Backstage memories

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Added: Wed Dec 19th 5:39pm
Posted in: Music

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A fringe benefit of working in the music business is getting to meet all kinds of interesting folks, and sometimes, even our heroes. I was always fascinated by BB King, as he was a major musical influence on me as a teen. His genuine kind personality and warmth transcended the radio waves, and vinyl discs that he recorded on. When I got home from the Navy, I bought my now favorite electric guitar, my 1969 Tobacco Sunburst ES 335 Gibson (my son and I own 11 guitars now). I find it amazing that I was never able to actually see Mr. King in person until 1998, but it was well worth the wait. He was doing an appearance at Universal Studios, and I managed to get a pair of tickets for the show (coincidently, it was on my 50th birthday). It was an outdoor event, so there were no reserved seats. Just before the show started, I was given what turned out to be the most treasured gift I have ever received- there in my loving wife's hand were a pair of white cloth patches, upon which were written the three most treasured words a rabid fan could ever hope for. There, in bold red letters, the two patches read; "ALL ACCESS PASS". Now, I still to this day do not know how Gigi pulled it off, but all I know is I was lost in euphoria, and the next three hours went by like a blur. The private security gate swung open, and we were instantly backstage, free to roam and explore at will. We’re not just talking the VIP tent either, rather, we were welcomed on the bus to visit my hero, enjoyed a great dinner and drinks, and watched the entire show from backstage. Every time I see the signed poster on my wall at home, I am instantly transported back to that magic night. The highlight of the event was when the Blues Boy came down the ramp after the show, reached out to shake my hand, and asked "well, how was that Brother"? Now, I've met more than my share of VIP's in my lifetime, but all pale into obscurity when compared to the night I met the Man, the Legend, the amazing Mr. B.B. King. Thank you Gigi, I love you! :)