Google Groups no longer supports new Usenet posts or subscriptions. Historical content remains viewable.
Dismiss
O/T Marvin Glassman story on Melissa Manchester now online
509 views
Skip to first unread message
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 12:44:41 AM3/7/15
to
My story on Melissa Manchester is now online at www.floridajewishjournal.com in the Broward news section. Click on the link to Melissa Manchester to read the story.
My apologies I could not email our group from my email account. I also apologize for some poor editing by our copy editor on some of the paragraphs, but hopefully on Monday he will correct some of the errors.
I saw Melissa at the Jazziz club in Boca Raton (it looks like the Paradise Cafe club Barry recreated in his Swing Street TV special) and she performed both new songs and her standard hits like "Come In From The Rain", "Midnight Blue", "Don't Cry Out Loud" and "Through The Eyes Of Love".
I like the mew ballad she sang called "Claudia" for Melissa's sister and the song "You Gotta Love The Life" that reminds me of Barry's "It's Gonna Be All Right" or "It's a Mirace" as a celebratory song one can dance to.
Melissa at age 64 sounds vibrant with a deeper, huskier voice than when she was younger and the arrangements she had with her two band members blended well with her voice in this intimate setting that had 300 people at the show.. Melissa has her original face, (never used botox), wears glasses off stage, and looks great even if she could lose a few pounds. As many of you know, Melissa is an adjunct music professor at USC in the LA area and daughter Hanna is a yoga instructor and son Nathan is a computer programmer who also dapples into artist management.
My deep thanks to Melissa and her management for the story and calling me for an hour phone interview. It was also wonderful for me to see her again with the fans after the show and her telling me how much she liked my story on her.
Melissa told me that she learned from the country fans how important it was for her to engage fans and said that it was never necessary for her to ever charge fans for the privilege of meeting fans as a contrast to other artists.
Melissa after her Florida run of shows next week will be performing in New York at Club 54 for those that wish to see her. To learn more on her, go to www.melissa-manchester.com
I hope you all like the story and got some new insights into Melissa from our interview. Regards, Marvin
My apologies I could not email our group from my email account. I also apologize for some poor editing by our copy editor on some of the paragraphs, but hopefully on Monday he will correct some of the errors.
I saw Melissa at the Jazziz club in Boca Raton (it looks like the Paradise Cafe club Barry recreated in his Swing Street TV special) and she performed both new songs and her standard hits like "Come In From The Rain", "Midnight Blue", "Don't Cry Out Loud" and "Through The Eyes Of Love".
I like the mew ballad she sang called "Claudia" for Melissa's sister and the song "You Gotta Love The Life" that reminds me of Barry's "It's Gonna Be All Right" or "It's a Mirace" as a celebratory song one can dance to.
Melissa at age 64 sounds vibrant with a deeper, huskier voice than when she was younger and the arrangements she had with her two band members blended well with her voice in this intimate setting that had 300 people at the show.. Melissa has her original face, (never used botox), wears glasses off stage, and looks great even if she could lose a few pounds. As many of you know, Melissa is an adjunct music professor at USC in the LA area and daughter Hanna is a yoga instructor and son Nathan is a computer programmer who also dapples into artist management.
My deep thanks to Melissa and her management for the story and calling me for an hour phone interview. It was also wonderful for me to see her again with the fans after the show and her telling me how much she liked my story on her.
Melissa told me that she learned from the country fans how important it was for her to engage fans and said that it was never necessary for her to ever charge fans for the privilege of meeting fans as a contrast to other artists.
Melissa after her Florida run of shows next week will be performing in New York at Club 54 for those that wish to see her. To learn more on her, go to www.melissa-manchester.com
I hope you all like the story and got some new insights into Melissa from our interview. Regards, Marvin
Carmen
Mar 7, 2015, 3:04:59 AM3/7/15
to
Marvin--
I appreciated your interview with Melissa. I actually got a link to it on my Twitter feed & read it before you posted here.
If your editor re-edits the article before publishing it somewhere else, please let them know the article refers to Melissa's new single/CD (I forget which was the exact reference) using the words "Got To" in the title. It's actually "Gotta". The CD & current single are both titled "You Gotta (not Got To) Love the Life". There were a couple other minor things I saw that I wanted to mention, but I can't remember them off the top of my head now.
Also, besides teaching at USC, Melissa's an honorary Artist-in-Residence at Citrus College in Southern California. She actually used their professional recording facilities for her new CD, & their Professor of Recording Arts (she's referred to him that way in other interviews I've recently read with her) was the engineer on her new CD. I picked this info up from other recent--in the last few weeks--interviews with her. Something else you maybe could've mentioned, which I've read in pretty much every other print interview with her since the new CD came out, is that (I assume only a portion of, but don't know for sure) the proceeds from the new CD are apparently being contributed to the Manilow Music Project.
OK... I remember 1 of the other things I wanted to mention about the article, if I may. It said her new CD came out "last February" (exactly which paragraph, I can't remember).
To me, that sounds like it came out in February of *last year*; not in February as in *last month* (or last week, even, since March's barely a week old), which is when it came out... Last month. February 10th, 2015, to be exact. Perhaps the wording might be changed in future editions so the reader doesn't think her latest CD is over a year old?
I'm positive of the date it came out, because I'm also a longtime fan of Melissa's, & we've had to wait 10 years for her to record new material, so I paid attention to the release date, & because I also posted here about her new CD on its release date, because I'd read Melissa was contributing proceeds from it to the Manilow Music Project & I thought someone here might like to buy/download it either because they're a fan of Melissa's or due to the connection to the Manilow Music Project.
By the way, Melissa's daughter's name has an H at the end of it. It's Hannah.
Anyway... I hope you take my comments as the constructive criticism they were meant to be; not as negative "flaming", which they weren't meant as.
I appreciated your interview with Melissa. I actually got a link to it on my Twitter feed & read it before you posted here.
If your editor re-edits the article before publishing it somewhere else, please let them know the article refers to Melissa's new single/CD (I forget which was the exact reference) using the words "Got To" in the title. It's actually "Gotta". The CD & current single are both titled "You Gotta (not Got To) Love the Life". There were a couple other minor things I saw that I wanted to mention, but I can't remember them off the top of my head now.
Also, besides teaching at USC, Melissa's an honorary Artist-in-Residence at Citrus College in Southern California. She actually used their professional recording facilities for her new CD, & their Professor of Recording Arts (she's referred to him that way in other interviews I've recently read with her) was the engineer on her new CD. I picked this info up from other recent--in the last few weeks--interviews with her. Something else you maybe could've mentioned, which I've read in pretty much every other print interview with her since the new CD came out, is that (I assume only a portion of, but don't know for sure) the proceeds from the new CD are apparently being contributed to the Manilow Music Project.
OK... I remember 1 of the other things I wanted to mention about the article, if I may. It said her new CD came out "last February" (exactly which paragraph, I can't remember).
To me, that sounds like it came out in February of *last year*; not in February as in *last month* (or last week, even, since March's barely a week old), which is when it came out... Last month. February 10th, 2015, to be exact. Perhaps the wording might be changed in future editions so the reader doesn't think her latest CD is over a year old?
I'm positive of the date it came out, because I'm also a longtime fan of Melissa's, & we've had to wait 10 years for her to record new material, so I paid attention to the release date, & because I also posted here about her new CD on its release date, because I'd read Melissa was contributing proceeds from it to the Manilow Music Project & I thought someone here might like to buy/download it either because they're a fan of Melissa's or due to the connection to the Manilow Music Project.
By the way, Melissa's daughter's name has an H at the end of it. It's Hannah.
Anyway... I hope you take my comments as the constructive criticism they were meant to be; not as negative "flaming", which they weren't meant as.
Message has been deleted
Message has been deleted
Carmen
Mar 7, 2015, 4:25:40 AM3/7/15
to
Marvin--
A couple more things... Sorry! It's hard to remember everything you wanted to say without having what you're responding to in front of you (& I don't on Google Groups). And sorry for all the deleted messages. I keep forgetting 1 thing & starting over, so this time I'll start with the thing I keep forgetting so I don't forget it again.
I said in my other post Melissa's current single was the title track from her new CD. It's not. The current single is actually "Feelin' for You".
The Barry song you called "It's Gonna Be All Right" (or whatever you said) is *actually* titled "Everything's Gonna Be Alright". It's from the 15 Minutes CD.
In New York City, Melissa's upcoming shows will be at *54 Below*. You said "Club 54". It might help to get the venue name correct, in case any of the New York City locals here might wanna go to any of her shows. I think 54 Below is a small club space somewhere within the larger Studio 54.
A small point of information: Melissa/her "people" recently--like while she was recording the new/current CD--revamped her website ("new CD, new website", I guess) & that includes the site address.
You gave the site address as www.melissa-manchester.com, with a dash between her first & last names.
The new address for Melissa's site is www.melissamanchester.com, with *no* dash between her first & last names.
I just tried the address *with* the dash between her names. If you type it *with* the dash, the address changes to the version *without* the dash (the new address) & you're taken to the revamped, current version of her website (but it might not open very quickly... just saying). So it sort of/more than sort of works both ways.
A couple more things... Sorry! It's hard to remember everything you wanted to say without having what you're responding to in front of you (& I don't on Google Groups). And sorry for all the deleted messages. I keep forgetting 1 thing & starting over, so this time I'll start with the thing I keep forgetting so I don't forget it again.
I said in my other post Melissa's current single was the title track from her new CD. It's not. The current single is actually "Feelin' for You".
The Barry song you called "It's Gonna Be All Right" (or whatever you said) is *actually* titled "Everything's Gonna Be Alright". It's from the 15 Minutes CD.
In New York City, Melissa's upcoming shows will be at *54 Below*. You said "Club 54". It might help to get the venue name correct, in case any of the New York City locals here might wanna go to any of her shows. I think 54 Below is a small club space somewhere within the larger Studio 54.
A small point of information: Melissa/her "people" recently--like while she was recording the new/current CD--revamped her website ("new CD, new website", I guess) & that includes the site address.
You gave the site address as www.melissa-manchester.com, with a dash between her first & last names.
The new address for Melissa's site is www.melissamanchester.com, with *no* dash between her first & last names.
I just tried the address *with* the dash between her names. If you type it *with* the dash, the address changes to the version *without* the dash (the new address) & you're taken to the revamped, current version of her website (but it might not open very quickly... just saying). So it sort of/more than sort of works both ways.
Suzan
Mar 7, 2015, 7:08:23 AM3/7/15
to
> Melissa has her original face, (never used botox), wears glasses off stage, and looks great even if she could lose a few pounds.
I enjoyed your article; thank you for posting. She sounds like a lovely person, and I hope you enjoy her show on Saturday.
However, maybe I'm just being a little sensitive, but if she looks anything like the photo in your article, I doubt she needs to lose any weight! She looks great!
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 8:44:53 AM3/7/15
to
Hi Carmen,
Thanks for the feedback and I take it all in a positive vein. I want to compliment you by stating that of all the posters in our group I don't think anyone knows more about Melissa Manchester (myself included) than you. It sounds like you have seen Melissa and hopefully had the opportunity of meeting and speaking with her often. Unlike other artists, Melissa will speak to fans for long periods of time following her shows and shares so much of herself with others. You come away from meeting with Melissa feeling like you made a real friend that you want to invite home to dinner, rather than a celebrity that felt obligated to talk and pose for a picture with you.
Regarding my story on Melissa, my editor gave me a limit of 10-12 paragraphs of 600 words or less, so unfortunately I could not write all I wanted to write and know about Melissa.
However, what was important to my editor and readers of Jewish Journal is that I captured much of Melissa's Jewish roots and her feelings about being Jewish. My editor and I do not want to write a story that reads similar to a daily paper, so I had to make my perspective on Melissa unique.
When I first spoke to her four years ago, I did not expect Melissa to be so candid and discuss being an adult bat mitzvah or that she wrote a Hanukkah song which I wrote about in the older article but did not have room to put in this story.
I am proud that my story on Melissa, because of the emphasis on her Jewish roots, is unique to others that are out there. It also means a lot to me that Melissa personally shared how much she enjoyed our interviews and my articles on her. I don't like to think of my interview subjects as friends because they work with me primarily to publicize their shows, but Melissa comes as close as being a friend to me as anyone I met in show business. Regards, Marvin
Thanks for the feedback and I take it all in a positive vein. I want to compliment you by stating that of all the posters in our group I don't think anyone knows more about Melissa Manchester (myself included) than you. It sounds like you have seen Melissa and hopefully had the opportunity of meeting and speaking with her often. Unlike other artists, Melissa will speak to fans for long periods of time following her shows and shares so much of herself with others. You come away from meeting with Melissa feeling like you made a real friend that you want to invite home to dinner, rather than a celebrity that felt obligated to talk and pose for a picture with you.
Regarding my story on Melissa, my editor gave me a limit of 10-12 paragraphs of 600 words or less, so unfortunately I could not write all I wanted to write and know about Melissa.
However, what was important to my editor and readers of Jewish Journal is that I captured much of Melissa's Jewish roots and her feelings about being Jewish. My editor and I do not want to write a story that reads similar to a daily paper, so I had to make my perspective on Melissa unique.
When I first spoke to her four years ago, I did not expect Melissa to be so candid and discuss being an adult bat mitzvah or that she wrote a Hanukkah song which I wrote about in the older article but did not have room to put in this story.
I am proud that my story on Melissa, because of the emphasis on her Jewish roots, is unique to others that are out there. It also means a lot to me that Melissa personally shared how much she enjoyed our interviews and my articles on her. I don't like to think of my interview subjects as friends because they work with me primarily to publicize their shows, but Melissa comes as close as being a friend to me as anyone I met in show business. Regards, Marvin
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 8:51:34 AM3/7/15
to
Hi Suzan,
The photo is a little dated as Melissa is a few pounds bigger than in her prime years (but then so am I) but otherwise she looks wonderful and sexy and, although she sings in a lower key than she used to, Melissa still has a big booming emotional voice that is strong. I like that she did not alter her face in any way through cosmetic surgery and has the same good looks that she had when she was younger. Regards, Marvin
The photo is a little dated as Melissa is a few pounds bigger than in her prime years (but then so am I) but otherwise she looks wonderful and sexy and, although she sings in a lower key than she used to, Melissa still has a big booming emotional voice that is strong. I like that she did not alter her face in any way through cosmetic surgery and has the same good looks that she had when she was younger. Regards, Marvin
Carmen
Mar 7, 2015, 9:27:39 AM3/7/15
to
Hi Marvin--
I've actually never met Melissa... yet (but wouldn't pass up the opportunity, if presented with it, whether I had to pay for it--within reason--or not).
And I've only seen her in concert once; I think somewhere around 1995 or so, as best I can remember. Somewhere about 3 or so of her albums ago.
My Dad took me & my Mom to Atlantic City with him when he had to attend a meeting back around then; before we left home I found out Melissa would be performing in 1 of the other hotel-casinos, besides ours, while we were there. I managed to talk my parents into letting me get tickets for 1 of the shows & my Dad went with me.
I liked it; I think my Dad did too. It was back when her kids were still sort of "little", & in school, & I remember she had some funny stories about her daughter, Hannah, in particular. But she wasn't meeting fans after, back then. Or if she was, I never heard about it. If I had, I'd have definitely talked my Dad into staying after long enough that I could meet her too. At least I'd have given it a good try.
I've actually never met Melissa... yet (but wouldn't pass up the opportunity, if presented with it, whether I had to pay for it--within reason--or not).
And I've only seen her in concert once; I think somewhere around 1995 or so, as best I can remember. Somewhere about 3 or so of her albums ago.
My Dad took me & my Mom to Atlantic City with him when he had to attend a meeting back around then; before we left home I found out Melissa would be performing in 1 of the other hotel-casinos, besides ours, while we were there. I managed to talk my parents into letting me get tickets for 1 of the shows & my Dad went with me.
I liked it; I think my Dad did too. It was back when her kids were still sort of "little", & in school, & I remember she had some funny stories about her daughter, Hannah, in particular. But she wasn't meeting fans after, back then. Or if she was, I never heard about it. If I had, I'd have definitely talked my Dad into staying after long enough that I could meet her too. At least I'd have given it a good try.
dcsharon
Mar 7, 2015, 11:59:39 AM3/7/15
to
Carmen --
Melissa did a CD signing after a recent appearance at Historic Sixth and I synagogue here in DC a couple years ago. She is charming, and gracious. I gave her a small scrapbook of the photos that I took at Liberty Weekend rehearsal and concert and she was happy to have them, as so many from that event have passed (John Denver, Johnny Cash, Whitney Houston).
I hope you do get a chance to meet her. She is very nice.
Marvin --
After the recent discussion of Karen Carpenter's anorexia (here on this chat board, no less) and all the headlines about Kelly Clarkson not appearing as society thinks she should (and her subsequent response to get over themselves), I can't believe that you would put in print that Melissa needs to "lose a few pounds". I don't see how that affects her jewish roots, or her jewish feelings. If you were quoting something she said directly (maybe she said it during her show) it didn't come off that way, as it appears to be your opinion of how she should look, and it really serves no purpose to your readers.
There's enough self-image issues out there that are dangerous and deadly without perpetrating more.
I hope your editors have enough sense to remove that comment.
(DC) Sharon
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 12:00:07 PM3/7/15
to
Carmen I think Melissa is a genuine person and would meet any fan after a show if asked and would never charge for the privilege.
That said, I am also aware it is a lot easier to meet Melissa or any other artist when there are only 300 people at the show, as was the case when I saw Melissa at the Jazziz club last week in Boca Raton.
I also think, to be fair to Barry, that I may have been hard on him regarding the platinums. Maybe if Melissa had 10,000 or more fans in an arena show, perhaps she would act differently towards fans- I hope not- but it is possible.
On most interviews, Barry comes across as warm, charming and loving and somehow it we are ever lucky enough to see Barry in a 300 seat venue, I think he woould feel relaxed and meet fans after the show in a small venue. Regards, Marvin
That said, I am also aware it is a lot easier to meet Melissa or any other artist when there are only 300 people at the show, as was the case when I saw Melissa at the Jazziz club last week in Boca Raton.
I also think, to be fair to Barry, that I may have been hard on him regarding the platinums. Maybe if Melissa had 10,000 or more fans in an arena show, perhaps she would act differently towards fans- I hope not- but it is possible.
On most interviews, Barry comes across as warm, charming and loving and somehow it we are ever lucky enough to see Barry in a 300 seat venue, I think he woould feel relaxed and meet fans after the show in a small venue. Regards, Marvin
Kittenmommy
Mar 7, 2015, 12:38:48 PM3/7/15
to
On Saturday, March 7, 2015 at 8:51:34 AM UTC-5, marvin wrote:
> Hi Suzan,
> The photo is a little dated as Melissa is a few pounds bigger than in her prime years (but then so am I)
Well, it sounds like you could lose a few pounds then. :p
> Hi Suzan,
> The photo is a little dated as Melissa is a few pounds bigger than in her prime years (but then so am I)
reb
Mar 7, 2015, 1:04:57 PM3/7/15
to
marvin <mar...@gmail.com> wrote in
news:d10d2d29-83e8-4b22...@googlegroups.com:
> My story on Melissa Manchester is now online at
> www.floridajewishjournal.com in the Broward news section.
She's playing the Sunrise Lakes Condos? I don't believe that I've ever
heard of a concert there before. what kind of facilities do they have
there? is it outdoors or what? do you know? I'm just curious
news:d10d2d29-83e8-4b22...@googlegroups.com:
> My story on Melissa Manchester is now online at
> www.floridajewishjournal.com in the Broward news section.
heard of a concert there before. what kind of facilities do they have
there? is it outdoors or what? do you know? I'm just curious
reb
Mar 7, 2015, 1:05:31 PM3/7/15
to
oh and nice job Marvin!
Maria Mikol
Mar 7, 2015, 1:39:23 PM3/7/15
to
Marvin-
The song "Through the Eyes of Love" is called "Looking Through the Eyes of Love" and is the theme from the movie Ice Castles.
Also- your statement about her needing to lose a few pounds was a bit callous & crude. What exactly does her weight (which seems pretty perfect to me) have to do with her talent?
Maria
--
This e-mail and any files or data transmitted with it are confidential and
intended solely for the use of the individual named above. If you have
received this email in error and are not the intended recipient, please
notify the sender by e-mail and immediately delete the message and all
materials without reading them. If you are not the intended recipient,
copying, forwarding or otherwise disseminating or distributing this
information is prohibited.
The song "Through the Eyes of Love" is called "Looking Through the Eyes of Love" and is the theme from the movie Ice Castles.
Also- your statement about her needing to lose a few pounds was a bit callous & crude. What exactly does her weight (which seems pretty perfect to me) have to do with her talent?
Maria
--
This e-mail and any files or data transmitted with it are confidential and
intended solely for the use of the individual named above. If you have
received this email in error and are not the intended recipient, please
notify the sender by e-mail and immediately delete the message and all
materials without reading them. If you are not the intended recipient,
copying, forwarding or otherwise disseminating or distributing this
information is prohibited.
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 1:56:35 PM3/7/15
to
Hi Maria and Sharon,
Just so you both don't misunderstand my comment on Melissa gaining weight, it was not in the article I wrote found at www.floridajewishjournal.com
Feel free to look up the article to see that my comment on her weight and no botox was not there.
My comment was my post to our group and only our group as an observation to those that may have not had seen Melissa in a few years regarding no botox, no plastic surgery and her weight.
I would not put such a subjective or cruel observation in the body of the story. If I did, I am sure Melissa would not have thanked me personally for the story. Regards, Marvin
Just so you both don't misunderstand my comment on Melissa gaining weight, it was not in the article I wrote found at www.floridajewishjournal.com
Feel free to look up the article to see that my comment on her weight and no botox was not there.
My comment was my post to our group and only our group as an observation to those that may have not had seen Melissa in a few years regarding no botox, no plastic surgery and her weight.
I would not put such a subjective or cruel observation in the body of the story. If I did, I am sure Melissa would not have thanked me personally for the story. Regards, Marvin
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 2:02:44 PM3/7/15
to
Hi Reb,
Melissa is actually playing in three condos in South Florida- Century Village in Deerfield Beach, King's Point in Tamarac and Sunrise Lakes Condo in Sunrise. I omitted writing about the other two condo shows because the admission is restricted only to residents and their guests. The Sunrise Lakes Condo is open to everyone, so I wrote only about that concert, otherwise we would get a lot of negative comments about the other two condo shows.
Sunrise Lakes ia approximately a 1,000 seating indoor facility in which Melissa will be performing next week. Tickets are very reasonable, under $30 which is a bargain for her 90 minute show. Thanks for the nice words about my story. Regards, Marvin
marvin
Mar 7, 2015, 2:06:46 PM3/7/15
to
Marvin-
The song "Through the Eyes of Love" is called "Looking Through the Eyes of Love" and is the theme from the movie Ice Castles.
Dear Maria,
Sometimes songs are used by many titles. Her song was listed on "The Very Best Of Melissa Manchester" CD on track 9 as "Through The Eyes Of Love". Regards, Marvin
reb
Mar 7, 2015, 4:35:15 PM3/7/15
to
marvin <mar...@gmail.com> wrote in
news:b488ea52-6a0d-4f40...@googlegroups.com:
>
> Hi Reb,
> Melissa is actually playing in three condos in South Florida-
> Century Village in Deerfield Beach, King's Point in Tamarac and
> Sunrise Lakes Condo in Sunrise. I omitted writing about the
I live by sawgrass mills. I've just never heard of anyone playing the
condo circuit before lol
Take care
news:b488ea52-6a0d-4f40...@googlegroups.com:
>
> Hi Reb,
> Melissa is actually playing in three condos in South Florida-
> Century Village in Deerfield Beach, King's Point in Tamarac and
> Sunrise Lakes Condo in Sunrise. I omitted writing about the
condo circuit before lol
Take care
marvin
Mar 8, 2015, 12:46:21 AM3/8/15
to
I live by sawgrass mills. I've just never heard of anyone playing the
condo circuit before lol
Take care
Obviously, playing the condos is not glamorous like playing Vegas or even playing Bramson- but it is an opportunity for aging stars with minimum draw power like Melissa or Tony Orlando or Bobby Vinton, etc. to have a loyal audience that remember them to draw from.
Melissa told me that even though she is not booked in Carnegie Hall anymore, she feels gratified to still have audiences and rounds out her income by teaching at university and living in the LA area. She has a nice life, lives in the same city as her two children and going to the condo circuit in Florida every winter makes her and other aging artists feel invigorated.
I think Barry's stature is so high that even if he only goes on the occasional concert, I think he will always be a high demand artist and would never have to play the condo circuit in Florida. Marvin
Kittenmommy
Mar 8, 2015, 7:37:37 PM3/8/15
to
On Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 12:46:21 AM UTC-5, marvin wrote:
> but it is an opportunity for aging stars with minimum draw power like Melissa or Tony Orlando or Bobby Vinton, etc.
I know this sounds like a joke but... is Bobby Vinton *seriously* still alive?? I swear I thought he died ages ago!
> but it is an opportunity for aging stars with minimum draw power like Melissa or Tony Orlando or Bobby Vinton, etc.
Kittenmommy
Mar 8, 2015, 7:40:46 PM3/8/15
to
"The Carpet Crawlers", "The Carpet Crawl", and "Carpet Crawl" are all the same song, but appear with different titles on different albums. *shrugs*
marvin
Mar 9, 2015, 11:25:14 PM3/9/15
to
Bobby Vinton is 79 and still performing on the Florida condo circuit and other places. When you are not on TV, people assume you are gone. He has been out of the limelight for some time. This is why the Florida condo circuit is so appealing to those artists that can't draw large audiences anymore. Regards, Marvin
Kittenmommy
Mar 10, 2015, 8:41:36 PM3/10/15
to
On Monday, March 9, 2015 at 11:25:14 PM UTC-4, marvin wrote:
> Bobby Vinton is 79 and still performing on the Florida condo circuit and other places.
I'm amazed!
> Bobby Vinton is 79 and still performing on the Florida condo circuit and other places.
I used to know a lady who was crazy for Bobby Vinton the way that some of Barry's more... ah, *eccentric* fans are crazy about him. She was seriously batshit, this lady. Over *Bobby Vinton*, of all people. It takes all kinds, I guess!
> When you are not on TV, people assume you are gone.
> He has been out of the limelight for some time. This is why the Florida condo circuit is so appealing to those artists that can't draw large audiences anymore.
Totosmom
Mar 10, 2015, 8:47:38 PM3/10/15
to
On Monday, March 9, 2015 at 8:25:14 PM UTC-7, marvin wrote:
> Bobby Vinton is 79 and still performing on the Florida condo circuit and other places. When you are not on TV, people assume you are gone. He has been out of the limelight for some time. This is why the Florida condo circuit is so appealing to those artists that can't draw large audiences anymore. Regards, Marvin
And he still plays Vegas once or twice a year. Does quite well at the off the strip theaters that seat about 1000 - 1500.
> Bobby Vinton is 79 and still performing on the Florida condo circuit and other places. When you are not on TV, people assume you are gone. He has been out of the limelight for some time. This is why the Florida condo circuit is so appealing to those artists that can't draw large audiences anymore. Regards, Marvin
Bonnie
marvin
Mar 11, 2015, 12:31:50 AM3/11/15
to
Our discussion on Bobby Vinton and Melissa Manchester has brought home one point. One may think that because you were rich and famous as a singer at the beginning of your show business career that it continues for the rest of your life. I admire that song Barry wrote called "God Bless The Other 99" about the foils of show business.
Bobby and Melissa are not the other 99, but their careers now are far away from their peak years and they had to make financial and psychological adjustments. It proves that the aging performers really love to perform for their audiences and it invigorates them to be positive about life. The older people that see the aging artists may never have been this close to them when they were in their peak years and I think it is wonderful for their spirits that they are still performing. There are many great artists in this category, such as Tony Orlando, Bobby Goldsboro, Jack Jones, and so many of the famed rock n roll groups from the 1960s.
I think Barry is fortunate. Even if he did not perform now for year or two, I highly doubt that he would ever cease to be a marquee attraction at large venues. Marvin
Bobby and Melissa are not the other 99, but their careers now are far away from their peak years and they had to make financial and psychological adjustments. It proves that the aging performers really love to perform for their audiences and it invigorates them to be positive about life. The older people that see the aging artists may never have been this close to them when they were in their peak years and I think it is wonderful for their spirits that they are still performing. There are many great artists in this category, such as Tony Orlando, Bobby Goldsboro, Jack Jones, and so many of the famed rock n roll groups from the 1960s.
I think Barry is fortunate. Even if he did not perform now for year or two, I highly doubt that he would ever cease to be a marquee attraction at large venues. Marvin
Brenda M
Mar 11, 2015, 7:01:38 AM3/11/15
to
You're right, Marvin ... Barry and Garry have done a great job keeping Barry from becoming quasi-extinct (which happened to so many of his contemporaries from the 70s).
So ... to all the long-time fans out there...
If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
* And when I say "fizzled out", I mean ni product ... no CDs, no tours, No public appearances, etc.
Brenda
So ... to all the long-time fans out there...
If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
* And when I say "fizzled out", I mean ni product ... no CDs, no tours, No public appearances, etc.
Brenda
marvin
Mar 11, 2015, 3:04:40 PM3/11/15
to
If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
* And when I say "fizzled out", I mean ni product ... no CDs, no tours, No public appearances, etc.
Brenda
I probably would have gravitated to another performer that I like if there was no Barry Manilow records for me to enjoy. Some of us, by the way, could already be fans of other performers besides Barry. I always liked Barbra the singer/actress if maybe not Barbra the person with a political agenda. There is always somebody for the public to love if any artist drops out of show business.
However, there is maybe one disappointment for at least one person, Bruce Sussman, for Barry to have had a successful career as a popular music artist.
Barry and Bruce used to dream about writing for the musical theater, perhaps being a modern version of Rodgers & Hammerstein. So, maybe if Barry's recording career as a singer came to an end, another opportunity would have come up to write for Broadway.
I think for us the fans, we prefer that Barry ending up as a pop singer/songwriter. But the gain for us may have also been a loss for Broadway.
EWho knows what gems in musical theater that Manilow/Sussman would have created had the writing for the musical theater been a full time job? Marvin
dcsharon
Mar 11, 2015, 3:29:53 PM3/11/15
to
On Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 7:01:38 AM UTC-4, Brenda M wrote:
>
> So ... to all the long-time fans out there...
>
> If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
>
> * And when I say "fizzled out", I mean ni product ... no CDs, no tours, No public appearances, etc.
>
I don't think anyone else would have held my interest the way Manilow did for over 30 years. I'm sure there would have been people I'd go to see (the Monkees reunion, Bobby Sherman if he toured) but I don't think I would have invested the time and effort to see them multiple times.
>
> So ... to all the long-time fans out there...
>
> If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
>
> * And when I say "fizzled out", I mean ni product ... no CDs, no tours, No public appearances, etc.
>
The draw for Barry, such as it was, beyond the showmanship, was the opportunity to get picked to sing with him. Tickets that became available in the "picking range" were often bought specifically for that reason. I was lucky -- I had no plans to go to Philadelphia for his show in 2004, but when I saw where the seat was, I bought the extra a friend had. And, my luck held out as that was the night he picked me.
But, that elusive perk is gone.
My friends and I wondered 20 years ago where he'd be now (probably playing the Casino/State Fair/Florida condo circuit) and we were so hopeful there would be a time where we could meet him.
Fortunately (for him) he's still a bigger draw than the other market, and if you want to meet him, you're gonna pay big bucks and I'm not willing to do that.
(DC) Sharon
Suzan
Mar 11, 2015, 3:56:16 PM3/11/15
to
> If Barry's career had been short-lived and had totally fizzled out* by the mid-eighties, do you think you would have transferred your affections to another performer, or would you have given up fandom entirely?
Interesting question. I've never given up on most the things that I fixated on, regardless of their popularity, so I believe I'd still be a fan, still collecting rare memorabilia that no one else cared about.
Someone here mentioned a few months ago that fandom wasn't transferrable, and I think he/she was correct. I've never wanted to follow any other performers the way I do Barry, so I can't imagine replacing my affections to another performer.
qmcneal...@gmail.com
Mar 11, 2015, 4:05:10 PM3/11/15
to
On Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 2:29:53 PM UTC-5, dcsharon wrote:
>> The draw for Barry, such as it was, beyond the showmanship, was the opportunity to get picked to sing with him. Tickets that became available in the "picking range" were often bought specifically for that reason. I was lucky -- I had no plans to go to Philadelphia for his show in 2004, but when I saw where the seat was, I bought the extra a friend had. And, my luck held out as that was the night he picked me.
>
> But, that elusive perk is gone.
---
>> The draw for Barry, such as it was, beyond the showmanship, was the opportunity to get picked to sing with him. Tickets that became available in the "picking range" were often bought specifically for that reason. I was lucky -- I had no plans to go to Philadelphia for his show in 2004, but when I saw where the seat was, I bought the extra a friend had. And, my luck held out as that was the night he picked me.
>
> But, that elusive perk is gone.
But Sharon, wasn't the interest behind that "elusive perk" destined to go one way or another. I am sure Philadelphia is a wonderful memory. And it should be. But I think its such a wonderful memory because of its rarity. To see what I am driving at, lets play pretend for a moment:
Lets pretend its 2015 and Barry was still doing Can't Smile with a lucky female guest and had never stopped (through 2004, through the Hilton, through Paris, and through 2010-2015). Given the smaller size of the Hilton and Paris, and how often you attended the Hilton, chances are that you might have been picked 3-4 times more between Philadelphia and today. Your friends too.
And I am guessing it wouldn't be as special to you, the prospects of being picked (again) when attending a Manilow show. In fact, you might even find yourself purposely purchasing tickets out of the "picking range" to avoid the possiblity that he would pick you yet again. You might do this because 1) you don't want to "double-, triple-, and quadruple-dip" and 2) because the thrill and excitement naturally fade after the first encounter.
I don't know you, but I know myself. And were I to ever have the opportunity to sing alongside Shania Twain or Beyonce, or to get lost in Debbie Gibson's eyes on stage (a favorite in my youth), I don't think I would ever seek out the opportunity again. So.....whether he stopped it, as he did, or he hadn't, I am guessing the feeling would have left you anyway.
Now--you might have enjoyed watching others get picked. But would you have enjoyed others get picked again and again?
Suzan
Mar 11, 2015, 4:10:17 PM3/11/15
to
> The draw for Barry, such as it was, beyond the showmanship, was the opportunity to get picked to sing with him.
I was a Manilow fan long before he started singing the Can't Smile duet, so for me, the duet had nothing to do with my fandom. I was attending multiple concerts in different states, tape recording tv shows, and rushing out to buy the newest LP on the release date--not much has changed in 30+ years, except that I DVR the tv appearances, and buy CDs instead of LPs!
However, I honestly never expected his career to still be this strong after all these years. I suspect he didn't either! ;) It's impressive that he's always been able to fill concert halls, regardless of the amount of radio airplay or LP/CD sales.
Suzan
Mar 11, 2015, 4:19:06 PM3/11/15
to
> Now--you might have enjoyed watching others get picked. But would you have enjoyed others get picked again and again?
I can't speak for Sharon, but I was picked REALLY early on, over 32 years ago--I was one of the very first Can't Smile girls. Since then, I have seen at least 50 girls get selected, and I always enjoyed watching that part of the show. It was always a huge audience pleaser. Part of the fun was the excitement of never knowing who he would get or what would happen.
qmcneal...@gmail.com
Mar 11, 2015, 4:26:01 PM3/11/15
to
On Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 3:19:06 PM UTC-5, Suzan wrote:
> > Now--you might have enjoyed watching others get picked. But would you have enjoyed others get picked again and again?
>
> I can't speak for Sharon, but I was picked REALLY early on, over 32 years ago--I was one of the very first Can't Smile girls. Since then, I have seen at least 50 girls get selected, and I always enjoyed watching that part of the show. It was always a huge audience pleaser. Part of the fun was the excitement of never knowing who he would get or what would happen.
--
> > Now--you might have enjoyed watching others get picked. But would you have enjoyed others get picked again and again?
>
> I can't speak for Sharon, but I was picked REALLY early on, over 32 years ago--I was one of the very first Can't Smile girls. Since then, I have seen at least 50 girls get selected, and I always enjoyed watching that part of the show. It was always a huge audience pleaser. Part of the fun was the excitement of never knowing who he would get or what would happen.
That's really cool Suzan. (Aren't we supposed to meet up at some point?)
Brenda M
Mar 11, 2015, 8:14:07 PM3/11/15
to
Sharon,
I know the whole "Can't Smile" quest was a HUGE motivation for me. And singing with Barry was one of those rare moments in life when the actual experience was so much better than the fantasy.
Call me sentimental and goofy, but I so often close my eyes and go back to "my" magical day. And if I concentrate really hard, I can relive exactly how I felt.
Did I ever want to sing with him after that? No, never. Nothing could ever be as perfect again. In fact, I could have been picked again. A year later I went back to Vegas and Barry looked right at my section. It was weird, not carrying a sign, sitting on my hands, not trying. But it was cool, though, you know? Anyway, he picked a lady sitting directly behind me. I had so much fun watching her, because I could relive my moment with her.
It was awesome.
And I'm sad more fans can't know that thrill.
But no ... I know I couldn't have ever cared about anybody else's career like I did with his. Gee ... had Barry given up after the 70s and gone back into advertising, I could have ended up having such a "normal" life.
Yawn.
Sure glad THAT didn't happen!
Brenda
I know the whole "Can't Smile" quest was a HUGE motivation for me. And singing with Barry was one of those rare moments in life when the actual experience was so much better than the fantasy.
Call me sentimental and goofy, but I so often close my eyes and go back to "my" magical day. And if I concentrate really hard, I can relive exactly how I felt.
Did I ever want to sing with him after that? No, never. Nothing could ever be as perfect again. In fact, I could have been picked again. A year later I went back to Vegas and Barry looked right at my section. It was weird, not carrying a sign, sitting on my hands, not trying. But it was cool, though, you know? Anyway, he picked a lady sitting directly behind me. I had so much fun watching her, because I could relive my moment with her.
It was awesome.
And I'm sad more fans can't know that thrill.
But no ... I know I couldn't have ever cared about anybody else's career like I did with his. Gee ... had Barry given up after the 70s and gone back into advertising, I could have ended up having such a "normal" life.
Yawn.
Sure glad THAT didn't happen!
Brenda
dcsharon
Mar 11, 2015, 8:24:10 PM3/11/15
to
Brenda --
I agree. I, too, as I'm sure many others, can go back and "relive" our moments. No one can ever take that away, and it was 4 minutes that it was YOU and HIM. 20,000 people (as I was picked in an arena) disappeared. Heck, I have a friend who is still looking for photos from 1983 as she was one of the "first" as well. I keep hoping that photos will turn up - for both her, and Suzan. As fans who are finally starting to go through the archives and finding these treasures, hopefully they can be shared.
Would I have tried to get picked again? No. would I have liked to? Of course. There's always a moment of doubt of "should have done this, should have said this", but my CSWY was as perfect for me, as I'm sure it was for you. After waiting all those years, nothing compared to what you dreamed it would be like. It was 1,000 times better.
And, I probably wouldn't have cared about any other career but his. Those songs take me back to a much simpler time, when we camped out for tickets, partied before shows, hit Denny's post show and traveled to Vegas 3 times a year to see him.
I treasure those times.
(DC) Sharon
Kittenmommy
Mar 11, 2015, 9:11:56 PM3/11/15
to
On Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 3:56:16 PM UTC-4, Suzan wrote:
> Someone here mentioned a few months ago that fandom wasn't transferrable, and I think he/she was correct. I've never wanted to follow any other performers the way I do Barry, so I can't imagine replacing my affections to another performer.
I think that was me. But I was saying something a bit different: Barry can't swap out the fandom he *has* for the one he seems to *want* to have. It does't work that way.
> Someone here mentioned a few months ago that fandom wasn't transferrable, and I think he/she was correct. I've never wanted to follow any other performers the way I do Barry, so I can't imagine replacing my affections to another performer.
Brenda M
Mar 11, 2015, 9:46:45 PM3/11/15
to
Exactly, KM.
Maybe he wishes we weren't mostly middle-aged women. I imagine he'd trade us all in for hot young guys if he had the chance!
But hey, I'd like to hit lotto.
We all have our impossible dreams. :-)
Brenda
Maybe he wishes we weren't mostly middle-aged women. I imagine he'd trade us all in for hot young guys if he had the chance!
But hey, I'd like to hit lotto.
We all have our impossible dreams. :-)
Brenda
starn...@gmail.com
Mar 12, 2015, 1:00:12 AM3/12/15
to
This whole thing makes me so sad. I have to admit, I've lost whatever it was about Manilow that I loved and admired. I have no plans to see his show this tour, and I partially blame him. If I thought his shows were going to be different, maybe I'd part with the money. I'm in the middle of selling my condo and buying a "real" house and moving to a new city, and there will be extra money now, so I COULD spend top dollar and sit in good seats. I could even spend the bucks and do a Platinum. But I won't. Not when I can spend less than $80, like I did last month, to sit front row at a wonderful concert by a gorgeous, sexy man who then spent two hours after the show signing autographs and posing for pictures. Of course, he's not as famous as Barry Manilow. But Barry Manilow never did anything like that, even when he wasn't the big name he is now. A little appreciation of fans, a little extra added value go a long way. Manilow lost me years ago, and I only come here to catch up on the latest gossip. Sad, but true.
CA Sharon
CA Sharon
Maria Mikol
Mar 12, 2015, 5:56:41 AM3/12/15
to
Like you Brenda- Once was enough to be picked. I could never, ever recapture those magical four minutes or the feelings I felt during that brief time. I could not see ever raising my hand again and I never did.
If Barry disappeared, there would be no other. I have and do definitely like other performers. I love music. But, there's a special connection my head & heart made with Barry long ago. No one has ever made me feel the way he has. So, Maybe I would have taken up a different hobby. Who knows. Glad it did not turn out that way.
If Barry disappeared, there would be no other. I have and do definitely like other performers. I love music. But, there's a special connection my head & heart made with Barry long ago. No one has ever made me feel the way he has. So, Maybe I would have taken up a different hobby. Who knows. Glad it did not turn out that way.
Brenda M
Mar 12, 2015, 6:26:40 AM3/12/15
to
CA Sharon,
Congratulations on the new house/new city! I hope it's the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your book. :-)
Brenda
Congratulations on the new house/new city! I hope it's the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your book. :-)
Brenda
Suzan
Mar 12, 2015, 10:14:55 AM3/12/15
to
> I think that was me. But I was saying something a bit different: Barry can't swap out the fandom he *has* for the one he seems to *want* to have. It does't work that way.
Sorry for misinterpreting your words. However, it's still true; I could never just switch my attentions to another performer. There's too much of an emotional connection, too many memories, too many friends.
I guess he's stuck with me for the long run!
dcsharon
Mar 12, 2015, 4:10:25 PM3/12/15
to
CA Sharon - Congrats on your move ... hope you're going someplace warm (after the winter we've had here anyplace warm is good!)
(DC) Sharon
Kittenmommy
Mar 13, 2015, 7:44:31 PM3/13/15
to
On Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at 9:46:45 PM UTC-4, Brenda M wrote:
> Exactly, KM.
>
> Maybe he wishes we weren't mostly middle-aged women. I imagine he'd trade us all in for hot young guys if he had the chance!
I suspect that most young guys only vaguely know who he is. Maybe they've heard someone sing "Copa" at Karaoke Night, but that's probably about it.
> Exactly, KM.
>
> Maybe he wishes we weren't mostly middle-aged women. I imagine he'd trade us all in for hot young guys if he had the chance!
> But hey, I'd like to hit lotto.
> We all have our impossible dreams. :-)
Kittenmommy
Mar 13, 2015, 7:46:20 PM3/13/15
to
On Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 10:14:55 AM UTC-4, Suzan wrote:
> > I think that was me. But I was saying something a bit different: Barry can't swap out the fandom he *has* for the one he seems to *want* to have. It does't work that way.
>
> Sorry for misinterpreting your words.
That's OK. It happens!
> > I think that was me. But I was saying something a bit different: Barry can't swap out the fandom he *has* for the one he seems to *want* to have. It does't work that way.
>
> Sorry for misinterpreting your words.
> However, it's still true; I could never just switch my attentions to another performer. There's too much of an emotional connection, too many memories, too many friends.
> I guess he's stuck with me for the long run!
marvin
Mar 15, 2015, 9:36:44 PM3/15/15
to
Hi Sharon,
Like you, i wish Barry would be more fan friendly like the country artists are and so many others. However, I honestly think that Barry performing at the large venues with 10,000 plus people have more to do with him not wanting to meet fans, except for the plarinums. Unlike other artists, Barry is blessed with a larger fan base than most and it would be impossible for Barry to meet fans at these big arenas without these meetings lasting hours to accommodate no doubt the thousands of people that want to meet him.
I remember Idina Menzel was at the Arsht Center in Miami before 4,000 and offered on stage to meet everyone after the show to say hello. The problem was that the lineup for her stretched a few city blocks and Idina probably had to stay for a few hours or leave early and disappoint many that were patient to meet with her. Either way, meeting an artist at a big venue stinks because for the fan the line never ends and you could be waiting for too long and the artist has to devote a lot more than an extra hour to meet with fans.
I honestly think Barry would be more fan friendly if the venues were much smaller and the demand for him would not be that high. Marvin
Like you, i wish Barry would be more fan friendly like the country artists are and so many others. However, I honestly think that Barry performing at the large venues with 10,000 plus people have more to do with him not wanting to meet fans, except for the plarinums. Unlike other artists, Barry is blessed with a larger fan base than most and it would be impossible for Barry to meet fans at these big arenas without these meetings lasting hours to accommodate no doubt the thousands of people that want to meet him.
I remember Idina Menzel was at the Arsht Center in Miami before 4,000 and offered on stage to meet everyone after the show to say hello. The problem was that the lineup for her stretched a few city blocks and Idina probably had to stay for a few hours or leave early and disappoint many that were patient to meet with her. Either way, meeting an artist at a big venue stinks because for the fan the line never ends and you could be waiting for too long and the artist has to devote a lot more than an extra hour to meet with fans.
I honestly think Barry would be more fan friendly if the venues were much smaller and the demand for him would not be that high. Marvin
Carmen
Mar 16, 2015, 2:54:58 AM3/16/15
to
Marvin--
Despite what you said, the size of the venues--either big or small--have NOTHING to do with Barry's "fan-friendliness" or alleged lack of it, OR with the scheduling of Platinums or lack of them! At least not in my opinion/experience.
1 of my best friends just did Platinum in Milwaukee (& had a WONDERFUL time, by the way), where the concert was held in your standard "larger sports arena" type venue (probably normal seating, if areas aren't blocked off by the production, of 10-12,000 or perhaps a little more; not sure how much they blocked off for the concert). And, if I'm not mistaken, the Platinums began during his residency at the now-former Las Vegas Hilton (currently the Westgate Resort). The seating in that venue was, again if I'm not mistaken, perhaps 1/5th to 1/6th the size of the Milwaukee venue, with no seating blocked off by the production. So Platinums are apparently scheduled wherever they think they'll be "popular", for lack of a better term, REGARDLESS of venue size.
He played my hometown--the 2nd largest city in Indiana--for 5 shows between 1994 & 2013 (1 show each in 1994, 2000 & 2013, & 2 shows in 2 days in 1997).
In 1994, 1997, & 2000, he played our "'intimate' (aka "small") old vaudeville theatre-turned movie theatre-turned live performance venue"; in 2013 he played our much larger minor league hockey & basketball/all-purpose arena (with certain areas--mostly those with obstructed sight lines/views of the stage, thanks to the production setup--blocked off & unsold).
We never had Platinums scheduled here anytime he played here, once he started doing them, regardless of the venue size, despite the fact we're the second-largest city in the state (we may be the second-largest city in the state, but we're considered a "small" market--compared to somewhere like NYC, LA & Chicago, or even Indianapolis--in pretty much everything: we're #100-something in the US when it comes to our media market ranking; concert tours & other live performances will book in, like, Indianapolis before booking here most of the time, unless they can hit us at the beginning of the tour on the way to a bigger city, or mid-tour between 2 bigger cities; our sports teams are all "minor league" teams; our airport is now primarily served by the "Eagle/Connection/Express" feeders of the major airlines, which fly us to the big hubs to catch flights beyond them, & we're basically an "International" airport in name only--we have a Customs post [or whatever they're called] but no regularly scheduled international flights; etc.).
Also, to my knowledge, Barry didn't otherwise meet fans, or anyone else in the audience, before or after *any* of the shows he played here. But, being realistic & having knowledge about where we rank, in media & touring market size (fairly low on the proverbial "totem pole"), I assumed Platinums here would be a longshot.
As for Barry playing arenas vs. smaller venues, I'd swear I read a comment in 1 of the interviews from earlier on this tour (unfortunately I can't remember where; with my luck it was actually from a previous tour interview) that was something like, when he did shows from now on, they'd be at the larger arenas as opposed to the smaller, more "intimate" venues--mostly because doing 1-nighters in larger arenas is much easier, in a lot of ways, & makes more sense, in a lot of ways (which I *totally* get), than doing multiple nights in the smaller, more "intimate" venues. Basically, playing larger arenas is more "cost-effective" than playing smaller "intimate" venues. I get that, like I said.
Despite what you said, the size of the venues--either big or small--have NOTHING to do with Barry's "fan-friendliness" or alleged lack of it, OR with the scheduling of Platinums or lack of them! At least not in my opinion/experience.
1 of my best friends just did Platinum in Milwaukee (& had a WONDERFUL time, by the way), where the concert was held in your standard "larger sports arena" type venue (probably normal seating, if areas aren't blocked off by the production, of 10-12,000 or perhaps a little more; not sure how much they blocked off for the concert). And, if I'm not mistaken, the Platinums began during his residency at the now-former Las Vegas Hilton (currently the Westgate Resort). The seating in that venue was, again if I'm not mistaken, perhaps 1/5th to 1/6th the size of the Milwaukee venue, with no seating blocked off by the production. So Platinums are apparently scheduled wherever they think they'll be "popular", for lack of a better term, REGARDLESS of venue size.
He played my hometown--the 2nd largest city in Indiana--for 5 shows between 1994 & 2013 (1 show each in 1994, 2000 & 2013, & 2 shows in 2 days in 1997).
In 1994, 1997, & 2000, he played our "'intimate' (aka "small") old vaudeville theatre-turned movie theatre-turned live performance venue"; in 2013 he played our much larger minor league hockey & basketball/all-purpose arena (with certain areas--mostly those with obstructed sight lines/views of the stage, thanks to the production setup--blocked off & unsold).
We never had Platinums scheduled here anytime he played here, once he started doing them, regardless of the venue size, despite the fact we're the second-largest city in the state (we may be the second-largest city in the state, but we're considered a "small" market--compared to somewhere like NYC, LA & Chicago, or even Indianapolis--in pretty much everything: we're #100-something in the US when it comes to our media market ranking; concert tours & other live performances will book in, like, Indianapolis before booking here most of the time, unless they can hit us at the beginning of the tour on the way to a bigger city, or mid-tour between 2 bigger cities; our sports teams are all "minor league" teams; our airport is now primarily served by the "Eagle/Connection/Express" feeders of the major airlines, which fly us to the big hubs to catch flights beyond them, & we're basically an "International" airport in name only--we have a Customs post [or whatever they're called] but no regularly scheduled international flights; etc.).
Also, to my knowledge, Barry didn't otherwise meet fans, or anyone else in the audience, before or after *any* of the shows he played here. But, being realistic & having knowledge about where we rank, in media & touring market size (fairly low on the proverbial "totem pole"), I assumed Platinums here would be a longshot.
As for Barry playing arenas vs. smaller venues, I'd swear I read a comment in 1 of the interviews from earlier on this tour (unfortunately I can't remember where; with my luck it was actually from a previous tour interview) that was something like, when he did shows from now on, they'd be at the larger arenas as opposed to the smaller, more "intimate" venues--mostly because doing 1-nighters in larger arenas is much easier, in a lot of ways, & makes more sense, in a lot of ways (which I *totally* get), than doing multiple nights in the smaller, more "intimate" venues. Basically, playing larger arenas is more "cost-effective" than playing smaller "intimate" venues. I get that, like I said.
marvin
Mar 16, 2015, 9:22:47 AM3/16/15
to
Thank you Carmen for sharing that information which is very much appreciated.
I guess the bottom line is that the country artists, Melissa Manchester and others meet with fans after shows because they want to as well as to encourage the fans that meet with the artists to spread the word to their friends that the artists not only offer good entertainment but make the experience personal by meeting with them.
It would seem that Barry is in the fortunate position to know that his fans will go to his shows irrespective of whether he meets fans or not, so, except for the expensive platinums, he chooses not to meet fans after shows because it has no bearing on ticket sales. Marvin
I guess the bottom line is that the country artists, Melissa Manchester and others meet with fans after shows because they want to as well as to encourage the fans that meet with the artists to spread the word to their friends that the artists not only offer good entertainment but make the experience personal by meeting with them.
It would seem that Barry is in the fortunate position to know that his fans will go to his shows irrespective of whether he meets fans or not, so, except for the expensive platinums, he chooses not to meet fans after shows because it has no bearing on ticket sales. Marvin
Suzan
Mar 16, 2015, 11:30:34 AM3/16/15
to
> And, if I'm not mistaken, the Platinums began during his residency at the now-former Las Vegas Hilton (currently the Westgate Resort).
Platinums began long before the Hilton. They started in New Jersey with the "one night live" tour in September, 2004.
Carmen
Mar 16, 2015, 11:55:45 AM3/16/15
to
Marvin--
With all due respect, as usual, I think you're again trying to compare apples & oranges--as you did with the issue of alcohol sales at arena shows vs. "small intimate venue" shows.
The country stars are legendary with their attempts to reach out to fans with meet & greets either before or after the shows. But I don't believe *every* artist in the genre does them, either. A good number of them, yes, but not *every* artist, as you keep trying to believe. Among the artists who don't do them as part of their shows, as far as I know, is Martina McBride, who's a pretty big superstar in the genre (& whose music I also enjoy, so of course I would pay attention to something like if she does fan meet & greets & how they're set up, if so. I don't "play" when it comes to my fandoms; I do my research & make sure I have my information straight, or I do my best to anyway.
The only time I know of when a good chunk of the popular country music artists--including those who don't do them on tours--do meet & greets/other activities geared towards interaction with their fans on something of a "personal" level is during the annual CMA Fan Fest, a 4-day music festival held each June in Nashville geared to country music fans, & sponsored by the Country Music Association. This offers events such as "label shows"--concerts sponsored by the country music record labels featuring multiple artists from the label involved; organized autograph sessions by the artists; & parties/meals/other activities for the members of the artists' fan clubs at which the artists (& sometimes their family members) show up &, normally, interact with the attendees in some way.
But, in the Pop world, the majority of the artists still *do not*, as far as I know, do anything akin to a meet & greet on a regular basis. The exceptions to the rule being artists like Donny & Marie Osmond, Melissa Manchester (who, as I said, *did not* do meet & greets at her shows when I saw her in concert, probably 20-some years ago now; if she had I'd have met her), Jim Brickman, & Dave Koz. I think you may have to buy a certain price ticket to their show to meet Donny & Marie; meeting Melissa apparently only requires attendance at her show; unless I'm mistaken, meeting Jim Brickman & Dave Koz is also free, but the meet & greet is 1 of the perks you get from being 1 of their fan club members. I don't think Dave Koz puts a limit on how many meet & greets you can do with him (I recently saw a picture of what looks like the backstage pass you get with a meet & greet with him--it has his picture & looks like it says "Koz you want to be here", or something similar, on it). I think the Jim Brickman meet & greets are limited to 1 per fan club member, per year, like some of the country artists' (those who do them) meet & greets are.
And other pop artists who do them (& there are more than just the person we're usually discussing), such as Rick Springfield, the last time I heard about his meet & greets anyway, charge for them.
So I don't think it's fair to compare activities by people who are known for engaging in those activities with activities of people who are *not* normally known for engaging in those activities, anymore than it was fair to compare alcohol sales during arena concerts vs. alcohol sales at smaller venues.
With all due respect, as usual, I think you're again trying to compare apples & oranges--as you did with the issue of alcohol sales at arena shows vs. "small intimate venue" shows.
The country stars are legendary with their attempts to reach out to fans with meet & greets either before or after the shows. But I don't believe *every* artist in the genre does them, either. A good number of them, yes, but not *every* artist, as you keep trying to believe. Among the artists who don't do them as part of their shows, as far as I know, is Martina McBride, who's a pretty big superstar in the genre (& whose music I also enjoy, so of course I would pay attention to something like if she does fan meet & greets & how they're set up, if so. I don't "play" when it comes to my fandoms; I do my research & make sure I have my information straight, or I do my best to anyway.
The only time I know of when a good chunk of the popular country music artists--including those who don't do them on tours--do meet & greets/other activities geared towards interaction with their fans on something of a "personal" level is during the annual CMA Fan Fest, a 4-day music festival held each June in Nashville geared to country music fans, & sponsored by the Country Music Association. This offers events such as "label shows"--concerts sponsored by the country music record labels featuring multiple artists from the label involved; organized autograph sessions by the artists; & parties/meals/other activities for the members of the artists' fan clubs at which the artists (& sometimes their family members) show up &, normally, interact with the attendees in some way.
But, in the Pop world, the majority of the artists still *do not*, as far as I know, do anything akin to a meet & greet on a regular basis. The exceptions to the rule being artists like Donny & Marie Osmond, Melissa Manchester (who, as I said, *did not* do meet & greets at her shows when I saw her in concert, probably 20-some years ago now; if she had I'd have met her), Jim Brickman, & Dave Koz. I think you may have to buy a certain price ticket to their show to meet Donny & Marie; meeting Melissa apparently only requires attendance at her show; unless I'm mistaken, meeting Jim Brickman & Dave Koz is also free, but the meet & greet is 1 of the perks you get from being 1 of their fan club members. I don't think Dave Koz puts a limit on how many meet & greets you can do with him (I recently saw a picture of what looks like the backstage pass you get with a meet & greet with him--it has his picture & looks like it says "Koz you want to be here", or something similar, on it). I think the Jim Brickman meet & greets are limited to 1 per fan club member, per year, like some of the country artists' (those who do them) meet & greets are.
And other pop artists who do them (& there are more than just the person we're usually discussing), such as Rick Springfield, the last time I heard about his meet & greets anyway, charge for them.
So I don't think it's fair to compare activities by people who are known for engaging in those activities with activities of people who are *not* normally known for engaging in those activities, anymore than it was fair to compare alcohol sales during arena concerts vs. alcohol sales at smaller venues.
Carmen
Mar 16, 2015, 11:58:49 AM3/16/15
to
Suzan--Thanks for the correction! I had forgotten that. Much appreciated. I guess Vegas was the 1st place I could remember them being. But now that you corrected me, I do remember all the stories about the initial Platinums.
qmcneal...@gmail.com
Mar 16, 2015, 3:10:12 PM3/16/15
to
Carmen, I think your criticism of Marvin is petty and confusing. First, he says country stars conduct meet and greets and that Barry, aside from the platinums, does not. Although you agree that "country stars are legendary with their attempts to reach out to fans with their meet & greets" (which, is essentially what Marvin is saying), you ding him because not *every* country artist does meet and greets? Petty. What's worse, to justify your point, you use Martina McBride as an example of a country artist who does *NOT* conduct meet and greets. Except, she does Carmen: http://martinamcbride.com/story/win-2-tickets-to-see-martina-mcbride-on-the-everlasting-tour-meet-greet/
Your lapse in research notwitstanding, it appears all you are really saying is that the majority of country stars do M&Gs and the majority of pop stars do not. Marvin says country stars do M&Gs and Barry, who is a pop star, does not. Why is it "unfair to compare activities by people who are known for engaging in those activities with activities of people who are not normally known for engaging in those activites"?
Perhaps you simply enjoy critiquing Marvin? Every post you have provided here is a response to something Marvin has said (except your last one) and you are often harsh and condescending in your commentary.
Brenda M
Mar 16, 2015, 5:15:36 PM3/16/15
to
And you, "Q" seem to really enjoy beating up on Carmen.
Methinks ...
Pot =
Kettle=
Black
Brenda
Methinks ...
Pot =
Kettle=
Black
Brenda
Carmen
Mar 16, 2015, 5:17:46 PM3/16/15
to
Quinncy--
As I believe I said before, you're entitled to your opinion & I'm entitled to mine. Perhaps if you don't appreciate/disapprove of my comments, you should stop reading my posts.
As I believe I said before, you're entitled to your opinion & I'm entitled to mine. Perhaps if you don't appreciate/disapprove of my comments, you should stop reading my posts.
Carmen
Mar 16, 2015, 5:20:19 PM3/16/15
to
Brenda--
Thank you. The support is appreciated.
Thank you. The support is appreciated.
Brenda M
Mar 16, 2015, 5:45:32 PM3/16/15
to
Carmen,
If I had a dollar for every time I said that to someone, I'd be doing a platinum in Cleveland!
Some insecure men just can't handle opinionated women. Fortunately, Marvin is not one of those men.
Brenda
If I had a dollar for every time I said that to someone, I'd be doing a platinum in Cleveland!
Some insecure men just can't handle opinionated women. Fortunately, Marvin is not one of those men.
Brenda
qmcneal...@gmail.com
Mar 16, 2015, 6:56:32 PM3/16/15
to
Brenda and Carmen, I certainly did not mean to "beat up" on you Carmen. In fact, please forgive me Carmen if that came across. Not my intent at all. I don't know you and harbor no reason to dislike you. But I do not agreee with the way you treat Marvin and the condescending manner in which you speak to him. That's only my opinion, to which, you have noted, I am entitled.
When I don't appreciate your comments Carmen, I will tell you so. And you should do the same with me. I am not going to refuse to read your posts; I will miss out on your otherwise thoughtful and engaging commentary. That is, when you are not treating Marvin as your personal punching bag.
For his part, Marvin is a complete gentleman, seemingly very slow to anger and apparently averse to confrontation. These are good qualities.
0 new messages