SANTA FE, NM -- Thursday, July 24, 1997
Friday, July 18, 1997 -- Albuquerque Journal, copyright 1997
"Singer
weaves old songs into new life / Tour,
new album spotlight Fogelberg's long career"
by Eric L. Reiner (FOR THE JOURNAL)
Folk singer Dan Fogelberg kicks off the
second leg of his 1997 tour at Paolo Soleri on Thursday.
It's kind of a local gig for the singer/songwriter.
"I live on a ranch in southern Colorado and I keep a
little place in Santa Fe," says Fogelberg, whose
hits include the poignant "Same Old Lang Syne,"
the tender ballad "Longer" and the
acoustic-rocker
"Part of the Plan."
This is Fogelberg's first solo acoustic tour in many
years. "I use about five different guitars and a
baby grand piano," he says. Turns out this tour
almost never happened. Last year, Fogelberg injured a
finger while boating in Maine. "I didn't know if I'd
ever do this again for a living. But now that I'm back to
playing, it's like I'm re-dedicated to live
performing."And the audiences are getting a better
show than I've put on in quite a while, 'cause I'm having
a great time."
Fogelberg's latest album is a four-CD boxed set,
"Portrait: The Music of Dan Fogelberg from
1972-1997" (Epic/Legacy). It's an astounding
collection, featuring perhaps 40 percent of Fogelberg's
recorded works, plus a few tunes never before released --
62 tracks in all. The record company allowed Fogelberg to
digitally re-master every cut, so even those songs that
had been previously released on CD now sound much
improved.
The 72-page booklet that accompanies "Portrait"
is also amazing. Between the extensive biography and
Fogelberg's personal notes about each song, we learn that
he was heavily influenced by the Beatles; that his mother
was born in Scotland; that he quit college to pursue a
music career; plus a zillion other personal tidbits.
"The point was actually to get a lot of questions
answered," Fogelberg says. One thing not revealed:
Fogelberg's height. (He's 5 feet 11 inches tall.)
Like his new album, Fogelberg's current tour spotlights
material from throughout his lengthy career. He spent
several months rehearsing before hitting the road.
"You don't just pick up a guitar and play these
songs. It takes some conditioning, and you really have to
work 'em to death so that they're just automatic."
Fogelberg plays virtually the same songs every night,
which means audience requests are out. "Just because
you wrote a song doesn't mean you remember it, especially
something from like 25 years ago. I just don't know those
songs anymore, so I do a pretty standard show."
Psychologists will tell you that in middle adulthood,
most folks' life-focus becomes less career-oriented.
Fogelberg, 46 next month, has begun to feel that change.
"I've been at this (music) a long time, and I love
it, but part of me just says, 'Gosh, there's so many
other things that I'd love to take the time to do.'
"
Fogelberg still has musical goals, such as performing
live with a symphony orchestra, but he's equally drawn to
quests like sailing around the globe. "I've had a
great blessing to have attained the freedom to pretty
much explore the fantasies that I've always had, as far
as adventuring and seeing the world. That's really what
I'm looking at down the road.
"I think in order to keep young and vital, you've
got to find
other dreams, you know?"
Albuquerque Journal, copyright 1997
Another Sante Fe Review ---
I saw the concert in Santa Fe with two friends. One was
reluctant to take another chance. She and I had seen him
two years ago and were both disappointed. At that time he
seemed distant from the audience, tense and generally
didn't appear to be enjoying himself. But, I enticed her
with the trip to Santa Fe.
This was the third time I've seen Dan in concert and the best. He'd just come off a few day R & R and appeared relaxed. Even though his chatting with the audience was for the most part rehearse, it nevertheless pleased the crowd. His playing was in top form, as was his voice. The Paolo Solari amphitheatre was the perfect setting for his acoustic show. The sun was setting as he started his set and before long the high desert sky was filled with stars.
I would recommend that if someone gets the chance to
see Dan in this small outdoor venue in Santa Fe, do it.
We drove 11 hours and would drive it again tomorrow -
although I wont' have to. He's coming to my hometown in
October. And, I'm going again - his show was THAT good.
Leigh
DENVER Rocky Mountain News
Copyright 1997
Friday, July 25, 1997
ENTERTAINMENT / WEEKEND / SPOTLIGHT
A FICKLE FINGER OF FATE AFTER NEARLY LOSING A PINKIE, DAN
FOGELBERG PLAYS AGAIN
Megan Seacord Special to the News
Last summer Dan Fogelberg wondered if he would ever be able to play the guitar again. A sailing mishap off the coast of Maine nearly severed the little finger on his left hand. All his doctor would say was "wait and see."
For the first time in his life and for nearly eight months, Fogelberg, 47, couldn't touch a guitar. The situation caused a cloud of depression to settle over the Illinois-bred musician.
"You don't miss your water until the well runs dry," Fogelberg philosophized recently from Florida. "I was really down about not being able to play but I'll tell you, the amazing thing is that now that I can play again I feel reborn about performing."
For 25 years, Fogelberg has written songs that have become American pop classics. Longer has probably been played at as many nuptials as Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring. His radio hits churned out through the '70s and into the early '80s with Leader of the Band, Part of the Plan, Same Old Lang Syne and The Power of Gold, all selected from the massive, 22-CD Fogelberg discography.
Portrait: The Music of Dan Fogelberg, a new retrospective (including five previously unreleased songs), recently was released on Epic / Legacy. The set breaks the CDs into four CDs and categories: Hits, Ballads, Rock & Roll, and Tales & Travel. Also included in the package is a CD-sized, 70-page biography by Paul Zollo, which chronicles Fogelberg's life from the age of 4. "It was Sony's idea to re-create a retrospective of the works but it was my idea to put them into categories," Fogelberg said. "People tend to create atmosphere by playing one type of song at a time. It's much easier to listen to this way. I had started to put the ballads and orchestral work together and that led the way for everything else."
While the original songs weren't re-recorded, they were re-mastered. Fogelberg was pleased with the results, noting that sometimes it's best to take the approach, "if it ain't broke don't fix it."
"We took care to re-master the work on Portrait to be really bright, loud and clear," he said. "I never got to do this with the vinyl medium. We simply didn't have the technology for it back then. The same goes for a lot of the earlier CDs, so this is the first time for most of this stuff to sound the way I really wanted it to."
This should appeal to the legions of Colorado fans who continue to flock to hear Fogelberg each time he plays in the area. A longtime Colorado resident, first in Estes Park during the '70s and currently on his 600-acre ranch in the Four Corners area, Fogelberg enthusiastically continues to profess his love affair with the state and its ability to act as his artistic muse.
While his Red Rocks show tonight will showcase his vocal and instrumental solo abilities, Fogelberg has his sights set on a polar opposite for future presentation.
"I'm certainly thankful for the way things turned out but now I really would like to do a symphonic show, especially at Red Rocks, not unlike the way the Moody Blues did," he said.
"I have been approached by several symphonies for this orchestral project and I love the idea of working with 50 people. It's a dangerous event since so much can go wrong with that many people in a project."
After 25 years of playing audiences ranging in size from coffeehouses to arenas, Fogelberg admits to getting tired of performing certain songs.
"I'm not doing Longer anymore because I'm tired of it and it's hard to sing," he said. "Over the years I fall in and out of love with my songs all the time. It's great that Longer became a standard and that's something every songwriter hopes for a signature song. As a songwriter you would prefer that you find balance with doing what I need to do onstage to stay self-interested and balance what the audience wants to hear."
Fogelberg has also been expanding his repertoire of talent to include literary writing. He has penned an essay for the popular Chicken Soup series of book. His contribution will be in Chicken Soup for the Ocean Lover. He's also written a forward for photographer Robert Shaw's soon-to-be-published book.
Tonight's concert is the first national tour Fogelberg has performed in as a solo acoustic artist since 1988.
"There was a spot date here and there over the years but this is a big tour," he said. "It's my 25th anniversary, the boxed set has been released and I can play again. Plus, I'm really enjoying performing again. Maybe it's the sense of accomplishment the boxed
set gives me. You know, that I've lasted this long to
deserve it and I feel really honored and blessed by that
and (on this tour) I think I'm giving more than ever back
to the audience."
Another Denver Review
Denver Post
Copyright 1997
Friday, July 25, 1997
Weekend
Portrait of a Songwriter Enduring Fogelberg heads his own
destiny
G. Brown Denver Post Special Writer
He went from being a folksinger from the Midwest to an international star. But Dan Fogelberg ended up based in Colorado, an appropriate destination for "a quiet man of music," to adapt one of his best-known lyrics.
"It's a pretty calm existence here. I'm not a very social person," the notoriously private singer/songwriter said recently from his ranch on the Western Slope. "I'm an avid skier during the winter, and I prowl around the state. Summertime, there's so much to do. I enjoy the solitude of hiking and mountain biking. I've got a lot of free time - I'm single again.
"The mountains have always been a very healing place for me. You go through a lot of changes in life, but these mountains will always be here."
In the course of his impressive career, Fogelberg has sold more than 15 million albums and fascinated a loyal audience. His signature sound - a combination of light harmonized folk-rock, highly dramatic orchestration and introspective lyrics laden with sensitivity - has endured beyond all critical predictions.
"Portrait: The Music of Dan Fogelberg" is a new four-CD boxed set featuring 62 songs from 1972 to 1997. The set is divided into four categories: "Hits," "Ballads," "Rock & Roll" and "Tales & Travels." "The idea isn't unprecedented - Jimmy Buffett split things up on his boxed set, and I thought that was great," Fogelberg explained.
"All through my career, I've had to mix things up. "OK, here's a ballad, now here's a rocker right next to it.' You heard "Longer' with "Face the Fire' behind it. When you make albums, you have to have variety and keep the pace moving.
"I view myself as having a lot of different facets as a writer and a player. In this instance, I wanted to put things into compartments. If you like my romantic, acoustic stuff, here it is all together. If you're mowing the lawn or going skiing, here are all the rockers. If it's more of a pensive mood, "Tales & Travels' will take you places."
The "Hits" disc presents the singles that made Fogelberg famous, from "Part of the Plan" and "The Power of Gold" to the ultra-sentimental "Hard to Say," "Same Old Lang Syne," "Longer" and "Leader of the Band." It also includes "Don't Lose Heart," which was produced for the boxed set by Peter Asher. The "Ballads" disc features Fogelberg's thoughtful, mellow musical approach and distinctive high tenor voice. According to Fogelberg, "You're either going to love that side or it's going to be the biggest yawn-fest of all time!" "Nether Lands" and the symphonic excursion "Scarecrow's Dream" are from the album "Nether Lands," which Fogelberg wrote when he moved to Colorado circa 1976.
"I grew up with that album," he said. "When I made "Nether Lands,' I didn't feel like I was imitating anyone, paying tribute to my influences like the Beatles and Buffalo Springfield. Suddenly it felt like, "This is my music, this is what I'm about.'
"When you discover your own voice, it's so incredibly exciting that you never want to let go. Ever since then, it's been a constant unfolding of what I'm capable of. For better or worse, sometimes you go down paths that aren't as good as others. But it's important to be receptive. Once that fire is set in you, I don't know that you can ever extinguish it."
The "Rock & Roll" disc is composed of rockers like "As the Raven Flies" (featuring Joe Walsh on slide guitar) and "The Innocent Age" (showcasing the harmony singing of Richie Furay).
"Tales & Travels," the final disc of the set, is constituted of story songs set in specific geographical settings, like the pleasant "Illinois." It also presents Fogelberg's wide stylistic stretches, from traditional bluegrass and acoustic country explorations ("Go Down Easy" and "Sutter's Mill" from 1985's "High Country Snows") to world music (the title track from 1993's "River of Souls").
The digitally remastered tracks sound better than ever. "That's the biggest part of this project for me. I can finally not be frustrated by my own recordings," Fogelberg said. "There were a lot of problems with my music going to vinyl. Those LPs could only take 20 minutes a side, and my records were longer than that. So we had to knock off top end, bottom end and level in a lot of instances. You're finally going to hear this stuff the way it sounded in the studio."
The haunting "Mountains of the Sea" is a new song that especially thrills Fogelberg. He produced it himself at his Colorado ranch, playing all the instruments.
"It's the first track that I can honestly say I did everything from start to finish, and I feel real good about that," he said. "I've been so blessed and honored to work with and learn from great minds and musicians. People don't understand - basically, it was a bunch of kids having fun. We should have been in school, we felt so guilty about it - "You call this working?' It's like that Dire Straits song, "Money for nothing and your chicks for free.'
"It's always been this wonderfully glorious, exciting, free process to the point now where I'm capable of engineering and mixing good recordings myself."
Fogelberg will perform at Red Rocks Amphitheatre tonight. He's feeling reinvigorated toward playing live after he had to cancel a tour last summer.
"I had a bad finger injury on my boat up in Maine. I'm lucky I didn't lose the finger. There was nerve damage; I don't know if it will ever be 100 percent. You don't miss the water until the well runs dry.
"I sat around for six months up here at the ranch not knowing if I'd ever play again. It was scary stuff.
"One day I sat around the fire and put my fingers on the guitar and it didn't hurt. It's like a rebirth. I'm champing at the bit to perform again. I'm doing the whole country solo, a 25th anniversary tour.
"I prefer rock 'n' roll with the boys - it's more
fun for me. But the fans seem to like my acoustic side
best, so I'm doing that."
Another Denver Review
2:30 p.m. - The sky turns dark over Red Rocks
Amphitheater and a raging thunderstorm engulfs the
foothills of the Rocky Mountains outside of Denver,
Colorado. From the deck of my house in Wisp Creek, 30
miles southeast, I looked down towards Red Rocks and
wondered "Would the show Denver has been waiting for
almost 3 years be canceled"? Being that Dan last
played Red Rocks on September 10, 1994, during the River
of Souls tour, I knew that only a snowstorm could stop
him from doing a show in his adopted home state.
3:45 p.m. - I arrived at Red Rocks just as the rain stopped and the sun broke through the late afternoon sky. While waiting on line to enter as a general admission ticketholder, I met people who had traveled all day from Nebraska and Wyoming to see the show.
4:00 p.m. - The gates opened and the rush for good seats began. I scored 6th row, center stage, and knew that although Dan wouldn't be on for another 5 hours, it would be worth waiting for. After all, it had been 3 years for Red Rocks, and almost two years for me. I last saw him in Peoria, Illinois, in October of `95, on the No Resemblance Whatsoever tour. As we waited, everyone spoke of their favorite Dan concert. One gentleman seated a few rows behind me was wearing a long sleeve baseball tour shirt from the 1982 Innocent Age tour!!!! He said the shirt was only worn on very special occasions and this was one of them. Another popular T-shirt seen throughout the crowd was from the 1991 Wild Places tour.
6:00 p.m. - As the crowd began to fill the amphitheater in earnest, many were now buying the new tour merchandise. Great looking "Portrait" tour shirts and baseball caps were being modeled. Dan's sound technicians (one later identified by Dan as Steve McDonald) had just completed tuning his guitars and piano. The famous Martin D-45 was placed in a guitar stand next to the old wooden chair which stood at center stage on several Native American design wool blankets. Only 3 hours to go!!!
8:00 p.m. - Gretchen Peters, a singer/songwriter, originally from Boulder, Colorado, and now living in Nashville strolled out on stage. She picked up a black Takmine guitar and offered the crowd a pleasant set of mellow music. "Independence Day" and a song about "Main Street" (No, not the same one as Bob Seger) were well presented. The crowd joined in on her finale, "Hey Elvis", which she remarked would be sung by Bryan Adams on an MTV Unplugged Special in September.
8:30 p.m. - As Gretchen Peters left the stage, the house lights came up and the familiar sound of Native American flute music was piped through the sound system. Everyone knew this theme meant the impending arrival of Colorado's favorite son.
9:00 p.m. - The house lights were shut off and over the sound system came "Ladies and Gentleman, please welcome Dan Fogelberg". The crowd stood cheering and out strolled Dan, smiling and looking resplendent in blue jeans, a white branded shirt, colorful sport jacket and yes, sandals!!!! Dan picked up the 12 string and broke right into "Nexus". Upon completion he stated "Hey, it's great to be back at Red Rocks". The crowd approved. A great version of "Crow" was next. I had not heard him perform this song in concert since 1982 and I was now in a state of euphoria. Beautiful versions of "Hard to Say" and "Make Love Stay" followed. It was then at this point that Dan went to the baby grand piano at stage right. Reaching way back, he did "To The Morning". Then, returning to the guitar, the unreleased "Nature of the Game" was performed. From here on in, Dan wove a musical presentation through his catalog of music. He continually spoke between songs, making everyone feel as if he was having a personal conversation with them. He joked about the 60's when playing "If I Were a Carpenter" and a lovely version of The Beatles "I Need You". When some didn't respond to the mentioning of the Beatles, he humored them by saying "You know, the group that made two films, one black and white and one colored". He was serious as he related how he "cut the living daylights out of his left pinky" during a sailing accident last fall and thanked the crowd for hanging in there after last year's tour cancellation. A beautiful version of "The Reach" was then played. He then got back into his joking ways by stating that the English translation of the next song "Tados Santos" is "Ya, Ya, Sure"!!!! (An often used line from the movie "Fargo") Several soft, non-vocal guitar melodies followed before Dan went back to the piano for "Fire and Ice" and "Don't Lose Heart". Although an earlier review on the web page indicated Dan used some profanity during a show in Michigan, he clearly used this term in a jokingly manner, rather than in a threatening or mean-spirited way, when referring to a book by Thomas Moore, which was his inspiration to write "Fire and Ice". He remarked that Moore, who penned a book on the existence of the soul, was either a brilliant genius or an utter bullshit artist, or possibly a combination of both. Everyone in the crowd delighted in laughter. Dan then did "Morning Sky" which had everyone on their feet dancing. After the crowd sat down, the highlight of the evening came as Dan played "Leader of the Band". During the line "I'm in Colorado, when I'm not in some hotel", the crowd was so LOUD it sounded like another thunderstorm was brewing overhead. "Part of the Plan" followed and then Dan bid everyone goodnight. However, it was only a few minutes after that and Dan returned to the piano for "Same Old Auld Syne". After this song, Dan stood at center stage and reached out towards the crowd with his arms extended saying "God Bless You - see you next time around"!!!! Having read on previous reviews that Dan was only doing one encore, I was getting ready to leave when a roar of the crowd indicated Dan was back on stage. There he was with the Martin D-45 strapped on and ready for another song. An extended version of "There's a Place in the World for a Gambler", analogous to that from "Greeting from the West" was performed. Although Dan invited everyone to sing along, no invitation was really necessary. The crowd sang every line with Dan and waved their arms while swaying from side to side. Red Rocks was bathed in glory!!!!! It was hard to leave knowing that after this show the weekend would be all downhill. However, for me it's only 8 days until I make the trek to Los Angeles for the show at the Greek Theater!!!!
SALT LAKE CITY
Deseret News
Copyright (c) 1997 Deseret News Publishing Co.
Friday, July 25, 1997
Last year's cut hand helps Fogelberg enjoy this year's
tour
By Scott Iwasaki
Deseret News staff writer
Last year singer/songwriter Dan Fogelberg cut his hand. It was a bad cut. "I couldn't play for six weeks," Fogelberg said during a phone call from his home in Colorado. "In fact, there was a time when I didn't think I would ever play again."
But the hand healed and Fogelberg will bring a solo acoustic show to The Canyons (formerly Wolf Mountain), Saturday, July 26. The show starts with Sara Hickman at 7:30 p.m.
Fogelberg said cutting his hand was a good thing. "I think that's why I'm enjoying this year's tour so much," Fogelberg confided. "I mean after the accident, I wasn't able to play for the first time since I was 11. I do think I would have been able to adjust, but I'm extremely grateful I've got my playing about 90 percent of what it used to be."
Fogelberg began walking the road to his musical career when he was a child. Having both parents who were musicians helped, although at the time, the youngster didn't think so.
"My brothers and I were forced into piano lessons," Fogelberg said with a laugh. "I didn't like it at all. But when I decided to start playing music seriously when I was about 13, I looked back and appreciated the training. I had all the tools I needed."
James Taylor, the Buffalo Springfield and the Beatles were some of Fogelberg's major influences. "I originally studied to be an artist at the University of Illinois," Fogelberg said. "But after I saw 'A Hard Day's Night,' with all the girls screaming in the movie theater, I thought to myself, 'Now, this would be a good job.' "
Throughout the '70s Fogelberg recorded a string of multi-platinum albums and sat in sessions with Jackson Browne, Buffy Saint-Marie and Joe Walsh.
"I had a clear vision of where I wanted to go with my music," said Fogelberg, who is celebrating his 25th anniversary as a professional musician. "Without sounding like an egomaniac, I think one of the reasons why I've survived the business so long is I take pride in the quality of my music and lyrics.
"Sure, part of survival is luck, but you also need to be true to yourself," Fogelberg explained. "Also, the record company I've been with all these years (Sony) has never leaned on me to make a record that wasn't me."
Instead, Fogelberg has made his own music through jazz, rock and bluegrass.
"When I finally settle down, I want to eventually do a classical album," Fogelberg said. "But I don't want it to be a classical album by a pop singer. If I'm going to do a classical album, I'd like to compete with the classical composers like Tchaikovsky."
Speaking of Tchaikovsky, Fogelberg said the hit "Same Old Lang Syne" was inspired by the composer.
"That song actually started out as a joke," Fogelberg said. "I played the '1812 Overture' a few times on my piano and put some lyrics
to it. I was going to play it for the guys during the recording sessions. But as I worked with it, the song evolved into something very poignant and striking. It's actually one of my favorite songs I've ever written."
The song, however, didn't help Fogelberg's reputation of being a sad balladeer.
"I developed that title in the '70s," the music man said. "But it's not entirely accurate. I've done all sides of the coin. Yes, sadness is part of all our lives, but I try to write songs that have some glimmer of hope. And my concerts try to recognize that.
"This year is an acoustic tour," Fogelberg
said. "But I'll probably get sick of that and go on
the road with a rock band next year I love doing both,
actually. And that keeps it exciting for the fans as
well."
Another albeit clueless Salt Lake City review...
The author needs some help with the titles of the
songs. Hey let's all play name that tune!
Deseret News
Copyright (c) 1997 Deseret News Publishing Co.
Monday, July 28, 1997
Fogelberg comes through for his fans
By Larry D. Curtis
Deseret News staff writer
DAN FOGELBERG, The Canyons, Saturday, July 26.
All Dan Fogelberg needs is a microphone and guitar.
It helps to have the beautiful setting of The Canyons (formerly Wolf Mountain) and a few thousand dedicated fans, but all that really mattered was the man and his music.
Saturday night Fogelberg played the Park City outdoor theater again and proved that of all the performers that have used the venue, he is perhaps the best at the open-air site. Both lyrics and melody mix well in the close-to-earth setting.
In today's music world of flash and posturing, Fogelberg is the foil of what pop has become. Wearing a white oxford shirt and a pair of Levi's, the aging '70s icon walked calmly on stage and took a chair under the lone spotlight.
The crowd was almost exclusively an older audience, showing that the veteran's fans still love the man and his songs. Without a word he launched into "Calypso," testing the durability of his 12-string and getting the feel of his on-stage sound.
Despite reports that age is catching up with his voice, he was clear and strong and still carried the emotion that elevates him above the flock of folk singers today. His vocals have definitely improved since his previous performance in Utah, which included a large number of other musicians.
"It is nice to be at Canyons or Wolf Mountain or ParkWest or whatever," he joked. "What is it with this place? Do you have a name of the week contest or what?" Between numbers, he took time to take jabs at Utah liquor laws. "This is like sitting in a giant airplane. All you can do is order mini-bottles."
Ironically, listening to Fogelberg was not unlike being trapped in a giant elevator with the standard music turned up a bit.
He kicked through "Lucky at Love" and jumped to his piano for a tender rendition of "Come on Morning." His keyboards were well played, but the current tour coincides with the release of the Fogelberg boxed set called "Portrait," marking his 25 years of musicmaking.
"Seems like 50 (years)" he joked. After a few numbers he made the jump back to guitar for a fittingly mellow performance of "How Do You Make Love Stay." Then he made one of the only mistakes of the night, trying his hand at some solo-like blues improvisation. He wasn't bad, but he wasn't good enough to spend the time, either.
Using the twinkly sounds of his Nashville high strung — which is a 12-string with the lower strings removed — he finessed his way through Tim Hardon's "Would You Be My Baby."
After another piano stint, he took his listeners into some uncharted waters, performing a number of unrecorded songs including "Fire and Ice."
At the end of the show, the vocalist took a rest and the musician worked some overtime. Fogelberg performed two guitar pieces, "Todo Santo," with its four false endings, and the especially entertaining "Santa Fe."
In closing, he showcased his mega-hits such as "Run for the Roses" and "Leader of the Band."
The audience then began to drift toward the parking
lot, pleased because Fogelberg did as they expected: The
man and his guitar delivered.
Another Red Rocks review
I just wanted to pass on some thoughts on the Red Rocks
show. I got there late due to a sick child and missed the
first part of Dan's performance. I think that the hour by
hour review provided by someone here accurately portrays
the sentinment of the evening. Dan did say that Red Rocks
is his favorite venue on the tour. I have seen Dan
perform probably 20 times since 1974 and have had the
pleasure to meet him just walking the streets of Santa Fe
in 1989 and sat next to him in a restaurant in Denver
last year and have had a chance to see what a truly
personable guy he is first hand. In concert, he has
always been there and focused on the music, but at times
it seemed as if he was really working at being into it,
probably due to the general pressures of touring. This
time, I sensed a level of appreciation for the fans and
what the whole thing really means to the people that have
followed him through the years. It has been great reading
other people's reviews from across the country. It made
the anticipation of this show that much greater.
I just want to add that Dan seemed more relaxed than ever on this tour. He is truly a personable, funny guy but that has not come off in some concerts in the past, but he was very funny and talked a great deal. His media exposure associated with this tour has also made him seem more accessible than ever for us, the common concert going fan. The guitar instrumentals in the middle of the show were the highlight for me. The boy can play!! Apologies to the rest of you folks, but Dan did say that playing Red Rocks was the highlight of the tour for him. As it was for all of us who were there.
I was wondering if anyone knows if Dan will do Leno?
LIVERMORE
Saw Dan at Wente Winery. Perfect setting for his
acoustical tour. Great show! As usual, he sang our
favorites. Added a couple of new songs. Didn't want him
to stop singing! The time always seems to go too fast. It
seems as though he hurried off at the end, only came out
and sang one additional song. He usually does at least
two! I want to thank him for all 25 years of his
performing, as I have been a fan for just about that
length of time. Keep singing and writing Dan!
Mona Smith
Another Livermore review: I attended the Fogelberg
concert at Livermore, CA (Wente Bros. Theater). I didn't
have a ticket but was lucky enough to pick one up when a
couple in a nearby car had two extras. It is the first
time I have ever seen him before live. Overall, I enjoyed
it. He performed 16 songs, 6 of which were among his
Hits, and 3 new ones ("If I Were A Carpenter,"
"The Nature of the Game," and "I Need
You"). The remaining 6 were from older albums
(Innocent Age and down). He opened with
"Nexus," and his rendition of it was
electrifying, especially when he got to the chorus. Then
"Crow," and "Hard to Say" (he
deadpanned, "This is a little diddie I wrote when my
first marriage was disintegrating"). He followed
with "The Last Nail" and "To the
Morning" ("This dates back to the Messozoac
Era"). Then "Beggar's Game," "Make
Love Stay," and the three new ones. After that he
sung a beautiful rendition of "The Reach." He
mentioned Jacques Costeau beforehand. This was my
favorite performance of the night. Finally, "Run for
the Roses," "Morning Sky," "Leader of
the Band," and "Part of the Plan." He did
"Same Old Lang Syne" for the encore. Dan
appeared a little tired at times; I think "The
Nature of the Game" really showed how he felt.
Nevertheless, it was a dream come true to see him live
and certain parts of the concert were very impressive. He
explained that part of the reason he was doing solo was
to give us a chance to hear it before it gets laid down
with all the added music and vocals. It was interesting
to compare afterwards.
Giorgeas
SARATOGA
Dan Fogelberg played two nights-30 & 31 July- at the
exquisite 'Mountain Winery' site (formerly Paul Mason
Winery) in the mountains above Saratoga, California-
overlooking the entire Santa Clara Valley (aka
"Silicon Valley") and San Jose. My wife Cheryl
& I had the good fortune to be at Thurday's 31 July
performance and I can't imagine the previous nights'
performance possibly being better. Two nights because
this venue is exquisitely intimate; approximately 3,000
maximum seats and Dan has quite a draw from the San
Francisco & San Jose areas.
The program was very much the same as the Red Rocks, CO concert from what I've read of that review- songs played and including some of the commentary! However, as great as Red Rocks is it has NOthing on the Mountain Winery for a solo acoustic performance; perhaps one of THE best places to see a solo acoustic artist. The venue is perfect for such a performance and Dan's voice was clear, clean & powerful. From our slightly elevated seats just to the side, lyrics, guitar & piano were in very nice balance and clearity. The spiro-lights (mentioned from other appearances) could defintely go but the back-drop to the small stage at the Mtn Winery, with its hand-carved numbers of '1852' on the facade of the stone structure originally built by Paul Mason in that year and encased with flowing ivy, made up for it. Dan Fogelberg is almost as enduring and has indeed stood the test of time. The crowd seemed mostly late 40's to even late 50's with a smattering of 'younger folk' who would've been too little -or not even born!- when Dan first hit the charts. In attendance was Eddie DeBartalo, owner of the San Francisco 49er's, along with some big football types, so he must be a fan.
Dan was relaxed and would make small-talk while playing some tasty stuff on the guitar- yeah, he wore blue jeans, a colorful shirt and YES, sandals. He started out thanking everyone for supporting his music over the last 25 years then saying: " Ahh, the Mountain Winery, what a place to play. Well, I'm here to 'Wine' for you"...."Here's a song from when my first marriage was disintegrating..." Audience had a good laugh at that one as I'm sure many could relate.
The encore piece, on piano, was 'Same Old Lang Syne' and he did some nice sustained pauses with a slight 'jazzy' feel, bending the notes hear and there. Being a guitar player who spent time learning various Fogelberg tunes in the 70's I can say his muscianship is outstanding and he definitely still has it!! One could not tell he had injured his finger and I still wish I could pick half as well. Very nice to see, hear & experience.
Darrall
Dalberg
Santa Clara, California
LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas Review-Journal's Entertainment
Guide-Neon
Another Las Vegas review
Las Vegas - Hard Rock Hotel - The Joint. Capacity 1,200
(Sold out)
I have been a fan of Dan Fogelberg since 1974, when a friend of mine who was in college, turned me onto the Sovenirs album. I have been a devoted listener ever since. My first Fogelberg concert was in 1977 and my favorite part of the show was when Dan was all alone on stage by himself, with just his acoustic guitar and piano and played for the crowd.
So when I heard he was coming to Las Vegas to play at the Hard Rock, I knew before it was announced that he had to be playing solo! What a treat it would be! I purchased my tickets almost 3 months prior to the show and ended up in the second row, dead center stage, less than 10 feet away from him. It was like having Dan sitting on the couch in my living room, playing some of my all time favorite songs ( which are not necessarily the "hits").
His show at the Hard Rock was fantastic and was enthusiastically accepted by the 1,200 fans in attendance. The Joint at the Hard Rock is a very intimate setting. Sort of like having Dan play at your high school auditorium, but much more upscale. The acoustics were exceptional.
What always impresses me about Dan Fogelberg whenever I hear him play in concert or on a CD is the amount of heart and soul he puts into every song. He is a true virtuoso on acoustic guitar and piano and his voice is stronger than ever. I was amazed at his guitar playing ability and watched how he played intensely. He played the same set list that he has played throughout the tour. What a joy it was to hear such gems as To the Morning, Nexus, Morning Sky, The Reach and Beggar's Game live in concert. The two cover tunes he played (If I Were a Carpenter and I Need You) were equally appealing. He played one encore, Same Old Lang Syne. Every song was welcomed with tremendous applause and cheers.
It was truly a night to remember and I look forward to his next tour!
Signed,
Mark
Las Vegas
Another Las Vegas review
I was also at the Surise show on July 12. Since Dan did
not play the entire set played earlier on the tour I
decided to fly 3,000 miles, using frequest flier miles
and pay for my hotel room with my gambling winnings, for
another chance to see the solo acoustic tour. The Joint
in Las Vegas as a very small, intimate setting for a
concert. While we were packed in small metal foldong
chairs I was wondering if it was going to be worth it.
Once Dan came on stage and played "Nexus" and I
heard the superior acoustics I knew I was in for an
incredible evening. On this night Dan elected not to play
"Crow", "Fire & Ice" and
"Don't Lose Heart." Dan was visibly upset with
the Piano and stated that there was a buzz just as he
broke into "To the Morning" and I believe that
this may have lead to his decision to skip the two piano
tunes. However, he did play the entire instrumental
section which included "Santa Fe" and
"Todos Santos". Overall the night was a huge
success and Dan was great as usual. I only wish he had
played "Fire & Ice" and Don't Lose
Heart." The superior sound made up for the the songs
not played. Overall a great performance.
Dale Gunter
Another Las Vegas review
Review of Los Angeles (Greek Theater) Show
August 3, 1997
Some places are just synonymous with the musical career of Dan Fogelberg. Peroria, Illinois; Red Rocks, Colorado; and Los Angeles, California. Legend has it that in the early 70's Dan traveled west from Illinois, stopping in Colorado for a few weeks, and then putting down roots for a couple of years in the Los Angeles area with his manager, Irving Azoff. Hard core Dan Fans have certainly heard of Irving. Besides Dan, he's managed the careers of some other somewhat popular 70's bands. The Eagles. REO Speedwagon.
While in the Los Angeles area on this acoustic tour, Dan's choice of venue, as it has always been for this locale, is the Greek Theater. The Greek is a beautiful outdoor theater located at Griffith Park in the hills of north Los Angeles. Griffith Park also has an observatory where a scene from "Rebel Without a Cause" was filmed.
Upon arriving in Los Angeles from Colorado, I was met with the genesis of a Southern California heatwave which sent temperatures soaring into the high 90's. Dan's show on Sunday night was just as hot!!!! I arrived at the Greek to find my mail order seats were excellent. I had feared a cataclysm months earlier when upon receiving my tickets the letter enclosed had informed me that my requested price range was sold out and I was being given lower price seats. However, I was only two rows back in the second section and just to the left of the sound/light monitor board. Prior to the show, a gentleman with long dark hair walked directly in front of me. I believe it was Timothy B. Schmidt. At the Greek you have a pretty good chance of seeing someone in the "biz". I remember at Dan's 1992 Greek Theater show, Gary Cole (Nightcaller; Brady Bunch movie) was a few rows in front of me. On Friday (August 1st), I had driven to 8900 Wilshire Boulevard (office of HK Management), but the building is a secured facility and no one would answer the door. I was hoping to get a glimpse of the inner workings of a professional music management agency and maybe see another "star".
The opening act was Sara Hickman. A singer/songwriter from Austin, Texas. I wished it would have been Gretchen Peters (opened the Red Rocks show). Although Sara was a decent guitar player, her songs left much to be desired. Other than her second song, a nice ballad about a homeless woman named "Joy", she was trying to impress the audience through songs about her sex life and ex-boyfriend. Hey Sara, I'm a baby boomer, not a generation X-er. I really don't need to hear about sex with a train, or was it they pulled a train. Either way, her brief four song set lacked what Gretchen Peters put into hers. Great emotion and heartfelt music (just like Dan).
After Sara left the stage, the soulful Native American flute music surrounded the theater through the sound system. Then the lights faded and Dan walked out on stage. And what a great stage set-up it was. Unlike Red Rocks, without taking away it's natural beauty, the extra equipment is left on the side of the stage giving a cluttered effect. However, at the Greek, all extra equipment is removed from view and the stage had a living room atmosphere. The visual screen had a much better effect as the images projected were clearer and sharper than at Red Rocks.
Dan stayed with the basic set list he has been using. "Nexus" was the opener, although "Crow", the usual second song, was left out. "Hard to Say" and "The Last Nail" followed. Dan then went to the piano for "To The Morning" and "Beggar's Banquet". He ad-libed with the crowd and at one point when everyone was calling out a different song title, Dan held up a piece of paper and stated: "This is what's called a set list. It's the songs I have rehearsed"!!!!
"The Reach" sounded wonderful and was dedicated to the late Jacques Consteau, who just recently passed away. Dan said that this song was one of his favorites and indicated that right after the tour he was heading to Maine to go sailing. Please Dan, this year be careful!!!! We want to see you back on the road real soon. Maybe a few encore shows (Boulder, Colorado would be real nice). Dan also performed the instrumental part of the show (Tados Santos, Santa Fe and the song from Black Orepheus). "I Need You" and "If I Were a Carpenter" on the Nashville high-strung guitar added to the astounding acoustics of the Greek sound system.
During "Morning Sky", the visual screen portrayed a striking pale blue background with a white cloud in the middle. Absolutely outrageous!!! And on "Leader of the Band", the outline of a window frame was projected. The show had the usual ending with "Part of the Plan" and the one encore "Same Old Auld Syne". Sorry Greek Theater fans, Los Angeles is not Red Rocks. We had a second encore in Colorado!! However, even without Dan coming back out, the show was definitely the highlight of my trip to LaLa land. Now, back home to Wisp Creek to wait out the next released tour schedule dates . . . . hurry up Dan!!!!
Another Las Vegas review
I was very happy that DF decided to once again play
Vegas(he was here on the "River of Souls
Tour")being that I don't think Vegas is really his
kind of place.
For the first time in my life I had front row seats to a concert! Dead center no less. Unfortunately, "The Joint" setup was less than satisfactory for those in the front row. We actually had obstructed seats because the front row was buttressed up against the stage. Monitors on the stage prevented us from seeing all of DF. Shame on you "Joint."
Nonetheless it was great being so close. This was my fifth DF concert. I first saw him on the IA tour. He was in a great mood once he hit the stage about 25 minutes late. He simply walked out, bowed, and picked up his guild 12 string and launched into Nexus. The concert lasted about 1:50 minutes. It was great to hear DF completely on his own. He played much of what is expected(Leader, Run For, Same Old, ...)but also pulled out great album cuts such as To the Morning, Beggars Game, and even The Last Nail. He also challenged the audience with cover songs(If I Were a Carpenter and I Need You as well as new songs(Nature of the Game and the instrumental Santa Fe).
It is hard to find fault in such a gifted musician. He has an incredible body of work to be proud of. The concert certainly was what most expected. However, my one criticism of DF live would be would be his occasionally proclivity to sing lazy - the slurring of words together(a la Elton John). I think sometimes he does this because of his boredom associated with touring. Or perhaps it is something less negative. Maybe this is just the style of live singing that he has developed over the years. With that said, I certainly will not miss a show of his if he were to return anywhere in or near Vegas. His box set is superb. The new/unreleased songs are worth the price of the collection in and of themselves.
"Somewhere in Pennsylvania"(actually Vegas)
LOS ANGELES
A fabulous night. This was my 9th Dan concert & I was
fortunate enough to grab a 5th row, dead center seat
right in front of Mr. Fogelberg! And to my right was
another nice & friendly avid Dan fan, who added to
the joy of the evening.
Beyond the great songs as usual was seeing his masterful musicianship. He played the hell out of the various acoustic guitars & the piano. In person, Dan is more soulful & "heavy" than his records. Great!
All in all, great show, but always too short. A live CD & video from this tour would be welcome.
Art M.
Another Los Angeles review
The first time I saw Dan Fogelberg, he felt lost at the
Inglewood Forum in the Los Angeles area. This was the
Windows and Walls tour during 1982.
The Greek Theatre, August 3, 1997 marks the eighth time I've witnessed and enjoyed an incredible Fogelberg show. I am partial to the solo-acoustic format.
The very reason that Dan will play his core songs, et.al. Leader of the Band, Same Old Lang Syne, Run for the Roses and Part of the Plan, his solo-acoustic format will deliver some reworked more obscure pieces.
As was the case at the Greek. Dan noted that the crickets had joined in and that they were brought along for the "show biz" effect by the eighteen wheeler. Sorry for the two crickets that didn't make it.
Fogelberg opened with Nexus from the Innocent Age, his most accessable and identifiable Album/CD. Along with Hard to Say, Leader, Lang Syne and Roses this again was the core of his show.
Back into two of his earlier releases Next Time and To The Morning were memorable surprises. Beggars Game, from Phoenix stood on its own.
A haunting moment was Dan's dedication of The Reach to an incredible showman, scientist, environmentalist Jacques Cousteau.
Thomas Moore's writings were the subject of the new and unrecorded Fire and Ice. Recognizable was Song For A Carpenter by Tim Hardin. Dan, dont loose heart if we don't hear Don't Loose Heart on the FM. That just means that AOR stations will not kill it by overplaying the song.
Dan showcased his mastery of the guitar as an instrument during Black Orpheus, Santa Fe and Todos Santos.
The Greek tonight displayed so much more of an intimate setting. Dan's relaxed attitude set the atmosphere and interplay with the audience. There was so much more conversation between Dan and his audience than I have seen at a Fogelberg concert.
Dan, thanks for an incredible and unforgettable evening, Happy Birthday on August 13 and the people of Los Angeles and California bring you Greetings From The West!
Bruce
Another Los Angeles review
It was a fine warm evening at the Greek. Any worries of
the usual traffic snarl after the show were quickly
squelched when Dan took the stage. His voice, though
gruff at times, was powerfully passionate. His playing
superb. He opened with the usual "Acoustic
Tour" opener: "Nexus". A humorous
highlight of the evening was when he started singing
"Leader of the Band" with the second verse
("a quite man of music"). Stopping in mid-song,
a laugh was had by all as he simply took it from the top
once again! One "Same Auld Lang Syne" encore
later (writer envious of Denver-they got two!) it was
back to the parking lot "helter-skelter", but
it was worth it!
Steve Probst
SAN DIEGO
I had the pleasure of attending two Dan Fogelberg
concerts in one week. He was superb at both the Greek in
Los Angeles and Humphrey's in San Diego, although he did
perform about 30 minutes longer at the Greek. He seemed
very relaxed with his audiences and really at his best.
The first Fogelberg concert I attended was at the Berkley
Amphitheater during the Netherlands tour, and have
attended many more since. I was privileged to meet him
after the concert at Humphreys, to speak with him and
shake his hand. He was charming and personable, signed
autographs and was very patient with his fans who waited
for that chance to tell him how his music has affected
lives. I will never forget that moment! Cheryl
Another San Diego review
Dan put on a great show in San Diego at the intimate
outdoor setting of Humphrey's by the Bay. The crowd
started to get a little rowdy at first because Dan took
so long to start the show and the Indian flute music was
pretty boring, but once he took the stage, it was magic.
Dan was very much at ease on stage, laughing and joking and seeming to have a good time. I saw his concert two years ago with his band in the same venue, and his comments then seemed a little more hard and weary. Last night he sounded like he was having fun.
Dan's voice was clear and strong and sounded almost like a recording. I was especially pleased to hear Beggar's Game, an old favorite of mine. Of course, he played all the standards, too.
After the concert, Dan willingly signed autographs for several adults and children, taking time to actually look at and talk to each one of us. All in all, he was a very gracious host for a most enjoyable evening.
SEATTLE
Saw Dan last Friday at the Pier in Seattle August 8. Kept
waiting for a review to show up but nobody sent one. So
here goes.
Decent venue in a nice setting surrounded by water. The
only departure from the banter mentioned in other reviews
was in noticing the old navy ships close by , said that
he felt really safe on stage tonight (sarcasm I believe).
Played the standard set as previously described. Really
loved the old stuff, i.e to the morning . The sound left
a little to be desired, His steel string guitars were
merky to say the least, and the vocals were a little
unclear. The nylon string guitar sounded great. A little
suprised they didnt get a handle on the sound as the show
went on. But all in all, being the fan I am since his
first album, I loved every minute of it. I think the
sound would only detract from it for people who didnt
already know all the words and music. Later,
Wayne
Another Seattle review:
Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Copyright 1997
Monday, August 11, 1997
ENTERTAINMENT
FOGELBERG'S MUSICAL TALENTS ENDURE IN NIGHT OF SUMMER
MAGIC ON PIER
GENE STOUT P-I POP MUSIC CRITIC
MUSIC REVIEW: Dan Fogelberg (with Sheryl Wiser). Pop-rock
concert Friday night at Pier 62/63.
Dan Fogelberg joked about doing music from his "Mesozoic" period and "the very dawn of time," but his songs sounded as fresh as when they were written.
Performing Friday night at Pier 62/63, Fogelberg, 45, celebrated his 25th year as a recording artist with a two-hour show that was touched by summer magic. I just feel like playing tonight," the beaming singer-songwriter said after taking concertgoers on a musical journey through his prolific past.
Known for such pop classics as "Heart Hotels," "The Power of Gold" and "Longer," Fogelberg decided against a greatest-hits show, perhaps frustrating some in the audience. Instead, he shared his lesser-known songs, as well as the music of some of his favorite songwriters, and demonstrated his breathtaking prowess on grand piano and an array of beautifully tuned acoustic guitars. They included a "high-strung" guitar that had a crisp, tinkly sound as pretty as a clock chime.
Concertgoers shouted requests, but Fogelberg just grinned at them. "See this?" he finally said. "It's called a set list. These are the songs I've rehearsed." Amused by the cluster of sailboats bobbing near the pier, Fogelberg offered a challenge: "If you can hear me, honk your horn." Then, after a chorus of honks: "Oh, no, what have I started?"
Fogelberg's summer tour supports his new retrospective boxed set, "Portrait: The Music of Dan Fogelberg." The set is divided into four CDs spanning his career: "Hits," "Ballads," "Rock & Roll" and "Tales & Travels."
Fogelberg, wearing jeans, sandals and a black windbreaker over a white shirt, performed "In the Morning," a touching ballad written in 1970 when he was 18 - and one of the oldest songs on the four-CD set. The wistful and warm-hearted "Make Love Stay" preceded a gravelly acoustic-blues tune and a tender version of Tim Hardin's folk classic, "If I Were a Carpenter."
Fogelberg paid tribute to George Harrison with "I Need You," one of the former Beatle's less notable songs, and dedicated a seafaring song, "The Reach," to his floating, non-paying fans along the pier.
Fogelberg played his guitars with extraordinary skill and artistry, adding complex embellishments to more familiar arrangements. His voice was deeper and richer than in the past, but the sweet falsetto of his 20s was gone.
The main set concluded with several of his biggest songs, among them a stunning "Run for the Roses" and heartfelt "Leader of the Band," written about his father, bandleader Lawrence Fogelberg.
Opening the show with a strong, self-confident set was Seattle singer-songwriter Sheryl Wiser, who performed songs from her new album. Wiser noted that in the early '90s, she had worked at the pier as a caterer.
"I feel a little bit like Cinderella tonight," she said.
PORTLAND
I had the luck of attending Dan Fogelberg's concert at
the Sokol Blosser Winery in Portland Oregon on 8-9-97.
The setting was perfect for this concert. The crowd sat
on a hill...about 2500 people...set amongst the trees.
Dan's voice was perfect. He sang each song like he was singing it for the first time, with such heart. When he sang "Leader of The Band" I was in tears.
It was his last concert of this tour, and his stagehands had a joke planned for him. He made a joke about "Old MacDonald" and his farm...and a two pigs were brought on stage! It took him by surprise, to say the least.
He looked incredible. Crisp white shirt, a jacket for the first two songs, and tight jeans. Ran his fingers through his hair ALOT!
All in all, a perfect evening.
Mindy Steiner
Another Portland review:
I was attended the last concert in Portland at Sokol
Blosser Winery. The weather was perfect and so was the
crowd. Much more polite than the audience at Wolf
Mountain in Park City on July 26.
Dan certainly seemed ready for a break. Compared to the Wolf Mountain show, he cut out about 5-6 songs, ending about 25 minutes earlier. Even so, his voice was marvelous, his playing was fantastic and the crowd loved him. "To the Morning" was especially well-done, as was "Same Auld Lang Syne". One could see as he finished that last chord or two, that he was smiling and ready to wind it all up for awhile. At the end, he rushed out to the limo and took off - probably because only one long road led in and out of the winery and traffic would have been a real problem had he stuck around.
He said he'd be going to Maine in three weeks to do
some sailing and then, to my surprise, that he'd be
picking up the tour again in October. Very good news! No
cities were mentioned, but it gives all of us true-blue
Dan Fans a chance to catch him one more time in 1997. Cheri Cox
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