I love Jackson Browne's music. I have followed him from the beginning. His music has always seemed to say things to me that were special. I have never have the opportunity to see him in person. He is one of the greatest ballad writers of our times. One of my favorite songs is "Call it a Loan" which I rarely see on any of his playlist. I don't undersand for it says a great deal.

Jackson has always been politidally active and I can appreciate that. Just because you are an artist and a celebrity doesn't mean that you have to give up your freedom of speech. I do think that because people differ politically but are often on the same wavelength musically that an artist has to walk a fine line. Jackson Browne must realize that many of his ourspoken views and now his association with "the Bash Bush" tour group has alienated many of his baby boomer fans like myself. I can support his right to dissent and recognize that he is free to do it but he must realize that it will have a negative effect on my opinion of him. It's not so much that we don't agree with basic philosophies it's just that by being outspoken he consciously choosed to alienate at least half of his fan base. Not just him but all the artist who say rude and ugly things about politicians on stage.

I will contine to wistfully listen to "Late for the Sky" and always remember those days in the 60s when music and politics walked hand in hand. I love Jackson Browne for what he has given us over the years and I just wanted to let him know that many of us who grew up with him don't agree with him. Maybe that is important to him and maybe it's not. After all, in the end it is all about the music.

I just felt moved to comment in response to the August 2004 "general comment" [above] noting that Jackson will alienate half his fan base by joining the "anti-Bush" forces in connection with the MoveOn concerts. I don't think this is true for at least two reasons: one, I have always presumed, perhaps incorrectly, that a significant portion (more than half) of Jackson's fan base shares his political inclinations, even if not on all specific issues; and two, I have always found Jackson to be uniquely articulate and thoughtful in expressing his political views. I find it hard to challenge anyone -- left or right -- who intelligently expresses sincerely held views with integrity and clearly has spent time developing the knowledge and information necessary to support those views. I think Jackson is one of the few artists whose consistent and genuine commitment to the causes he believes in -- many of them not high profile (a la Linda's "Enron-bashing", which is just too easy and obvious a target) and not geared towards election year coverage -- should redeem him in the eyes of those who are otherwise fans but may disagree with his views.

Thank God for Jackson standing up for what he believes and what is best for our country!

Many of Jackson's fans have a new respect for the man with his decision to stand firm with John Kerry. It's amazing that Dennis Miller can bash Kerry and nothing is said of it, but Jackson always choses his battles carefully and is just as careful of his words, then a couple of his "fans" cry foul. My family listens to his music daily and will continue with renewed appreciation for the man.

Bruce Springsteen wrote the following essay, "Chords of Change", in the New York Times which I think puts in the right perspective why we should respect Bruce (and Jackson's and others) decision to become politically active at this time in our history:

"Chords for Change"
August 5, 2004
By BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/08/05/opinion/05bruce.html

Hi Russ--thank you for your comments about JB and his politics. I think your comments were right on. I've seen him live 25 or 30 times and have never heard JB make personal attacks on Bush or anyone else. JB, like many of us, oppose Bush's policies and think they are misguided and morally wrong. JB focuses on the policies, not the personality. He has every right to speak his mind and should do so because he feels strongly about these important issues! While it is "all about the music", he is also a human being (a very thoughtful one at that) and a citizen of this country with every right to speak up!

Although I do agree with Jackson's political views, even if I did not I would support his right to express those views.

Dear Russ:

Please know how much your Jackson Browne website means to us, his fans. Your recent posting telling us how to obtain the Venture Life and Style magazine is just the latest example of the years you've dedicated to helping us to keep apprised of information on Mr. Browne. Your site is always respectful of the artist, and to his fans. Thanks for your integrity, and for giving us a continued feeling of connection to an artist whose gifts are beyond measure. You are terrific!!!!

I've been a fan of Jackson Browne's for some 25 years now. I don't form my political beliefs on what Jackson (or any other rock star) says or doesn't say. In fact I find myself disagreeing with him often. However, if you've ever taken the time to read his statements, letters etc., I think you'd find he's very well informed on any topic that he chooses to speak out on. He's far from being a "We are the World" cheerleader.

The points I'd like to make are these:

1) Jackson does not use his concerts to make political speeches. If the concert is for a political cause - you're well aware of this before you buy the ticket.

2) If you don't care what his point of view is on a particular subject, ignore it. It takes nothing away from his music. The song is the thing.

3) As many have said, Jackson is a citizen of this country and is entitled to voice his opinion. He should not be stripped of his right to free speech because he's an artist.

Jackson's taking a stand for something he believes in and at the very least, it's opened up a dialogue. Before any of us put someone down for taking a stand, we should ask ourselves what we're doing to affect change?

Why is it so terrible that someone expresses his opinion? Express your ideas, listen to others and respect their right to have their opinions. Play nice with the other humans. Really - it's not that hard.

Thanks, as always, Russ.

I'd like to address these comments to anyone who feels (1) that Jackson has betrayed them by voicing a political opnion or choice and (2) that artists should just keep their poltics to themselves.

In 1986, I was stationed in the U.S. Air Force in Germany. I was by then (and had been for over 10 years) a huge Jackson Browne fan. I had organized a bustour up from our small base for 20 of my military buddies to go see the concert with me. They were not huge fans of his but a chance to go to Munich for a concert was an opportunity for a good time in those days.

We were fortunate enough to be standing right at the stage, literally within reaching distance of Jackson and the band. In between songs, Jackson launched into a speech about how embarrassed and ashamed he was at the then U.S Policy in Central America. (He was touring in support of "Lives In The Balance").

In those days, I took my news from main news sources and did not investigate much beneath the surface. I thought in those days that Reagan was doing the right thing by beating back the God-less communist in Nicaraqua, El Salvador, et al. So I took great umbrage at the words Jackson was saying and got into a minor exchange of words with him about it (stupidly comparing his call for us to leave the region the equiliavalent of abadoning Cambodia 10 years before where a subsequent genocide of 2 million people ensued).

Jackson looked at me incredulously as if I were from an alternate reality (and in his mind, I probably was). I was also angry at him for having ruined my good fun that night with me and all my friends. But I was also angry enough to start researching the issues further. And the more I researched,the more I discovered the that the truth I thought I knew was, in fact, a lie.

The moral of the story: I spent the next five years obtaining a degree in International Relations and use that knowledge today in every way I can to hopefully help make the world a better place. I won't go to much futher into it than that. But if Jackson had not stood up for what he believed, I may never have bothered to investigate further and discover not only truths where before lies had existed but possibilities where before darkness resided.

So this is a heartfelt thanks to Jackson (and a long overdue apology as well for being a jerk at his concert) for having had the courage of his convictions all his life and for standing up for those convictions - regardless of who may be offended.

Sincerely,

I have always managed to separate an artist from their politics. I always enjoy vintage Bob Hope comedies. even though I found him too right wing for me. Not agreeing with Vanessa Redgrave's Israeli - Palestinian views has not stopped me from enjoying her films. Dennis Miller's swing from liberal to conservative views doesn't stop me from enjoying his non-political humor.

Hi Russ,

I'm sorry this is so last minute, I was hoping you could post this for me (I'll understand if you can't)...Thanks!

I have an extra Lower Tier ticket available for Jackson at the Will Geer Theatricum in Topanga, this Friday, August 20th. I paid $150 for the ticket, but will sell it for $125 (includes the other shows in the series). All lower & upper tier seats are general admission, upper tier tickets (seats further back) sold for $28 and the lower tier tickets (seats in the 1st 10 or so rows) sold for $150, this included the other 3 shows in the series. The lower tier JB tickets were only sold with the series, you could not purchase it as an individual show.

Here's info on the show... http://www.theatricum.com/events.htm

Please email me if you are interested.

Thanks,

Hi Russ,

i have 2 tickets for sale for the jackson browne concert at the will geer theatricum botanicum in topanga, ca for this friday, august 20. there is no price on the tickets, but i bought 4 of them from someone who gouged me (not the box office) for $100 each. i will sell 2 of tickets for $200, which is what i paid. they are general admission tickets. there are only 300 seats in this theatre. i will have to meet the ticket buyer at the theatre on friday or somewhere near the theatre on friday afternoon before the show, because time is running short. can you please post this for me? email me if you're interested. thanks.

Russ,

Though I'm not a prolific poster, I've been following your JB website from the very beginning. In fact, I think I acquired the last of your "Let the Music Keep Our Spirits High" buttons!

Reading about the tkt offers for Will Geer's Theatricum Botanicum has put me in a nostalgic mood because as soon as I found out about it via your website, I tried unsuccessfully to organize a reunion with two friends who are spread out around the country to meet in Topanga Canyon to see the show. Why? Because we three have the distinction of seeing Jackson at that very same venue over a 4th of July holiday circa 1973/74. His remarkable journey was just starting to accelerate, and his appearance was in conjunction with a week long celebration of the arts in LA. Admittance was free, and since there was no advertising, his show was known strictly by word of mouth. That is, it was known primarily to the cadre of singer/songwriters doing the open mic circuit in LA, not the general public. The theatre was much more rustic back then, and everyone was spread out on blankets enjoying the day. By the time Jackson showed up around 10pm ther e were probably only 100 of us still there on a beautiful summer night as Jackson played a grand piano in the middle of the woods under a blanket of stars......bliss.........

Back in the day........

Have one xtra upper ticket for tonite [Friday, August 20]. If anyone that reads this great site needs one please email me ASAP so we can make arrangements to meet before the show.

This was the BEST Jackson Browne Concert I ever attended. It was under the stars in the woods at the Will Geer Thearticum Botanicum in Topanga Canyon California. What a Night. Jake Kasden, who directed the movie "Orange County" was the Moderator. He introduced Jackson and Moderated the show. It was the second in the Singer/Songwriter Series at this Venue. The Crickets and the Stars provided a Beautiful Backdrop. The Evening was dedicated to the Album 'For Everyman". So you know the setlist. Between each song, Jackson would talk about how that song came to be written.

It was very insightful to hear these stories. He did every Song on the album. Including two he said he NEVER performs live; Colors of the Sun was one of the tunes. This was a true Jackson Browne dream come true. I was sitting dead center in the 7th row. Jackson was relaxed and his voice was in fine form. His sense of humor made for many light moments during this two hour plus performance. The Encore was Lives in the Balance, For America and another song he said he never does in concert "The Late Show". I have to say this was a Great crowd. Very respectful and very quiet. There was a setlist. He did have all his Guitars and his roady brought a few out to play. He also had his piano. This was all in the middle of this rustic wooden stage on a Persian Rug.

Jackson spoke of His Mother and Father. He Even Spoke about his Late Wife. For Everyman has never been performed Live in order. Just like the Setlist on the Album. That was amazing. I was with friends from California, New Jersey and Seattle, Washington who traveled here to see this very special show. I feel he will not be doing this kind of show any time soon. It was truly a Unique Performance from one of the Greatest Living Singer/Songwriters in the world...Jackson Browne.

Peace Out =;}

i feel so fortunate that i was able to get tickets for this unique show. we arrived at the venue at about 2 pm, when they were still letting early birds in. there were already a few fans, who had travelled from far to see jackson perform. at about 4:30 pm, jackson drove up in his convertible car, got out and walked right by us. we had the wonderful opportunity to talk to him for a few minutes and he graciously let us take a couple of pictures with him. my cousin got her daughter's picture autographed. then we got to listen to him do a 3 hour soundcheck before the show (did i mention how fortunate i feel?).

the show was fantastically unique and had an incredibly intimate feel to it. in this beautiful setting we listened to jackson tell us the stories behind his songs on "For Everyman." he even spoke of his first wife. he played all of the songs from that album, some of which i have never heard him play live before.

jackson came out for two encores: Lives in the Balance, which is amazing, because the lyrics so reflect the current political climate in our country, but was written nearly 20 years ago, and the Late Show.

it was also nice to be able to spend a little time talking to fans who travelled from all over the country to see jackson. it was nice meeting you, debbie, bj, kathy, and tara. see you at the next show!

All I can say is how very incredible and special last night's show was in Topanga Canyon. It was like having Jackson in your living room. The setting was so intimate, I feel so privileged having been able to attend. To hear Jackson sing the whole album of For Everyman was the greatest. That album has always been my favorite...what a treat! Something I will never forget and will always remember! Thank you Jackson!!

hi,

my name is luna and i am a really big fan of Jackson's. Actually my mom loves him more than i do, i'm only 13. i don't really have a question i just wanted a way so that people can see the range of people who listen and love his music. I have heard all of his music from "Jackson Browne (AKA Saturate Before using)" to "The Naked Ride Home". I love the songs where you can hear little bits of his personality, such as on the song "Cocaine" he and a few other people are laughing and having a good time at the end. I admire the fact that he has such a sense of humor after all of this time. I also thoroughly enjoyed my very first Jackson Browne concert because he was completely normal with the audience and because it was a solo accoustic tour it was about the music and everyone having a good time. I know this is a long letter so, sorry. I just thought i might compliment my favorite musician. thank you.

PS Great Page.

Hi Russ,

I wasn't sure if you post things like this at the site but thought I would mention it anyway... Dan Fogelberg was recently diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. I'm sure that his music has touched many of the same folks' lives that Jackson has touched as well. I was wondering if you could post something about it at the site and provide the fans this link to communicate their best wishes to him & his family during this very difficult time.

Thank you in advance. www.thelivinglegacy.net/wishes.html

Best regards,

I have written a few times and thank you for posting the letters on the site. I have been a Jackson Browne fan since the early 70s and nothing that Jackson stands for regardless of my beliefs will change that. I only have a point I would like to make; Yesterday, my son (also a JB fan) asked me if I wanted to go to the concert October 5 in Kansas City. I told him probably but would have to see where, when, etc. When I found out it was a Move On sponsored deal I hesitated but thought what the hell, JB is JB and I still wanted to go. When I found out that all proceeds go to John Kerry's election campaign I reneged.

I believe that Jackson has the right to say or promote anything he believes in as he IM sure would say I have the right to say or promote and believe anything I want to but this is like saying you are for John Kerry if you see Jackson and I really don't have a choice. I think a more fair system would be to say you can support John Kerry with your ticket purchase or if you are not so inclined then the purchase price will be forwarded to a charity of Jackson's choice (other than a political one) You might bandy this idea around awhile and see what others think. Maybe IM just off the wall but its just how I feel. Other than that Jackson Browne forever!!!!!!!

Signed,

Hi Russ...thank you for providing us with a forum to celebrate Jackson, a man who knows what he stands for. I think all of the artists who are participating in the MoveOn concerts should be applauded and commended for "putting their money where their mouth is." I only wish they could bring the message to all 50 states, not just the so-called "swing" states. I'd love to see more people getting excited about the political process and consequently getting out there to vote. If Robert from Omaha is bothered by this particular concert, which bills itself as nothing less than a democratic fundraiser, he doesn't have to go. The notion of giving people the choice of making a donation or not completely misses the mark.

I have two tix to JB at the LA County Fair. I cannot attend and the tix are very good. Please email me if you are interested.

This is a little late, but I wanted to submit a review of the concert at the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. I have see Jackson perform numerously throughout the years, but this concert was absolutely the most unique concert experience I have in had in over a decade of seeing his shows. We were treated to a night similar to VH1's "Storytellers." Jackson performed "For Everyman" in its entirety and came back for one encore containing 2 more songs. All and all only 12 songs, but a 2.5 hour concert, nonetheless. I enjoy listening to his amusing stories as much as I enjoy listening to him play his songs. I hope this guy never stops performing.

Russ,

If would be so kind to post, I have two tickets in the third row for the Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt Vote For Change show to sell for ERie, PA on October 1, 2004. While I thought I would get away from this, my 8th month pregnant wife has said otherwise (lol). They are great seats and if someone wants to buy them , they can kindly email me privately at jkjsmith99@aol.com.

Thanks Russ.

Hello all..

I am lucky enough to have gotten GREAT seats to the Erie Vote for Change concert that takes place.on my birthday.what a special one it will be. I last saw Jackson at his Hall of Fame show...was most special. does anyone happen to have a tape of that show? If so, please email me at shelleyk@twcny.rr.com.

My hubby and I and our 2 kids will go to Erie..they will stay at the hotel.......as we attend the show. I agree that we need a new direction for our country........I most disagree with President Bush's environmental decisions........it doesn't matter what any of us believe..if there is not a planet to beleive it on.

My hopes is that we do see a new direction with John Kerry and John Edwards........for our children and generations to come. Let's all give our support and attend these shows and get our country back...................Long live Bill clinton also...I for one do miss him...........

Russ,

I have noticed on your site that JB will be playing in Aruba on October 8th. The move-on.org site states that he will be playing in Jacksonville, FL on October 8th. Now I know that he can't be playing two places at once, so which one is correct?

Because of Jackson's association with MoveOn.org and the anti-bush concerts scheduled for this October, we will no longer listen to nor attend anymore concerts with Jackson Browne.

Russ,

Your response to Dan W. could not have been more eloquently stated. I have been a fan of Jackson's since I first heard "Doctor My Eyes" as a 6th grader in 1973. I have had the privilege of seeing him live on 10 occasions. As I am a Texas Republican, it's no surprise that my political views often differ from his; however, I can't imagine not being open-minded enough to listen to his beautiful songs about life and love in all its forms.

In fact, I teach American literature to high school juniors and often play music in the classroom as a parallel literary themes. JB's music is well known to my students as we listen to and discuss the message in his songs. Just because one holds different views doesn't mean the opposing view is incorrect or unimportant. Much of the literature we read criticizes government, religion and other societal issues. Any form of art can be inspiring to the inquisitive mind. Thank you, Jackson, for providing those of us who choose to listen with material that brings about intellectual discourse and thank you, Russ, for the hard work you do to allow us a forum to communicate with one another.