ATLANTA, GA-COBB ENERGY CENTER 02/16/2011

[Tiffany]

"One thing interesting that Claym8 (Val) remembered was that Clay said he has no interest in doing local theatre! I think that is a good thing.

Solitaire was lit like on AI - spotlight against black."

[Marilyn]

Scarlett posted on Facebook from her iPhone 


How does perfection get better and better every time?

[Marilyn]

terter4aiken

I was in the front row and I'm still deep in the fog, so this is not word for word/ Please bear with me.

He was telling folks in the crowd that might not know about cell certs. And then he looked over at HippoGA and asked her if she had been holding up a cell phone and was someone listening at the other end. (Like DUH Clay!  Of course there's someone at the other end!) And she said yes. Then he asked the name of the person and HippoGA told her "Pam".  caperkeeper

I suck at recaps, so I'll just say that Clay was his hawt, sexy, gorgeous self and he blew me away. I had an amazing time with my seat mates and some peeps that I haven't seen in a long time. It was wonderful!

ETA: I finally managed to get a whiff of the man during my PBS M&G and he smelled really sweet. The first thing I thought of when I got that whiff was Juicy Fruit gum. 

[Marilyn]

BRIGHTSTAR

I was soooo concerned when they said no photography tonight, but i tried to explain that Clay and TC were fine with it, except for flashes. The usher said she would check, and a few minutes later another lady came (straight to me  ) and said Clay's tour company told them no photography. Again I told her what the general practice was, and that Clay was fine with it (expected it even). i told her he has even said from the stage that the venue personnel shouldn't prevent picture taking. She said if he announced it from the stage, it would be ok. I countered by saying he wouldn't know that he needed to. She left, we were sad, but a bit later she came back down the row and said pictures were fine, even flash! "No flash" I muttered, but took the green light, was thrilled with the turn of events, and ran with it.

Happy, happy, happy was my theme tonight. A wonderful, friendly, relaxed, unrushed m&g surpassed my expectations by a lot. Oh, my, he was so gorgeous! And I was soooo lucky to be sitting right beside him (he sat at the head of the conference table and I was one of the 2 seats next to him (on the side). So funny, cause i thought we were taken to this room to wait and that we would be going to a different room for the m&g,and I was surprised when they said he would be in in a moment. Soon, in he strode, and good heavens was he gorgeous! It was like sitting beside living art. A masterpiece. He commented on a plaque on the wall and held up a glass trophy-looking piece, wondering if the center had actually won the trophy. He said he often thought about buying a pretty art piece like that and having it engraved as if it were a prize (as he stood at the front of the room holding it like he just won the award). So cute!

He took questions (I believe someone has already reported on them) and then signed our things, still not rushing at all. Only the picture taking was moved along at a good clip, but it still didn't feel rushed.

Now my night felt complete already, so it was almost a surprise to be reminded that much more was to come. It was my first concert this tour and again, my expectations were surpassed. The power and beauty of his voice is just magnificent, and I guess I forget just how magnificent it is until I hear it again in person. Cellcerts, while a real gift, just don't begin to communicate the rich, full, exquisite tones and nuances of his voice, nor can they capture the awesome, increible power of it. Just absolutely blows me away.

The opening number is so beautiful it defies description. The notes and sounds just flow up and down and across and through the theater and into and around one's heart, flowing and growing ever more expressive and strong and moving until you forget anything and everything around you and just surrender yourself to the experience. Wow!
Sounds nice on a cellcert, better on a video, but amazing in person. It's almost like a journey in itself.

I just loved the entire concert. He was in fabulous voice and, as far as I'm concerned, nailed every song--the power ballads, the tender, soft songs, the lively ones alike. No, T&T is not my favorite CD, nor is it my favorite style of music. I dearly hope his next CD is different. Yet despite all that, I adored the concert. He's just so talented and versatile and has such power and beauty in his voice that he can successfully deliver almost any kind of concert.

I came in excited and eager, and I left completely satisfied, amazed, and overwhelmed. I wish every person in the world could attend at least one show and experience his talent and versatility. He's a treasure, a gift, and he deserves to be heard. I'm glad I'm one of the lucky ones who gets to hear him.

[Marilyn]

[Marilyn]

[Marilyn]

[Marilyn]

BRIGHTSTAR M & G

Briefly, cause we will be leaving for Knoxville soon--
He said he had no interest in doing any community or local theater.

He spoke at length about why it would be very difficult for him to do a dramatic role--how people know him, details of his life, and the tabloid nature of much of the stuff out there (sad to hear him say). He thinks it would be hard for people to look past "him" and believe in the role he played. Personally, I think he underestimates himself, his acting ability, and his potential audience.

In answer to a follow up question, something to the effect of "then you wouldn't do a dramatic role" or "so you don't want to act" or somthing like that, he said he wouldn't say that, so it appears he still might like to act. (Soon, I hope!)

I asked if the touring Spamalot play had any actors he worked with, and he said that that play had no connection to the Broadway production at all.

Someone asked twice how Parker was doing, and Clay wasn't too happy with that.

He said he hadn't read any memorable books lately. He has a lot on his kindle that he hasn't read yet. Also, he said his memory is so bad (reminded us how he forgets song words) that he can reread a book and not realize he's read it until he's near the end, I told him I do that too (and I have).

Val asked if he had to audtion for Spamalot and as a follow up if he would have to audtion for another role should he get one. He said he met with the director (or producer) of Spamalot, (mainly so he could be assured he could do that role) but that he was pretty much selected for the part in advance. He said he would not have to audition in the future--that if he were approached for a role, he would essentially be chosen for it already. Not his words at all, just the jist of it as I heard it.

He was asked if he listened to NPR and he said all the time. moon, I forget the person you asked about. My brain is about gone!

I think there were a few more questions, but that's all I remember. Oh, at the beginning of the picture taking I asked what his favorite interview has been. He said "this one."

It was a wonderful m&g. I had been a little afraid I'd be disappointed, but instead my expectations were surpassed.

[Marilyn]

MOONHEAD:

Atlanta OFC M&G Recap…

11 of us were ushered into a board room like setting for the M&G. There was a long board table and 12 chairs. I sat in the first side chair next to the head of the table near the door (hoping that everyone would leave that head position open for Clay to sit in, which they did). We waited for several minutes and then Jerome came in, noted that everyone looked familiar so he didn’t have to read us all the rules . A few more minutes went by and in walked Clay…

He had on a gray Yale sweatshirt (sleeves pushed up), jeans, and white/black sneakers. His hair was a bit spiky, but no product (soft looking). Some stubble. My first impression was “GAH, he looks great!”. His face and jawline look much narrower and less filled out in person than in pictures and on tv. Gorgeous. I also was surprised at how much lighter his hair, stubble, etc. look in person. I had a wonderful view of his forearms and hands…mmmmm.

After walking in, he motioned to a picture on the wall of what looked like a restaurant with the word “Jezebel” written at the top. He said how weird it was to see that first thing. Someone mentioned that Jezebel was a local newspaper/mag that talks about local hotspots in Atlanta. I remarked “yeah, hot, Jezebel, I guess it kind of goes together”. He laughed and agreed. He then picked up an award that was on display and said that he wanted to purchase one and have his name engraved on it like he won an award. There were the requisite “awwwws” from the group. He walked around the table asking us our names and shaking our hands. When he first sat down he commented on the board room set up and several mentioned how we saved the head of the table for him. He made a remark about the director usually sitting on the side in the middle of the table, not the end. Someone suggested he switch, and Brightstar and I were both like “noooooooooo” (she was on his other side). He stayed where he was thank God  . He asked if anyone was from Atlanta (I think a couple of people were). Asked a bit about the age of the venue (I mentioned I’d attended a Kelly concert there about 3 years ago and that I think it was one of the first concerts there, so it couldn’t be much more than 3-4 years old). He then opened it up for questions. I have no idea of the order of the questions, so I’ll just mention the ones I remember…

1. There was a question about a Spamalot tour coming up in NC…Clay said that it was not being put on by Spamalot or affiliated with them so it probably could be quite different and would not necessarily recommend it.

2. Someone asked what his fave song was that he would be singing tonight and he said “"What Kind Of Fool Am I?"”.

3. I asked if he listens to NPR and if he likes Terry Gross. He said “yes” that he listens to and likes NPR (mostly in the mornings). He said “no” that he doesn’t care for Terry Gross’s show which he knew was “Fresh Air”. He thought it was “boring”. I said “noooo, you can’t think it’s boring. I always have wanted you to be interviewed by her”. He looked at me, with that lop sided smirk of his and said “sorry, but it’s boring” . He the went on to mention the NPR show that he does enjoy, which I think was “Tell Me More”…not positive about that though.

4. He was asked if he had to audition for Spamalot and if he was to become interested in another Briadway show would he have to go through the normal audition process. He said “no” he did not have to audition for Spamalot. They wanted him and contacted him. He just had to sit down with Mike Nichols and talk about it. He said “they probably just wanted to make sure I could speak English” and laughed. He replied that he would not have to audition for another show. That it would occur in the same way as Spamalot, just a discussion about the role, etc. He then went on to say that he felt that TPTB and audiences would have a hard time accepting him in a dramatic Broadway role because of the media “personality” that he is. He said that so many know so much about his life, his personal matters, etc. (mentioned tabloids) that it would be hard for them to separate “Clay Aiken” from the character. He used the example of Meryl Streep, saying that no one knows anything about her personally, so she can take on different roles and make them believable. But, if you were to cast Paris Hilton in a role, no one would be able to see past Paris Hilton. And, that’s how he felt it was with him. I interjected “but Spamalot must have helped with that”. He looked at me and said “no, not at all”. He continued to say that because Spamalot was a comedic role, it didn’t matter if people saw him as “Clay Aiken”…it was different from a dramatic role. I wish I had thought to say to him that I think it boils down to talent, because talent could push past that. Also, I don’t know how this jives with the rumor floating around that he turned down the lead in Memphis. Because if that’s true, then TPTB thought he could perform in a dramatic role. That might be a good question for a future M&G question for someone.

5. He was asked what the last book he read was. He said he truly couldn’t remember, he hadn’t read in a while unfortunately and that his memory is shot. I asked if he ever read “Cutting for Stone” (since it’s oen of my faves) and he said “no” but mentioned that it was on his iPad, he just hadn’t gotten around to reading it yet.

6. A fan talked about how her young son was currently being bullied in school and if he had any advice for him. Clay said “no” that he didn’t have advice for the child but he had advice for her. He said that she should support her son and be there for him.

There were a few other questions asked, but I can’t remember them right now. The above were the lengthiest ones. He then gave the order of the pictures and each of us were called up. I think I was in a bit of a fog after the conversation and didn’t pay close enough attention to the picture taking portion. I was first up and I do remember him putting his arm about me and mine about him. With the bulk of the sweatshirt, I couldn’t really feel my hand on him, but it was good regardless  . I said “thanks” and sat down to watch the rest of the pictures being taken. He then said that he needed to go to the next M&G of 30 people. He mentioned that next week (Charlotte) there will be a M&G of 75 people (with an eye roll). He said “we’re mad about that one”. Bright and I both said “noooo, don’t be mad, we’re both at that”. He looked at Bright and said “well, it’s not your fault”. Hee.

The whole M&G experience was wonderful. PERFECT. I decided that the difference between my M&G last night and the M&G I had in 2005 is this…in 2005 I met Clay Aiken the performer at my M&G, in 2011 I met Clay Aiken the person at my M&G. Both were wonderful, but 2011’s was extra special.

[Marilyn]

MOONHEAD

Atlanta Concert Recap:

The concert was fabulous! I seriously have never heard Clay in better voice. He was amazing.

I’m not going to touch on every song, just some comments about specific songs that struck me…

"Where Do I Begin, Love Story Theme" (Love Story Theme) is such a dramatic way to start the show. It sets the tone for a show by a singer who actually, you know, SINGS. Love it.

"Something About Us" is not my favorite song from On My Way Here. But the way Clay sings it live is exquisite. To me, he was really INTO this song. His eyes were closed the whole time and it just felt personal.

The schtick portions ("Who's Sorry Now" in different genres and the "currents as oldies" medley) plays much better in person than over the cellcert. The younger NJU that were there really enjoyed these portions of the show.

UM is body art. Between looking at his hands and listening to his voice, it’s an assault on the senses…GAH.

The intro to "In My Life" was very special. Clay talking about the dedicated and loyal fans who have been here from the beginning was really touching. He said the song was for them (then he looked at the audience and said “well, it’s for all of you, but especially for them”). While listening to him sing it and hearing the lyrics “some have gone and some remain”, I thought of those who have left for various reasons and felt so very thankful that I was one of those still here. Then listening to “some are dead and some are living” I couldn’t help but think of hope4clay and xxx and all the others who are gone now. They were there last night.

And Solitaire, such a perfect ending. Clay, solitary, with the lone light shining down upon him. Perfection.

He was gorgeous last night. His hair was wonderful, his jeans were snug in all the right places. He was charming, funny, sensual, and humble. An irresistibly perfect combination.

[Marilyn]

MOONHEAD

Ooo, just remembered another funny piece. When he came out for the encore he talked about how silly he thought coming back out was because so many of us know that he has 2 more songs he is going to do. he said it's not as if he's only coming back out if the audience claps enough, he's coming back out regardless. So, he feels that the whole leaving the stage and waiting for the cheering is just pretentious. He then went on to say that after he had finished UM and was waiting in the wings to come back out for the encore, Jess Rosen said "wow, UM was great, I've never heard that arrangement". Clay quipped that that just made him feel wonderful *snerk* since it's on the album and all...  .

Some NJU observations...

There was a couple in their 20's in front of us, who had been talking with the PBS host and seemed to be NJU. They thoroughly enjoyed the show. They especially loved the "Who's Sorry Now" and medley pieces (especially the guy). They were clapping eagerly and laughing at Clay's quips. The guy was so into it that he joined in yelling out genres for Clay to sing...his fave was "reggae". They got a hoot out of Clay's preacher bit while Quiana was doing "gospel". Georgialina and I spoke with a middle aged couple when we were leaving who were NJU...this was their first Clay concert and they had a wonderful time. The husband kept talking about Vegas and how Clay would be perfect there. He said that Wayne Newton was someone they enjoyed, but his voice is now gone. They thought Clay would do quite well in Vegas with the current songs he is singing and his ability as an entertainer. They also were discussing the videoing and picture taking and understood the appeal of it heightening the anticipation of those watching/listening.

[Marilyn]

BONILEE

Hi
Here is a small recap from -Atlanta .excuse the typos, I am on my IPad. While waiting in the line for clay to get to us, we heard him yell out"good lord!"" then he said it again and said I just molested! Someone was trying to put something in his pocket.
As he got to me, I handed him my iPad to sign. He said," wow , no pressure here!" then he told me to hold real still and I told him to be very gentle! Sounded pretty smutty to me!

He was so adorable when the pics were taken. He had the biggest smile for everyone.

Can't wait for tonight!!!

I love this man.

[Tiffany]

clack http://www.clackunlimited.com/clack/Concert_Clack/2011_Tried_And_True/Atlanta/MBLovesClay/

[Marilyn]

[Marilyn]