Movin' On" and we went wild when he asked "Who's comin' with me?" He threw that white towel into the audience before exiting. I couldn't help but envision folks slaughtering anyone who dared to be within a mile-wide radius of where that towel was headed. I gather one person was lucky enough to catch it - no fighting appeared to break out. As he left the stage, the cheering continued and was joined by foot-stomping and chants of "Ell-i-ott" for what seemed like several agonizing minutes. He returned to the stage with his keyboardist and talked about his audition for AI - and thus, we all knew what was coming. He also informed us that he had "officially lost his voice" - but it still sounded like it was there to me. "A Song For You" was the most beautiful and heartfelt I have ever heard him sing it. He switched the key lyric for most of the song to "...and I'm singing this song, for y'all." He really does love his audience. After a deafening ovation which nearly drowned out his words of gratitude, he waved one last time, and he was gone. Thierry and Peter, who had not seen him perform since AI, were astounded at how great a performer he's become. To those of you who have yet to see him, you are in for one heck of a ride. He pours every ounce of strength, heart and soul from that delicate frame of his into every note and lyric of his songs. His tone is rapturous and his trademarks that I've mentioned before: the growl, scats, bent tones and licks work beautifully. He owned that stage and moved through his set like an adored rock star. And now, he makes it looks so easy. The artist has arrived. There is a Part III, but it must wait until later tonight - I have to get home and get some sleep. |
Ramblerg, I think that's the best thing I've ever read here!
gerryd - May 24, 2007 08:26 PM (GMT)
Ramblerg, this is an excellent review! I was there and it was an incredible evening. I'm really sorry that I didn't end up meeting any fellow E-Trainers and I didn't meet Elliott but maybe next time - because I know I'll HAVE to see Elliott again in concert. I have had the good fortune to have seen some wonderful musical performances of all kinds over the years but it's been a long time since I've seen anybody own a stage and have an audience that into it like Elliott did. I was really worried that I had built up my expectations too high but he delivered and then some! Unbelievable!!
frannibeth - May 24, 2007 08:28 PM (GMT)
great review............anxiously awaiting part 3........hurry up
TxRangerette - May 24, 2007 08:46 PM (GMT)
Thanks for the recap, RG!! Get your most needed rest and please hurry back and post part 3!! :rocker:
ETA: Excerpts of RG's post has been archived here:
http://etrainstation.com/index.php?showtop...0&#entry6333692
ETA: Excerpts of RG's post has been archived here:
http://etrainstation.com/index.php?showtop...0&#entry6333692
Rick1965 - May 24, 2007 09:38 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (chloewannabee @ May 24 2007, 03:16 PM) |
| aww rick, they weren't bogus etrainers, just NEW ones perhaps. I gave out nametags to anyone who wanted one. One thing for sure, is that they were ALL Elliott fans |
True...the important thing is that they are supporting Elliott. I am definitely on a mission to find the Etrainers on this site who all seem to be as cool as the man himself!! Hopefully at the next concert!! WHICH BETTER BE SOON!!
pdlvne - May 24, 2007 09:55 PM (GMT)
That was a great recap.
Linda4Elliott - May 24, 2007 10:08 PM (GMT)
Beautiful recap. I was hanging on everyword. We really have some wonderfully gifted people here on the etrain. I can't wait for part III. THANKS Ramblerg :)
elliottbabe - May 24, 2007 10:14 PM (GMT)
rian....you capture the moment so beautifully. i felt like i was there.
i'll be seeing him in s.f......and am absolutely certain, that my experience
will be exactly like yours....because the love is there.....can't wait.....
i'll be seeing him in s.f......and am absolutely certain, that my experience
will be exactly like yours....because the love is there.....can't wait.....
harleywoman - May 24, 2007 10:47 PM (GMT)
That was an awesome read, thanks so much!
musicmaker111 - May 25, 2007 01:16 AM (GMT)
I was there that night, and that was the PERFECT recap!!!! Thank you!!
By the way, I am the lucky fan who caught the VERY sweaty towel (along with ElliottFiend). Upon returning back to my hotle room for the night, I put the still-very-wet towel in a bag and there it still sits. I am going to auction it off to anyone who wants it with the entire proceeds to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Association in Elliott's name. Anyone interested should PM me with an offer. I will pay for the mailing of it to you (in the USA or Canada only). Any takers? It's got Elliott all over it! :hot:
By the way, I am the lucky fan who caught the VERY sweaty towel (along with ElliottFiend). Upon returning back to my hotle room for the night, I put the still-very-wet towel in a bag and there it still sits. I am going to auction it off to anyone who wants it with the entire proceeds to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Association in Elliott's name. Anyone interested should PM me with an offer. I will pay for the mailing of it to you (in the USA or Canada only). Any takers? It's got Elliott all over it! :hot:
chattycb - May 25, 2007 01:26 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (musicmaker111 @ May 24 2007, 08:16 PM) |
| I was there that night, and that was the PERFECT recap!!!! Thank you!! By the way, I am the lucky fan who caught the VERY sweaty towel (along with ElliottFiend). Upon returning back to my hotle room for the night, I put the still-very-wet towel in a bag and there it still sits. I am going to auction it off to anyone who wants it with the entire proceeds to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Association in Elliott's name. Anyone interested should PM me with an offer. I will pay for the mailing of it to you (in the USA or Canada only). Any takers? It's got Elliott all over it! :hot: |
Wow, Good for you. I was up in the balcony and I was wondering who the lucky person was who caught that towel. Great idea to auction the towel.
ETA-- Ramblerg, what a wonderful recap. E trainers are just the most talented group of people. It's just amazing.
Brucie - May 25, 2007 01:39 AM (GMT)
Great post! That is exactly how I felt in Richmond at Innsbrook. His voice (if you can believe it) is even richer in person. We weren't close enough unfortunataely, but he made us feel we were on stage with him. He is an entertainer with a voice that will bless us for years to come. I hope he has "sell out" crowds everywhere he goes. I and many others continue to pray for his health.
ramblerg - May 25, 2007 04:17 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (chloewannabee @ May 24 2007, 02:10 PM) |
| Okay Rian, That's it! I am just not gonna read your posts anymore. Every time I do, I am reduced to tears, and once again, you've done it! I'm sitting here at work wiping tears from my eyes, cause you say so well, what's in my heart. I want to leave work right now, and start my drive to Philly , cause I can't wait to see and hear him again! Matter of fact, I think I am going to print your post and make sure he gets a copy of it. Hope you won't mind if I do that. Keep writing your inspired posts( even tho I will NOT be reading them) :rotfl: :glomp: love chloe |
But it's a good cry right? Heehee!
Thanks chloe!
Wish I had the time to go to Philly too! Yeah, who wants to go to work anymore?! We're all just going to have to win the lottery/mega so we can follow E around the country on tour.
Yes, please, I'd love it if you could give him a copy of the recap, I'd be honored.
Have fun in Philly and let us know what happens! Safe travels.
xo.....Rg
Elliott!fan - May 25, 2007 06:28 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (ramblerg @ May 24 2007, 01:37 PM) |
| Ok, here we go.... Part I Luckily I had a relaxing day and the weather was gorgeous - got some shopping done, some laundry done... Spent the late afternoon on the phone touching base with Liz (from FlipSide) and my friend Thierry (Theresa) on when and where to meet up, then finding out the doors opened an hour later than what my tickets said so a re-coordination was in order. I met Thierry at our *corner* at 91st and 3rd a little after 6pm - she keeps an apt. in the city (she and her husband live in Connecticut) just a couple blocks from my place - we sang together in Metro Mass Choir and we usually met at that corner to grab a cab when we had rehearsal. Hee! Good times! We hopped on the subway and headed down to the Lower East Side. When we got to the Ballroom the line was already at the corner, we figured most people thought the doors were opening at 7pm. I went up and down the line and chloewannabe saw me and called me over - she made me an E-Train nametag with "RG" on it. She graciously offered us a place in line telling me she was saving me a spot, which was so sweet of her, but we were going to go get a bite to eat. Liz waved us down and said she was going to stay in line but would let us cut in when we got back from eating. Hehehe! So Thierry and I hoofed it back to Spring Street looking for some place quick. The Bowery is skirted by Chinatown and Little Italy so you come upon tons of restaurants. We chose this nice little cafe and had some pasta and panini then headed back about 7:40ish. We were also waiting for another friend Peter who called on Thierry's cell and he was just coming out of the subway so he was minutes away. We get back to the Ballroom and discover that everyone has gone inside. WTH? So we had to wait for Peter to catch up with us. Meanwhile I saw IBelieveToMySoul (elliott!fan) arrive with her husband (berniefan) and I called her and she recognized me right away. Total squee moment! They decided to look for something to eat so off they went. Peter arrived and we hurried in. Very strange layout - you go downstairs into a bar, which I guess is a holding area - THEN the doors that lead back upstairs to the Ballroom open at 8pm - aha! So we milled about for a few minutes then the doors opened and up we went. A side note: Thierry and Peter and I all watched AI together last year and e-mailed/called each other after every show to evaluate and discuss. They both loved Elliott as well (though they weren't as obsessive as I was to join message boards) and were with me on my Elliott journey the whole way through. They would occasionally come to the Yaminions blog to check it out when I had stuff up there. The night Elliott performed A Song For You on AI we all got together at Thierry's apt. for a little dinner party - so awesome that it was on such a great night for him. They both called me the night Elliott was voted off. So having them with me last night for Elliott's first concert tour was quite meaningful. I'm a little claustrophobic so I wasn't interested in mashing up to the stage and having to stay there for two hours before Elliott came on. The front of the crowd was only about three to four deep so there was a lot of room in the back 3/4. I found a bunch of E-Trainers that I knew from the Virgin Megastore signing, and there were some other E-Trainers that knew who I was but had never met. Very exciting! So we parked ourselves pretty much dead center in what I would consider the equivalent of the "king's seats" in the theatre - about 8th row center. Good sight lines, good audio distribution. Josh came on at 9pm with his acoustic guitarist - much of his material is about former flames so there's a melancholy to his singing. I really enjoyed his set, he wails pretty good and his falsetto is nice. He's also quite the comedian, his story about meeting Elliott, like they were on a date, and admitting to being fanboyish when Elliott was on AI was hilarious. He thinks Elliott is "cute" and pondered that to the audience, which of course was met by screams of agreement. He went on to say he is the nicest guy you could ever meet - Josh said Elliott was nicer than his (Josh's) mother because Elliott never yells at him. At one point, Elliott could be seen peeking out from the stage door and aiming his ever-present camera to take pictures. He took one of the audience as well! The first few rows went nuts. Josh finished his set and got a rousing reception. Then we had a break before the *main act*. I kept checking my watch every few minutes to see how close we were to 10pm. Finally, the time arrived and the house lights dimmed again.... Part II I noticed the size of the crowd had increased behind me and as the lights went down everyone moved into position. Elliott's band took the stage and moved into their positions, then fired off with that bump-n-grind beat of "Alright". Everyone began either dancing or moving in some way to that intro - the whole room was vibrating. Elliott bounded through the stage door decked out in a dark grey t-shirt that had a statement about the Middle East emblazoned on it, grey pants and a ginormous blue belt with the end hanging loose. And the Orioles cap was also in position! I chuckled heartily when I saw that on him. The audience went insane - I can't remember the last time I was at a concert and the crowd screamed that loud. Elliott took a moment to bask in the glory and dove right into the lyrics of his opening number. His voice live hits you like a sucker punch and I was nearly taken aback. I had been told by so many of y'all what a difference his voice was live, and you weren't kidding. As his singing soars up and out, you soar right along with him. It was pitch-perfect and exuded confidence, commitment, and sexuality. After "Find A Way" the hat came off for the rest of the concert. I couldn't tell where he had put it down on the stage, but I wondered if someone up front was tempted to snatch that thing. "One Word" and "I'm The Man" were particularly beautiful, those are some of my favorite hooks of his on the CD. "Train Wreck" was a masterpiece and you could tell how proud he was of that collaboration with Derek Bramble. Throughout the set, he would stop to talk, to thank, and to acknowledge. His graciousness for his fans is continually endearing. There were also industry types there as well from Sony/ATV and RED, so they had to get personal kudos. Elliott's brother Scott and his manager Monet Corso could be seen watching from the stage entrance. I was really touched to see Scott on tour with his brother - how exciting that must be for him. I also got a kick out of the fangirly squeeing going on here and there. The occasional brazen solo shout of "I love you Elliott" was met by his raspy, come-hither tone of "I love you too sweetheart". Most hilarious was this group of three big, buff gay guys behind me who were totally hot for Elliott. One of them managed to shout out "marry me Elliott!" Hehehe! Get in line! He brought Josh back out to duet on "Living For The City" which Elliott switched to "Living For New York City" for us. I swear he can own that song now - dare I say he sounded better than Stevie? One thing I found odd was Josh's absence from singing back-up for the rest of Elliott's set. This actually didn't dawn on me until after the show, when I remembered the videos from Birchmere. I wonder if this may have had something to do with the venue? Judy Garland once said, "I don't perspire, I just sweat! So unlady-like!" Elliott has raised the bar on sweating on stage. The top of his t-shirt from his shoulders to his chest was drenched within a few songs and he had to resort to sporting a white towel around his shoulders for the occasional wipe-down. At times, and in the moody lighting, it looked like the top cape of a royal robe. We were also a witness to several slick-backs of his curly locks which became plastered against the sides of his head before eventually succumbing to gravity and his exuberant romps around the stage. Poland Spring water was set out in abundance for him, and at one point he poured the water down his back - and then turned and blessed us with it like the faithful flock that we are. "I'm In Love With You Forever" sounded amazing - now I'm addicted to that on the CD! He closed with "Movin' On" and we went wild when he asked "Who's comin' with me?" He threw that white towel into the audience before exiting. I couldn't help but envision folks slaughtering anyone who dared to be within a mile-wide radius of where that towel was headed. I gather one person was lucky enough to catch it - no fighting appeared to break out. As he left the stage, the cheering continued and was joined by foot-stomping and chants of "Ell-i-ott" for what seemed like several agonizing minutes. He returned to the stage with his keyboardist and talked about his audition for AI - and thus, we all knew what was coming. He also informed us that he had "officially lost his voice" - but it still sounded like it was there to me. "A Song For You" was the most beautiful and heartfelt I have ever heard him sing it. He switched the key lyric for most of the song to "...and I'm singing this song, for y'all." He really does love his audience. After a deafening ovation which nearly drowned out his words of gratitude, he waved one last time, and he was gone. Thierry and Peter, who had not seen him perform since AI, were astounded at how great a performer he's become. To those of you who have yet to see him, you are in for one heck of a ride. He pours every ounce of strength, heart and soul from that delicate frame of his into every note and lyric of his songs. His tone is rapturous and his trademarks that I've mentioned before: the growl, scats, bent tones and licks work beautifully. He owned that stage and moved through his set like an adored rock star. And now, he makes it looks so easy. The artist has arrived. There is a Part III, but it must wait until later tonight - I have to get home and get some sleep. |
oye! Rg! u an Elliott r da man!!! xlnt, hot, hot recap!! love it! love it!!! tremendous! ..an it was soo da bomb to meet u! i feel u! phenomenal live performance! Elliott is truly the master! ..i love your eloquent words Rg! amen! thud! ;) :rocker: :thud:
nymphadora - May 25, 2007 08:54 AM (GMT)
Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience with us, Rian! Beautifully written, as always. Made me feel like I was at the concert myself.
Can't wait for Part 3! :grin:
Can't wait for Part 3! :grin:
ramblerg - May 25, 2007 11:31 AM (GMT)
| QUOTE (musicmaker111 @ May 24 2007, 08:16 PM) |
| I was there that night, and that was the PERFECT recap!!!! Thank you!! By the way, I am the lucky fan who caught the VERY sweaty towel (along with ElliottFiend). Upon returning back to my hotle room for the night, I put the still-very-wet towel in a bag and there it still sits. I am going to auction it off to anyone who wants it with the entire proceeds to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Association in Elliott's name. Anyone interested should PM me with an offer. I will pay for the mailing of it to you (in the USA or Canada only). Any takers? It's got Elliott all over it! :hot: |
Ah - there you are! Heehee! Congrats on getting the towel..... so, what does *he* smell like? My colleagues on the FlipSide are dying to know!
I think the auction idea is wonderful! Elliott has such great fans!
samimama123 - May 25, 2007 12:15 PM (GMT)
I need to know ...hopefully I will meet him sat in Cleveland and smell him myself lol
atlantiskat - May 25, 2007 12:16 PM (GMT)
GREAT RECAP RG. WAS HE HOT OR WHAT. I WAS IN SHEER HEAVEN THE ENTIRE TIME HE WAS ON THAT STAGE AND BY THE WAY I GOT A LITTLE WHIF OF THE SWEATY TOWEL AND HE SMELLS WONDERFUL. MUSCIMAKER WAS RIGHT BEHIND ME WHEN SHE CAUGHT IT.
:etrain: 4LIFE
:etrain: 4LIFE
ramblerg - May 25, 2007 12:57 PM (GMT)
Good luck in Cleveland samimama!
He was the hottest atlantis! Literally - hehehe!
At the FlipSide we have a posse of ladies going to the Cleveland concert - they are the Cleveland Contingent! When they get to the WalMart signing one of them may dare to ask if she can smell him and what cologne he uses!
It's a great group that's going and several are traveling from all over to be in Cleveland, including from California, Chicago, Boston. And even Sweden! - she arrived yesterday and is ecstatic to be in the states and to see Elliott in concert. I hope she gets to meet him, and that he knows she flew in from Europe just to see him.
He was the hottest atlantis! Literally - hehehe!
At the FlipSide we have a posse of ladies going to the Cleveland concert - they are the Cleveland Contingent! When they get to the WalMart signing one of them may dare to ask if she can smell him and what cologne he uses!
It's a great group that's going and several are traveling from all over to be in Cleveland, including from California, Chicago, Boston. And even Sweden! - she arrived yesterday and is ecstatic to be in the states and to see Elliott in concert. I hope she gets to meet him, and that he knows she flew in from Europe just to see him.
ramblerg - May 25, 2007 01:00 PM (GMT)
Here is my video clip of "Train Wreck" - about 2 minutes of it, sorry the lighting is so dim:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=O50inCz1620
http://youtube.com/watch?v=O50inCz1620
ramblerg - May 25, 2007 01:55 PM (GMT)
Part III
As soon as the lights came up and my friends commented on how Elliott has grown as a performer, I turned on my camera and said "Ok, that's the way it's done!" - meaning, that's how you put on a concert! Then I rant a little about my camera not being able to photograph clearly because of the club lighting.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf823r2oW4c
I think we all took a collective breath when it was over.
We sort of milled around for a minute trying to figure out where to go to get a chance to see Elliott. Our plans for afterwards was to eventually meet another friend uptown at a karaoke bar. We decided to head down the stairs where the merchandise table was since I wanted to buy some concert wares. I purchased the black t-shirt with the yellow print of Elliott's name - the 'o' in his name being a turntable that says "Sing Like Yamin It". I also bought Josh's CD. We then headed into the bar where I found Liz.
Then I see Josh begin to walk right past me and I called out "Mr. Hoge!" and reached out to shake his hand and tell him what a great job he did.
Liz and I were chatting for a few moments when these shrieks erupted on the other side of the room. I looked over in time to see Elliott dashing across the room toward the opposite door, waving as he went along. After he vanished up the stairs we all looked at each other and I queried, "should we follow him?" A few of us were on the move giving chase and the split second I reached the doorway there he was coming right back in! He had this huge grin on his face as he looked right at me (because he was joyous knowing he just killed us all upstairs or possibly because I'm a big guy and he knew he wasn't going anywhere too fast) so I put my arm out and said "Hey! Great show!" and he moved right under my arm and gave me a hug and said "Thanks man!" - then off he went back up the other stairs.
I could not believe my timing.
So we decided to hang for a bit to see if he would come back. Then Scott appeared and made the rounds. I went over and introduced myself. He is the nicest guy as well, and I was startled by the fact that his speaking voice is nearly identical to his brother's. My friends got a big kick out of that.
Soon threreafter Elliott was back - it was almost stealth-like the way he reappeared. Everyone moved in hoping for an autograph/picture. I got my CD autographed by him at Virgin Megastore so this time I was hoping for a photo op. Some fans presented him with the "The New Luther" banner that was held up at the beginning of the show. I was skimming the perimeter trying to calculate when to move in. After several minutes, Thierry had enough and shouted out, "Allright, enough with the girls, it's time for the boys!" Elliott looked right at us and started cracking up. Eventually security said they had to get him upstairs and began hustling him away.
So then we headed upstairs and out the door onto the street and there was Elliott again posing and signing. He must really have this down to a science.
Liz and I moved in and planted ourselves at a prime spot. We plotted our camera hand-off and as we got closer and when it looked like we were going to succeed, Liz gave me her camera, I gave Thierry my camera, I told Liz to "go, go, go!" and she moved in and was posing with our Idol. I snapped away, Liz and Elliott had a few words, then I made my move, passing back the camera in mid-flight.
The moment I had been waiting for over a year finally happened.
I thanked him, told him how amazing he was. He thanked me for coming and Peter and Thierry stepped in to shake his hand and congratulate him. I notice Elliott keeps his arm around you or his hand on your arm when you talk to him in these situations. He's certainly one of the most friendly, personable individuals I've ever met. Everything you've heard about his sweet and sincere disposition is true. Peter told him he pretty much stopped watching American Idol after he left as he was the best thing to happen on the show. Thierry told him she wasn't able to get her husband to come and was going to scold him for missing such a great show. Elliott laughed and said "well he'd better come next time!"
We continued to hang for a few minutes and Scott was hanging around as well, so I asked him if he was able to do any touristy things while he was here. He said after he got in Sunday he slept a lot, but that he went to the Park (Central Park) today. I told him it was the perfect day to go to the park with the weather being so beautiful. He amusingly bemoaned the lack of "southern hospitality" here - which is something we could definitely use here from time to time. Scott also thanked us for everything we do, referring to the boards and such.
It was time for Elliott and company to head back inside so we all said farewell.
Thierry and Peter and I jumped in a cab and headed uptown to the karaoke place (quite fitting considering - hey, I should've invited Elliott - heh!) where our friend Helena was still patiently waiting with two friends of hers. We shared our very exciting evening then eventually belted out a couple tunes. Afterwards we decided we were hungry and hit a 24-hour bistro nearby. I eventually got home by 4:30am.......
Since I had to be at work later that evening, at midnight, I decided to stay up a few more hours and get my 'day sleep' in. So I watched the finals of AI that I had taped - eh? No comparison.
And since I was bursting at the seams to tell folks what happened and could not wait until I got online at midnight, I called two friends at 6am and 6:30am respectively, figuing they'd be up! At least one was. I thank them mightily for indulging me and letting me interrupt their morning routines!
Then I was off to sleep and when I awoke later I was counting down the hours until I could get on a computer.
And sitting through that dreadfully boring AI finale didn't help matters much:
I still missed Elliott, even though I had just seen him sing live and met him less than 24 hours before. He certainly has a hold on our hearts.
It was a night to remember. Until next time....
As soon as the lights came up and my friends commented on how Elliott has grown as a performer, I turned on my camera and said "Ok, that's the way it's done!" - meaning, that's how you put on a concert! Then I rant a little about my camera not being able to photograph clearly because of the club lighting.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qf823r2oW4c
I think we all took a collective breath when it was over.
We sort of milled around for a minute trying to figure out where to go to get a chance to see Elliott. Our plans for afterwards was to eventually meet another friend uptown at a karaoke bar. We decided to head down the stairs where the merchandise table was since I wanted to buy some concert wares. I purchased the black t-shirt with the yellow print of Elliott's name - the 'o' in his name being a turntable that says "Sing Like Yamin It". I also bought Josh's CD. We then headed into the bar where I found Liz.
Then I see Josh begin to walk right past me and I called out "Mr. Hoge!" and reached out to shake his hand and tell him what a great job he did.
Liz and I were chatting for a few moments when these shrieks erupted on the other side of the room. I looked over in time to see Elliott dashing across the room toward the opposite door, waving as he went along. After he vanished up the stairs we all looked at each other and I queried, "should we follow him?" A few of us were on the move giving chase and the split second I reached the doorway there he was coming right back in! He had this huge grin on his face as he looked right at me (because he was joyous knowing he just killed us all upstairs or possibly because I'm a big guy and he knew he wasn't going anywhere too fast) so I put my arm out and said "Hey! Great show!" and he moved right under my arm and gave me a hug and said "Thanks man!" - then off he went back up the other stairs.
I could not believe my timing.
So we decided to hang for a bit to see if he would come back. Then Scott appeared and made the rounds. I went over and introduced myself. He is the nicest guy as well, and I was startled by the fact that his speaking voice is nearly identical to his brother's. My friends got a big kick out of that.
Soon threreafter Elliott was back - it was almost stealth-like the way he reappeared. Everyone moved in hoping for an autograph/picture. I got my CD autographed by him at Virgin Megastore so this time I was hoping for a photo op. Some fans presented him with the "The New Luther" banner that was held up at the beginning of the show. I was skimming the perimeter trying to calculate when to move in. After several minutes, Thierry had enough and shouted out, "Allright, enough with the girls, it's time for the boys!" Elliott looked right at us and started cracking up. Eventually security said they had to get him upstairs and began hustling him away.
So then we headed upstairs and out the door onto the street and there was Elliott again posing and signing. He must really have this down to a science.
Liz and I moved in and planted ourselves at a prime spot. We plotted our camera hand-off and as we got closer and when it looked like we were going to succeed, Liz gave me her camera, I gave Thierry my camera, I told Liz to "go, go, go!" and she moved in and was posing with our Idol. I snapped away, Liz and Elliott had a few words, then I made my move, passing back the camera in mid-flight.
The moment I had been waiting for over a year finally happened.
I thanked him, told him how amazing he was. He thanked me for coming and Peter and Thierry stepped in to shake his hand and congratulate him. I notice Elliott keeps his arm around you or his hand on your arm when you talk to him in these situations. He's certainly one of the most friendly, personable individuals I've ever met. Everything you've heard about his sweet and sincere disposition is true. Peter told him he pretty much stopped watching American Idol after he left as he was the best thing to happen on the show. Thierry told him she wasn't able to get her husband to come and was going to scold him for missing such a great show. Elliott laughed and said "well he'd better come next time!"
We continued to hang for a few minutes and Scott was hanging around as well, so I asked him if he was able to do any touristy things while he was here. He said after he got in Sunday he slept a lot, but that he went to the Park (Central Park) today. I told him it was the perfect day to go to the park with the weather being so beautiful. He amusingly bemoaned the lack of "southern hospitality" here - which is something we could definitely use here from time to time. Scott also thanked us for everything we do, referring to the boards and such.
It was time for Elliott and company to head back inside so we all said farewell.
Thierry and Peter and I jumped in a cab and headed uptown to the karaoke place (quite fitting considering - hey, I should've invited Elliott - heh!) where our friend Helena was still patiently waiting with two friends of hers. We shared our very exciting evening then eventually belted out a couple tunes. Afterwards we decided we were hungry and hit a 24-hour bistro nearby. I eventually got home by 4:30am.......
Since I had to be at work later that evening, at midnight, I decided to stay up a few more hours and get my 'day sleep' in. So I watched the finals of AI that I had taped - eh? No comparison.
And since I was bursting at the seams to tell folks what happened and could not wait until I got online at midnight, I called two friends at 6am and 6:30am respectively, figuing they'd be up! At least one was. I thank them mightily for indulging me and letting me interrupt their morning routines!
Then I was off to sleep and when I awoke later I was counting down the hours until I could get on a computer.
And sitting through that dreadfully boring AI finale didn't help matters much:
I still missed Elliott, even though I had just seen him sing live and met him less than 24 hours before. He certainly has a hold on our hearts.
It was a night to remember. Until next time....
sherwood - May 25, 2007 03:26 PM (GMT)
'He certainly has a hold on our hearts.' :wub:
yellin4yamin - May 25, 2007 03:50 PM (GMT)
BEAUTIFUL recap ramblerg hon....just PERFECTION!!! Just like Elliott himself......;)
THANK YOU!!!
xxoo
THANK YOU!!!
xxoo
penni - May 25, 2007 04:50 PM (GMT)
great summary. ramblerg ... I was there too and lovin' every moment , every note. Got chills when he began Song for You and was sad because i knew it was almost over.
Would love to be in Philly tonite, but will have to rely on others to tell us how great Elliott was .. Chloe, and everyone else who is lucky enough to be there, have fun!
When I heard this, (Claudette, told my sister, Auntie Sheryl (sukiburton), who told me), I beamed : Someone from security told Scott that he has worked 900 shows and never saw someone who was soooo nice, who treated everyone, the security people, other workers in the venue, his own staff and of course his fans so well. We know that, but it how nice to hear!!
Would love to be in Philly tonite, but will have to rely on others to tell us how great Elliott was .. Chloe, and everyone else who is lucky enough to be there, have fun!
When I heard this, (Claudette, told my sister, Auntie Sheryl (sukiburton), who told me), I beamed : Someone from security told Scott that he has worked 900 shows and never saw someone who was soooo nice, who treated everyone, the security people, other workers in the venue, his own staff and of course his fans so well. We know that, but it how nice to hear!!
lindagt - May 25, 2007 10:27 PM (GMT)
I'm late to the party weighing in - since I spent a few days in NYC after the show - but Rg - this is an amazing and right on review! I'm so glad to finally get to meet you live and in person!!
This show was so amazing I stood there and could not figure out when my little boy turned into a rock star!! He was all OVER the stage and the crowd loved it. What I loved about the crowd was the diversity and the number of young people at the concert. Everyone was psyched and cheering for him like he was Justin Timberlake or something :lol:
It has REALLY happened now - he's officially a pop idol. And he did it in record time - what did those goofballs at AI know? I kept thinking - all these people know all of the words to all of these songs, which means they own the CD and listen to it often.
I got a second to introduce myself to Elliott after the show too - and he was so sweet with the hugs and the "I know who you are - I see your messages all the time!"
It was an AMAZING concert - he really did ROCK the Bowery!
This show was so amazing I stood there and could not figure out when my little boy turned into a rock star!! He was all OVER the stage and the crowd loved it. What I loved about the crowd was the diversity and the number of young people at the concert. Everyone was psyched and cheering for him like he was Justin Timberlake or something :lol:
It has REALLY happened now - he's officially a pop idol. And he did it in record time - what did those goofballs at AI know? I kept thinking - all these people know all of the words to all of these songs, which means they own the CD and listen to it often.
I got a second to introduce myself to Elliott after the show too - and he was so sweet with the hugs and the "I know who you are - I see your messages all the time!"
It was an AMAZING concert - he really did ROCK the Bowery!
harleywoman - May 25, 2007 10:50 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (lindagt @ May 25 2007, 06:27 PM) |
| I'm late to the party weighing in - since I spent a few days in NYC after the show - but Rg - this is an amazing and right on review! I'm so glad to finally get to meet you live and in person!! This show was so amazing I stood there and could not figure out when my little boy turned into a rock star!! He was all OVER the stage and the crowd loved it. What I loved about the crowd was the diversity and the number of young people at the concert. Everyone was psyched and cheering for him like he was Justin Timberlake or something :lol: It has REALLY happened now - he's officially a pop idol. And he did it in record time - what did those goofballs at AI know? I kept thinking - all these people know all of the words to all of these songs, which means they own the CD and listen to it often. I got a second to introduce myself to Elliott after the show too - and he was so sweet with the hugs and the "I know who you are - I see your messages all the time!" It was an AMAZING concert - he really did ROCK the Bowery! |
Yeah, you're back. I missed you. So you got to meet him, told ya. I'm so happy for you. :grouphug:
musicmaker111 - May 26, 2007 03:04 AM (GMT)
Linda, I am so glad you finally got to meet him! I was amazed the other day when you told me you hadn't yet. AND how cool that he knew you from all your posts! Very cool.
It was a real pleasure to meet you. I'm glad that your son was doing well enough for you to come after all. I look forward to seeing you again some day! :cheers:
It was a real pleasure to meet you. I'm glad that your son was doing well enough for you to come after all. I look forward to seeing you again some day! :cheers:
chloewannabee - June 4, 2007 11:47 PM (GMT)
RIAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I totally forgot to tell you this!!!!!!!!!!!!
When I went to Philly last week, I brought with me a copy of your post, Parts l,ll, and lll. I wasnt sure i was gonna see E after the show, so I gave the envelope to Aaron, and made him swear that he would give it to Elliott. Well, as luck would have it, E did come outside after the show, and I did see him and talk to him, and...................he DID have the envelope that Aaron had given him. Told him to read it when he got the chance, and he said he would!!!. So don't be surprised if you hear from him. That's the way he is!
Even if he can't reply, just know that he did get it!
luv ya
chloe
I totally forgot to tell you this!!!!!!!!!!!!
When I went to Philly last week, I brought with me a copy of your post, Parts l,ll, and lll. I wasnt sure i was gonna see E after the show, so I gave the envelope to Aaron, and made him swear that he would give it to Elliott. Well, as luck would have it, E did come outside after the show, and I did see him and talk to him, and...................he DID have the envelope that Aaron had given him. Told him to read it when he got the chance, and he said he would!!!. So don't be surprised if you hear from him. That's the way he is!
Even if he can't reply, just know that he did get it!
luv ya
chloe
ramblerg - June 5, 2007 03:07 PM (GMT)
| QUOTE (chloewannabee @ Jun 4 2007, 06:47 PM) |
| RIAN!!!!!!! I totally forgot to tell you this!!!!! When I went to Philly last week, I brought with me a copy of your post, Parts l,ll, and lll. I wasnt sure i was gonna see E after the show, so I gave the envelope to Aaron, and made him swear that he would give it to Elliott. Well, as luck would have it, E did come outside after the show, and I did see him and talk to him, and...................he DID have the envelope that Aaron had given him. Told him to read it when he got the chance, and he said he would!!!. So don't be surprised if you hear from him. That's the way he is! Even if he can't reply, just know that he did get it! luv ya chloe |
Hee chloe!! Thanks so much for passing that along to him, I truly appreciate it.
Oh, I'm sure he's far too busy of a boy to seek me out. But I hope he enjoyed it.
Again, thanks for doing that for me!
xo...Rg