Jackson Browne - Fan Letters & Reviews
July 2000
This is not an opinion so much as prayer,,,,,, looking at all of his upcoming concerts, I see nothing for the good old "midwest"!!!! He can't forget about ill and Wis...... come back Jackson!!!!
-one of the "3 sisters"
Can someone tell me how many times Jackson Browne has toured and performed in Australia, and in which years?
Thank you.
Webmaster's Reply: I can't tell you how many letters I've gotten (in the past few month alone!) from people asking me about Jackson's past tour schedules. All of Jackson's tour schedules since January 1996 are posted on this Web site. I don't have any information about prior tour schedules, but would LOVE to be able to post all of Jackson's complete tour history going back to the early 1970s. If anyone out there has this information, or can suggest a way of obtaining it, please let me know. THANK YOU!
just wanted to say i saw jackson, along with about 2200 others, here in omaha on 7-6. great, intimate show. i read previous reviews, and i thinks it's great that he plays different songs, according to audience requests. just wish i had been able to request SKY BLUE AND BLACK, hearing that live must be fantastic. this concert was sooo different from hearing him previously with a band. that was good (how could it not be), but this solo performance was beyond great. if you're anywhere near a concert site GET THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jackson put on a tremendous show. I have never seen an artist establish such a warm raport with an audience before.
Having seen him perform at least twice before I was a bit wary of a solo accoustic session, but it was amazing.
If you get a chance catch this tour, it is worth every penny!
Jackson; If you want another gig in Omaha, you could pack'em in anytime you want. THANKS for a GREAT show!
This was his solo acoustic gig and It was the best of all the shows I've seen over the years. I've been lucky enough to see Jackson six or so previous times at some great venues including the Redrocks in Morrison Co. The Omaha Music Hall is a small 2200 seater and it was nearly a sellout. Very intimate place for this kind of solo act. Because of an orchestral well directly in front of the stage (if it had been filled with water it would have acted as a moat), even the first row was back 20 ft or so from the stage. I was seated at center isle, right, at about the 6th row and I could see all details of JB's face very clearly and could pick up on all of his facial expressions - which were many and varied.
JB was wearing black pants and a UCLA blue colored shirt. No UCLA on it - that's just how I describe the color. It was half tucked in. He was cool of course but kind of the eccentric - nutty professor - look. Same Jackson Browne hair. Very thin. Sipping on a water bottle throughout the night. Just as Jackson once wrote about a long lost love, the years have appeared to allow Jackson to also go free. He looks to be about a decade younger than his known age. The guy still has it. The women all over the hall were unabashedly and overtly sexually soliciting this American icon to the point that it was getting embarrassing - not to mention distracting to the great one.
He walked out at around 7:45pm. Tickets said show started at 7:30. Came out with guitar in hand and started right up. He always remained front and center stage. Behind him were racked up about six vintage Gibson guitars. When he performed with a guitar he would stand. He also had his electric yamaha piano. I know nothing about instruments but this electric piano sounded like the real thing to me. He put on quite an impressive display of talented guitar and piano musicianship during the evening's nearly 3 hour performance.
I cannot give you the exact songs he performed let alone give you them in order. I'm about Jackson's age so you can imagine the condition of my brain and particularly the memory cells. I was also too into enjoying the moment to care about remembering those details. These are the songs I clearly remember him playing:
I may have missed one or two but that's about as accurate as you'll be getting from me. We got to hear about 1/5 or 1/6 of Jackson's repertoire that has been recorded under label. Not bad. The man is talented unlike no other. The man is pure. He opened up for the crowd. He showed a little of himself that is so important in an intimate setting like this. He talked of arriving in Omaha the night before and of how he likes to go out and mingle a little in search of water or to wash his clothes. He told of a young Omaha man down in the Old Market Place were Jackson was in a convenient store type of place and the kid - after staring at JB says "you must get sick of people telling you that you look like Jackson Browne". He continued with the story of the kids eventual realization and it was quite funny and personal to all present. He also told of being in Omaha in the mid 70's and how he found the "mother-lode" of 60's furniture down in the market which he promptly bought and stuffed into the bowels of his Silver Eagle and brought it all back to his studio. Jackson said he's a 60's type of person and the Omaha stuff still looks good to him.
All in all - like I said - it was the best. If you get a chance to see this act you will love it. The fun thing is that in between songs it gets real rowdy. People are throwing (shouting) out literally dozens of song titles - to the point the sometimes it was a little rude. More than once JB was trying to follow somewhat of a preset song list. He would make a decision on the song, someone would persuasively suggest a song, he would then change guitars or go to the yamaha and then maybe change his mind again when yet another loud suggestion would come in. He clearly forgot what it was he was going to play at one time and he let us know that it was beginning to become un-fun for him. JB said - in only the way that he can - that he thought he was "becoming pensive and you people don't want me to become pensive"! Of course the tension was immediately released when more than a couple ladies in the crowd offered him something in the nature of a quickie or was it a marriage proposal. It was really hard to keep up with that shit because it was flying from the lips of multiple horned-out chics pretty much non-stop.
If I didn't have five kids and a wife who all want tickets from me for any JB performance I go to - I'd follow this act around to a few cities. It was that much fun. Oh well Take It Easy to all you JB fans.
Jackson took the stage to a standing ovation from 2000 fans (2700 theater) at 8:20 pm dressed in a dark long sleeve shirt rolled up to the elbows, gray slacks, gray socks, and gray cloth sandals. He plugged in and went directly in to "I'm Alive". At times he would do a stop and you hear a pin drop in the theater. He commented on the Civic Center being "one of those theaters where he gets to stare in to a bright spotlight all night" "like staring at an on-coming train" but by the second set they got that toned down a bit. He said sounded well though, even though he couldn't see us, he could hear us.
Hearing Jackson solo brings an atmosphere similar to what it must be like in the studio or at a friend's house when he brings in a new song. Stripped to the guitar or piano and Jackson solid vocals the songs take on a new life. Despite the clinkers and the word confusion at times, his genius shines through and it is a warm feeling for those who get to experience it. It was treat to see him facing the audience at his little Yamaha keyboard, and his piano style was fascinating to watch. Laid back California, describes JB best, who commented on "Why do you live here?" when referring to the Midwest. "We're here for you" someone shouted from the audience. "Well, I'm here for you" Jackson replied. Tears welled when he brought out an old song he hasn't played much in the past. The slide show I had made years ago (about my new daughter using "I Though I Was A Child" as the music track) flashed through my memory. Jackson gave a heart felt intro to "For A Dancer", and seemed to choke up a little, saying he'd played it at many occasions for people who had passed on. New words to "Cocaine" brought rounds of applause as he sang about "Standing here, sharp as tack, a few million brain cells, I'd like to have back". All and all a great experience for the old and young, for seasoned JB fans and newbies too.
The setlist for Friday July 7th, Des Moines Civic Center (corrected 07/16/00 - thanks Kabl)
Russ, thanks for the great web site. If it wasn't for your site I would have never made this concert (180 miles away) as I would not have known it was happening. This was my fifth Jackson spread over 30 years concert going. I only wish I could come to Cali. to see some of those great upcoming benefits shows. Keep up the good work.
It was a tremendous show. Jackson looked and sounded great, in spite of his comments about his hair driving him crazy. (The gray ones are out of control). This was the 3rd time I've seen him in concert, and it was the best, helped by the fact that I had the best seats I've ever had at a Civic Center show, about row 25, and I had a great view of him. Dagimar summed it up pretty well, except that according to my notes, the 3rd song was Looking Into You, not Farther On.
The man is such a talent. Six guitars, one keyboard, and one incredible musician/singer/songwriter on stage for over two and a half hours. I feel that there aren't many performers around today who could do what he is doing with this tour. Talent will out, of course. I particularly enjoyed I Thought I Was A Child and was (and always have been) so moved by For A Dancer. To hear it acoustic solo, well, words are inadequate to describe how I felt listening to it. These are two of my favorite JB songs are I was very happy and a little surprised that he played them both after seeing some of the reviews of earlier shows.
Fans, of course, shouldn't miss this, but anyone who really appreciates musical talent would enjoy this show of a brilliant performer at work with no gimmicks, special effects or light shows. Just pure musicianship. Thank you, Jackson, for all of it. Long may you play.
The JB concert in Des Moines was my second of the solo, acoustic tour. The first concert I attended was in Memphis and, I must admit, the DM concert was even better! Jackson seemed a bit tired in Memphis and sang fewer songs. He was at his best in DM, telling more stories, witty, funny and playing longer! The audience was attentive, yelling some requests but mostly letting Jackson take the lead. When someone yelled for Sky Blue and Black after the third song, he said it was too early for that one. Then came a request for Rosie and Jackson said "it's never too early for Rosie" and proceeded to sing it with the mention that "this song is not about me." I did not keep a set list but it was pretty similar to previous concerts with the addition of I Thought I was a Child which brought a tear to my eye.
Jackson said he was in a good mood and felt good. He said it must be something about the "ionization of the atmosphere," -- "no," he said, "must be in the water and I tasted the Des Moines tap water today!" He went on to talk about why people live where they do and asked why we live here? Someone then yelled, "we're here for you" and Jackson retorted, "well, I'm here for you, too!" The audience loved it!
Jackson wore grey slacks, a dark grey shirt and sandals with socks. He mentioned that his hair was driving him crazy because he is getting some grey ones and they don't lay down -- just kind of spring up every which way! I was in the second row but looked through my binoculars and could see quite a few grey hairs on that beautiful head!
Jackson said he thought this was a great show, great night and how it always surprises him how one night can be so different from the next. That no matter how much he tries to make them (concerts) all the same or tries to make them all different, each night/concert turns into its own unique experience.
On a personal note, I attended this concert with my 22-year-old daughter, her first. My three daughters have grown up listening to Jackson so this was quite a cool experience for both of us. When I left to drive home, I thanked her for going with me (actually she bought the tickets for my birthday gift) and that we had experienced something that we will always remember. People can write or talk about the concert but, unless you were there, well it's just not the same. Kind of like drinking Des Moines tap water!
Jackson Browne played here in Springfield,Missouri, last night at our performing arts hall. We never get to hear artists of his calibar here, so it was a special treat. He asked when he had been in Springfield last and was told 1978. I know that was accurate because it was my 1st ever concert. My husband and I were dating. We have now been married for 22 years. It brought back some great memories. He seemed pretty surprised it had been so long. Our crowd here is pretty reserved. The only time someone stood was at the end of his set and the end of the oncore. I worry that he didn't think we appreciated him. That was definately not true. During the preformance you could here a pin drop. I think were in awe.
At break and after the show fans could not say enough about how they enjoyed the show. Not to rehash the previous reviews, but what was differant here. He remarked that this was a strange crowd. We didn't request the usual songs. He said they are my songs and It's great but they are different. We didn't have requests and he didn't sing Cocaine, Lives in the Balance, or World in motion. He did do Linda Paloma, My Opening Farewell. One funny moment was toward the end when several women shouted out in unison Here Come Those Tears. He shook his head and told us that was a song he needed a band for. He looked over at them. They must have looked disappointed. He said, but I do have a Country version, what the hey, I'm near Branson aren't I? He sang several lines of the song to kind of the music to the Old Tammy Wynette song Stand by Your Man. It was funny. He told us about a dream he had had the night before that he had had before. He would come on stage and something would be wrong he would fix it, and something else would break, and it would go on and on.
He was very charming and endearing at this show. His talent is very remarkable. He has always been one of my favorite performers, I think he his now at the top of the list. I hope he reads this or someone who knows him and tells him how much we loved the show here even though, the crowd was not rambunctious. We were quiet ,out of awe and respect for a truly fine artist.
THE SHOW WAS GREAT!!!!! The sound was perfect as was Jackson's voice. He talked and joked with the audience and even asked that the house lights be turned up so he could see us. Once the lights were up he shaded his eyes with his hand and looked out at the audience and waved as he smiled as only he can smile.
He commented on how cool it was that the songs we requested were not the norm and he did his best to play everyone, even the ones that required a band. If he couldn't play it he would explain why. I don't think anyone's request went unanswered even if it was just an apologiy that he couldn't do that one.
Linda Paloma, never one of my favorites, was awsome. His guitar playing and voice on it was oustanding, I have a new respect for that song and will always remember his perfect show in Springfield when I hear it. He graciously accepted flowers from two ladies, shaking their hands, God only knows what they requested and if he obliged ;) Sorry I don't have a set list, I can never take my eyes off Jackson to write one down.
The audience was very responsive, not enough standing ovations IMHO, but requested several songs and brief conversations with Jackson. I am so impressed with the friendliness of Jackson's fans. The past two shows I have been to I have made new friends (hi Jenny, Suzie, Bob, & Derrick) I have read several reviews on his shows and it sounds as if he has the same conversations at some shows, how could you not repeat yourself, but it felt as if he really enjoyed himself. I could tell by the smile on his face as he left the stage he had fun too. I saw him in Memphis last month and believe me this was a different Jackson. Memphis was good, how could Jackson be bad, but Springfield was awsome. The man's talent is amazing. If you haven't seen him recently give yourself a treat and see him. Just like he says at the end of his show take care of yourself.
"and it left me so warm and so high"
Just a note to add to the reviews already posted.
The show was really great and very intimate if only for the small venue and crowd. We also saw the Memphis show and the request here were definitely not the norm! We were lucky enough to have front row seats here in Springfield!
Jackson started the show with the usual "I'm Alive," "Shape of a Heart," and then told the same basic story about "Looking into You." He also recalled a sometime girlfriend from the nearby Kansas City area "that he went out with- or actually they stayed in mostly!" "Rosie" was the first request yelled out which he played immediately. A bunch more followed the song including my request for "Farther On." He went on to play "Jamaica Say You Will," "Red Neck Friend" and "Linda Paloma," which he said no one every request but he obviously enjoyed playing. I also gained a new respect for the song which had never been a favorite.
Someone called for "That Girl Could Sing" which Jackson explained really didn't work without a band but he did hit the opening chord and said that it just wouldn't work. At this point Jackson said that he had a set list but he was too far removed from it by now and he wouldn't "go against the grain." I'm sure I've forgotten several songs but this was basically the end of the first set.
Second set started with "For Everyman" and a requested "Sky Blue and Black." Then Jackson said that this one had been requested eariler and he played "Farther On"! I tend to be pretty jaded about concert going in general these days but I cannot begin to describe how it felt to have Jackson play the song that I had requested! Truly never to be forgotten! My husband then called for "Something Fine" and he played, followed by a called for "Walkin' Slow." After which Jackson remarked that we should be careful what we wish for...meaning that that the song would have been better served by a band accompaniment. But a noble effort all the same.
Also included in the second set, "Sleep's Dark and Silent Gate," "Rock Me on the Water," and "My Opening Farewell." Also the expected "Doctor in my Eyes-My Imagination" combo right into "These Days" and the "Next Voice You Hear."
For the encore, the ladies who had called for "Here Come Those Tears Again" would clearly not be denied and Jackson did the "country" version. The attempt was greatly appreciated! Again something I won't soon forget!
During the conversion of the evening, someone asked when the new album would be out. Jackson laughed and said that he had been working on it so long it didn't feel like he had begun it and that it would probably be out next year. Also the dream bit was about a recurring dream that he has where he keeps tuning guitars, the piano, everything until the roadies ask if the ushers can go home and he looks out to an empty venue! Very endearing story!
In closing, I think the two shows I have seen were both wonderful, each in their own way. Memphis had the usual songs you want to hear and Springfield the unusual songs you wanted to hear! Really if you have the opportunity to catch the show, GO! If you are lucky enough to be able to go twice chances are good it won't be the same set list or stories. Now if we can just do something about getting Jackson Browne into the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame...any ideas on how to accomplish this? No one else is as deserving as he!
Russ, thanks for the great site. Without it I would never have known about this tour and would have missed the concert experience of a lifetime!
The historic Paramount Theater in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a surprising stop on Jackson Browne's solo acoustic tour, proved to be a near-perfect venue for his two hour plus concert on July 10. His performance, which was spirited, nearly flawless, and even stunning at times, was received with wild appreciation from a near-capacity crowd of about 1,800 adoring fans, many who have waited for years to see Jackson perform in this part of the country. Looking fit and relaxed (and maybe a bit road-weary), Jackson was flanked by a rack of six acoustic guitars and a Yamaha electric piano (which sounded amazingly like an acoustic grand piano). Without his usual stellar band of supporting musicians to back him, Jackson proved that his still incredibly strong voice and wonderful songs hold up extremely well, even when pared down to the basics. His solo accompaniment also gave him a chance to showcase his strong musicianship, particularly on the songs where he played guitar. Using primarily what appeared to be two vintage Gibson J-45's, Jackson was able to add a dimension to many of his songs in a way that few fans have had the privilege of hearing. For example, his singing and guitar work on "World in Motion," "Too Many Angels," and "The Barricades of Heaven," were powerful, even stunning, and his surprising slide guitar work on "Bright Baby Blues" added an amazing soulfulness to that terrific song from "The Pretender" album.
For most of the concert, Jackson seemed to be in a quiet, subdued mood, bantering less with the audience than what I expected based on the reviews of his recent solo acoustic shows. Working without a set list, he seemed to gravitate more to his mournful ballads about life, love, and loss (particularly during the second set) such as "For Everyman," "Late for the Sky," "These Days," "Something Fine," "Fountain of Sorrow," "Two of Me, Two of You," and "Sky Blue and Black." For me, this was a perfect focus -- these are the songs I really love and that have had such a strong impact on my life.
The only previously unrecorded song he performed proved to be an unlikely show-stopper. During the first set, after singing what he referred to as "my rehab version of Cocaine," A fan yelled out a request for "You Just Want Me," at which Jackson laughed and said "I donât get many requests for that song...it's not one you sing in polite company" After a hilarious description of the song about an empty amorous encounter, which was written by former band member Doug Haywood, Jackson said he wasn't going to sing it, but he had baited the hook too much at this point, and obliged the pleading audience by sitting down at the piano and saying "I hope I can remember this" and "I think it does appeal to more than just the prurient interest." He then launched into this hilarious, graphic, and bawdy song, which brought many in the audience to their feet. After following up this song with another audience request for "Rosie" (about which Jackson said "Now I want you to know that I didnât write this one about me"), he said "I can see what kind of people you are...I think I see a trend developing here and I better change it!" (And then finished the first set with "Rock Me on the Water" and "World in Motion").
For any serious fan of Jackson Browne, this concert was Nirvana. The more casual fans may not have gotten to hear some of the band-oriented hits they might have come for, such as "Boulevard," and "Running on Empty," and "Somebody's Baby," but they had to have been moved by the intensity and soulfulness with which her performed this remarkable collection of songs spanning nearly 30 years. As a transplant from the west coast, I had my doubts that I would ever be able to see Jackson perform in my new home state of Iowa, so this show was almost like a gift. I had seen him in concert twice before in the west with a full band: In early 1977, on the heels of the release of "The Pretender," and in 1996, on his "Looking East" Tour. Both were wonderful, powerful shows. But seeing Jackson Browne perform solo acoustic in an intimate setting like the Paramount Theater was something extra special. Thanks, Jackson, for stopping in Iowa, and for your incredible songs, which like Russ says, are "the soundtrack to our lives.".
Set List, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, July 10, 2000
I returned from an overnight tript to Topeka after taking the train for three hours and meeting a friend in Kansas City then driving about another hour to get to a great show. This was my fifth Jackson Browne show and the best by far. By my estimate there were less than 2000 people in the theater but he gave it his all. The following in a list of the songs that were played but certainly not in this order with some exception which will be evident:
I may have left something off/or added something not played but it was a well rounded show that came in at just under three hours. There were multiple audience requests many of which were played. I wish that he had played The Late Show. I wasn't the only one to call it out but he stated that was one he needed his band. All in all it was a wonder night and well worth the trip.
What a show. I'm beat, may have to do this in shifts!
Jackson came out at 7:56. He was wearing a long sleeved black shirt, rolled up sleeves of course, baggie jeans and sandals with socks. Didn't he know it was nearly 100 degrees outside? He looked very comfortable--his shiny hair was right at eye level again. That's how he looked!
(g=guitar p=piano)
His set list included:
(I completely forgot to include which instrument he played on the second set!)
Jackson looked a bit weary, and his impatience began to show in the second half. Some woman up front (I was 4th row in the section to the left of her) had been snapping pics all night and finally, after Miles Away, she'd taken one of him again and he gave her a look. He put away the guitar, walked over to his roadie and mentioned something, then came back to the mic and confronted her! He said, Lady, you've been taking pictures of me all night long and it's all I can see when I look out in that direction. It's distracting and I think you have enough pictures of me by now, so I need you to stop. He also mentioned not knowing if the venue had made it clear to the audience that pictures were not allowed, but he definitely wanted no more pics taken of him. From that point on, he seemed down. People applauded his request of her, but the crowd seemed somewhat unresponsive to his music--meaning he was really giving us some great stuff, but people just didn't respond like I think, he thought they should. He sounded to strong, so clear, it was amazing. There was some intermittent response to an especially soul baring lyric, or hard played verse, but towards the end, it seemed people were tired and were just too lazy or mezmerized to respond. I know I couldn't take my eyes off of him. I was soaking it up!
Other conversations he had with the audience were about his grandfather's home, that was later rented out by artists that drank a bunch of wine! He mentioned his grandmother was scandalized by them as they drank so much wine, the trash barrels were always full of empty wine bottles!! So funny! He also talked about the 'castle' having a dungeon, a chapel, I'm thinking this is The Abbey. Also, he said he never understood why they moved out and he'd take the bus on weekends to go back to the house and harrass the renters!
Also, some yelled out a request and Jackson thought he said "play Bo Diddley" and he laughed, saying he thought the person really said to play David Lindley, and went on to refer to David and his own special language. This language adds a 'p' or 'b' to the beginning and ending of words, so Jackson gave us an example of how his name would sound. We laughed, then he said the scary part was, that you could understand him! (David Lindley that is!)
He also responded to a man's comment: Not a problem. Jackson had said something about some songs not being suitable to play without a band, and the man said, NOT A PROBLEM. Jackson then wondered aloud, where did that saying come from? He then said, he'd heard it in Australia 4 years ago and gave us some other Aussie slang. A few times through the evening, NOT A PROBLEM came out again and always got a laugh.
He also talked about going to France, that he was some kind of star there! He also said you know why the French are so arrogant and think they're better than anyone else? Because they are! What? Didn't quite get this...then, how he got on to fast food, I don't know. But he said the French version of fast food put ours to shame. He mentioned that Germany and some other country's fast food was worse than ours! He'd reported that in France, you can drive along, stop at a cafe', cafeteria type place thinking it would be horrible but they'd have a pot of coffee on for anyone that wanted it. He mentioned they really looked out for you. Fresh everthing, sounds good to me, but better than us? It got pretty quiet after that comment, I noticed.
At the start of the show, he did say that this venue was one of those that he wasn't able to see the people in the audience. You could see him try on occasion, to make out faces.
I have to say, the show was everything I hoped it would be. But, I grew tired of people calling requests out over one another. People were also very rude and would get up and down, and it was a distraction. My secretary works the venue as a docent, and she said they got so tired of it, they kept people out until a song had ended. Way to go Deloris!
I had sent Jackson's management company some info about Topeka, in case Jackson had time to check out music stores, etc. His assistant called me and reported that as I had thought and mentioned in my letter, that he'd have no time to check out any sites. She reported they would be in and out. I didn't bother to wait around after for any hopes of meeting him and Deloris reported he did not meet with people. He really did look tired towards the end.
That's about it, it was a night I'll never forget. Catch the show down the road folks if you can, and give him your all cuz he sure deserves it. He thanked us at the end and asked that we all take care of each other. I'll do my part!
Seeing JB in concert has ultimately been the most impressionable moment, besides the birth of my daughter, in my life. I am a bit out of the ordinary as far as JB fans go. His first album, JACKSON BROWNE (Saturate before using) was first released the day I was born. I have since purchased numerous JB albums, and at the concert, felt like the youngest one there. No offense, I truly enjoyed myself. Seeing him solo acoustic I have to believe is the best way to see him. I agree with the Omaha letter that it was rather personal, having him play requests, almost as if he was sitting playing just for you. His appearance in person was exactly as I expected and very appropriate. I would love to see JB again, and look forward to it. Like the Omaha man, if I didn't have responsibilities I would also follow him. His music is not only sung from the heart but also from the soul. No matter what the song, it makes you think about who you are, where you've been, and how you are possibly going to get to tomorrow. I respect the music and hope he continues to entertain us all.
Does anyone know if Jackson has any plans to return to the New England Area Preferrably Massachusetts. I don't see anything listed yet this year, and I would love to see him again after his incredible performance at the Tweeter Center in Mansfield Massachusetts one year ago.
Russell, thanks for providing this forum and maintaining an excellent website.
For my eighth Jackson Browne show (dating back to 1977), I drove 3 1/2 hours from west suburban Chicago to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The venue was the beautiful, ornate and extremely hot Paramount Theater. The show was scheduled for 7:30 and Jackson had played the first note by 7:45. The 2 hour, 40 minute show was packed with highlights, including a handful of songs I never thought I'd hear Jackson play live. And his voice sounded better than ever.
Five acoustic guitars were lined up onstage behind a Yamaha piano. Jackson walked onstage with a sixth acoustic and launched into "I'm Alive."
By the fourth song, the show could have ended and it would have been worth the trip. It only got better. Jackson always has such outstanding bands and lush arrangements. It was great to hear them stripped bare. It was striking that the imagery and detail in his songs seemed so much more vivid in the solo acoustic format.
I especially appreciated that, although Jackson served up a giant portion of his old classics, he drew from the entire gamut of his career in the 26 songs he performed. Songs like "Looking into You," "Farther On", "Late for the Sky", "Two of Me, Two of You," "The Pretender" and "Sky Blue and Black" (among others) reinforced my long-held belief that Jackson is the greatest living songwriter in the pop/rock genre. It was refreshing, and rewarding, that he varied the setlist quite a bit from his shows in Des Moines, Springfield (Mo.) and Omaha.
SETLIST
I'm Alive -- guitarAdditional highlights -- From other accounts on this website, Jackson didn't seem to do as many requests as he has been, but one in particular was choice. Someone in the audience had heard a tape of a drunken Jackson singing Doug Haywood's "You A**hole You." It begins with the memorable lyrics "It came to me as you came/You'd just as soon be (expletive deleted) a doorknob ..." You get the picture. I could give more, if I weren't laughing so hard after that that I lost track. Jackson was reluctant to perform it, but allowed himself to be coerced although he was careful to point out that his former jack-of-all-trades Haywood wrote it. To paraphrase Jackson, it made the show, and that was sweet.
He followed it, appropriately, with "Rosie", also by request. Then said, "One problem with doing requests is that, when you see a theme establishing itself, sometimes you have to stop it." Someone bailed him out by requesting "Rock Me on the Water." and the set did a 180.
* For the most part, the audience was appreciative (see exceptions below) and didn't sit on their hands as some earlier in the tour were said to. When they clapped along to "Doctor My Eyes" and sang along to "Take it Easy", the energy level in the crowd and onstage rose visibly. I think the audience helped bring out an extraordinary performance in Jackson. Only wish I'd hit more stops on the tour to have more basis for comparison.
Public service announcement -- If, like the loud blonde woman behind me in Cedar Rapids, you can't be quiet and respectful during the appropriate moments in the set (rather than, for example, laughing during "Late for the Sky" and talking throughout "Two of Me, Two of You"), please do the rest of us a favor and save your money for the next full band tour. Hopefully, then the volume will mercifullly drown you out.
One last stray thought: If I were Jackson and were singing a song filled with poignant memories of my first wife who committed suicide ("Late for the Sky"), I think I'd be a tad miffed to hear people in the audience laughing. As opposed to, say, paying attention to the lyrics. Or simply shutting their yappers.
In closing -- if anyone has the complete, unabridged lyrics to "You A**hole You", please e-mail them to: considine_mike_a@hotmail.com.
Thank you.
Webmaster's Reply: A lot of the old bootlegs refer to this song as "You Don't Want Meat" however Doug Haywood wrote this song and he says that the title is "You A**hole, You". Doug tells me that he never performs this song and that Jackson is the only one he knows that can get away with singing it in public... but this is the first time I can recall Jackson performing that song since the 1970s.
There were quite a lot of bootlegs of Jackson and David Lindley performing this song at the Bryn Mawr show in 1975 as that show was apparently broadcast or something... which I've always thought was kind of strange if Jackson was singing such lyrics. Could be that he simply forgot it was being broadcast, or that he was just testing the limits... I recall finding several different bootlegs back in the late '70s with that evening's performance... but I haven't seen many bootleg CD pressings of that show.
I believe the words are something like:
You A**hole, You by Doug Haywood
Well it came to me as you came
You don't even know my name
You'd just as soon be f****** a door knob
You A******, you.
You'll f*** anything that moves
And I'll tell you what that proves
You don't want me, you just want meat
You A******, you.
You wish that I was stronger
And could last a little longer
I get so mad that I could spit
I don't need that kind of sh**
Well you toyed with my affection
And you laughed at my erection
And it's lack of circumsection
You A******, you.
Not exactly something you are going to hear on the radio every day! Doug Haywood was in Jackson's band for quite a number of years, playing bass and singing harmony. Doug is a great songwriter who has written some very good material... but Jackson's fans know him best for this song. Doug's wonderful 1996 album "Nevada" is still available from Doug's Web site (there's a link from the LINKS Section of this Web site). Doug is currently working on a new album... which he hopes to have out by the end of this year. At one point he was thinking about making an album of some of his funnier songs (not sure he'd include this one!), but I'm not sure if that's the direction he's decided to take.
Well, I am sorry to say that last night was my last night to see Jackson until I don't know when. :(
He did a benefit show in Okemah OK for the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival. The procedes of his show allowed the rest of the weekend festival to be free except for donations. Relax folks he will not be at the rest of the festival.
It was in an old movie theatre with about 600 seats. Considering the age of the place the sound was pretty good, although I saw Jackson make a few faces at the speakers and adjust his box on his waist several times. He played some different songs, which, as usual, I did not write down.
He did a Dylan song and a Woody Guthrie song (Deportee). After playing Deportee he said singing someone else's songs on the side of your bed at home is a lot different than doing it in front of an audience (probably especially nerve racking since Arlo and family were on the front row). He went on to say that he figured he could sing his songs even if his voice wasn't that good (yeah right) because they were his songs. After a few requests were shouted out, a few he played, he said he had thought about what he wanted to play for the show and was going to do more folksy songs tonight.
The air conditioning was limited and the flies flying around JB distracted me, if Jackson noticed them he didn't let on. Then there was this guy in the audience that kept yelling "hey JB" during the songs. He would clap, not in time, and try to sing back up, it was very distracting. I shshed him once then a girl told him to shut up! The audience clapped and Jackson laughed but it didn't stop him. You would have thought he was at a ZZ Top concert!
Anyway Jackson was very gracious to us, accepting the key to the city and performing for two hours with a brief intermission. The 1 2/2 hour wait in the 100 degree heat was worth it. (I wouldn't do it for anyone but you Jackson) Although a small crowd we were very appreciative.
The following is a review of the Jackson Browne concert on Wednesday, July 12, 2000 in Okemah, Oklahoma as the kickoff to the 3rd annual Woody Guthrie Free Folk Festival. Please print any or all of it you wish (it is a bit long). Thank you for your service. Without it, I would have never known Jackson was playing in Oklahoma. And I would have missed the opportunity to see him in the Crystal Theater--wish you were there!
The last time I had a chance to see Jackson perform was in August 1983 during the "Lawyers In Love" tour. I saw him with approximately 10,000 other fans at the Myriad in Oklahoma City. I was aÊ19-year old teenager who was dancing on the chairs, singing my all-time favorite song, "Hold On Hold Out," along with the band. For 17 years, thatÊconcert remained the best I had ever seen.
Well, that has all changed.
Just last month on this web site, I discovered that my hero, Jackson Browne, was returning to Oklahoma, to perform the benefit concert for the 3rd annual Woody Guthrie Free Folk Festival in Okemah, Oklahoma. There hadÊbeen rumors that he would attend, but apparently an agreement wasn't reached until just recently. I immediately ordered tickets and arranged to meet a good friend of mine at the concert.
For those of you who have never heard of Okemah, Oklahoma, it is a town about 80 miles east of Oklahoma City on I-40. Of course, it is the home town of perhaps the greatest legend of folk music history, Woody Guthrie.ÊÊI was there to see Jackson Browne, however.
I arrived two hoursÊbefore the concert to stand in line. While standing in line with my buddy Ray, I found out that the Crystal Theater had a capacity of only 600! The shade temperature while we were waiting in the hot sun was 102¡. It was nice to finally get inside, although you could have guessed that it would not stay cool inside for long with 600Êmiserably hot people entering at the same time.
Driving three hours to see the concert, I asked some of the locals there why Jackson had chosen to perform in Okemah. The consensus was that he wanted to honor his folk roots and perform on the stage where Woody Guthrie had performed (which Jackson confirmed himself later).
The wait in the sun was worth it. Waiting for general admission seating had given us fifth row seats in the old Crystal Theater. As always, Jackson was running late for the start of the performance. I got a little worried waiting, because it appeared that the locals may have been there more to promote the concert event than to see Jackson himself.
But I should have not worried. At 7:25, Jackson took the stage and was met with thunderous applause. It was cool because Jimmy LaFave and Arlo Guthrie (Woody's son--remember "City of New Orleans?") were some of the special guests for the concert. He immediately started out with "I'm Alive." Heck, he was even given the key to the city by the mayor after the intermission.
Jackson has only made his way through Oklahoma to perform twice in the 17 years since I saw him at the Myriad. He looked no different than he did in 1983. And his voice is so much better now than it was then--it was close to being a spiritual event now, just his voice and his guitar or his piano. If you are a regular visitor to this site, you have heard all of the superlatives regarding his voice, the six guitars lined up behind him, etc. All I will tell you is that the reviews do not do Jackson justice. If you have a chance to see him in the western U.S. or Canada later this summer, DO IT! I'm still speechless to describe how great this experience was.
And not just for the music. He talked about the origins of many of his songs, some of which I completely off base about. And he talked about why he felt the need to attend this event. Any by the way, this was a benefit concert--all of the proceeds went to fund the 2000 folk festival. A labor of love, indeed!
The only way I can remember the play list is chronologically from the time Jackson released his song (I apologize--hopefully someone will have a more accurate order on the play list). He was very heavy into his first four albums (horray!) Here is what he sang, along with my comments:
I may have forgotten one song or so, but I don't think so. What made the night so special was to be 25 feet away from JB, singing his songs with the same intensity and passion that he was doing close to 30 years ago. And in a room with only 600 people, itÊwas a veryÊpalpable feeling. You felt his songs.
My friend Ray, called me at my office the day after the concert. He has seen many singer songwriters sing over the years, and he said this also was the best concert he had ever seen. And this is from the man who calls Bruce Springsteen his hero!
Jackson, if you happen to hear or see this letter, thank you for the new best concert I have attended. I did not think there was any way you could have surpassed your 1983 concert, and while I want to see you perform with your band again someday (maybe you would play "Hold On Hold Out"Êfor old times), I am proud to say that I am a great fan and hope you will continue to play the small, intimate venues such as this.
And for the rest of you reading this long review, get off your rear ends, getÊover to the phone or go to a web site and BOOK YOUR TICKETS. Don't take my word for it--read all of the other reviews written by the dozens of others this summer.
When I first heard that Jackson Browne was going to tour solo, I was a little disappointed thinking the show might not be as good as when I had seen him in 1978 on the Running on Empty tour. I saw Elton John on his solo tour and also with his band and I liked him better with his band. The reviews I read on this site mentioned thatÊJackson had trouble remembering words and getting his guitars tuned. I'm glad I saw him later in the tour because he certainly got his act together on this night, he was flawless. We got tickets in the second row of the orchestra pit so it was virtually like him sitting in his living room playing right in front of us. He interacted well with the crowd explaining the band-aid on his thumb was from trying to play golf like his buddy, Glenn Frey. He played most of the songs listed on previous reviews with the exception of one song. Someone requested a song and Jackson looked out with a look of surprise. He said that it wasn't the actual name of the song and it was a song written by his old band member Doug Heywood called, "You A**hole, You" He said he couldn't do it concert because it was too dirty, which made the audience go wild in an attempt to make him play it. He laughed and paused, looking back at his guitars before sitting down at his keyboard to play it uncensored. He got a standing ovation and said he couldn't believe he played it. It was moments like these that made me realize that you would never experience them if he was with his whole band. When he came out for his encore, I yelled out Sky Blue and Black and he said "Is that what you want to hear?" and he played it for the final song of the concert. What an ending! The sound and atmosphere was excellent and you could tell that Jackson and the audience truly enjoyed themselves. If you get a chance to see him, DO IT!
THE FIRST I HERD THIS GUY WAS IN A LITTLE BAR IN L.A. IT WAS IN THE MID 60'S. I WAS MAKING MY FIRST TRIP TO VIETNAM - I SAID TO MYSELF THAT GUY IS GOING TO GO FAR - WHEN I CAME HOME HE WAS COOKING - WHEN I RETURNED FROM MY SECOND TRIP TO VIETNAM THE MUSIC STARTED TO MAKE MORE SENSE TO ME - I AM 51 YEARS OLD NOW AND HAVE LISTENED TO HIM SINCE ABOUT 1966 I GUESS - HIS POETRY ALWAYS AMAZES ME. I AM RETIRED FROM AN OIL COMAPNY AN WORK FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT NOW. THE LAST TIME I SAW HIM LIVE WAS PORTLAND, OREGON I THINK - HE SANG "fOUNTAIN OF SORROW"
This is for struck (Jay) I was also at the concert of Jackson's in OKC for the Hold Out tour. It was my second time seeing Jackson, you know I could hardly blame him for not coming back to OKC. During one song somebody yelled Jackson your a wino, it came from my side of the floor seating section. I'll never forget the look on his face when he looked over that way, he wasn't happy at all with the comment that was made. That look he had you could almost say he was thinking I'll never play this place again.
I don't know if he ever did come back to Oklahoma city, I moved to California in 1986, he was on a tour for " For America". As soon as I was settled here in California I check out to see if Jackson was going to be anywhere near me on this tour, he was coming to the Concord Pavillion. So I got myself and my friends tickets for that show, they had never seen Jackson. Well they had enjoyed the show so did I.
The years had been good to me to see Jackson more than I would of if I was still in Oklahoma, I can't say all of the show I've been to were good. I was disapointed with the show in Oakland, but it was nice to see Bonnie Raitt appear with him for one song. I do believe the best show so far was the one in Berkeley on Oct. 9th 1997.
I am looking forward to the show in Stockton, from some of the things I've heard I'm not sure if I'll get my chance to meet Jackson before or after the show. But I'm a Hold out maybe I'll get lucky.
Thanks Russ for the wonderful site that brings all Jackson fans together.