Throughout this pandemic, I can’t say my life has been affected too much, which I am very fortunate and grateful for.
The one thing that has been driving me crazy, though, is not being able to see live music. I can’t wait for the day we’ll safely be allowed to enjoy the activity once again.
Prior to the pandemic, live music was pretty much what my life centred around. I worked as much as I could and sought out affordable trips near and far for the chance to see my favourite acts live.
In 2015, I travelled to New York to see Billy Joel perform live at Madison Square Garden. During this time of quarantine and reflection, I can honestly say that experience was one of the best nights of my life. In fact, to this point, most of the best nights of my life have been at good shows with great company.
I had never been to New York prior to 2015 and to be honest, the only reason I wanted to go was to step foot in the legendary venue known as “The Garden.”
I have been a big fan of Joel’s music for years. He was always on my “holy grail” list, but I specifically wanted to see him at that venue, on his home turf.
To see the way the crowd lit up during his song Miami 2017 when he sings, “They held the concert out in Brooklyn,” was amazing. The crowd erupted with familiarity and it was electrifying to see the acknowledgement of their part of town.
That doesn’t even compare to the moment when you hear the first few notes of his hit song Piano Man – a song I’d wager 95 per cent of everyone you know can recite.
The first time I saw Billy Joel play, I was 23 years old. I took my mom with me and to be honest, I couldn’t have picked a better show buddy, as she loves his music just as much as I do. We both sat in awe for the entire two-and-a-half-hour set. We had travelled so far for one reason, and it was everything we hoped it would be.
I still get goosebumps thinking about it now. It keeps my mind at ease as we navigate this bizarre new world.
What makes these adventures so important me is the fact that they are memories that last a lifetime. You can take a lot away in this life, but these experiences will be with me forever.
The rush of a great show is something I have been missing for some time. Hopefully, sooner rather than later, my travels in search of the best shows will resume.
Jordan Stricker, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @Jay_Strickz
