The Midwest Rock 'N Roll Express, featuring Ted Nugent, REO Speedwagon and Styx, made its last stop in Pittsburgh on 5/19/13. It was a lovely night for an outdoor show.
Styx has always been one of my favorite bands, and I wanted very badly to photograph them. I was able to get approval from Ted Nugent's publicist, but I was not sure that would allow me to shoot all three bands. When I got to the show, and picked up my pass, I was ecstatic to find out it was for all three bands! Getting to photograph one of my musical idols for the first time is one of my biggest thrills, but I have to keep my excitement in check, because I'm here to do a job.
I had to rush to get to the spot where I was to meet the venue rep. Oddly enough, I was the only outside photographer at the show. These bands are still bringing in big crowds, so I had expected more coverage. She escorted me in for Ted Nugent's set and I could see right away that this would be a challenge because of the way the pit was set up. Oh well, I've dealt with worse.
Ted Nugent is definitely one opinionated guy, and he isn't at all shy telling everyone what he thinks. But whether you agree with his political views or not, it doesn't change the fact that he is one fantastic guitarist. The set included the hits "Free For All", "Cat Scratch Fever" and "Wang Dang Sweet Poontang", but all I really needed to hear was "Stranglehold" - one of those songs I'd have to have if stranded on a desert island. I had never seen him live before and he and his band put on a great show.
REO Speedwagon is another band I had never seen live. I have always liked them, but to be honest, they were never on my bucket list of bands to see. I was pleasantly surprised at how good they are live and even more surprised that I still remembered all the words to their songs. Kevin Cronin and company were very dynamic and seemed to be enjoying every minute of their set. The feeling was contagious and the crowd was definitely warmed up and ready to go but the end or their set.
Finally, Styx was up. I've seen them before and they always put on a fantastic show. Now, I grew up with Styx, and Dennis DeYoung was one of my heroes. Back in the day, I thought the keyboardist was the coolest guy in the band. When behind their multiple keyboards and synthesizers, they looked like a captain at the bridge of a spaceship (yes, I'm a geek!). When Dennis left the band, I thought Styx couldn't possibly be the same, but I have to admit that Lawrence Gowan has filled Dennis' shoes admirably. Not only does he have the voice and the talent, but he is an amazing showman, and somehow manages to keep from getting dizzy on his spinning keyboard stand.
Tommy Shaw not only still looks phenomenal, but his voice hasn't lost a thing after all these years. I have to admit to being a little starstruck. In fact, being so close, brought back that school-girl crush I had on him.
James Young is the only true original member that still tours regularly, but tonight, we were lucky enough for an appearance by Chuck Panozzo, their original bass player. Health problems have kept him from touring regularly, but he appears when he can and he was well received this night. As excited as I was to photograph them, I think I was more excited to get back to my seat and enjoy the rest of the show. Way too soon, they were playing "Renegade" (another of my must haves on a desert island) and then the show was over. They are one of my can't miss bands and I hope they keep touring for many more years.
