ClayManiacs.com
Archive => Tried and True Tour 2011 => Topic started by: Marilyn on July 29, 2010, 10:34:36 PM
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From lilred at the CB.....
ATLANTA -- Cobb Energy Center -- February 16
from email I just received...
Subject: Re: PBS and Atlanta
Thanks! This is what she asked me to share with the Georgia fans. Please pass it along far and wide as you think best )
Debi
PBA30, AtlantaPBS station will premiere Clay Aiken: Tried and True on Saturday, July 31 @8pm with an encore at 9:30pm.
As a pledge incentive, PBA30 will offer on-air a limited number of VIP PIT Meet and Greet (pre-show)
tickets as well as a limited number of PIT tickets to Clays Live Atlanta concert February 16, 2011!
As a bonus to those tickets, PBA30 will also include the DVD and CD from the show! Additionally, PBA will have
great PREMIUM seats at Cobb Energy Centre (PRE PUBLIC SALE of tickets!) available. Members are seated
on a first-pledge, first-seat basis.
Clay visited the studios of PBA30 recently and shared with PBAs Alicia Steele some great insight about the
program and interesting information about his life and career! So please be sure to tune in, and support,
PBA30 Atlantas PBS station, this Saturday at 8pm!
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General sale tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster.com or any Ticketmaster outlet.
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Venue: John A. Williams Theatre @ The Cobb Energy Centre
Venue website: http://www.cobbenergycentre.com/
Venue Capacity: 2750
Address: 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: Info only: 770-916-2800Seating Chart: LINK (http://www.cobbenergycentre.com/seating_charts.aspx)
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Thank you for contacting Georgia Public Broadcasting. Yes! we will air Clay Aiken on Sunday, August 1st @ 9:30pm. We will broadcast Clay Aiken again on Tues, August 3rd at 7pm and Saturday, August 7th @ 2am.
I have listed the thank you gifts that are available when you make a donation to Georgia Public Broadcasting. If you have additional questions, please contact the Member & Audience Services Department at 404-685-4788 or 1-800-222-4788. A representative is available to assist you Monday thru Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Best regards,
Joniese White
Clay Aiken – Tried &True: Live! Live 8/1 9:30PM PPCA70 Digital Download, Clay Aiken: Tried & True $55
PPCA33 CD, Clay Aiken: Tried & True $65
PPCA52 DVD, Clay Aiken – Tried & True: Live! $75
PPCA62 Combo: DVD, Clay Aiken – Tried & True: Live! + Deluxe 2-disc set, Clay Aiken: Tried & True $125
PPCA63 Ticket Combo: Pair of tickets to see Clay Aiken at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on 2/16/2011 in Atlanta + CD, Clay Aiken: Tried & True $225
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REPORT FROM HOTLANTA:
Sally just called me for an "intervention" with the Atlanta Concert tickets. Not really -- she had already spent $500 for two front row (pit) tickets w/ M&Gs, DVD, CD, the whole kit and kaboodle!!!
She asked Phone Lady if they were receiving lots of calls. "Oh, yes." Sally told her if Atlanta keeps bringing Clay Aiken back, the station will get lots of memberships because he has a huge, loyal fan base willing to spend big bucks to see him.
I think Phone Lady is a believer!
One thing Sally mentioned is that before they would talk to her about concert tickets, they wanted to know her zip code. She got the feeling Atlanta would like to keep the concert local.
ETA: She also said that Clay looked good and talked great on the pledge breaks.
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FROM HIPPOGA AT CV
Another Georgia fan checking in!!! I can't get the PBS channel that broadcast the special over in Athens, so I'm at a friend's house (Ruthie! Thank you!) with three other fans! Good times! Next we're going to watch some of the Timeless Tour and THEN listen to the cellcert from Reno! Did I mention that I AM spending the night!? LOL!
As Chris said, the special was incredible!!! Clay was so handsome! His hair looked a lot like it did in the special but brownish-red instead of the blondish-red and with a few more spikes in the top. Of course, we know it was a "canned" appearance but if you were watching at home, it appeared that he was live in the studio. The hostess was animated and vibrant and she and Clay seemed to have a good rapport. Now, this station is one of the ones that has tickets to a Feb concert as a pledge gift. Clay talked about how much better the concert would be. It will be longer, have songs that didn't make the show, songs he recorded but didn't make the album and songs he wanted to record in the future. Sounds practically perfect to me!!! Two pit seats and M&G were $500 which is pretty rich for my blood but I took the plunge with a friend and we're gonna do it! I don't know how many M&G's there are. The station is running the special back to back and at the end of the first one, they were only advertising premium tickets, no pit tickets. However, in the first break in the second broadcast, they did have M&G tickets. I can't remember which one of the breaks it was but he also mentioned how he liked to interact with the crowd and how much he liked the feedback from the crowd. Hopefully they'll applaud, he said! He said he talks to people in the audience and sometime they talk back. US? Talk back?! He mentioned how PBS is a part of people's lives. He used to fall asleep at his grandmother's house during her soap operas and then she would wake him up for "Sesame St". Then when he was a teacher, he would have 'Arthur" on in the morning when the kids came into class. Now he has a son and they watch PBS in the morning...but I can't remember the show he named. (I'll try to edit this report when I watch my tape.) He talked about how he and Ruben hadn't performed together in 7 years and how Ruben has an infectious personality and he loves his voice.
Hostess talked about all the "amazing things" he has done from double platinum album, book, Broadway, foundation, UNICEF. Clay said he was tired! And he said his line about how everything is better than the previous one and that he never dreamed he would have his own PBS special. Also told the story about how his mom wanted him to record UM and go to Nashville. Talked about how the shows on PBS are member supported and geared towards what the members want. In the last segment, they talked about how "Clay knows something about voting" and Clay said to call in an pledge during the program so he would get the credit!
It was wonderful to see "In My Life" again! I'm glad that I have a copy of it now!
If CV needs a copy to this broadcast, I think my friend can get it to us
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Clay Aiken
Feb 16, 2011 (Wed)
John A. Williams Theatre
Following in the wake of a critically acclaimed tour with fellow American Idol alum, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken is hitting the road once again. The performer extraordinaire will hit 20 cities across the U.S. beginning on February 10, 2011 hitting famed venues including a stop in Atlanta on February 16.
The singer announces "on-sales" on the heels of the July 27th DVD release of "Tried & True Live!" The special LIVE DVD captures Clay's first PBS concert special, "Tried & True," now airing across the country. The DVD showcases the singer’s March 10th performance in his hometown of Raleigh, NC, as well as exclusive material not seen on Public Television, and a bonus EPK on the making of his latest CD, Tried & True. Tried & True was released June 1st on Decca, and made an impressive debut in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart. Considered the record Aiken was always meant to record, the disc is comprised of songs from the ’50s and ’60s that are personal favorites of the singers’ he grew up listening to as a child. Clay will continue to perform these standards on the national "Tried & True" tour.
Tickets
TBA
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This concert starts at 8 EST tonight. I hopefully can make the cellcert. Leaving VA this afternoon. See ya then. Don't know of anyone from here going but Think this one will be good attendance this time.
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Here in the front row waiting for the MAN!!
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Cellcerter had a M &G -he had a yellow hoodie and his face had stubble. She said he was so sweet. Someone gave him a horoscope that said he was lethal today-she told him he was always lethal, and she put it in his pocket-so he was telling everyone that he got molested!!
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Hello I made it.
"Cameras are ok but no flashes!"
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We had a good connection, then there was a ton of loud buzzing, and we lost the signal. It looks like CH had the same problem, and they are doing a different connection.
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LOVE STORY
KIND OF HUSH
GOT KICKED OUT OF CM AGAIN, DEMMIT
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CLAY SAID ONLY A FEW GUYS IN FIRST FEW ROWS WHICH MADE HIM THINK THERE WERE MANY SPOUSES AT HOME. HOWEVER, THE GUYS THAT DID COME MIGHT REAP THE BENEFITS OF THE LOVE SONGS WHEN THEY GET HOME
OR SOMETHING TO THAT EFFECT ;D
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WHAT KIND OF FOOL AM I
CAN'T TAKE MY EYES OFF YOU
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SOMETHING ABOUT US
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I am listening to Clay, posting here, and downloading Clack.
Life is good!! ;D
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Talking now- going into the swing medley bit. He said they have changed it up a bit and they will do it different than they have been
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"Talking about love songs that may or may not have had a 50's or 60's vibe. Teasing Quiana about something.........."
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The Way
The Right Stuff
The Glory of Love
?----
Hit Me Baby One More Time
Footloose
Invisible
Sounds the same to me
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Talking now- going into the swing medley bit. He said they have changed it up a bit and they will do it different than they have been
Interesting. Differant songs maybe? Man I envy people that can get to go to every concert since it's been a little differant everynight.
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Hmmmm I actually wish he could do a few differant songs then what he did on The Timeless tour.
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Quiana sings Cry Me A River
Now he is doing the autotune
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INVISIBLE ....... shirt tug?
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Hi Marilyn & Tiffany
Late again but this time I was talking to one of the nicest people I have ever done business with. I had called WKNO this afternoon to check on the tickets and he was out to dinner.
She just took 30 minutes of her time to tell me about the best restaurants, how to get to Graceland and Minglewood Hall. If everyone took customer service to her level the world would be a better place. She also gave me her cell phone number in case I needed it.
I hope there is a decent crowd in Atlanta tonight. A week ago it sounded like it was almost sold out.
Tiffany, I'm with you. I don't mind listening to Clay singing older songs (JBT anyone) but I wish he wouldn't use the same ones over and over.
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Hey Barb. Yep! Agreed That's very nice of that person. Hope you and Marlene enjoy Graceland.
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No- I think I misunderstood, that he meant he was changing up the songs but I guess he meant the style
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Oh I see Marilyn. We'll see on the clack I guess.
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Suspicious Minds- they are singing it like a duet in these concerts. I like Clay singing alone better, with Quiana as backup
Hey Barb!!
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For autotunes -They did Taio Cruz, "Dynamite".
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Buttercup!! LOVE THIS
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For autotunes -They did Taio Cruz, "Dynamite".
Ohhh Like that song. Fast dance song.
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Moon RIver
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LOST THE CONNECTION!!! ARGGHHH!!!
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How frustrating. Said the other day wish we could do conference calls again.
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OK dialed her back and she picked up- but while waiting her phone played ASHES!! I sure WISH he was singing that at this show.
Breaking up is hard to do
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While I was typing the above, the board said there were FIVE replies since I started posting, and there was only ONE - weird!!
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OK dialed her back and she picked up- but while waiting her phone played ASHES!! I sure WISH he was singing that at this show.
Breaking up is hard to do
Me too. Maybe in the future. Still annoyed we never got to see it when he sang on Jimmy Kimmel.
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That is odd. I'm just seeing one reply's so far.
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MISTY!!!!
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It's back!!!
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On to the Styles bit now .....
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Who's Sorry NOw- Bluegrass
Then Quiana is singing it Gospel while Clay is making comments
There was another style that sounded like Quiana but I dont know what it was
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Who's Sorry NOw- Bluegrass
Then Quiana is singing it Sultry while Clay is making comments
Naughtry naughtry. LOL
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Mack the Knife
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Now Gospel style...... THought they did that one already.
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FROM CV
I think that last one was Techno and Clay sang it.
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Its only Make Believe
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Quiana- Foggy Day in London Town
Crying!! LOVE this song
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Quiana really does sounded really good with him on that song.
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Talking up in preparation for UNCHAINED MELODY
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Saw this on Twitter from earier.
agirly
I just had a meet & greet with Clay Aiken .. He a cutie
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"Clay's in great voice tonight!"
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Big applause and lots of woo woo's from men too
Back for encore!! He is talking about people recording and listening to the whole show!!!!
They can watch EVERY WORD on line
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"uh oh - OMG he's calling out the cell certer!!!"
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In My Life
He was asking the audience earlier if any of them were twins. He said they often could complete anothers thoughts, etc, He said it was like that with him and Quiana. Awwww!
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We've been found out!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LOL!
Pam - he said hi to YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
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He's seen the cellcerts at CV I take it. busted LOL
Sweet about him and Quiana.
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Clay is telling the crowd about cellcerts. Dedicating IML to all of us who stuck around for eight years and listened on our computers.
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Clay is telling the crowd about cellcerts. Dedicating IML to all of us who stuck around for eight years and listened on our computers.
Awwww
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Solitaire!!
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Came over to side. Asked where cellphone was-asked if someone was on the other end. She started to stay CV and changed it to Pam. He heard Pam typing and told the cellcerter and she told him she was broadcasting-he said "Do you see all these empty seats??" He then dedicated the song to all of us who had listened for 8 years on the computer
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Navy sweater- v neck. Hair smooth and nice and a little bit sticking up in front not too spikey.
Clay made fun of the guitar player because he wasnt wearing any socks and he said it would be nasty on the bus later
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He also said he appreciated people waiting for the entire song to be done.
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Empty seats?
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Empty seats?
Well, none of the venues have been really full- we know that!
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Yeah but I thought I read last week in an article that they were almosted sold out. Hoping that was true.
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Where I'm seeing him has only 995 seats. Think it will be the smallest venue he'll be playing at.
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Sounds like another great show and too funny about what Clay said about the cellcerters.
Thanks Marilyn for the play and play and see ya tomorrow Barb and anyone else from Knoxville, TN tomorrow.
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Claym8 at cv was at the M &G . SHe said she met a young woman that was at her first concert. This person runs some site or club that has to do with Stargate and they have 14 million followers. Anyway, back ia couple of years ago she heard Mary Did you Know on the radio, and she pulled over to the side of the road to finish listening to it. She called the radio station to find out who sang it, but couldnt get through. Then she heard O Holy Night and absolutely loved it, so she found out that it was Clay singing. Then he came out (sequence might be a bit off) and she said Oh THATS who it is!! And she was hooked - for her birthday she got all his albums
Also, her group, club, whatever that is Stargate something track- has picked the National Inclusion Project to be their charity this year. so it looks like that might be a good thing for both Clay and TNIP. I hope all 14 million buy his CD!!
WOW!! Wouldnt that be great?
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That would be awesome and nice how she became a fan.
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Unchained Melody was sung tonight.
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"Clay definitely looks like he got a hair cut!"
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"Clay definitely looks like he got a hair cut!"
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From CH -- they said he had on a navy sweater, same jeans, maybe white shirt, light blue tie -- hair shorter -- same shoes.....
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Report of 800 tickets sold, but bottom looked pretty full.
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"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."
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Scarlett posted on Facebook from her iPhone
How does perfection get better and better every time?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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clack http://www.clackunlimited.com/clack/Concert_Clack/2011_Tried_And_True/Atlanta/MBLovesClay/
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2old4clay
Arrived home around 6 P.M. from my drive back to Atlanta. I came this - close to continuing on to Knoxville for tonight. I never realized that it was only 200 miles from Atlanta. But I had no ticket, the seating was already messed up so if I looked would I have found one I would be happy with, and I had no hotel room. Absolutely no plans, and the thought of then driving back to Florida 700 miles instead of only 500 miles clinched the decision. I even brought extra clothes just in case I made a last minute decision to go.
Haven't watched the clack from In My Life, but I must say, as everything...it was priceless to be there and see it. Hopefully Clay can understand the many reasons for the cellcerts...people too ill, or financially strapped, or live too far away...who love and support him, but just can't do it. In addition many of us buy more than one seat and donate or pass on or sell the extra one, so we all work hard at making it happen. And as others have said, perhaps the excitement from listening will encourage some to go when they had previously decided not to attend. Many good and positve reasons he should know about.
I was mesmerized last night by Clay's movements while singing Crying with Quiana. Although I understand what he means that he watches her mouth to see the vocal changes during the duet, but last night it seemed as though he was trying to keep control of his hand not to reach out and touch her. He reached out slightly and then came back and clutched his sweater as if trying to hold himself back. Perhaps I was the only one who noticed, or perhaps I am imagining but it seemed (even though he was singing with a little smirk on his face) as though he was a bit overwhelmed by their connection last night. I'm going to look for the clack and see if it still appears that way to me.
I hope we get Quiana's Cry Me A River, it is just beautiful. I am not too fond of the London Town song, as I do not like jazzy arrangements...but she does both extraordinarily well.
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hippoga
Goodness, what an experience our "twofer" in Atlanta and Knoxville was!!! I can't stop watching the In My Life banter from Atlanta. Imagine those eyes staring right at you! I am sorry the cellcert from Atlanta was just a plain phone one. The one from Knoxville was on AAIT's version 4 iPhone . It was better than my version 3. (If you are going to a concert and have an iPhone 4, please consider cellcerting. It's effortless....and sometimes exciting!!!)
I picked up AAIT at the airport and we went to base camp at a friend's house in Snellville. After freshening up, we headed to dinner. Picked up another friend along the way and had a great cajun meal with 10 fan friends before the show. Did I mention I was driving my friend's fancy black cadillac? So much fun! We had PBS tickets in the pit for Atlanta. Our PBS station did me proud! There were about 40 people in our M&G. We lined up against a wall and then the PBS representative told us how much they appreciated our support and then Jerome explained the "procedure". Clay would come down the line and sign one thing and then the PBS photographer would take our picture. It went really smoothly. We were kind of at the end so we could watch him come down the line. He made a few remarks about some of the items, especially about the ones where he was "young". The girl beside me had a "The Way" CD and I had a Tried and True picture so I held mine next to hers so he could see the "then and now"!
My Snellville friend told Clay it was her first M&G, to which he replied "It's not my first"! He looked at my next friend and said, it's not HER first either, and then he recognized me, too. That's kind of a neat feeling, I must admit! He really looked good. Hair brown and soft. He said "everyone keeps talking about my hair, I'm going to shave it off" as he came by me. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! YALE sweatshirt and jeans, just a little stubble. I am not a stubble person and I'm hoping for ONE clean shaven show at the ones I'm attending! LOL!
Here we are!
It was over much too soon. We went out into the lobby and had a great time meeting old friends! We had an active fan group here in Georgia in years past and there was much laughter and hugging as we met again to enjoy the man who brought us together.
Our second row seat was really first row because the first row began a few seats in from ours. I was torn as to whether to video or just watch the show. I decided to just watch...but then I couldn't stand it! I did video most of the show but it's not going to be great because the lighting was too bright. (Later AAIT taught me how to adjust the brightness so I'll do better next time!) I also took some pictures (more about that to follow!). It was a great show! He spent a lot of time over on our side of the stage, too. His voice was strong and clear but just beautiful, too. Words really can't do justice, the clack barely does. He is handsome and soulful one minute and then a giggly boy the next! He wore a navy sweater with his jeans, looked like a white shirt, blue tie. I really don't know if he saw my cellphone or whether he saw someone else's because mine was between my legs! I realized I wasn't sitting very ladylike! LOL! The audience in Atlanta was good and the bottom orchestra looked full. It probably looked good from the stage. There are some nice pictures on the Atlanta Journal Constitution website which most of you have probably seen. My least favorite part of the show was the autotune part, my favorite was Unchained Melody and the encores.
I POSTED THE KNOXVILLE PART OF HER RECAP IN THE KNOXVILLE THREAD