[Elspode]

Mega stadium concerts have been around since the early to mid 70's. The first time I saw Elton John was in KC's Arrowhead Stadium (where the Chiefs play) in 1973. In fact, multi-band gigs in large venues had been going on long before that. I think the difference now is primarily cost and yes, corporate sponsorship.

I can't honestly say that the quality of shows was better back in my youth, but I can say there was a hell of a lot more bang for the buck, even allowing for inflation. There was also a much lower sponsorship profile back then. Hell, you can't even pay to go to a movie anymore without seeing commercials. You used to get a cartoon or two, now you feel lucky they even show you the movie.

I will say that I am one of those people who don't worry much about "geezer rock". I mean, no one poo-pooed Horowitz when he played Moscow when he was in his 90's. Why should anyone think it odd that Jagger or Townshend or McCartney are still cranking it out?(okay, Daltrey probably feels a little silly having to sing "Hope I die before I get old"...)but at least he and Pete are still around, unlike Keith and John) As long you *can* do it, I say, fuckin' A, do it! People only get more skilled with age and practice, not less.

I paid a damn hefty sum to see Elton John and Billy Joel's last KC stop (me, the wife and three kids, seats behind the stage, and $65.00 a ticket with "fees", plus $10 parking and a bunch of $6.00 sodas), but damn it, it was an *amazing* performance. And I saw both of those guys back when they were the new kids on the musical block...back when I was a relatively new kid, myself, damn the aging process!

Live performance technology is incredible these days, and technically, for the most part, live shows are actually a better product than they were 30 years ago. Even the crash-bang stuff has the advantages of superior sound and lighting technology.

Summary? It is all good...then, and now. I just wish I could afford to *go*! Bands that I am missing this summer include REM, Aerosmith w/Kiss, Jane's Addiction, Dave Matthews, The Crusaders, Neil Young, Fleetwood Mac...this has been a damn good year for concerts, and I'll not see a single goddamn one of them...sigh.

What was the original question again? I've been rambling.