Trouble in Shangri-la
FAN REVIEWS
7/21/01
PNC Bank Arts Center Holmdel, NJ
this
page last updated
August 4, 2001
Newest reviews
posted at the top.
Daniel De
Mello
On Saturday, July 21st 2001, Stevie Nicks and her incredibly magical
band performed at the PNC Bank Arts Center, in Holmdel, NJ. It was an unbelievable
night that left me speechless and wanting more. The center was packed with a sea
of die-hard fans, young and old, yearning to hear Stevie's mesmerizing, throaty
voice. The set mirrored the enchanting cover of Nicks' CD, "Trouble in Shangri
La." Each song she performed, she gave every bit of her heart and soul.
I shall make this
review short. My seat was fantastic. I was near the front row, and was able to
see and hear Stevie loud and clear. She ages so gracefully, and her voice holds
so much power and wisdom.
That night, not
only was I able to see Stevie live, but at the end of "Edge of Seventeen"
I was one of the lucky fans to actually touch her hand! Though it probably sounds
silly, I was literally speechless when her hand went into mine. She smiled so
warmly at me, and took my hand into hers. It was definitely a dream come true.
And a smile comes to my face every single time I even think about that special
moment in my life.
Stevie has affected
many, many people with her music, and I'm happy to be one of the many. Her rich,
poetic songs have helped me through many hardships. Stevie Nicks is a very special
person, and I am glad I have gotten a chance to be apart of her life (her music).
Thank you for an
enchanting evening, and thank you for golden memories that I shall cherish for
the rest of my life.
John and
Michelle
I'm not going to review the show because many people have already done
it and have gone into many of the specifics. Also, I don't know how they remembered
a lot of the details like the set list without actually writing them down at the
time. I'm just going to write about our own personal observations and feelings.
We've been to other
concerts at the PNC before and I think this will be our last. I'll get the big
negatives over with first one being the sound system was terrible. I'm not sure
that it's because we had lawn seats but I guess if you don't have a good seat
down front it's not worth being there. Also, being on the lawn it was just impossible
to see the stage and enjoy the show. Having to watch the show by staring at a
monitor all night isn't our idea of enjoying a concert. One other problem with
this venue is that if you don't get there early you can't get a good parking space
and you have to take a bus or hike up to the theater.
Opening the show
was Jeffrey Gaines whom I wasn't familiar with. He came out and did a pretty good
job and I guess it's hard to go out onstage all alone but I'll have to say that
we were a bit bored. She should have had a better opening act to set the mood
for the evening. There was a twenty-minute intermission after he was done before
Stevie came out which seemed to last forever.
This was out first
time seeing Stevie Nicks in concert and we were always big fans of her music but
we left the show feeling a bit disappointed. Overall, we felt she wasn't quite
with it that night and not really into the show. It seemed that her voice was
showing signs of fatigue and wasn't really strong. A lot of people told us that
she like to dance and twirl on stage but we didn't notice much of that and she
did appear to be tired and drank a lot of water. During Bombay Sapphires someone
commented that she forgot some of the words. We didn't notice that but we did
notice her holding her throat. We have since learned that she had to cancel some
shows after this concert so maybe she wasn't feeling to good that night. Hopes
she's feeling better.
The concert lasted
about and hour and a half and we were expecting a little bit more. We did come
with high expectations and I guess we left disappointed.
Annie B
Overall, Stevie's show last Saturday night at the Arts Center in New
Jersey was AWESOME!! It was a refreshing mix of old and new material. Her band
was very solid and sounded great. Very cool stage background and concept
a
really enjoyable show. It's so cool to see an audience full of young and old
.Stevie
has fans of all ages. "Stand Back" really rocked the house as well as
"I need to Know" and "Edge of Seventeen"
and Waddy's
intro to "Edge of Seventeen" was a delightful tease! Stevie looked beautiful
and seemed very happy
.she sounded great! I waited a few days to send this
review in because I was a bit sad about some of the not so positive comments in
some of the other reviews (don't mean to offend anyone). If people are disappointed
about Stevie not wearing her boots
.so what! Or if she didn't play "Outside
the Rain"...so what
.the show had a really cool mixture of songs
and
not just the standards. This is really a show worth seeing this summer! Stevie
has always given her all and at age 53
.she still kicks butt! Let's face
it
..it's Stevie's world out there and we just twirl in it!! I hope she is
feeling better real soon and kicks ass the rest of her tour! ROCK ON GOLD DUST
WOMAN
..wish you all the best!
Wendy
I live in Buffalo, NY, and for some reason Stevie skips over us. Since
1983 only Wild Heart and The Dance have come through here. Anyhow, I figured if
Stevie wouldn't come to me, I would go to her, and decided on Holmdel, NJ (approx.
7 hrs away). It was worth every second in the car! She NEVER disappoints. This
was the rockingest show I have ever seen her put on since 1983 (my first Stevie
show at the age of 16). I am so glad she changed her set list from other tours.
Starting out with Stop Draggin' My Heart Around was an awsome surprise. Her past
tours were so predictable regarding set list, but not this time. Her new CD Trouble
in... is an equally awsome surprise. I heard her in an interview (possibly with
Rosie?) state that people attending her shows don't want to hear a lot of new
stuff, they prefer the "classics". Well thank God Stevie had a change
of heart! Sure I love the "classics" but hearing brand spanking new
stuff live was the best. Stevie's voice was strong and perfect. She was very no
nonsense. The momentum began with Bootylicious and continued on through I Need
To Know. Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You was beautiful as ususal, but
as usual you know the end of a majical night is only minutes away. I have no complaints
whatsoever. Well, maybe just one...I wish she would extend the length of her shows.
She has so much material to choose from. Wouldn't it be nice to hear Nightbird,
Violet and Blue, I Can't Wait, Sometimes It's a Bitch just to name a few? When
I saw the Enchanted Tour in Indianapolis and Columbus, at that time I thought
her song selection couldn't be beat because of the beauties such as Enchanted,
Garbo, Sleeping Angel. Well I stand corrected! I cannot wait to see her again!!
A fan since the age of 12, Wendy
Kristi
I had both the pleasure and opportunity to see Stevie at both the Jones
Beach. NY show and PNC Bank Art Center, NJ show...both being stellar performances.
The crowd was AMAZING and Stevie was the BEST! I still can't get over the incredible
high from last weekend. Stevie is just as wonderful as ever, bringing the audience
in to that magical place, showering the fans with complete adoration, and giving
you all that she's got! I agree with sentiments written in a pervious review...
how can anyone walk away from such an AMAZING show and write about "how incredible
& life altering it was..yet I didn't like her sneakers..or I would have preferred
to hear this song.." Get over it! I'm sure those thoughts weren't going through
your head as you were rocking out to Edge of 17!!!!! Waddy's guitar playing was
BRILLIANT!!! So, I suggest all you die-hard Stevie fans out there (and you know
who you are) that when you come back after seeing yet another incredible show
on this tour...that you run here to the nicksfix and pour your love out on these
pages...and drown out all those nit-picking comments on sneakers vs. boots, etc...because
Stevie is still the reigning Queen of Rock n Roll and maybe some people need to
be reminded! ROCK on GOLD DUST WOMAN...WE LOVE YOU!!!
Missy~
Hey Stevie lovers it was an excellent show as expected! I have to say
that I questioned if I would be able to enjoy this Stevie experience after the
week that I had (SEE: Camden, NJ Reviewer SALLY-SISTERS IN STEVIELAND). It was
just horrible! On top of that we were running an hour late when we left for the
stadium. However, I was prepared to make the best of it. We set out armed with
all of my favorite songs from the Enchanted and Trouble In Shangri-La CD's, recorded
onto 2 cassettes, and I listened to it the whole way to the concert! By the time
we got there I was pumped up! My husband, having never seen Stevie solo before,
was ready too!
The beautiful Stevie
made her entrance after recorded versions of Bootilicious and Trouble in Shangri-La!
She hit every note and never missed a beat when she opened with Stop Dragging
My Heart Around! She continued to build momentum throughout the evening changing
her beautiful shawls for the was fabulous Gold Dust Woman and White Winged Dove.
I will not give away the whole show, but believe me, she was worth every second
of the anticipation I went through waiting for the concert date to arrive. So
all of you who are waiting in Virginia and N. Carolina, for your rescheduled dates
to be announced, you will not be disappointed!
Now the highlight
of our evening was this: We had pretty much the last row of seats in the building.
Bummer right? Well someone had to buy 'em! When Stevie walked off to prepare for
her encore I took my husband by the hand and lead him to the floor seats. We were
finally able to duck security just as she came out for the 1st song. By the time
she was done and off stage preparing for the 2nd we were able to worm our way
into about the 45th row center stage. Then Stevie reappeared. Dressed in her black
dress and black Fleetwood Mac Top Hat with big huge pink plumes the crowd was
in awe and everyone in the rows ahead sat down. We didn't have a seat so were
left standing, eye level with Stevie, as she belted out "Has Anyone Ever
Written Anything For You?" I could feel the tears falling and I felt like
she was singing it from her heart to mine.
Stevie, you helped
me and My Aunt heal our broken hearts many times before and this time is no different.
You touch us in so many ways. Thank you for giving us the music please don't ever
stop. You will always be our Queen of Rock! Peace & Love & Much Happiness
Judie, Trish and
A.J
After months of planning this little trip from Scranton Pa to sometown in Holmdel
took off. The three neighbor girls, Calling themselves, The Dickson Chicks(that's
where we are from) took off. Man what an experience to have been there. I think
i missed the first song because I had cried so much in the realization that my
dream had been accomplished. And the warmth and bonding between my neighbors and
myself was beyond belief. The concert was everything I dreamed of and more. Her
voice and her flowing motions on stage had entered the dream like state I feel
into. It would be wonderful if she could consider one more night and drop off
in Northeastern Pa and bring her land of magic to our mountains. Do not miss this
concert.
Lisa Cramer
I just returned home from vacation and I have to say the 6-hour road
trip to see Stevie in Holmdel was the highlight of my week away from reality.
This was the second show I caught on this tour - the first being in Hartford,
CT with a couple of girlfriends. My husband went to the Holdel show with me and
he was equally impressed with Stevie's performance and the artistry and talent
of her band. I will not repeat what everyone else already provided; rather, I
will share with you a great experience that I had at this show.
First of all, I
recognized John Kinney from seeing his picture in the tourbook and after the show
he was hanging out by one of the merchandise booths so I politely introduced myself
to him. John, you seem like a really cool guy and us fans can not thank you enough
for providing us with such a detailed and exciting means of keeping in touch with
the wonderful world of Stephanie Lynn Nicks!!!!!!!!!! I commended John on keeping
the website so current and he replied, "Well, that's because I have no life."
He had quite a sense of humor. I also had the wonderful opportunity of receiving
a Stevie Nicks Aftershow Guest Pass while talking to John - and NO, it was NOT
from him so please do not bombard him with emails asking for a pass!!!! Anyway,
I was SO excited and ran back down to the VIP area where they were letting people
in a tent with the "aftershow group". I truly thought I was FINALLY
going to meet Stevie live and in person...my heart was pounding a million times
a minute.
Unfortunately,
I was not able to meet her for two reasons. Number one, the security guy told
us that Stevie only "meets and greets" folks inside the arena who have
won backstage passes through various radio and internet means. Number two, he
also explained to the group that they were whisking Stevie away quickly because
she was not feeling well...her throat was bothering her so I was not surprised
to see that she postponed the next two shows. You could tell during the final
encore that Stevie was getting hoarse - I think a lot of fans thought she was
just breaking down emotionally during "Has Anyone..." so it's not like
anyone was disappointed with her performance - soar throat an all. Poor Stevie!!!
I hope she's feeling better!!!!! Anyway, I was still fortunate enough to meet
Waddy Wachtel, Lenny Castro, Brett Tuggle, Mark Schulan, and Scott Plunkett and
get all of their autographs. The security staff QUICKLY whisked them all away
(I almost didn't get Lenny's autograph but I caught him on his was down the stairs
to the buses) and they told us that Ms. Nicks was already on the bus. We all watched
in awe and waved to Stevie as the buses pulled away, police escort and all. The
whole night was magical. Looking forward to seeing Ms. Nicks with the Mac next
year!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for another enchanting evening, Stevie...perhaps someday
I will finally get to meet you too.
The Arizona
Ranger
I arrived at the PNC at 6:05 pm after leaving the Heritage Renewal at
ny church (We had over 500 people show up !) . The lot was full of folks with
their own littlle party scenes and shared some wine with some folks from York,
PA. They asked me if I would be interested in going to the Bristow, VA show on
7/28 (I'll see ) Passed around my Stevie photo collection to another group of
people and I was rewarded with several glasses of wine (oooch my head !!! ) and
even traded one of my prize Stevie buttons for two bottles of Heineken ! Let me
tell you that Mac/Stevie fans are amongst the friendliest and most neighbourly
next to the Dead Heads. .... Security really did'nt hassle me at all since I'm
so innocent looking and was'nt carrying any dangerous tambourines on me I did
bring my Swiss made binoculars and they afforded me a great view of the onstage
action including Stevie and Waddy's whispered conversations ....
The food prices
at the PNC ARTS CENTER were ridiculous !!!6.50 for a clumpy chesseburger ? 3.50
for a stale pretzel ? Where do they think we are from ? The Hamptons ???? From
now on bring you own grub, eat it in the partking lot and boycott the hell out
of those venue ripoff artists. They'll get the message ! Yours truly sat in Section
403, Row B, Seat 186 next to a nice but drunk couple from Toms River. They really
were'nt bad and we all agreed the Allman Brothers were nothing since Dicky Betts
left the group...
Jeffrey Gaines
was a little bit better but they should give him a better backdrop instead of
just a curtain. I mean the man is playing at a major venue, not a High School
gathering.. Stevie & Co. did a great job as ever. Her HEAY finale was the
climax with her impressive Turn of the Century headgear. The TISL songs were in
need of Sheryl Crow's insightful talent and Stevie should plan on getting another
guest star to cover to avoid any problems like she did with Bombay.... Stevie
should also handle the gift getting part of EO17 a little more tactful than she
did at the PNC. A lot of people I talked with after the show felt she was just
a little inconsiderate in recieving the gifts. Later I found out that she was
extremely ill so if I felt any anger towards her I regreted it... Sorry I missed
John Kinney at the PNC. I wanted to meet him and thank him for all the great bumper
stickers he sent me without delay. He really does a lot of good for Stevie. We
should invite him to meet us at the next Jersey appearance of Mac/Stevie so we
can show him around the state. We'll take him to the Stone Pony and then Max's
in Long Branch for some great Hot Dogs.... Well that's enough for now...Be seeing
you !!!!
Shannon
What can I say but truly amazing!! My sister and I attended the PNC
Bank Arts Center show Saturday night July 21. I was in total awe. We had front
row seats which made everything even better. I think my favorite song was Sorcerer,
but I love all of her songs. The stage was beautiful and everyone sounded great.
I think Waddy added alot to the show he added a rockier edge to it. I have attended
every Stevie show, I think this was my favorite. I have been a true fan of Stevie
ever since my Mom gave me her Fleetwood Mac album. I can remember putting on shows
for my mom's friends in platform boots and black shawl singing to all of her songs.
I love her and always will. I read some of the negative reviews about the show,
how she only did one kick and wore sneakers instead of boots. Give her a break,
she looked and sounded amazing. Stevie could just stand there and I would still
have a hard time taking my eyes off of her.
Stevie,Thank you
for your music
Jennifer
Keene
I almost didn't have the opportunity to post this review but luckily
everything went ok. This is going to be a long one considering half of it is about
how I almost DIDN'T get to the show. I have the worst luck.
Me and my boyfriend
went to the local shopping mall before the concert, and that was around 1:00pm.
When we tried to leave it was around 4pm, only we couldn't leave because my car
keys had mysteriously dissapeared. We virtually looked in every single store we
went into, we told the security guards we were missing keys. Nobody turned anything
into them. I called a locksmith, he couldn't make a key for my car because he
didn't have the equipment or the key code to make the key since it was a newer
car. I called Ford roadside assistance and they couldn't help me at all because
of course "Our computers are down". It was after 5pm so of course the
dealerships were all closed so I couldn't call them. I decided to call Triple
A. Triple A literally STINKS, I told them I had no master key for my car because
my keys were either lost or stolen and I didn't have a spare key, so the woman
said she would send a tow truck and he would be there in 70 minutes. 70 minutes
became 80, 80 became 90. I called back Triple ! and they said the dispatcher had
called them back telling them they could NOT tow my vehicle without a master key
and I would have to have the locksmith sent out through them!!!I said " YOU
HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME, if you people knew this whenI had called then you should
have initially just sent out a locksmith to begin with and I have NEVER heard
of not being able to tow a vehicle without having a key for it." To make
a long story short, the locksmith came about 8pm through Triple A, we didn't get
to the show until around 9:20. I am writing complaints like you wouldn't believe
to Triple A and also Ford roadside.
On the way to the
sho my Aunt who was already at the concert and looking for me called my cell phone
so I could hear the opening song which sounded like the beggingin of Bootylicious.
I was crying I wanted to get there so bad. So she said to be careful and I have
to get there and they were oging to meet me at one of the flags at the venue.
When I finally got there, I ran up to the Stairs after giving my ticket and I
thought I was going to die I was breathing so fast! We missed half the show :(
Sheryl Crow was not there for this show. She was almost done stand back when we
got there and then she went through and did Plants,Edge of Seventeen, I need to
Know, Bombay Sapphire, Too Far from Texas, and Fall from Grace. There was a long
pause in between I think Planets and Too far from Texas if I can remember it right...or
it might have been right before Edge of Seventeen. She was either changing her
clothes or meeting with someone backstage. Sheryl I think normally would have
filled this spot with everday is a winding road but instead Mark Schulman and
Lenny Castro went to town on the drums for a little while. Waddy did his own thing
before edge of Seventeen and everyone in the arena went nuts! He was amazing.
I was dancing and singing in my seat. Stevie came out for Edge of Seventeen and
I'm so glad I didn't miss this song. I saw everyone run up to the stage and I
was so thinking " I deserve to shake her hand at least for what I went through
trying to get here". I was up in row 304 seat 5 so there was no way for me
to get down there to see her.
When the show was
over she thanked everyone for coming and said to please come back so we can do
this again. She disappeared backstage and I was crying "Please come out again...".
I had the worst night, she did come out again for the encore and she did Has anyone
ever Written Anything For You. I was in tears it was so beautiful. It was still
a concert I will never forgot and the next time I see her will probably be with
Fleetwood Mac and I'm going to try and get better seats and get there on time
without any horrible mishaps like this one I had. Thank you Stevie for giving
me a Happy Ending to my story and for making a memory for me. :)
Aeromac
I went to the concert last nigth at the PNC Bank Arts Center and I thought
it was amazing. I have been a huge fan of hers for years, but this was my first
time seeing her. (But I've seen her twice with Fleetwood Mac) I thought her voice
was great, she danced a lot and had a lot of energy, and she seemed extremely
happy to be performing. Not to mention that she looked greater then ever before.
I also thought it was awesome how many dedicated fans were there! I saw at least
50 people dressed like Stevie, and almost everyone had a Stevie T-shirt...and
before the concert started people were in their cars blasing all different kinds
of Stevie tunes...it was great! She was so nice to the audience too. She talked
to us like we were a couple of her freinds in a small room...thanking us and telling
us how much we meant to her. It was a night I will never forget, and it was so
good that I'm trying to find another venue that shes playing at near me so I can
see her again. The only thing that got me really upset, was that when I went on
the nicksfix fan review site, so many people had one or more complaints! I dont
know how you can see a whole amazing show, and just pick out all the bad things
about it!...things that I didnt even notice because Stevies stage presence takes
over the 'little mistakes that the band makes' and the 'type of shoes she was
wearing.' If your a true fan, I dont think you should care about that stuff, and
judge the concert by the music...isnt that what its all about? I hope no one takes
offense to this...it just bothered me to see that so many other people were bothered.
Dianne and
Eddie Wolf
Hi, everyone. I know that everyone has sent in some tidbits of information
on their Stevie concert experiences, so I figured I'd join you. I took my 9-1/2
year old son to his 3rd Stevie concert (my 17th!!!), at the PNC Bank Arts Center
in Holmdel, NJ and we were blown away by everything. The opening act of Jeffrey
Gaines was surprisingly good. In the beginning, it seemed like he was standing
there performing all for himself because no one was listening. But, he soon drew
everyone in by the end of his third song. He was as solid and strong in every
song and won a leary crowd over. Our congratulations to him! I know I'll be buying
his CD very soon. He was really good.
Now~the main event!!!!
When the Destiny Child's "Edge of Seventeen" lick was heard, the crowd
went wild. Some of the older generation that was around us was confused because
they didn't know the song. But, a couple of us older youngsters (me being 40!
OMG, I can't believe I just admitted to that!!!), filled them in on what was going
on. Then we heard Stevie's voice. As I said to my son, Enjoy the ride!!! It was
quite an experience!!!! Everyone knows by know the sequence of songs (including
the omittance of Outside the Rain). Sheryl Crow was not there, and you can't miss
what you don't know. Stevie was excellent. And she looked every bit The Reigning
Queen of Rock and Roll. She has an elegance that has NEVER been equalled by any
other woman in rock.... Rock on Ancient Queen! Every Does pale in your shadow!!!
The only thing you could ever say about Stevie is that she is like a fine wine
~ she gets better and better with age. Her voice is rich and smooth and she sings
with all the wisdom of her years. However, she does NOT look like a woman of 53.
The only thing
that bothered me was that she didn't wear her trademark boots. She walked purposely
throughtout the concert and not in the carefree manner she usually did when she
wore her boots. But, maybe they do take a strain on you!!! And, yes, as reported
by everyone else, she does do the high kick in Stand Back. She did a great yell
during Edge of Seventeen, even though some earlier reports said that she omitted
them from their concerts. The souveniers were outrageous in price. But, we bought
some things anyway. That was the only other downer on what was an otherwise wonderful
night!! Thank you, John Kinney, for your wonderful web sight. Thanks to the tour
book, it was really cool to get to see what you looked like!!! And, of course,
Thank You to Stevie Nicks!!! For being the Greatest singer, songwriter, Poet,
Priestess of Everything to everyone. Rock on, Stevie! We will always Remember
You! And ~ always ~ Rock a Little!!
anonymous
This was my third Stevie concert since 1994 and once again, Stevie didn't
leave me at all disappointed! She looked fantastic, and sounded excellent. She
opened with "Trouble in Shangri-La" and then went right into "Stop
Draggin' My Heart Around." I didn't stop dancing the entire night - I don't
think anybody can not dance to Stevie's music! Occasionally she stopped to explain
the background behind a song before she started singing it.
I was surprised
that "Planets of the Universe" is really a 30-year-old song! I also
laughed when Stevie said she could have made "Too Far From Texas" a
real twangy country song, but she "wanted to rock!" :) I was a little
disappointed during this song, though, because Sharon Celani's accompanying vocal
couldn't hold a candle to Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks, who recorded the
song on the album with Stevie. The band was excellent. I've never been to a more
rockin' Stevie concert. I especially enjoyed the "Edge of Seventeen"
intro, where Lenny Castro and Mark Schulam showed the audience just what drums
and percussion can do together!
Before I knew it,
Stevie was singing "Edge of Seventeen" and then walking offstage. Being
a dedicated audience, we persuaded her to come out once more to sing two more
songs for us. Her last song was "Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You,"
which reduced her to tears towards the end. Everybody just sat there in quiet,
cigarette lighters flickering away. I was thoroughly disappointed as she walked
offstage that final time, of course, because I could have rocked all night long.
In a sense we sort of did, though, because NY's classic rock station Q104.3 was
doing a post-concert wrap-up show after the concert, so as everyone was sitting
in traffic in the parking lot, we got an encore performance of "Rhiannon"
and "Edge of Seventeen." It was the best night of my life! Rock on,
Stevie!
Matthew Flatow
This was my second Trouble In Shangri-La evening. One week ago, I saw
Stevie in Hartford,CT with Cheryl Crow. This night, the first of Stevie's tour
without Cheryl, proved to be as strong a performance as ever! Despite the fact
that Stevie's voice was showing signs of road fatigue, she hit beautifully on
all songs. Ms. Nicks has always been one to beautifully combine her voice with
those of her back up singers for an excellent effect. This evening began like
the one I had seen the week before, with "Stop Dragging' My Heart Around."
From the beginning of this song throughout the entire night, Stevie was more animated,
dancing and twirling with more energy than during the Hartford show. Of course,
her trade mark spins and quirky jerks always spin the crowd itself into a frenzy.
Conspicuously missing
was "Outside The Rain" which had followed "Enchanted" during
the Hartford show. I was a little upset over this because her performance of "Outside
the Rain" during this tour was the best ever!! The old tunes thrilled and
frenzied the crowd. The new tunes were received well, especially "Too Far
From Texas" and "Planets of the Universe." As at the Hartford show,
I felt the most polished and well delivered of the new songs were the power house
"Fall From Grace" and the calypso swaying "Bombay Sapphires."
At one point during
"Bombay Sapphires". Stevie oopsed and went into singing the chorus instead
of the bridge. Sharon and Mindy went one direction while Stevie went the other.
when she realized that she was ahead of the song, Stevie smiled very wildly as
if laughing it off and quickly corrected herself. I don't think most of the audience
noticed, and those of us who did, laughed it off with her. Things like that make
it feel even more like you are in a living room with thousands of your closest
friends singing along with Stevie. The encore, "Has Anyone Ever Written..."
was much more powerful here in New Jersey than at the Hartford show. In fact,
it was kind of awe inspiring and brought tears to my eyes. Stevie emerged with
a beautiful white shawl with fur accents and rhine stones and donned a beautiful
hat with large feathers of white trailing behind. She looked beautiful, almost
surreal, and she hit every second of the song with the emotional mastery it can
provide. Her performance of that song is always bitter sweet: it signifies the
point where the audience must let her go again off into the night, yet brings
the audience deeply into her most heart felt song of the evening!!!
As Stevie always
says,"I do not like goodbyes,"so, we must all say "until we meet
again," and I know someday, somewhere, she'll be back around again to offer
a piece of her heart and soul to us all! Rock on! Gold Dusk Woman!!!!!!!
Sarah
I am still reeling from last night's concert, my first time seeing Stevie
live. First, let me say that I've been to tons of sold-out concerts, but NEVER
have I witnessed the same level of excitement and energy from an audience as I
did last night. It was a gift to be in the presence of so many fans. I know that
we truly adore her, but nothing could have prepared me for the love that was flowing
through that arena last night. The whole night was electric.
I'll get the big
negative over with first--the sound system STUNK. I'd read about this happening
at other venues, but it was really bad. If Stevie (or Sharon or Mindy) stepped
back more than three inches from the microphone, you couldn't hear anything. So,
this didn't provide for much movement on their parts.
But as long as
they didn't move around too much, the songs were great, and the set list was fantastic--very
few glaring omissions. I was pleased that Stevie sang so many songs off the new
album; they're among her best, even if people don't know them inside out. "Stand
Back" was a THRILL live--probably the most fantastic song of all. Every single
person in the place was on their feet, singing and dancing. "Fall From Grace"
was definitely a showstopper, and just as exciting as the old songs; and "Edge
of Seventeen" was dynamic, even with the omitted verse, and even though I
was sad to hear it come so soon.
The set list, as
far as I can remember (and not in exact order), was: Stop Draggin My Heart Around;
Enchanted; Dreams; Sorcerer; Every Day; Gold Dust Woman; Too Far From Texas (which
she sings with Sharon, but they don't sing it in a duet fashion like on the album,
which kind of stinks); Stand Back; Planets of the Universe; Bombay Sapphires;
Fall From Grace; Edge of Seventeen; I Need to Know; Has Anyone Ever Written Anything
For You. Stevie came on around 9:15 and the concert ended at 10:50.
Anybody who has
this concert coming up at other venues, gear up for the time of your life. Stevie
won't disappoint you at all, and if you're anything like me, wear sneakers and
bring tissues, because you'll be crying and singing and dancing all night long
~*~Kerry~*~
She came out, and it was such a spiritual feeling I had. Stevie is the
Queen! She was so beautiful, and even better than I had expected. She sang classics,
such as: 'Stop Draggin' My Heart Around', 'Gold Dust Woman', 'Rhiannon', 'Stand
Back', and 'Edge of Seventeen' where she thanked the audience. I wasn't close
enough to shake her hand, though. She also sang new songs, like: 'Sorcerer', 'Every
Day', 'Planets of the Universe', 'Too Far From Texas', and 'Bombay Sapphires'.
The encore was
probably my favorite part, when she came out in the feathered hat and so beautiful...she
sang 'Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You' so powerfully that I had those
burning tears in my eyes. It was like she was singing right to me.
AMAZING!!!
PNC BANK ARTS
CENTER
The entire concert
was uplifting and powerful, and it showcased her talent, charisma, and everything
that makes her so amazing!
When the show was
over, we were going to the car and some chick touched my arm as to get my attention.
I looked, and she asked me, "Does she look like she's getting old?"
It took me a minute,
but I asked, "Who? Stevie?" The lady said 'yes' and I said 'no'! She
asked me why and I told her, "IT'S STEVIE NICKS!!! SHE DOESN'T GET OLD! SHE'S
A CLASSIC!" etc. etc. etc.
I guess she liked
that answer because she kept talking to me and showed her tattoo to me.
No worries, all
is well. :0)
The night was magical
and fabulous. What an enchanting evening! I cannot wait to see Stevie Nicks again!
ROCK ON, GOLD DUST WOMAN!!!
MICHAEL &
LISA
my girlfriend and i went last nite and stevie sounded as good as ever!
this was my 4th time seeing her and she seems tooutdo herself every time! the
place was packed with old heads as expected. not to many kids! we had lawn seats
and we saw everything. they have big monitors set up all around. the show was
great and i thank GOD i was able to get tix.for anyone waiting to see her or is
going for the 1st time, you're in for a treat!!!!
ENJOY THE SHOW!!!!
Alicia Coleman
This was my 6th Stevie solo concert. I've seen Fleetwood Mac just as
many times. I have been a Stevie fan since the beginning and all I can say, she's
just like a fine wine, she gets better & better with age!
I thought at the
beginning she seemed a little tentative and her voice wasn't really strong. But
as the night progressed she seemed to get more comfortable and relaxed and her
voice became more powerful.
My favorite songs
were Standback, Rhiannon, Edge of Seventeen, Every Day, Sorcerer, Planets of the
Universe, Bombay Sapphires and the extraordinary Has Anyone Ever Written Anything
For You. And of course, I Need To Know.
I would have liked
to see Sheryl Crow because I know she would have definitely added to the show.
But Stevie & her great band, especially Waddy and Carlos, and Sharon and Mindy
and of course the great percussionist Lenny Castro were just awesome. Very tight
indeed!
Stevie seemed very
happy and was truly enjoying herself! I feel she is really humbled by all the
love she is shown by the crowd. She seemed truly overwhelmed by the number of
people at the show and the enthusiasm of everyone. People like me truly love Stevie
and her music.
Stevie you have
truly inspired me in so many ways. You are one of the greatest songwriters ever.
And your ability to translate your songs to your fans is amazing. Thanks so much!
Don't ever stop. Can't wait to see the Fleetwood Mac tour next year!
Michelle
Salmorin
There was a cool breeze and a gentle wind blowing in the air. The stars
were out and twinkling high above us while the moon was radiating its moonbeams.
You could hear the whispers in the air from the magical fairies that were floating
high above us waiting anxiously to sprinkle their fairy dust upon us and to greet
the high priestess of rock and roll STEVIE NICKS! The night was perfect for an
outdoor concert, last night in Holmdel, New Jersey. My friends and I were all
decked out in our Stevie attire waiting anxiously for the show to begin. Although
our seats were bad, we still didnt let this put a damper on the evening.
Jeffrey Gaines
warmed up the audience, with his raw voice and passionate solo performance. When
he sang IN YOUR EYES by Peter Gabriel, the crowd couldn't wait to participate
in singing along. In fact, he even performed the song again because he said that
we didn'tsing it loud enough the first time. Mr. Gaines ended his performance
and thanked the audience for listening too him and for supporting his career for
the last ten years. He mentioned that he is on his 4th album and hopefully things
will change for him. I have a feeling that it will. His performance intrigued
me enough to want to buy his CD. Mr. Gaines then exited quietly off the stage.
There was a 20-minute intermission before Stevie would grace us with her presence.
The house lights
were on and thru the speakers they were playing Bootyluscious from Destiny's Child.
Slowly the house lights dim. All you can hear is the chanting voices crying out
the words from the song Trouble In Shangri-La in the dark arena. I RUN THRU THE
GRASS, I RUN OVER THE STONES SHOW ME THE BACK over and over again. Then there
was silence. Only a blackened stage. As the stage lights came on to the beat of
Stop Dragging My Hear tAroundhere she was! The Queen of Rock and Roll. Fully decked
out in her royal attire minus the platform boots. Instead, she was wearing what
appeared to be Reebok black sneakers with a wedge. Along the wedge of the sneaker
type boot were rhinestones or glitter, which would only be the type of sneaker
Stevie, would only wear.
The stage was MAGICAL.
It was the set from the cover of her album. While Stevie enticed, the audience
with her presence and performance, so did the stage. The lighting was MAGICAL.
Between the lighting and the stage set, at times, it transformed you into a magical
sphere and invited and enticed you into entering the magical door of fantasy.
At one point of the show, the stage had an aurora borealis effect to it. When
she sang, PLANETS OF THE UNIVERSE the stage took on another presence. With the
moon hanging behind her thru that magical door, it only enhanced the song. I have
seen Stevie Nicks many times. I am a huge fan of her and her music. Last nights
show was amazing. Not only is Stevie beautiful, talented and a prolific songwriter,
she still has it at 53!
The only thing
I noticed last night was that she didn't DANCE, OR TWIRL around the stage like
she usually does. She did appear to be tired. Friday night she performed at Jones
Beach. Maybe doing two shows back to back is rougher now than it used to be. However,
please don't let this deter you from seeing her perform if she is in your area.
So to sum up my review the only question that all of you might be wondering is
there TROUBLE IN SHANGRI-LA?The answer is ¦NO! So run out and buy her CD,
then purchase tickets to her show and put on your Stevie attire and rock on with
your fellow SISTER OF THE MOON who is a BEAUTIFUL CHILD and celebrate with her.
Rock On!
Michael Gabriel
I'm not really reviewing the show, per se because,1.) the people who
have already done it did a pretty good job of describing the show's specifics.
and , 2.) I don't know how they remembered the details like they seem to have,
without actually writing them down at the time. And, anyway, we all know the set
list. (For the record, however, mark me down as someone who was glad to see the
song changes!) Myself, I was too busy taking my own private journey through time
and space into Shangri-la to remember specifics. I have seen Stevie at least 3
times on each solo tour and about 4 or 5 times with FM (and once, in Washington,
for the inauguration )... Each show was the best ever, so I hesitate to say it,
but this show was the best ever! To say that Stevie rocks is such an understatement
as to be laughable. There are other female rockers...some of them quite good,
but none come close to that esteemed title of "Rock God" that so many
of their male counterparts wear with such aplomb. Janis was...Grace was...but
only Stevie still is... The shear "Stevie-ness" of last night's show
was overwhelming...
I had the good
fortune to be given 5th row, center tickets by my wonderful sister (thanks, Pebs)
, so I really got to see Her in all the glory that is Stevie...she looked amazing
for a 35 year old ...the fact that she is 53 just boggles the mind! Yes, as the
other reviewers have pointed out, she does avoid the high notes now, but she more
than makes up for that with that unique vibrato...who else can do that night after
night, tour after tour...year after year... And when her voice broke during "Has
Anyone ever..." That was one of the moments I live for...It was as if the
emotion was too much for her...and the emotion that surged forth from the crowd
towards her at that moment was palpable,
Well, I can only
imagine, that must be one the reasons Stevie continues to give so much of herself
to us, the devoted... For a number of reasons, this was a night that I will remember
for the rest of my life (or at least until the next "best concert ever"
that Ms. Nicks gives to us) . I was there with the love of my life who finally
understands...(neither of us sat down once during the entire show). Stevie actually
not only grabbed my outstretched hand, but squeezed it and --get this-- said "Thank
you" to me! After all she had just given, she felt greatfull for the attention
that we give to her! My only regret is that Idon't know why she did not accept
the gifts at the ritualistic time... Stevie's destiny was in fact written in the
stars...she will go on long after the Planets of the universe have gone their
ways... Stevie, if you're reading this, Thank you from the depths of my wild.
wild,wildeheart... Go ahead, Lily...Rock a little And John, thank you for giving
us an outlet to express our feelings as we return energized, but a bit sad to
leave behind Shangri-la....
Danielle
Saw Stevie last nite in Holmdel...here are some of my observations:
-she didn't do the wail on GDW, but she did some variation of it (like "ahhhhhh"...something
like that) after the place where the wail would have been. -she mentioned LB a
few times, he never lived away from his parents until he met her and then they
moved to LA together... -when she introed Too Far From Texas, she said "now
imagine if the drummer in Lindsey's band wanted us to do country...." (Everyone
laughed...I *think* she meant Mick here?) Then she said "nah, I would have
told him "I HAVE TO ROCK!!" and everyone cheered!! -she messed up a
bit on Bombay Sapphires (she skipped ahead a verse, realized it, then got back
in sync with the girls (whom my husband was DROOLING over!) (I took over possession
of the binoculars after I realized this (when my sleeve was wet from his drool!)
-during Rhiannon, after the chorus was sung, she would sing "I don't think
you do" fairly softly into the mike) (I don't know what this meant, but it
was cool) -
For HAEWAFY, she
came out with a top hat with an enormous curly feather on it. She looked so beautiful
with this hat on and her hair in a ponytail. I think it made her look younger.
Her voice cracked a bit for one of the last verses of the song...she was kind
of holding her throat after that. -The kick on Stand Back was awesome. I knew
she did that for the fans, everyone cheered when she did that. I thought it was
cute how she did it, walked a little forward, grabbed the mike for support and
gave a HUGE kick. -When introing her band, she commented about Al Ortiz, how he
played bass on all her demos, and without him, there would be no "Trouble
in Shangri La" -Loved those platform sneakers with the sparkles!! (it didn't
really fit in with her outfit, but what the heck!!)
Peter
This is a review for the Shangri-La show from July 21 at the PNC Bank
Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. It's been almost two days since I saw the show in
New jersey, but I couldn't write this review immediately after the show, as I
was a bit bemused but what I had just witnessed, so I have waited a few days and
after some reflection I can offer these comments up now. I look back on this show
with fond memories of powerhouse numbers such as Edge of Seventeen and Fall From
Grace (even better than it plays on the album) as well as the final Has Anyone
Ever Written.... These songs showcased Stevie at her best--as the rock goddess
and ethereal angel. Other standards such as Rhiannon, Stand Back and even Gold
Dust Woman lacked the emotional performance from Stevie despite the strong backing
of her musicians and vocalists. Instead of building each song to a emotional climax
(as I have seen her do in her past performances), she just kind of trailed off,
and it was hard for the audience to get behind her.
Overall, myself
and my group of friends in attendance felt she was just plain out of it that night
and not really into the show. At one point during Bombay Sapphires she even (dare
I say) forgot some of the words? And then there are the conspicuous absences of
After the Glitter Fades, and even more so the album's title track and Love Is
(which seemed important enough to mention in every bit of press she did for the
album). Don't get me wrong, I 'm not trying to tear the show apart, and certainly
not dissuade people from going to see her. But when you have seen Stevie at her
legendary best, it's hard to accept anything less from her. The magic may not
have been entirely there that night, but this fan would go the distance to see
her again (funny sneakers and all) for those precious moments.
Sincerely, Peter
Stephanie
when i got inside i was sooo happy with my seats, i was in the first
section, 12 or 14 rows back and a little to the left of the stage. (which was
excellent cuz i could see her changing her shawls and stuff!) before Stevie came
out they BLASTED Bootylicious!!! the crowd went wild!! everybody was dancing all
over the place. then they did the TISL intro as the girls came out, and then came
Stevie, i actually got tears in my eyes at the sight of her! Stop Draggin' sounded
AWESOME!
all the songs
seemed a little more Rockin' than usual, and Stevie's voice sounded AMAZING throughout
the whole show. :) Waddy was amazing, he was really rockin' out and enjoying himself.
they went right into Dreams, (No Outside the Rain?!) Stevie thanked us for coming
and told us she loves us, & blew kisses! too cute! Enchanted was really good,
Stevie had her black tamb and came out to the edge of the stage!!! (this was the
only time, except during Edge) for Gold Dust Woman she had on her Golden shawl
with the sparkles, sounded REALLY good! I had read in some reviews that her newer
songs weren't sounding that good, but when she did Sorcerer it blew me away, "Let
Me Put You On Ice..."
She talked about
writing the song before joining FM and that it was about "Scary Hollywood",
and how she & Lindsey went from living at home to jumping in a car and being
on their own. Rhiannon had a really pretty piano intro with the "Don't Leave
Me" lines, but when they kicked into the rock part, it ROCKED! Stevie had
on her long dripping black wings, but only twirled once. She kept adding "I
Don't Think You Do!" (shouting it) at one part she did it in the wrong place
or something cuz i could see her make a face like oops! and smile. :)
Planets of The
Universe was REALLY good! Stevie talked about writing it after the first 2 months
of recording Rumours & that she never recorded it for all these years because
it was too heavy, and that she sat down at the piano and changed it so there was
that light at the end of the tunnel. Stevie really rocked out on this one, she
was shaking that tamb and dancing like CRAZY in front of the drum set! :) :) Bombay
Sapphires sounded beautiful & Stevie came out wearing the Blue Lamp Shawl!!!!
she looked beautiful. when she came out for Stand Back she had a new shawl on,
a shorter version of the usual Standback cape, with little small gold circles
all over it.
She was in excellent
voice and danced with the bassist & Waddy and at the end she did that HIGH
kick!! i would say shoulder high!!! before Too Far From Texas she was talking
about it being country and said something like what if all those years ago when
Lindsey asked her to join his band it was a country group? then she said, i would've
said "I Have To Rock!" and she laughed. :) Sharon sang the duet parts
from the side, Mindy was backstage. during the song instead of singing "he
might never" she sang "but i know better"!!!! Fall From Grace was
Intense! very powerful! this time Mindy sang the duet parts from the side and
Sharon was gone. Both were excellent, there voices blend so well.
Stevie came out
for Edge Of 17 in a newer version of the cape, it was shorter with sparkles all
over it. the song sounded amazing, but i was a little disapointed that Sharon
did not walk over and share the mic with Stevie during their little duet part.
she stayed at the side, and Stevie did not turn her mic to the side and look at
her like i expected either. strange. Stevie took her shawl off when she made her
way to the edge to shake hands, you could really tell she was listening to people
and was reaching really far out to try to get to everyone, when she was walking
back to the mic she looked like she had tears in her eyes. She told everyone to
take care of themselves and be well so we could do this again, sing and dance
again. Then she came back out for I Need To Know with a little tailored black
jacket & her tamb. it was great, some people started leaving at this point
to beat the crowd, so i was able to move from the side to dead center and even
closer to the stage!!!! i didn't realize Stevie had a HUGE surprise for us! when
she came out for HAEWAFY, she had a sparkling ivory top on over her black dress,
with a peach shawl draped over her arms, and she had her hair pulled back in a
low ponytail because she was wearing a LARGE BLACK VELVET TOPHAT WITH LONG FEATHERS
STUCK ON THE SIDE!!!! SHE LOOKED STUNNING!!!!
the song sounded
so beautiful and sweet, she got choked up at one point and her voice cracked,
she looked upset and put her hand to her throught, but the whole audience just
cheered at the top of their lungs (including me!) and she finished the song beautifully.
she looked soo cute taking the bows with her band cuz she had to keep holding
her hat on! :) when she walked off for the last time i didn't want to she her
go, it was truly an Enchanted evening. (i don't know if the songs are in the right
order or anything, i'm trying to remember but it's hard the next day.)
Kristin
Almost eighteen years ago Stevie Nicks embarked on her Wild Heart Tour.
About a year later I was born, and for the first several years of my life, although
I would hear Fleetwood Mac on the radio and echoing through the corridors of my
house, beckoning from my sister's room, their music was simply another song getting
airplay on a classic rock station.
But now, as I come
upon my seventeenth year, I have spent approximately three years enjoying the
wondrous sounds of the Mac as well as the solo works of both Stevie Nicks and
Christine McVie. How I got to this point, I cannot tell you because it remains
a mystery to even myself. One day I borrowed my sister's "Enchanted"
box set, and soon after "Tusk" became a permanent resident in my room.
After she rightfully wanted to listen to it a few times and I, each time, borrowed
it again when she was finished I set out to get my own Fleetwood Mac cds. Now,
I have been a poet myself for four years, and as such I found the lyrics of Stevie
in particular, to be exquisite. Once I realized that I was for the most part only
listening to the tracks she had written on the Fleetwood Mac albums, I extended
my collection to include her solo works and found them quite enjoyable. With the
release of "Trouble in Shangri-La" came another edition, on the day
of release no less, and anticipation of finally seeing Stevie Nicks live. Which
brings me to July twenty-first of 2001 when Stevie Nicks and her band performed
in Holmdel, NJ. In preparation for the event I bought a vintage 70's dress that
was long and black with an asymmetrical hem and paired it with knee high black
platform boots. Dressed accordingly I set out for my first Stevie Nicks concert
with high hopes and 17th row center tickets.
Opening the show
was Jeffrey Gaines whom I was somewhat unfamiliar with having only heard his version
of "In Your Eyes," a few times on the radio. He came out onstage with
two guitars and did a wonderful job of singing and playing. Not just anyone has
the nerve to go out onstage all alone and work that hard. Of course, some people,
maybe even most, were at the show to see Stevie Nicks and whoever the opening
act was mattered little to them, but most of the crowd gave the applause due to
Jeffrey Gaines just the same. The few hecklers were most likely traveling on a
beer buzz and merely wanted to shout about something. Personally I thought he
did a wonderful job.
For such a long
introduction I'm afraid the actual portion of my review dealing with the show
itself will be a little scant. She did a fantastic job, as did her entire band
and back-up singers. My expectations were high, and I was not let down. One could
tell how hard she was working as I'm sure she will every night of the tour. Of
course there were a few lyrical changes, because when it's a song you wrote you
have the authority to mix it up a little when you're performing it live for the
umpteenth time. Her voice was up to par, her clothes were unique as usual, and
hopefully she can tour again soon so I can go to another show. Perhaps most of
Fleetwood Mac will tour again soon, as that would be a great experience and something
I haven't had the pleasure to see, but if not another Stevie Nicks concert even
without another new album would be astonishing!
Rick Noordijk,
the Netherlands
Well it's the morning after the Holmdel show and I'm in a New York internet
cafe writing this review. I am still so much awestruck by the last two days events...
Since it looks like Stevie is never ever going to come to Europe again, "I
decided to go to the other side of the world" to see her, like I did in 1998
on the Enchanted tour. But this time was going to be even better because I got
to go to the shows with my American Stevie Friends Chris, David and Helen.
And I have to tell
you it was more than worth the trip and my impending bankruptcy ;-). Stevie is
the most amazing performer ever of any of the planets of the universe. The Jones
Beach show was fantastic and even though Sheryl wasn't there last night in Holmdel,
it was an absolutely amazing show- Sheryl added a lot to the show, but Stevie
can bring the house down by herself just as well!!! It was all there: the twirling,
the kick during Stand Back, beautiful lighting, Edge of Seventeen and Fall From
Grace just rocked and Has Anyone... brought tears to my eyes because that song
has helped me get through so many of my darkest hours. I love you Stevie! And
in case anyone is listening: record the Universal City shows and put out a DVD!!!!!
Celeste
Just got back from the show in Holmdel. I have plus & minus opinions
about tonights show. I'll get the minus ones over with first! Please go back to
opening with "Outside/Dreams"! I think it's much more effective and
the lower register "Draggin'" with Waddy, just doesn't have the same
attention getting effect. Also, Stevie's voice and band seemed a tad off tonite,
not majorly, maybe the "Planets of the Universe" weren't in the right
spot! And dear Stevie, if you're comfortable in your sneakers, great, however
it seemed a little awkward. I know it's easier to sing with flat shoes but heck,
why not sing barefoot! You've been pictured that way before! The plus ones...
"Rhiannon" and "17" were stellar, the set is beautiful, Stevie
seems very happy and genuinely appreciates her fans. Also "Fall From Grace"
was "very powerful". All in all a good concert. As a wonderful gentleman
said to me tonight, "There will never be another like her".
Jennifer
Polanski
This was my first Stevie concert, the show was amazing! When she came
out i started to cry, i was standing practicly the hole show and have no voice
left from singing and screaming. There was so much energy in that stadium and
she sounded perfect. The only song i wish she had played that she didnt was landslid,
other than that i loved everysong, and knew all of them. I would love to see her
again. Me and my best friend had an amazing time.
Vivian
Stevie was awesome tonite at the PNC! She began with Stop Draggin My
Heart and had a sparkle and bounce to her that was amazing. She seems to be enjoying
this tour to the max. Her energy is soooo contagious and the band is fabbbbbbulous!!
She sang TISL, Bombay Sapphire, Everyday, Sorcerer (she remarked that she wrote
this song before Fleetwood Mac in 1974), Fall From Grace, Texas, Edge of 17, Stand
Back, Rhiannon........
The audience at
PNC was EXCELLENT and was very responsive to the new songs. Stevie said "I
love doing the new stuff." Last night, at Jones Beach, I ran to the front
of the stage after Edge of 17, got caught up in the Stevie moment and handed her
my own shawl! She took it from my hands and took my hand in hers and said thank
you. I said that I loved her and she said I know. I was knocked out by her presence.
She is like the fairy princess who makes everything beautiful.
Tonite at PNC,
she did not take a single item from the fans in the front who were holding flowers,
bears, etc. I dont know why she wasnt accepting gifts, but I am sooo glad she
took my shawl. It was 2 nights that I'll never forget! I love you Stevie....
Love, Vivian
Donna Abrams
I just got back from the PNC show. What an experience. This was my eighth
Stevie concert (not including Fleetwood Mac) and I had a great time. The set list
was pretty much the same as Opening Night (minus the 2 Sheryl Crow songs and Outside
the Rain, which I think she needs to add back into the set by the way!) I'm not
really good with words, but I think I speak for a lot of people when I say that
Stevie was amazing!
Nothing will ever
match my first Stevie concert (1986 Rock a Little), but this is close. Hopefully
she will come back to NJ again with FM and we can feel the magic again.
Rock On Gold Dust
Woman!
Michael McDonald
What an awesome show at The PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. Even
better then The Fleetwood Mac reuion tour and The Enchanted Tour. I originally
had lawn seats and some lady from the record company came to me and handed me
section 104 row O tickets 15 rows from the stage. Jeffery Gaines was ok. He played
three songs that I liked. Stevie looked great as well as did her band. Destiny's
Child's "Bootylish" kicked off the show from the speakers. Then we heard
a little bit of "Trouble in Shangri-La". Then the show really began
with "Stop Draggin My Heart Around" with Waddy Watchel on Tom Petty's
part. The she played "Enchanted", which was awesome (that is one of
my favs). Then Stevie through us for a loop because she did "Dreams"
and DID NOT play "Outside The Rain" like she normally would do. She
then went to go put on a gold shawl and did "Gold Dust Woman". That
was followed by "Everyday" then "Sorcerer". A piano solo kicked
off "Rhiannon" which was awesome. Then came "Stand Back" which
Stevie did a little kick towards the end. Then came "Planets Of The Universe"
followed by "Too Far From Texas". "Fall From Grace" rocked.
There was a bit of an acoustic guitar to kick off "Bombay Sapphire"
Then Mark and Lenny did a drum solo then Waddy did a giutar solo to kick off "Edge
Of Seventeen". Then the band left. They came back for two encores : "I
Need To Know" and "Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You" which
Stevie had this hat on with feathers on the hat. It was an exellent show. Would
have been even better if Sheryl Crow was there. BUT IT WAS A GREAT NIGHT
Mrbilliam
I still remember that night in 1982, like it was just the other night.
It was a first for a number of things that night. It was my first concert I ever
saw. The headline act was breaking out on her own for the first time on tour.
It was the first time I began to believe in angels. And of course, It was the
first time I saw Stevie Nicks live.
Here I was 18 years
old, being mesmerized by this enchantress dancing across the stage. Praying this
night would never end. Well now its 19 years and 20 shows later, and that night
still continues. But only in shadows of it's once self. Tonight the TISL tour
rolled into NJ at the PNC Art Center. I came into this tour with high expectations
thanks to that incredible setlist she played during the 98' Enchanted tour. After
the first few shows, of this tour, it wasn't going to happen. "Oh well',
I thought, at least I could enjoy it with my true, dearest, best friend. I been
trying to get her to see Stevie with me for years. Finally after 4 tries, she
gives in. We got to PNC around 7:00. Seeing, it was her first Stevie experience,
I figured I needed to go all out. Few deals later, I turned are sec 302 seats
to sec 102 6th row.
It's now 9:10,
Jeffery ended his set about 20 minutes ago. Really liked the way he re-did "
In Your Eyes". Suddenly, a very familiar guitar riff was coming over the
house system. The crowd came to its feet knowing what was next. Then echoing through
the art center was heard the chorus from TISL. Even the stage resembled something
from the orient. Thought to myself, "after 8 solo albums, how come Enchanted
was the closes title track we heard live ever?". After a count off, Waddy
and the band jumped into Stop Draggin. Then with the crowd, already in a frenzy,
Stevie appeared. Dressed in black, Stevie waved to the crowd. With a 6th row view,
I couldn't believe how beautiful Stevie was still. Enchanted followed, then Stevie
pulled the next two from Rumours, Dreams and Gold Dust Woman. TISL finally made
it's debut with Every Day. Saw the video, the version on Rosie and on Letterman
but this blows all of the others away.
After a brief discussion
about Lindsey she sang Sorcerer. Stevie got the Art Center rocking on it's feet
again, with the classic Rhiannon and her biggest solo hit Standback. Stevie turned
the show into another direction with the country like song Too Far From Texas.
My favorite from TISL. Then continued more from TISL, Planets, Fall from Grace
( The stage rush begins) and Bombay Sapphires. As soon as Fall was 1/2 way over,
I had to grab my friends arm to go up front. She was very reluctant, telling me,
" were gonna kicked out". Sheesh Stevie Virgins.
Finally she gave
in and we ended up 2 deep along the stage. I bet if we left earlier we would have
been against the stage. It was great to see Waddy again, after a short drums solo,
Waddy was teasing us with the 17 intro, then he was ready to go to work. Finally
Stevie rejoin the band in a white shawl. Kinda liked the duel guitar work from
Waddy and Carlos on this tune. Near the end ,Stevie made her way to are side of
the stage. Unfortunate I wasn't close enough for a kiss, I had to settle for a
hand shake. My friend was able to get one too. To her surprised, she loved what
Stevie just did for the fans.
With the end of
17 brought the end of the first set. And then the band rejoined with Stevie to
end the show with I Need To Know and Has Anyone.... Lights came up, everyone went
home. Ok, my overview , for 53 years old Stevie can still perform. And with her
popularity soaring again, It's gonna be awhile before she stops. There was about
the same number Generation X'ers as there was Baby Booms in the crowd. Even the
young X'ers flocked in. So she'll keep them coming. I was disappointed with the
setlist but pleasantly surprised the new songs live. Stevie looked drained at
times. Maybe because the back to back nights. My friend thinks she might have
been ill. She drank alot of fluids and kept grabbing her throat. Her vocals seem
not as strong anymore. She didn't try to hit the high notes in Gold Dust or Rhiannon.
And broke up during Has Anyone... She dropped Outside the Rain and 2 Sheryls songs
and didn't replace them with something else. I think this show should be graded
at B-. I guess she dosen't "Wear boot all summer long," anymore. those
sneakers crack me up.
Jodi
This was the first concert of any kind I have ever been too in all my
whole life. I am 31 years old and a mother of a three year old boy. Last nite
my dream came true. It was one of the most amazing nights of my whole life. I
idolize Stevie and to see her up on that stage after all of these years was like
a dream come true. My husband came with me. He's not a Stevie fan and even he
enjoyed it. I never thought I could feel the way I did last night. Stevie has
something mmagical about her and she brought that magic to me last night. I will
be eternally greatful. All of her songs were wonderful and her voice sounded great
the whole night. She actually seemed happy to be performing which made it even
better. You could actually tell that she was happy be up there bringing her magic
to you.
It didn't matter
that Sheryl Crow wasn't there. We were all there to see Stevie and she gave us
all of her. It was the most magical wonderful night and I will be forever greatful.
I can't wait till next summer when she comes with the Mac. I will be there again
and hopefull I will get some better seats. I hope everyone was as enchanted as
I was. IT WAS THE NIGHT OF MY LIFE. ROCK ON GOLD DUST WOMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Devlin Fitzpatrick
The mystical lady of rock and roll reigned supreme at the Jersey shore
last night. The momentum was building as Jeffrey Gaines warmed up the crowd and
we were all ready to rock as he left the stage. After a short 20 minute intermission
the Edge of Seventeen guitar riff could be heard and the R&B beat of Bootylicious
could be heard. Then the corus of Trouble in Shangri-La was played to announce
the arrival of everybody's favorite Welsh witch.
For an hour and
a half she poured out her soul from Stop Draggin' My Heart Around to Stand Back
to Sorcerer to Edge of Seventeen, it was a cohesive sample of a stellar career
at the top of Rock glory. The poignant ending with HAEWAFY was breathtaking. You
literally could not breath as Stevie came out in a golden sequined bodice with
flowing chiffon shawl and top hat. The top hat was adorned with several plumes
of feathers. She gave a stirring performance of that song and when her voice cracked
slightly during the high note, the crowd gave a reassuring cheer and it was truly
moving. With that she took her leave and disappeared into the night air.
We simply adore
her!! Rock on Gold Dust Woman!!!
DEBBIE
I am a long-time fan of Stevie's since the early 80's. I have seen her
shows in person since '86. This was my 6th, saw FM 3 times as well. Have tapes
of her earlier shows. Well, let me tell you that was the BEST show I have seen
of her solo! The stage sets were fabulous, she had tremendous energy, she was
in fantastic voice and she seemed so much happier to be there really genuine.
Then possibly she had in the past. Also, I was so happy to see Waddy with her
again.....she did songs I had never heard her do in concert and she said that
the "set could change night to night". That was my only beef in the
past, it seemed to always be the same songs, same order etc... The crowd was also
the best I've ever seen for her shows, such a mix of people, packed to the gills
and cheering to the max. I took my fiance who also enjoyed it very much(he's more
of an FM fan, never saw her solo). And he was really impressed! We both had a
great time!
Stevie, you are
an inspiration to the women of rock.....may you continue to rock on!
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