At the risk of sounding entirely absurd, I'd like to ask if anybody has an available ticket/invite to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on March 15th at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City, at which our beloved Jackson will be inducted. Since I live only thirty minutes outside of NYC, late notice would be no problem. I'd give most anything to witness this momentous occasion firsthand!

Everyman,

I am so looking forward to March 15. I've been wanting this for Jackson for so long, and it seems so overdue--but soon, that's all behind us and he's in and recognized. I have made arrangements to drive up toClevelandto be at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame the night he is inducted. It will be so special. I had to see it all, and couldn't afford $2500 for the Waldorf, but couldn't bear to miss some of it as the VH1 rebroadcast will be edited. So I'll be watching the simulcast at the R & R. I'll also be seeing his exhibit the day it is unveiled.

Russ, thank you for this site, and all your work and financial support to maintain it. I love checking in on it, and you are truly appreciated by so many of us. I want to say hi to all the friends I have made through the common bond of Jackson Browne. Whether we're camping out for tickets, each talking about our favorite song, or waiting after a show to see if he'll show, or listening at the loading dock for the soundcheck--it's been so great! There are so many fond memories, and March 15 I will be toasting all of you as well as Jackson. I gotta thinkJacksonloves that camaraderie we all share--knowing that he started and is responsible for it.

And I want to thankJackson. I work my English thesis and it was called "Jackson and Me" in 1982. I dedicated my first photography project in 1983 as "thanks always to Jackson." You have been so kind every time we have met, so tolerant of the admiration I've expressed. I'm sure it's difficult to endure, sometimes. But you have always treated your fans so well. Throughout his career,Jacksonhas always expressed the thought so perfectly, shared the compassion so earnestly, and cared about mankind so meaningfully.

Friends, email me if you be inClevelandfor the induction, and let's hook up to celebrate.

All the best, all the love,

I was there both nights. I flew in from Wisconsin only to see Jackson; I don't even ski. Yes, I just saw him in the fall in Milwaukee, WI and Rockford, IL, and Ames, IA. And, of course, he was well worth it, not that I need to tell that to anyone here. He played 17 songs on both nights, but only five of those songs were the same on both nights. Those were: Barricades of Heaven, Looking Into You (He played this for some people he met on the plane and gave backstage passes to, but they never showed up Friday night; they came Saturday instead), Running on Empty, The Pretender, and For Everyman. Both concerts were incredible, although I thought the audience was more "into him" on Saturday night. So here goes...

So, there's Tahoe. I wrote some things down and tried to remember to the best of my ability. I wanted to get this out, since I realized nobody else has posted yet, and well, the fans are waiting...

Hi Russ, like everyone else, I have enjoyed your wonderful web page and thank you for tying all news about Jackson in one location. I thought I would weigh in on the Feb. 28, 2004 show in Tahoe. What a fantastic evening. Jackson was relaxed and extremely interactive with the crowd. After 25 years of attending his concerts, (and even meeting him), it took this solo acoustic format to really highlight for me how engaging and simply likable the guy is.

I will include comments I remember he made during the show, if people are interested, although Jackson's charm in making them originally may be lost in my poor re-telling. He spoke of his excitement in re-mixing old songs for the new "best of" compilation he is putting together. Jackson joked that because a "best of" set came out before, this version should be called "just about the best of" of "probably the best of" , as he had a hard time deciding what songs to include. He said he used to think the order he sang songs was really important, and doesn't think that so much now. He mentioned using a surround sound system for the re-mixing, and he marveled about how the musicians sounded like they were playing from their usual stations on stage. "Its like having them your living room, without the muss". That lead Jackson to mention David Lindley, and describe Lindley's "nougatization" theory. Lindley apparently doesn't clean up, and newspapers, food trays, hangers, papers, jackets, etc. are all layered, and then compressed, like a candy nougat.

Because this was a second night of a two night run in Tahoe, someone asked Jackson if he had skied, and he said no, he would have snow boarded, which he used to do with his nephews. But, he mentioned, he would not undertake that activity on a night he had a show, because in snow boarding, there's getting air, and then getting "the wrong kind of air" and crashing. He also mentioned looking at the huge marque which said "An Evening with Jackson Browne" He fretted that when he saw people get up in the middle of the show, that they were people going back to gamble, because this wasn't "the kind of evening they planned" from looking at the sign. Jackson said the sign should have indicated it was a solo acoustic evening, to be clear. The way he discussed it was pretty funny, and then he decided it could just be people going to the bathroom.

Someone shouted "happy birthday", and Jackson asked if it was someone's birthday, "because it's not my birthday", and he commented that it had to be somebody's birthday, and asked if we all wanted to sing happy birthday. The audience declined.

The songs I can recall he sang are, not in order:
Something Fine, Looking Into You, Rock Me On The Water, Zevon's Carmelita, For Everyman, Fountain Of Sorrow, Farther On, Before The Deluge, Your Bright Baby Blues (which he played with a slide), The Pretender, Running On Empty, In The Shape Of A Heart, Looking East, The Barricades Of Heaven, Never Stop, and My Stunning Mystery Companion.

At the beginning of the show, he seemed to definitely have some songs in mind he wanted to do, and he did not pick up requests. He did comment on them though, mentioning that The Load Out, "would be later" and that we could probably imagine he "doesn't always feel like playing Rosie", although he apparently did so the prior night. Toward the middle of the show, he was taking straight requests and even asked for them to which he received a roar of different titles. He said "that was a mistake", but then played Looking East, and he thanked us for requesting it, and mentioned he had to learn how to play some of the songs without a band.

Jackson picked up a guitar he hadn't played in months and held it flat on his lap and said told it "hello", as if he hadn't seen it in awhile.

At the end, Jackson mentioned although his friends at Caesars had been "very kind to him" they had a time limit and wanted people to go out and gamble. Jackson started about fifteen or twenty minutes late (after nine) and ended at eleven, with no break. Jackson had one encore, in which he played two songs. That's about it! Hope this recap proves of interest. Thanks again!

Hi Russ thanks so much for the time you put in here-your hard work shows and I thrilled to have it. Anyway I saw Jackson both nights 27 and 28. He was great- We were in the front row my arm rested on the stag! I was utterly amazed how great Jackson looked and sounded. He was so kind and funny. Friday the audience seemed a little obnoxious (at least the lady behind me was, she claimed she knew every backstage person including Jackson and was complaining the whole time she should have gotten better seats) and he seemed a little shaky the first couple songs.But as usual the night was wonderful. Saturday he was right on and the audience seemed a little more respectful and he seemed to enjoy himself more. The song list was already given in detail from other writers. Well, I see Jackson in San Jose-I cant wait--hopefully he'll play Sky Blue and Black. Thanks again Russ.

Airfare to Palm Desert: $$$
Hotel accommodations: $$$
Concert ticket: $$
Sitting in the center seat of the 3rd row for a Jackson Browne concert: Priceless!

Wearing a dark gray shirt with light grey vertical stripes open at the collar, gray pants, black laced shoes with black socks, Jackson strode purposefully onto the stage of the beautiful McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert at 8:11 last night to the delight of a fashionably late-arriving crowd and launched into a fine version of The Barricades of Heaven. Following the enthusiastic applause, Jackson said this was his first performance here and after listening to responses shouted by the crowd asked, "Did you say, 'Hurry back?'" and grinned from ear to ear.

Thus started an evening with a Jackson Browne who seemed particularly taken by the audience. He chatted eagerly and had a contagious smile on his face throughout the show. Certainly the smiles on the faces of the fans were equally enthusiastic. This connection with the audience continued to grow stronger as the evening progressed. At one point during the second set, a fan delivered flowers to the stage. Jackson picked them up and said that he thought they were particularly beautiful. Asking who they were from Jackson heard that they were from "all of us" and when someone shouted, "Read the card," he did and said, "It's true. They're from all of you." And they were well-deserved. Throughout the performance Jackson performed with an enthusiasm, verve, and "soulfulness" in his singing that I had not witnessed before. In fact, unlikely as it may sound, Jackson could be said to have "belted out some of the songs." It was great! Early on Jackson warned us that the dry desert air was leaving his voice a little scratchy and he may have missed a few notes here and there because of it, but nobody minded because his delivery of the songs was so impassioned.

Jackson started his second song, Looking into You, without further comment. Following the song, he related that he "used to drive around out here--around Joshua Tree." Someone from the audience yelled, "Eating mushrooms!" and Jackson laughed and said, "That, and other things." He also related how in Desert Hot Springs he had found favorite "hot pool" but he was sure that he couldn't locate it now. He went on to say that he had been playing Warren Zevon songs recently and paused, seeming to want suggestions from the crowd.

Someone in the second row shouted out Hasten down the Wind and after noting the individual's unique pronunciation of "hasten" and "Ronstadt," Jackson then proceeded to the piano to sing a flawless version of the song. Referring to the lyric in the song which said "she was many women," Jackson said that Warren himself was several people. He added then when he decided to do some Warren Zevon songs he thought that he knew them, but he found out after 8 or 9 shows that he really couldn't do them without error unless he spent the afternoon working on them. He continued with a spirited version of another Zevon song which Linda Ronstadt had also recorded--Poor, Poor Pitiful Me.

When the applause for the song died down, people began shouting out requests. Moving to the piano, Jackson said, "This is one of the saddest of my songs." Then after hitting a few notes and the piano and comtemplating things, he said, "No, no, I got confused. This isn't a sad song at all," and after explaining why until recently he hadn't played the song at all and now leaves out the last verse in deference to the lady the song was about, he began Ready or Not. Jackson simply couldn't keep from smiling during the entire and it seemed that he might actually have been having a better time than the even the crowd was having.

Allluding to the calling out of requests from the audience, Jackson said he used to think that coming up with a good setlist was very important but it was so subjective and that now he enjoys the beauty of playing without one and that the other way was "such a drag." He added that "the coolest part of all this is that I can pretend to be playing what you want. The request he was now taking was For a Dancer and he explained the at first he believed he wrote the song for a brother of one of his best friends, but that when he wrote it he was staying at a house where a girl who had lived there died, and he now believes the song is as much about her as it was for his dancing friend. His performance of the song received a deservedly hugh ovation.

Someone called out congratulating Jackson on being voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and as one might expect from Jackson, he humbly said, "Thank you," and picked up a guitar for his next song without further comment. Explaining that it was a song he wrote when he was 16 and that many people, including Nico who first recorded the song (with Jackson playing on it), Jackson told of how he was watching a movie when the song came on, and having forgotten that he given to permission to use the song, commented, "I used to play just like that." The song, of course, was These Days and Jackson delivered an absolutely stunning version of the song. He followed with a very lively performance of Doctor My Eyes, which he segued into About My Imagination. He then ended the first set by honoring a request for Pretender, which the usually more laid-back Jackson delivered with soul than I have ever heard from him. The audience was knocked out and both they and Jackson needed the 25-minute break which followed.

Returning to the stage for his second set, Jackson immediately began a warm rendition of For Everyman, which quickly riveted the crowd's attention. Someone called for Rosie and Jackson explained that it was usually his policy to play Rosie as soon as someone asked for it "for reasons of hygiene," but that he had another song in mind. He said he often forgot requests after playing another song and if he forgot Rosie the audience should remind him. He added that the next song was a song that was never requested and then captured the audience with an intense version of The Night Inside Me. I truly think the audience's enthusiastic response following the song may have surprised Jackson.

Moving over to the piano, Jackson started the haunting Sky Blue and Black and both he and the audience quickly forgot the request for Rosie as he gave a heart-tugging rendition of the haunting love song. Jackson then reached for a guitar and reached for his slide as he seemed to be ready to sing Your Bright Baby Blues, but an audience member asked for Linda Paloma and he switched guitars to play that wonderful song. After he finished, he said, "Thanks for asking for that song," and then retrieved his slide guitar to treat everyone with Your Bright Baby Blues as he had originally planned.

Hearing a call for Running on Empty, Jackson said he also has a policy for that song, which is to play immediately upon request so that people who aren't as familiar with some of his material don't have to wait all night for something they know. Using what from Jackson's comments seemed to be a new guitar in his collection (which he seems to really like), he gave us a rocking performance of the song.

At this point Jackson seemed to again emphasize his connection to this particular audience (He was given the flowers just before Running on Empty.) and in acknowledgement of the desert location Jackson began an ultra--rare peformance of Peaceful Easy Feeling, but got hung up on the lyrics at one point. With dozens of audience members yelling out the words he needed were "for your soul," Jackson said that we would have to appoint one of us to tell him so he could understand us. Hearing the words clearing, he began to finish the song but after he finished a couple of more lines, he stopped momentarily to joke that the problem with that line was that he "disagreed with this whole verse." (she can't take you where you don't already know where to go). He then finished the song in wonderful style.

Continuing his desert theme, Jackson said, "I've got a real desert song for you," Then he began the hypnotic opening notes and chords of Sergio Leone. It was a captivating performance of the song and at the conclusion of the audience's appreciation of the song, he said, "We've got something going in the desert tonight." He followed with moving versions of In the Shape of a Heart and Our Lady of the Well.

Before playing his next song he said he was dedicating it to Wally and Lori (spelling?) Ingram, who had recently gotten married and were now living here in the area (and were in the audience). The song? My Stunning Mystery Companion. At the conclusion of this song, someone shouted, "You rock!" and continuing to show his high spirits and connection with the crowd Jackson gave the index-and-pinky-fingered rock on sign. He laughingly said that like when some other musicians says, "I really like what you're trying to do up there" or "It wasn't as bad as you think it sounded."

He went on to say, "This (the show) has gone on exactly as I planned it. You are under my control." He then noted that he hadn't done any political songs and asked the crowd if they had voted in the California primary. When asked, he said that he had voted with an absentee ballot.

When he said he was going to do another song associated with the Eagles but this time one that he had helped to write, everyone knew he was going to sing Take It Easy next. A woment in the crowd shouted out that he should sing "have a look at me" and not "take a look at me," and after Jackson understood what she was saying he asked, "Which one do they do?" Hearing that the Eagles sing "take a look at me," he said, "Have a look at me is so much better" He added that everyone seemed to know the Eagles' version so much better than his that even his band played it. He then started right into a rollicking rendition of the song. After the audience joined in, accompanying him to the "ooo ooo ooo" at the end of the song--particularly the female portion of the crowd, Jackson commented, "Angels in the desert, hovering in their flatbed Fords," and bowed deeply to the audience before striding off the stage.

With tumultuous cheers filling the theatre, Jackson quickly returned to the stage, saying, "You people here really have a thing. May be you're like I would have been if I'd stayed out here 25 years ago. Tell me. Do you really have rocks lining the steps in your yard? I know some of you do."

He soon began his encore with a magnificent version of Late for the Sky. Following that someone called out once again for Rosie. "Do we not do Rosie?" he asked. Sometimes it's too late for Rosie." Lives in the Balance followed. When finished he said he wanted to sing his last song for someone in the audience who has made it possible for him to do grass roots benefits and the like for over 23 years. He added that he loved him "to bits" and then finished the concert with Little Steven's I Am a Patriot. Following the song, the applause was deafening and Jackson again bowed deeply to the audience and left the stage. The lights quickly came up and we all knew that while one of the best concerts anyone could ever have attended was over, we would all have memories of Jackson and his rare talents to remember and treasure for a lifetime. Was it worth it worth a trip from Kansas? You bet! It was priceless!

As a final, and very anti-climactic note. For those of you who will be attending future Jackson Browne shows on this tour and are oriented towards purchasing Jackson Browne consumer goods, there were 8 different JB tshirts on sale for $30 each--2 were long-sleeved and one was the "Saturate Before Using" shirt. Also available were black-fleeced tops--both zippered and pullover--for $60 and a black beach towel with More Peace, More Love, etc., and Jackson Browne--The Naked Ride Home (but no picture) on it for $35.

When Our wondersul jackson will be deservedly honoured by The Rock and Roll hall of Fame....It is less than 2 weeks away and my hubby and I are truly getting psyched.

I was reading where jackson has done a few Warren Zevon songs on his tour, I would love to hear one or two at the Beacon. We will be driving down on Tuesday....I am so excited. I have seen Jackson twice before. At Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center..and in Rochester....We are up in the balcony for his Beacon Show..the seats sold out so fast.......I cannot WAIT to rock out with Jackson....he has guided me and soothed my soul more times with his peerless musical magic, than I could ever count. May his music forever keep our spirits high....Thank you Jackson..:)

Forever a Jackson Fan..........

Hi. I am Annet, 36 years and live in Holland.

I heard Jackson Browne the first time when he sang "For a Dancer" on a Venice cd , and I thought what a beautiful voice that man has. I knew Jackson Browne existed, but I never listened to him before. But then I wanted to hear more of his music and bought some of his CDs And now The Pretender is my favorite CD. Jackson Browne has my favorite voice, and Sleeps Dark and Silent Gate is the best song I ever heard.

I love Jackson Browne's music and the things he says and does. I know he won't come to Holland this year but hopefully next year and then I will be there.

Love,

Thanks Russ for a great site and all your efforts. Jackson performed in Santa Rosa, CA on Wednesday night. A wonderful show filled with his beautiful music and easy chatter, a real treat. He had two local musicians on stage with him, Norton Buffalo and Nina Gerber. What a gracious and generous man sharing the stage like that. Jackson thank you so much for playing in Santa Rosa we all hope you will return soon.

wondering if anyone has seen the t.v. ad for the new JB CD. I happened to catch it on MTV on Wed. March 3 about 2:30 p.m. E. T. and I even taped it but missed first few seconds. it must have been 2 minutes long. surprised to see it. do plan on buying the CD (not thru the mail order for 30 dollars, but probably from Walmart for about 20 I hope.) even though I have all his CDs and all the songs on the new Cd, would be nice to have all those great songs together on the 2 CD's.

Hi Russ,

I just wanted Jackson's fans to know that SRO (standing room only) tickets have gone on sale thru Ticketmaster for the previously sold out New York show at the Beacon Theater on March 16th.

Hi Russ,

Wanted to drop you a quick synopsis of the show in Phoenix, for anyone curious to see how much the set-lists are varying (and how much he is catering to the audience.) Numerous times he'd be set to play one song, then get up and move to the keyboard or grab a guitar to play something else that was just requested. At times this interrupted the flow though (and I think caused us not to hear "Shaky Town"). All in all, he had a good sense of humor about it.

As always, he sounded great and talked with the audience a good bit, telling odd, funny, and poignant stories. Especially funny was his stating that he couldn't play "Rosie", "You Asshole You" and "Naked Ride Home" back-to-back because they were "essentially the same song." Needless to say, he did break-down and play the first two of those, stopping in the middle of "Asshole" to state "I didn't think I should perform this song, and I was right."

Set I:

• Barricades of Heaven
• Jamaica Say You Will (request)
• Song For Adam (request)
• Looking Into You
• I'm Alive (request)
• Rosie (request)
• You Asshole You (request)
• For a Dancer ("we need to get back to more traditional songs, like songs about death" he stated)
• Mutineer
• Sleep's Dark & Silent Gate

Set II:

• For Everyman
• Call it a Loan (request)
• Looking East ("one I thought of to play myself" he proclaimed)
• Lives in the Balance (request)
• Pretender (request -- he joked about playing this in the middle of the set, and how his band would leave the stage thinking that was the end)
• Running on Empty (request -- he mentioned playing these songs right away when requested)
• Linda Paloma (request)
• Red Neck Friend (request)
• Before the Deluge
• Somebody's Baby (dedicated to those who weren't shouting out requests -- someone had requested this backstage)
• Doctor My Eyes (request)
• Take it Easy
• Out Lady of the Well

Encore:

• a traditional Spanish song, sung with the opening act. Don't know the title.

Thanks for keeping up the site, I've been enjoying it for many years (and think I have a posting regarding a "Looking East" show several years ago.)

Take care,

Hi Russ,

Thanks for posting this! I have two extra tickets to Jackson's San Jose concert on March 20. They are in the 31st row center orchestra. I will discount to best offer.

Also...if you haven't seen the current issue of Performing Songwriter, Jackson is the cover article and it's terrific. Definitely check it out!

Thanks for all your good work with this website.

I have seen Jackson Browne play numerous times over the last 25 years. I skipped the last two opportunities to see him here in Phoenix last year with Tom P. and the other with Keb M. only because I was waiting for a venue like this. In my opinion this was by far the best concert of his I've ever attended. He treated the audience like we were all sitting in his living room just hanging and chatting. For a while I felt like I was in another world. He was so genuinely down to earth and entertaining. Every song was so heartfelt and moving. I don't think I ever have to see him perform with his band again. Just give me JB alone! Thanks Jackson for a truly entertaining evening.

I was wondering if anyone had the complete set list from the show on March 6 at Royce Hall. Unfortunately, my wife and I had to leave early to relieve our babysitter, and I want to know what we missed.

Thanks

This is about my 30th time seeing JB in concert. He is fantastic every single concert -- especially his acoustic performances. The only downside to the concert was his warm-up performer who was an Hispanic singer. I think she may have played a little too long from my perspective along with the other people sitting around me. It was generally about 95% Caucasian audience and she couldn't speak any English and sang all Hispanic songs. I wouldn't mind if she would have performed about 3 songs but she actually sang 7 songs which seemed a little bit too long. People in the audience started calling out "Doctor My Eyes" and other songs to give her the clue to finish up. It's kind of hard sitting in the audience not knowing the language of the songs. Other than that...Jackson rocked as usual. I was a little disappointed that he didn't sing "Sky Blue and Black" but he cranked on all the others...including "Jamaica Say You Will" and "For a Dancer" which are my favorites. I have yet to hear him sing "From Silver Lake" in concert and I've been seeing him sing in concert since 1980. Maybe he'll surprise me and do a rendition of that sometime in the near future. He definitely related to the audience a lot, telling stories about his songs, cracking jokes, etc. He is not only a genius at songwriting but also seems to be a very friendly, good natured person as well. A complete joy to see him perform!

Thanks!

Hi Russ,

Like everyone else we enjoy the fruits of your labor with this web site. We are indebted to you for your talents.

We had an extraordinary evening with JB on March 9, 2004 at The Escondido Performing Arts Center in Escondido, CA and just feel the need to share a bit of it.

Jackson opened with "A song for Adam".. During the lull into his next song I piped up with "hey, Congratulations" (for his induction into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame), he graciously said "Thank you" with a modest response that led him to recall discussions with Warren Zevon about not being in the Hall of Fame, he also spoke about being at The Grammy's for Warren and how 'star-struck' he was among the other artists... The audience gave him a standing ovation with heavy applause. He truly seemed taken back by the chain of events.

He got back into his song set seemingly relaxed and very interactive with the audience as he played on. He brought out a girl named "Jamaica" we think may have been Joel Rafael's daughter, to accompany his performance of "Jamaica Say You Will" with her violin, a very sweet sound. He goofed around with us by sitting in the chair as though he was going to do an acoustic guitar piece playing a few chords then jumping back over to the piano bench and playing on. What a pleasure it was to be there. He dodged a few off-the-wall comments coming from choir quite well, keeping us entertained all the while.

Some of the songs I recall, but are not in any order, that he performed were: Pretender, Jamaica Say You Will, Barricades of Heaven, Rosie (he said "we'll get this one outta the way"), For Everyman, I am a Patriot, Take it Easy, A Zevon song that I don't know the title of, Looking into you, Stay (the original "Stay", The Zodiac's arrangement 1960), Sky Blue & Black, Fountain of Sorrow, and encored with two songs, though I only remember My Stunning Mystery Companion because he spoke so highly about his girlfriend of 12 years.

We're die-hard fans that have traveled many miles across California to see him whenever 'in town' for the past 26 years. From San Diego to Santa Barbara and everywhere in between. He made last night's memory complete by coming out the back entrance/exit allowing a group of about 20+ of us to speak with him and shake his hand. I stood there dumbfounded, after all these years I finally get the opportunity to shake this wonderful performers hand and I couldn't think of a thing to say. My husband tells me he just smiled and said "that's alright"..... Thank you Jackson, for another wonderful memory.

Cheers! And again, Congratulations for an award long overdue and well deserved!

I too went to the March 9 Escondido concert and its was a truly wonderful performance. If any of you get the chance to go to one or more of the solo acoustic shows, do not miss it.

The above review indicates that Jamaica Rafael played violin with Jackson on a song - and she did - but I recall her playing with Jackson on A Song for Adam - not Jamaica Say You Will. It was one of the highlights of the show in my view. Just a beautiful version of one of his best songs. The un-named Warren Zevon song referred to was Carmelita - a great song that Linda Ronstadt did on one of her albums years ago - and Jackson did a really great job on his version of it, as you would expect. I'd love to have a recording of it.

My only slight disappointment about this show and the evening echoes other comments made about Jackson's current solo acoustic shows as noted in other show reviews above - when he plays without a set list and responds to requests, members of the audience - perhaps somewhat buoyed by having a few too many, tirelessly yelled out their requests between each and every song, and it was a bit disturbing to many of those in attendance. A woman right next to me had a megaphone and was yelling requests and talking to Jackson between nearly every song as if she were having a conversation with him in her living room - at the expense of all others around her........and since I was fortunate enough to get the Guacamole Fund tickets in the 4th row center, believe me, neither Jackson nor anyone else in the neighborhood needed a megaphone to hear her every single time.

Jackson had 13 guitars on stage with him - although he played only about half of them. He again had, and has in the past used on many occasions, 2 old Gibson guitars in particular that were very cool - does anyone know what they are - dreadnaught size, sunburst finish, white lettering on the peghead - perhaps 1930's Roy Smeck models?

Congrats again to Jackson on the Hall of Fame - he got a long and well deserved standing ovation from the Escondido crowd for his induction. A great night (except for the megaphone).

Hey Jackson Fans. I have just found out that one of my tickets will not be used for this coming Tuesday night's March 16th NYC Beacon Concert.

It's ( I think) in Row M in the Balcony. I know its kind of late notice, but I wouldn't want it to go to waste.

If someone is in the metro NYC area and would like to purchase the ticket, please email me at lms0617@aol.com or lsavia@ur-indisplay.com.

I'm in Bergen County NJ and we can discuss how I can get you the ticket before Tuesday.

Thanks and it is sure to be a great concert.

I've never written a concert review before, so please bare with me. Thanks Russ for keeping up this great site.

What a night! Jackson was in fine form (as I expected after having read all of the previous reviews of this tour on this site). As stated by others, JB has a way of making you feel as if he's performing in his living room for family and friends, chatting away between songs about everything from hanging out and spending time with Ethan (his son) last night to asking if the unusually wonderful weather in Los Angeles the past few days had been sent from the (consistently beautiful) Central Coast.

His appearance began by singing backup (as he did on her album) on the last song of Jude Johnstone's opening set, she being a local songwriter who's now performing her own material. He repeatedly thanked the audience throughout the night for welcoming and listening to her music, adding that he rarely has an opening act because (jokingly) it leaves less time for him. But after feeling somewhat short-changed at his Greek Theatre show last year (August) when he had Keb Mo (who was very good) and Steve Earle opened for him, leaving only an hour for JB and his band, this night was a first for me - 2 full acoustic hours of JB, his guitars, piano and incomparable music and words.

After noticing that 4 seats were unspoken for in the fourth row, I decided that my balcony seats wouldn't do, and quietly slipped into the best seats in the house for what was most definitely the best JB concert I've heard out of the 15 or so I've attended since '82. While I thoroughly enjoy the band on the records and in concert, there's something truly magical about hearing the songs stripped bare, with his voice clear, and the essence of the music and the words coming through. The set list here may not be complete(sorry, I didn't take notes ) and are not in correct order either.

What a night. Now he's off to NY where he'll rightfully be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Congratulations Jackson! It's long overdue.

Russ,

I know that you say to give you up to a week to post messages, but mine is urgent.

I have an extra balcony ticket that just became availalbe to me for this coming Tuesday's sold out Beacon Theatre Show in Manhattan. I want to sell it to a real fan.

If possible please post this message today and have responses sent to lms0617@aol.com.

Thanks,

Hi Russ - Thanks for posting this for me, and thanks for all that you do to keep us connected and informed!

I am looking for one ticket to the Thousand Oaks show next Friday. If someone wants to sell me his/her extra ticket, or trade for a ticket to the Lobero show in Santa Barbara, please email me at: night_lori@yahoo.com Thank you so much!

...Peace...

Wanted to share this with you re Keb Mo's new cd. Was very surprised to hear a song of Keb Mo's on a local station and one that I hadn't heard. The new Keep It Simple is a relief to hear in it's entirety, especially one selection I think he wrote about Jackson Browne; Riley B. King. The eloquence of his characterization of Mr. Browne is so gentle and much appreciated. Definitely worth a listen and helpful in these strange times.

Hey Everybody,

I just made a great discovery! I usually listen to Radio@netscape.com (formerly spinner.com) at work and Jackson now has his very own station. I've been hearing some great live tunes and rarities already, and I've only had it on for an hour! Anyway, it's a good place for tunes in general, and JB's station might only last until the Hall of Fame ceremony, but might as well enjoy it while it lasts.

For instance, right now a song called "First Girl I Loved"! Very nice.

Enjoy!

I'd give almost anything to be at the March 20 show in San Jose. This solo acoustic tour will be just so incredible. If you haven't seen Jackson at his most subtle and emotive!

I heard a rumor JB would be in San Francisco May 22 at a CD release party: http://pcmunoz.com

... another new JB recording to add to the growing discography! he sings on the title track of this new album by pc munoz and the amen corner: http://pcmunoz.com/bio/index.html

can't get it til May though : (

Hey Russ,

I hope you'll post this letter because I'm sure a lot of us feel the same way. I just wanted to thank you for such a great web site! It's so organic; if that's even possible for a web site. In an age where our civil rights and free speech are being eroded more and more every day, this site gives a voice to an eclectic group of folks who share some common ground and I believe common ground can be found amongst any group of people if you look hard enough. Anyway, thanks for your labor of love. All of us travelers appreciate this highway you've built for us.

The big night is coming....for the man I call "Eternally Hip".......the one and only Jackson Browne...his big night being inducted.and his Beacon show the following...........see you on the 16th Jackson................you are peerless.

Love,

Sorry for the late notice Russ, but we have 2 extra pair and 1 extra single ticket for this Tuesdsay's JB show at the Beacon in NYC. Actual price of $65 - if anyone here can use them, please e-mail me at mauryrutch@yahoo.com - thank you. We're in Pennsylvania but are willing to meet you at the ticket window before the show. Thanks for all your hard work Russ!

I just wanted to thank Sue Woo for her e-mail informing fans that Jackson's music is on Netscape. I've been listening at work all day. I just heard the most beautiful version of Jackson doing "These Days." I've seen at least 20 of Jackson's acoustic performances, but I have never heard that version before. It credits the album as "sessions @aol," so it's probably not available for purchase. If anyone knows where or how i can purchase that version, please let me know. It's absolutely breathtaking!

By the way, i saw Jackson on March 6 at Royce Hall. He's like a fine wine, better with age. He is also quite the character. Luz Casal was a treat! Thanks to Jackson for introducing her to us.

If I forgot anything, someone please remind me!

Russ,

The highlight of last night's show was Bruce Springsteen's appearance for "Take it Easy" toward the very end. Pity those poor fools who left early. Marc Cohn also performed, as did one of the Heartbreakers and Danny Kortchmar.

Jackson put on a great show, coming on strong after a slow first set. Hits included "Runnin on Empty," "The Pretender," "Dr. My Eyes," "Bright Baby Blues," but no "Rosie" unfortunately.

Does anyone have the whole setlist? Congrats to Jackson.

dear russ,

what a great website, I've just been reading all the concert reviews. I had the good fortune to be at the Beacon last evening to see Jackson with his Band. The show Rocked! Jackson has a true appreciation for his fans and his fans have a true appreciation for him. There were too many standing ovations too count. I saw him last at his acoustic show in Morristown, NJ, and had the opportunity for a brief enounter. A dream come true! He is a man of humility and integrity. A true talent who has touched my soul. Special guests were Vonda Shepard, Marc Cohen and the last song "Take it Easy" with Bruce Springsteen brought the house down! Thank you Jackson. and Thank you Russ.

Hi,

I am new to Jackson Browne's material and I had the good luck to catch him and the band live last night. I am wondering if anybody can post a setlist as I don't know most of the songs he played but I really enjoyed hearing them and would like to buy the albums that contain these songs. Thanks.

1st set:
The Night Inside Me
Fountain of Sorrow
Barricades of Heaven
Casino Nation
Everywhere I Go (with Vonda Shepherd)
For Taking the Trouble
Lives in the Balance
These Days
The Naked Ride Home
My Stunning Mystery Companion

2nd set:
Farther On (solo)
Late for the Sky
Don't You Want to Be There (with Marc Cohn)
In the Shape of a Heart
Your Bright Baby Blues
Doctor My Eyes
Somebody's Baby (with Danny Kortchmar and Scott Thurston)
The Pretender (with Danny Kortchmar and Scott Thurston)
Running on Empty (with Danny Kortchmar and Scott Thurston)

encores:
Culver Moon
Take It Easy (with Bruce Springsteen)

My only real complaint about this concert, if you can call it that, is not enough songs! Jackson Browne has been playing almost his entire song list in solo concerts this year, and the setlist for this one full-band concert of 2004 was heavily weighed in favor of his recent album (he played 6 songs from The Naked Ride Home, and no more than 3 songs from any other album). This is probably the material this band knows best right now, and since they had limited rehearsal time it was understandable. I really like this album so I was happy to hear these songs live, but the band was so good, and did such great things to his older songs, that I wish there had been more of them!

Although the concert was billed as "solo acoustic and with band," the only song he played solo was Farther On. There was no piano - he played a keyboard that had a natural sound, but it looked weird for him to be playing on it for the piano-based songs.

The Night Inside Me was the album version, and played well but with the vocals a little down in the mix. The vocals were much stronger on Fountain of Sorrow, and you could hear that Jackson's voice was a bit raspy (too much partying the night before, I hope!). Barricades of Heaven was also true to the album version, as was Casino Nation (until he forgot the words to the last verse and had to ask keyboard player Jeff Young for a cue!). He brought out Vonda Shepherd, who flew out to sing on The Pretender at the Waldorf but ended up having emergency root canal instead, to sing the harmony on Everywhere I Go. For Taking the Trouble, Lives in the Balance and These Days were all great. He dedicated Lives in the Balance to a Cuban songwriter he met while on a trip to Cuba with American politicians to explore how the travel embargo could be lifted, and whose US visa was denied when he was coming in to play New York this week. These Days started out solo and the band kicked in, gently, on the second verse. The Naked Ride Home was more acoustic, and slower than the album version, and really nice. He ended the first set with My Stunning Mystery Companion, for his "girlfriend" of 12 years ("we are both ambivalent about 'holy matrimony'", he said), which gave everyone in the band a solo - what a good band!

He said he'd be back in 10 minutes, but intermission was more like 30. After the solo Farther On, he played Late for the Sky solo too, up until the guitar solo, which was wonderful, and then the band played for the rest of the song. Marc Cohn came out to harmonize on Don't You Want to Be There, as he does on the album. He read the lyrics as he sang, but it sounded wonderful. Their voices work well together. In the Shape of a Heart was a little slower and lighter than on the album, and I liked this version because it sounded less 80's - I think Lives in the Balance is his most dated album in terms of production (too much synths and fake drum sounds). Your Bright Baby Blues, right into Doctor My Eyes, was a real high point, and then he brought out Scott Thurston on keyboards and Danny Kortchmar on guitar for the last songs of the set: Somebody's Baby (which has a false start - I think Scott's error), The Pretender (Jackson couldn't get his guitar in tune so he sang the first verse without a guitar until they brought out a new one) and a blistering Running on Empty with great dueling guitars between Mark Goldenberg and Val McCallum.

The first encore was Culver Moon - and while it has a good groove and the band obviously loves playing it, did anybody not on stage really want to hear this in place of Rock Me on the Water or Jamaica Say You Will? And then: sometimes rumors are true: "please welcome Bruce Springsteen." The boss came out quickly and didn't really acknowledge all of the Brooocing too much - and actually the crowd did accept him as a sideman guest and let Jackson still keep control. Take It Easy was the full Eagles version, with very Henley and Frey-like ooing at the end. Bruce didn't play lead but strummed along quietly on an electric, singing the harmony on the Winslow AZ verse and the choruses. Then a hug between Jackson and Bruce and a quick last bow for Jackson and that was it - 2 1/2 hours not counting intermission. We could have used another hour!

Hey Russ,

Just wanted to let the fans know to call the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame before they go there to see the Jackson Browne exhibit. I was there on Monday night for the simulcast of the induction ceremony and it was not up yet. I was a little disappointed since that was one of the reasons that I bought the tickets and went there. They were nice enough to give me a rain check so I can go back when it's up.

It was great to see the evening without commercials. Jackson looked truly honored and Bruce Springsteen did a great job presenting him his award. We actually got to see a glimpse of his long time "mystery companion" sitting with his sons in the audience when he thanked them.

His band sounded great performing "The Pretender" and "Running on Empty".

Jackson made several motions to someone doing sound to turn up something - but it sounded great to me.

There are some great picture on Yahoo - News Photos http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/040316/photos_en/mdf497326

Thanks for keeping up the site!

Please post for other fans to read on your great website!!! Thanks!!

Out of the past 7-9 JB concerts I've seen over the last 20 years, this was the best. Memorable moments: JB forgetting the words to one verse on Casino Nation, turned to Jeff Young for help...very funny moment for everyone. Leading into Pretender, Jackson wasn't able to tune his Stratocaster so he decided to let the band and musical guests play instead - placing all his trust on his backup players - another great moment. Marc Cohn congratulating JB for R&R Hall of Fame Induction - standing ovation erupted.

Guests: Veronda Shepherd, Marc Cohn, Danny Kortchmar, Scott Thurston, and Bruce Springsteen

Songlist: (Order based on my best recollection)
Night Inside Me
Fountain of Sorrow
Barricades of Heaven
Naked Ride Home
For Taking the Trouble
These Days
My Stunning Mystery Companion

Intermission

Farther On
Bright Baby Blues - with guest: Veronda Shepherd on vocals
Don't You want to be There - with guest: Marc Cohn on vocals
Casino Nation
Lives in the Balance
Late for the Sky
In the Shape of a Heart
Somebody's Baby - with guests: Danny Kortchmar "the Kootch" on guitar and Scott Thurston on keyboard
Pretender - with guests: Kootch on guitar (Telecaster), and Scott Thurston on Keyboard
Doctor My Eyes - with guests: Kootch on guitar, and Scott Thurston on Keyboard
Running on Empty - with guests: Kootch on guitar, and Scott Thurston on Keyboard
Culver Moon - with guests: Kootch on guitar, Scott Thurston on Stratocaster
Take it Easy - with guests: Scott Thurston on keyboards, and Bruce Springsteen on Telecaster

Hi Russ,

I also would like to thank you for maintaining such a great website for the fans. I was one of the fortunate souls to hear Jackson play last night at the Beacon Theatre in NYC. It was, once again, an amazing show. A very different style of concert after seeing him acoustically last October in Connecticut, but nonetheless, quite a treat. I was lucky enough to score a setlist from the crew after the show and would like to share it with everyone. If my memory serves me right, this was the correct order in which the songs were played.

Set 1:
Night Inside Me
Fountain of Sorrow
Barricades of Heaven
Casino Nation
Everywhere I Go
Taking the Trouble
Lives in the Balance
These Days
Naked Ride Home
My Stunning Mystery Companion

20 minute break

Set 2:
Father On
Late for the Sky
Don't You Wanna Be There
Share of a Heart
Bright Baby Blues
Doctor My Eyes
Somebody's Baby
Pretender
Running on Empty
***************
Culver Moon
Take it Easy

As previously mentioned, several very talented friends joined Jackson on stage. Bruce Springsteen totally rocked the house on "Take it Easy." About thirty of us die-hard fans waited after the concert in the snow & freezing cold for Jackson to come out. Eventually, he appeared and graciously shook hands, made small talk with some, and then made a few jokes about not being as brave as us to stand in the cold for this long, saying "I'm from California, I can't take this." He was so sweet to my 10 year old daughter (who was quite the trooper), placing her frozen cheeks in his hands and asked, "what are you doing out here in the cold?" Her reply was, "waiting for YOU Jackson." He smiled his gorgeous smile and signed our very rare LP cover. A true gentleman indeed who treats his fans with the utmost respect. What a rare commodity in the music industry these days - like a breath of fresh air. Thank you Jackson for another incredible evening that we will always treasure.

~Words & music will never touch the beauty that I've seen looking into you - and that's true~

Dear Russ,

Sitting at my breakfast this morning I was leafing through our local paper. When I turned to the culture section I almost spilled my mug of tea. There I caught Jackson Browne's picture looking right back at me from the center of this page. Living in a real small town deep in the southwestern part of Germany I haven't come across an article about JB in our local paper for more than 8 years. This is why I gladly rely on your website, Russ. Thank you so much for your great unselfish and true support. As so many others I really appreciate it. Although there have been numerous press releases since Monday I think this one is worth getting translated, just to show that some news are even spreading to the remotest corners of our planet. Actually we are right in the center of Europe, but Jackson Browne has not been here for quite a while. Maybe this time he is not just touching the outskirts of our country?!

Here's the article from Schwarzwälder Bote, issue 64, Wednesday, March, 17, 2004:

Being in Rock'n Roll Heaven
Jackson Browne, ZZ Top, Prince and George Harrison got inducted into the Rock'n Roll Hall of Fame

New York. By a big party at the noble New York Waldorf Astoria Hotel the popstar Prince, the rocker Bob Seger and the singer and songwriter Jackson Browne were inducted into America's Rock Hall of Fame on Monday night.

Postum this honor was given to George Harrison, who has already been inducted together with the Beatles. This time the late Ex-Beatle who died of lung cancer in November 2001 got honored for his solo career of which one highlight was the hit single "My sweet lord".

The hand picked guests of the rock and pop scene celebrated bands like ZZ Top, Traffic and The Dells. They got inducted into the Rock'n Roll Hall of Fame as well.

Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty and Alicia Keys were among those stars who held induction speeches for their honored colleagues. In the US music business an induction into the Rock'n Roll Hall of Fame which is only possible after many years of a successful career is higher rated than the reception of a Grammy.

Prince who got inducted by the rappers of Outkast and by Alicia Keys has been looked at being the big rebel of the US pop music for a very long period of time. He got popular with hits like "Purple Rain", "Kiss" and "Little Red Corvette".

Bob Seger got celebrated by the guests for his hit "Like a Rock" among other hits. "It is great that I haven't to explain to my fans any longer why I am not yet inducted into the Rock'n Roll Hall of Fame," he declared.

Jackson Browne got known as co-author of the Eagles' superhit "Take it easy". But he also wrote and sang hits like "The Pretender" and "Running on Empty".

Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne were there to honor George Harrison. They had joined him in the band Traveling Wilburys during his past Beatle era.

The band Traffic - famous for their organist Steve Winwood - were successful with jazzrock titles like "Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" and "Glad" whose music partly reminded of church choirs. "Oh What A Night" was one of the big hits of the vocal group The Dells in 1955. The Texan blues rockers ZZ Top were once celebrated for songs like "Legs" and "Sharp Dressed Man".

Of all those plenty of press releases about the induction ceremony I personally favor the New York Times article "Prince and Harrison Among stars inducted Into the Rock Hall of Fame" by Jon Pareles (3/16/04). To me this one seems to be quite authentic. And I do hope that all this hype gets Jackson Browne the acknowledgement he really deserves. The fact that Bruce Springsteen did the induction speech for him was a special treat for me and my family, as we are big Springsteen fans as well.

Last but not least I would like to address my fellow German Jackson Browne fans:

Wo seid ihr eingentlich alle? Gibt es außer mir noch ein paar Jackson Browne Fans in Süddeutschland, der Schweiz oder dem Elsass? Wenn ja, bitte meldet euch entweder bei mir oder auf dieser Website. Vielleicht schaffen wir es dann ihn auch mal wieder in unsere Ecke zu bekommen. Wäre das nicht toll - vor allem solo acoustic!

Let his music keep our spirits high,

hi russ, my husband and i were at the show lastnight at the beacon. what a superb show. we got there in one piece, after a 3 hr ride through the worst weather this winter. it was sooooo worth it. row e ctr stage.. after show reception!!!! need i say more. the show was electric, surprise guests : springsteen, cohn , thurston, sheppard etc... it was awesome! Jackson surely deserves to be in the rr hl of fm. long overdue in my book. I can't say enough about the show! You had to be there! I will never forget it! Hopefully, they recorded it? I would buy the video/dvd/cd whatever!

Hello everyone,

Just got back a few hours ago from Jackson's Beacon Theatre show. I read a review from another fan that she and a few others had waited outside the theatre and Jackson had come out and chatted a bit. I know Jackson is a private person, so it didn't occur to me he might be coming out to see fans...I would have waited all night for a chance to shake his hand........what an honor it would be to meet him. Hopefully someday.....

As for the show, breathtaking....I could have stayed another 6 hours..it was approximately 2 1/2 hours long. Jackson did a variety of his songs....with such a repetoire as he has..it is so hard to say I would have liked to hear this or that...they are all such beautiful works of lyrical and musical art. " Don't you want to be there," one of Jackson's most beautiful new songs, did bring tears to my eyes, as it always does. It was a surprise to see Bruce Springsteen, but everyone pales next to Jackson in my book, he has some peers, but no equals.

I was out of my seat many times as were others, to cheer and rock with Jackson....almost made myself hoarse cheering for him when his Hall of Fame Induction was mentioned. We drove 5 hours in a snowstorm to see this beautiful man....shucks, I wish I had known he was still inside when the show was over....I would have waited all night to catch a close up glimpse and possibly shake his hand. Jackson looks about 20 years younger than he is...so amazing in every way.

Thank you Jackson, for your talent, your remarkale ability to reach into our hearts, for expressing feelings we all have.. with a lyrical ability that is truly unequaled, your rare humbleness in one so gifted, your strong voice that has guided so many, may your life be long, happy and blessed, we love you Jackson, Mr. Eternally Hip.

Forever in awe,

Russ, like many others I am indebted to you for this site. I have an extra ticket to the show in Turlock on March 25 and I want it to go to someone who will appreciate the significance of this time being a JB fan. It has a $55 face value which I am not real concerned about. Interested parties should contact me at yosemitehiken@aol.com. Those who already have tickets ... We are in for a tremendous treat!!!!!!

As I'd already booked up a trip to New York from March 13-17, imagine my delight when Jackson announced a concert on the last night of my stay. I managed to get tickets through Ticketmaster as soon as they went on sale back in January, and knew that this celebratory concert would be unforgettable.

Upon arriving in New York I picked up a copy of Performing Songwriter magazine, which features one of the best interviews i've ever read in my life. I then stumbled out of a bar on Monday night and managed to buy the new record just nine minutes after it's release, but didn't get a chance to listen to it until arriving home last night. The remastered version of "For a Dancer" is superb, and i'm surprised that nobody has pointed it out in the other related thread. I also managed to catch glimpses of Jackson at the Hall of Fame on various TV channels throughout Tuesday, and there was an article in the Daily News which I picked up.

I'd hoped that Tuesday afternoon would be reasonably warm so that we could stroll up to the venue, but the incessant snow - which didn't stop at any point throughout the day - made it rather unlikely. We managed to call a cab and eventually got to the venue at about 6-30pm, and then went for a light beverage in the bar down the road before picking up the tickets just after 7pm. I thought it necessary to buy a shirt, so I chose the cream coloured one with the tour dates on the back, with a photo of Jackson playing guitar on the front.

We got to the seats at about 7.50pm - after buying beers that were astonishingly $6.50 each - and the concert started about half an hour later. After being on several legs of "The Naked Ride Home" tour in Europe last year, I was looking forward to hearing some of the material that I'd never heard, such as "For Everyman", "Before the Deluge", and maybe "Sky Blue and Black", but it wasn't until Jackson pointed out that he'd only just reunited with the band the day before that I realised they were basically going to cover the same songs as on that tour, as they hadn't had time to practice any new ones! This was never more evident then when he followed "The Night Inside Me" with "Fountain of Sorrow", "Barricades of Heaven", and "Casino Nation" - as he had done so at each of the four concerts i'd been to the year before. Still, I was in New York City watching a Jackson Browne concert, so I had no complaints. The only song of the night which I hadn't seen performed before was "Everywhere I Go", which Vonda Shepherd added vocals for. Other highlights from the first half were "These Days", and "My Stunning Mystery Companion", the latter of which closed the half.

The "short" break was actually a thirty-minute break, but it was worth the wait, as Jackson tore down the house with a solo version of "Farther On", which was the best version of it i'd ever heard. In fact, the entire second half was superb, with the big numbers now flowing freely. "In the Shape of a Heart" and "Your Bright Baby Blues" were once again memorable, "Don't You Want To Be There" was an absolute delight, and when Scott Thurston joined for keyboards on "Somebody's Baby", I knew I was in for a treat. As much as I like the song, I was somewhat surprised to hear that Jackson considered it to be one of his favourite songs as well. I don't really know why that surprised me, but it just did. This was followed by "Doctor My Eyes", "The Pretender", and "Running on Empty", before the encores began. As good as "Culver Moon" is (live), I really feel that the audience would've benefited from something slightly more upbeat at this stage. "Take it Easy" was the final song, and it was great to see Bruce Springsteen, despite not knowing a great deal of his work. At first I thought the audience were booing him, but then I figured it was actually a "Bruce" chant. Anyone got any news on this?! The final song was simply rocking, and I managed to take a few photos which i'll post on the photo gallery later on in the week.

Jackson was undoubtedly in a great mood, and had every right to be. It was clear that the night was a celebration, for both him and the thousands of fans - many of whom were standing - and the merging of band members both old and new ensured that this night will never be forgotten by those in attendance. Other noteable highlights included Jackson forgetting the lyrics in "Casino Nation", getting the other band members to play "The Pretender" without him when his guitar was out of tune, and the vocalist from "Don't You Want To Be There" congratulating him on his induction to the hall of fame. Superb. I look forward to his solo acoustic tour in the Fall with great excitement.

Setlist:

1. The Night Inside Me
2. Fountain of Sorrow
3. The Barricades of Heaven
4. Casino Nation
5. Everywhere I Go
6. For Taking The Trouble
7. Lives in the Balance
8. These Days
9. The Naked Ride Home
10. My Stunning Mystery Companion
(interval)
11. Farther On
12. Late for the Sky
13. Don't You Want To Be There
14. In The Shape of a Heart
15. Your Bright Baby Blues
16. Doctor My Eyes
17. Somebody's Baby
18. The Pretender
19. Running on Empty
21. Culver Moon (1st encore)
22. Take it Easy (2nd encore)

Thank you!

I bought Jackson Browns, new CD Yesterday. The Very Best of Jackkson Browne. I love it. Can't stop playing it and the two pictures of him are wonderful. I still love him.

Sincerely

Russ, since the fans are so great, I'm wondering if anyone knows where I can purchase photos of Jackson. I've seen him 6 times since last year and not once have I brought a camera (following the rules, of course), but I'd love to get some recent pictures. Any ideas?

A Concert Review from your webmaster:

Jackson Browne solo acoustic at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks, California on Friday, March 19, 2004.

Over the years, I've probably seen Jackson Browne perform somewhere between 4 and 5 dozen times. I've seen him in large arenas and in small bars. I've seen him solo acoustic and with large backing bands. I've seen him at benefits, backing other musicians, as a special guest, and live at the recording of a television show. But I've never seen him as relaxed and generally as happy as he was last night at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks, California.

The concert was called for 8:00 P.M. and Jackson strolled onto the stage unannounced at 8:05. He immediately went right into THE BARRICADES OF HEAVEN, using one of the 13 guitars he had on stage with him. After the song, people immediately started shouting out requests, and one person yelled out "Hall of Fame" which brought lots of applause from the sold out crowd. (Jackson having been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier in the week.)

Jackson moved over to keyboard. FARTHER ON was the next song, after which Jackson mentioned that he didn't have a set list, which of course encouraged an even greater amount of people shouting out requests. At one point Jackson asked out loud "Did someone just ask for 'Starry Starry Night'?" I know that I heard at least one person ask for Free Bird.

Picking up another guitar, Jackson went into a really beautiful version of LINDA PALOMA. He couldn't quite get that one high note this time, clipping it off.... which yielded a great expression from Jackson. It was an expression that said to me, "why do I write songs with those notes in them?" I have no idea if that was what he was thinking, but he made some comment along those lines later... There were a couple of times later in the show where Jackson commented about having a tendency to play the songs he wasn't quite sure he could get through.

Lots more requests followed. And Jackson heard one that made him say, "I heard one that I have to do. I have a policy that when someone calls out for one of two songs, I have to play that them right away." I'm not sure which two songs he's referring to, because I think I heard him make that comment about 3 or 4 songs during the night. But he commented that it's his more popular songs because not everyone that is in attendance wants to sit through an evening of his most obscure songs to get to the few that they know. In any case, he played THE PRETENDER this time.

As soon as the song finished there were lots more requests called out. It seemed like half the people in the audience were calling out for songs, which probably made it difficult for him to hear what anyone was calling for. Jackson commented that at any one time people were calling out for songs at the opposite ends of the mood spectrum. (My term not his. I don't recall his exact words.) He said that it was funny how some people would be calling out for "For A Dancer" at the same time that others were calling out for "Rosie". This time he picked ROSIE and launched in to what I thought was one of the best versions of Rosie I've heard.

Vocally, I thought Jackson was just a little on the hoarse side and it took him a few songs to warm up completely. By the time he got to his point in show, he was sounding very good. I wish he had kept "Linda Paloma" until later in the show as he probably would have gotten that one note better. But this really wasn't an issue with the show. As I mentioned, Jackson was in a great mood. I've never seen him in a better one... and this really set the tone for the whole evening.

At this point, Jackson commented on his induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier in the week and gave a very warm "thank you" to his fans whom he seemed to credit with getting him there. He was rewarded with a two minute standing ovation. The honor was so well deserved and he really seems to have appreciated the experience, referring to it a number of times throughout the show. He still seems to have been in awe about the whole thing and mentioned how honored he was to be inducted into the R&RHoF with such noble company.

He also mentioned how Vonda Sheppard had flown out to New York to sing backup for him at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, but that when she got to New York, she ended up having to undergo an emergency root canal and missed the performance. He talked about Vonda for a bit and mentioned how she lights up like a Christmas Tree and how he was so glad that she still got to perform with him the night following the ceremony in New York. He said that his band (which was with him in New York) had been teasing him that given the choice between a root canal and rehearsing with Jackson, Vonda had picked the root canal!

FOR A DANCER was next, followed by a simply beautiful version of SERGIO LEONE. I have to say that I liked this solo acoustic version of "Sergio Leone" much better than the album version. The lyrics and melody have a chance to really stand out this way. The starkness of the acoustic version allow the words to have a much greater impact.

In fact, Jackson's relaxed and upbeat mood combined with the solo acoustic setting allowed for his lyrics and his musicianship to shine in a way that I've rarely seen before. With everything else stripped away, it seemed to me that Jackson's guitar playing has really improved over the past decade. This setting really showcased his talent in the best possible way. At first, I thought it was kind of ironic that the week he's inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he's out doing smaller acoustic shows rather than big rock and roll shows in stadiums... but the honor was really about his talent, and this type of show brings it all back to that.

Next he said he's going to play a song he wrote with David Lindley, which of course brought more cheers. He talked of how David was playing this tune and he wrote a song out of it, but that he can't play it the way David does. He performed CALL IT A LOAN, and had to stop about a third of the way through because of what he called a "chord problem". He lost the chord he wanted to use, played with the guitar for moment, and found it . He said that he's been working hard to learn a new tuning or chord and that he's worked so hard on this new one, that he'd forgotten the old one. In any case, he started over from the beginning and played it beautifully. I thought this song was one of the of the highlights of the evening.

Funny thing about when he stopped in the middle of "Call It A Loan"... there was a moment where some people must have not been sure what he was going to do next and a few people started using the time to call out their requests. Jackson laughed about people calling out for a new song when he hadn't finished the last one yet. He said, "I can do this." And he sure did!

The requests never stopped all night. Between each songs people were yelling out for what they wanted Jackson to play. I think nearly every song he ever recorded was shouted out during the night. Jackson would listen really carefully to all the shouts, until he clearly heard something that he thought would fit the moment. When someone called for song from his newest album, Jackson said, "you're just trying to get on my good side." Someone called out for the Doug Haywood song "You Asshole You" (calling it "You Just Want Meat" which was probably a nicer way to call for the song). Jackson mentioned that he had performed it recently, but asked how we could know of that one. He chose not to perform it.

Jackson commented that it was much easier to let the audience decide what he should play... but as the song titles being called out were so scattered he added with a grin, "but you can't make up your minds!" He finally heard one request that made him smile and he played a very nice version of ROCK ME ON THE WATER.

The last song of the first set was THESE DAYS. Jackson introduced the song by saying he had written it when he was just sixteen. He talked about being new New York in the sixties and performing with Nico as a guitarist in Andy Warhol's club. He mentioned that a number of other people had recorded this song before he did and that the version he was playing tonight was more the way Nico had done it.

The first set ended at 9:20 and Jackson walked off to a big round of applause saying that he'd be back in 15 minutes. It turned out to be 25 minutes as the lights came down and Jackson wandered back on stage at 9:45.

He went straight into FOR EVERYMAN followed by IN THE SHAPE OF HEART. The calls for requests continued to ring out between songs, but during the early part of the second set Jackson seemed to have a few ideas of his own about what songs he wanted to perform. The opening notes to YOUR BRIGHT BABY BLUES brought a big round of applause as Jackson played slide guitar for the only time during the evening.

At this point, Jackson played a very nice riff a few times. He said that it was a NEW SONG that he'd love to play for us, but that this was all there was of it so far!! Can't wait to hear what he does with it...

LOOKING EAST was followed by LAWLESS AVENUES, which remains one of my favorite Jackson Browne songs. He introduced "Lawless Avenues" by saying that he had never been in a gang, but that the gang whose territory he grew up in had been called the Avenues. He dedicated the song to an old childhood friend who was in the audience. He called him his oldest friend and then corrected himself with a reference to his brother as being his other oldest friend. (His brother was also in the audience.)

Then he played FOUNTAIN OF SORROW which got a huge round of applause. Jackson talked about how some fans really like his piano playing while others like his guitar playing. He told a story about a friend of his from Mali (in Africa) who really liked his piano playing and went off on a tangent about how he's very popular in Mali for some reason.

He stayed at the keyboard for ALIVE IN THE WORLD, which I thought sounded great... In fact, Jackson was really in fine form all night. His musicianship, his songwriting, and his voice were all showcased very well in this theater which holds about 1800 people. The theater is a modern, clean, well maintained place with decent acoustics and great viewing from pretty much every seat in the house... certainly on the orchestra level.

SKY BLUE AND BLACK followed and he simply nailed this song. His vocal inflection and simple arrangement brought out the best of what is arguably one of his best compositions. From my seat in the 6th row, it looked like Jackson's face got very emotional towards the end of the song and I wasn't sure he was going to make it through the whole song without choking up, but he did. Usually, the highlights for me at a Jackson Browne concert would be "For A Dancer" or "Your Bright Baby Blues", and "Lawless Avenues" has always been among my favorites... but "Sky Blue And Black" is the song that probably showcases Jackson's songwriting and vocal talents the best, and for this show it was easily the highlight of the evening.

At this point someone called out for RUNNING ON EMPTY and he said that he always saves that for the end of the evening, but we were coming to that point, so he performed it. (This was the one song all night where I really missed his band.) A standing ovation followed as Jackson thanked us and walked off stage.

His first encore was MY STUNNING MYSTERY COMPANION which he mentioned was written for his girlfriend of 12 years. His second and final encore was LATE FOR THE SKY, which was another highlight. The concert concluded at 11:02 P.M. when the house lights were turned back on.

I'm one of those who loves Jackson's current band -- those who have been backing him regularly for the past 10 years or so: Mark Goldenberg (guitar), Jeff Young (keyboards), Mauricio Lewak (drums) and Kevin McCormick (bass). You won't find a more talented group of professional musicians anywhere. I think it is next to impossible to compare this solo acoustic show with a show by the full band. They are simply too different. However, the solo acoustic setting puts Jackson's own music talents right up front and gives them a chance to shine on their own. The results are spectacular.

By the way, it was great to get to see and meet some of you in person last night. I'd mention names, but I'm sure I'd forget some. It was a real pleasure meeting each and every one of you who came up to say hello. It's a treat to be able to share such a magical night of music with friends.

Set List:

1. The Barricades of Heaven
2. Farther On
3. Linda Paloma
4. The Pretender
5. Rosie
6. For A Dancer
7. Sergio Leone
8. Call It A Loan
9. Rock Me On The Water
10. These Days
    Intermission
11. For Everyman
12. In The Shape Of A Heart
13. Your Bright Baby Blues
14. New song (partial tune - no lyrics yet)
15. Looking East
16. Lawless Avenues
17. Fountain Of Sorrow
18. Alive In The World
19. Sky Blue And Black
20. Running On Empty
    First Encore:
21. My Stunning Mystery Companion
    Second Enore:
22. Late For The Sky
    

Russ,

Here is a photo from NYC Beacon theater. The show was great you know the rest

Russ,

I was at the concert as well, having seen him at UCLA a week prior I thought this was a lttle better. Actually, my 13 year old son and I were calling out for Lawless, I grew up in the same area and simply love that song because it conjours up memories of what it was like to live there. Amazing he could sing that song in spanish when he had so much trouble singing Quantalamar (sp?) with Liz Casal at Royce Hall. Well, that was the 5th time Ive seen JB in the last 6 months. Don't know how I'm gonna survive w/o him.....he to me is the Noah of our times!! I love his lyrics, he is a poet first to me!! I'm glad I took my 13yr old with me, he loved the concert, a budding musician, we discussed his beginning to write a journal so that he could get ideas on writing songs. My son tried to get backstage to get JB to sign my tee shirt, which I really didin't want sign cuz then I wouldn't wear it but I think he just wanted to try, to no avail..

Wish I could have met you there, thanks for the update,

As I sit here watching Jackson on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame re-broadcast and reading the latest comments on this site, I feel so blessed. Thank you Russ for having a place where all of us can connect.....Reading comments about other concert experiences from all of you keeps me, and I'm sure others, smiling.

I last saw Jackson at the Santa Rosa concert and, boy, after many years of following Jackson's music, I was well ready to celebrate! He was inspiring as he was in 1977 in Oakland, California, my first hello. I have seen Jackson at rally's & concerts since then. Even had a chance to say hello to him after a concert in Santa Cruz( 82 ?). WOW! He was so stinkin cute as he is now! And what a generous nice man to his fans. But, as always, it is the words isn't it? I drove down from Idaho just to be apart of what I knew was gonna be "Extra" special. Thank you Jackson for bringing friends, laughter, and thoughtfulness, to myfriends and thank you again Russ for this wonderful site!!!

Tonight I cried, I laughed, I clapped and I cried again. Springsteen's speech was wonderful and Jackson was....Well...Jackson! Too bad David Lindley wasn't there. It was great nevertheless. Congratulations Jackson Browne!

Bruce NAILED it!!!!! I wonder where I can find copy of that magnificent induction speach or a video of it. I want to share it with my 17 year old daughter as she was pracitcing for a choir performance durring the broadcast. I am always looking for ways to explain what Jackson's music means to me. Bruce articulated it better than anyone I have ever read or heard ... I was bawling!!!! Any info for finding this speach in print or video is appreciated.

Russ - again, great job on the site. I especially liked your recent review of Jackson's solo gig in California. I saw him at the Beacon in NYC, and then went directly to the NCAA basketball games in Raleigh, NC, so this review is a bit late. Seeing that so many other reviews were posted of the same show, I'll try a more personalized approach to it:

I'm also a singer/songwriter, out trying to promote my own music, playing mostly solo acoustic gigs with only my guitar, piano and voice. It can be rough. I live just outside of Philadelphia, and loading gear into my truck, while it is cold and dark outside, traveling to a gig, and playing for just a few people, for almost no money, can be a grind at times. I wanted to see Jackson solo acoustic, as a means of "recharging my batteries", or re-inspiring me, if you will. I had to be in Raleigh the following night, but this was the only east coast gig for Jackson on this tour, so I went for it.

NYC is only about 90 miles from my house, so I took a short train ride up there. It was snowing hard, but it had recently been mild here in the northeast, so I just anticipated a passing flurry. I had some work to do in downtown Manhattan during the day, so I went down there, and was holed up in a high rise for most of the afternoon. When I came out of the building, it was snowing hard. It was a wet, driving kind of snow, that was wind driven, and brutal to be in for more than a few minutes.

I quickly ran down to a subway station, and took the "red line" on up to the upper west side, where the Beacon is. I had been there before a few years back, but I didn't take a subway to that show, so I wasn't sure on how to get there once I got off at 72nd street. As soon as I emerged outside, the snowstorm was in full force. It was about 6:00 pm, and I just decided to duck into the first bar I could find. It was an Irish place called O'Hurley's. With St. Patrick's Day just 48hrs. away, the bar patrons were getting somewhat primed for it. There were no barstools, but there was a seat in the corner, and I grabbed it to regroup. I ordered some soup to warm me up, and a pint of Guinness, "for strength".

I'm not an avid smoker, but occasionally I'll smoke a small cross between a cigar and cigarette, called a cigarello. It goes well with alcohol, and I was feeling like one. New York now disallows smoking in all public bars, so I had to step outside. I asked a woman sitting alone, appearing to be waiting for someone, to watch my materials while I stepped outside, and let my waitress know that I didn't skip the check. When I came back in, I asked the woman if she was there to see Jackson, and a big smile crossed her face. She said, "How did you know?", and I replied, "It's not hard to figure out, especially in this weather." Her name was Pegneen, and she was waiting for her girlfriend named "Barbara". I told her my story, and we were having a good conversation, along with a couple of drinks. This was the 2nd time I went to a Jackson Browne show alone, and both times, I ended up having a blast.

Barbara came along a few minutes later, and we all started to get a good start on the St. Patrick's Day "nectar consumption". If Sharon Stone was a brunette, Barbara would be a dead ringer for her. The girls had seats up in the balcony, but I had a seat about 15 rows from the stage. After a few more drinks, and a few more laughs, we battled the elements, and headed on over to the Beacon, about 4 blocks away. We had another cocktail in the lobby, and headed to our seats. The concert started shortly thereafter.

Pegneen told me prior that Jackson was going to be with his whole band. I honestly was kind of disappointed, because I really wanted to see him solo acoustic, strictly for selfish reasons. Still, I thought he might mix it up somewhat. We all thought that there would be some "special guests", and I think all of New York City expected Springsteen to show.

The setlist has already been posted, so everyone knows what he played. The first set was totally with the band, and had a lot of the "Naked Ride Home" tunes in it. Although Jackson's "bread and butter" is the confessional folk rock love ballad, one of my favorite tunes on that record is "Sergio Leone." Unfortunately, he didn't play that one. That CD is so underrated in my opinion. "Casino Nation" and "Don't You Want To Be There" are also great tunes, and he played both of those.

It's easy to jump onto the bandwagon, and say how great the show was, and for the long time die hard Jackson fan, (which I am), it was. But in terms of musicianship, you could tell the band had not played together for some time. Some chord changes were missed, and some stops and goes in the middle of songs were also missed. It's just totally due to the fact that the act hasn't rehearsed at all recently. Jackson's band is made up of fabulous musicians, but they just hadn't rehearsed their show for quite some time. You almost had to overlook this though, with the yolk of the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame induction still in the air. The atmosphere was more of a retrospective, celebratory, all-star jam, than a rehearsed act promoting a new release. Still, the band stuck with the material they were most familiar with.

Jackson also spent a little time talking about his recent visit to Cuba, and how a Cuban musician he met there was not allowed entry into the US. To be a Jackson fan, is to also appreciate his political activism. Agree with him or not, he is politically engaged, and has sacrificed much for his political ideology, and you have to respect that. All that said, NYC still has a shaken emotional psyche in my opinion. For those of you who have not seen the WTC site, it's much bigger in real life than what you see on TV. It really impacted the city, and it is still somewhat jittery, with all the threats on terrorism on the US. After the bombing, one of the dead hijackers was granted legal US alien status. Obviously, some changes needed to be made at INS. In my opinion, if we are a little too restrictive at this time in terms of allowing aliens in, better to error on the side of safety, at least for the time being. I think many New Yorkers feel the same way. Jackson has the right to say anything he wants at his shows, but in my opinion, he might better consider the right time and place for those statements. Telling New Yorkers, some of who no doubt had some type of connection to someone killed at the WTC, that the US should have more liberal immigration policies, just might not be the right time and place to voice that sentiment, in my opinion. I'm originally from New York, and every time I head toward that area of town, my heart still breaks a little. I remember all the "missing person" pictures hanging on all the street corners. Anyway, intermission came soon after that.

I met the girls at the bar at intermission, and they were having a great time. I told them the seat next to me was open, but just one seat. I also saw that people were standing on the side of the floor, so I said, "Why don't you 2 sit in my seats, and I'll just go stand on the side." That was what we did, and we all had a great time. I felt good that I was able to enhance the experience for two nice people, and Jackson fans. I also felt somewhat privileged to see such a special show in the career of Jackson Browne. When Springsteen took the stage for "Take It Easy", the whole band cranked it up a notch. It was great. The girls and I had one more nightcap, and then I caught the last train back to Philly. The basketball games in Raleigh were also a blast. I met up with about 12 guys, and we go to the NCAA's every year in a different city. We play basketball on the off day, and go out drinking each night. It's a lot of fun.

Thanks for the great time Jackson, Pegneen and Barbara. If you girls read this, email me. If Jackson is reading this, my solo/acoustic "batteries still need charging". How about squeezing in a solo acoustic date around here sometime over the summer. I need a solo acoustic "Jackson fix."

Hello, Jackson fans---

How perfect was Bruce Springsteen's Hall of Fame speech! It takes another crafter of language such as Bruce to say all there is to say about the music of Jackson Browne. His words really let the glory of the moment shine through. He honored the life work of Jackson Browne thoughtfully, beautifully, as a friend and true admirer.

Jackson Browne's words and music can clear paths in the heart and mind. He hears and speaks the language of the soul. Music is a gift. Thank You, Jackson.

Bought the new C.D. I don't know why, it just makes me want to hear each album (and yearn for new stuff). Anyway, just a few thoughts for fun:

Most Welcomed Inclusions:

Jamaica Say you Will
Redneck Friend
Boulevard
Lawless Avenues
The Barricades of Heaven
I am a Patriot
Lives in the Balance (although I'd preferred the version on Coming Home)

Tracks we could have done without:

The Load Out
Stay
Somebody's Baby
Before the Deluge

Tracks that should have been there:

Till I go Down
Cut it away
On the Day
Enough of the Night
Chasing you into the Light
Some Bridges (man, I just love that song)
World in Motion (the bluesy version he does in concert)
Lost in the Shuffle (heard this song some 20 years ago in concert and have not heard it since)
The Road and the Sky
The Birds of St. Marks
For Taking the Trouble
I'm the Cat
Call it a Loan
Love Needs a Heart
Hold Out/Hold On

Well, that's just off the top of my head. Let's hear some opposing/concurring opinions.

P.S. Jackson: Put out a live version of those solo concerts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Russ,

Just returned from a trip to California, the high point seeing Jackson Solo Acoustic at the Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco on March 23rd. As he has at other solo acoustic shows, he just strolled out casually and unannounced and picked up one of his many guitars and began to play. His first set was dominated almost entirely by guitar and was, according to others I was with, "a little slow." (I didn't quite agree, but then again, I can't be objective when it comes to Jackson). In any case, he hit his stride during the second set which had its fair share of keyboard interspersed with guitar. The total surprise of the evening was Bonnie Raitt's appearance, joining him on two songs...what a highlight! The obvious warmth between them clearly demonstrated the friendship and political activism they have shared for many years. I did not write down the set list, but chose to just sit back and enjoy the show. I hope someone else will do so, but suffice it to say, the selection of material spanned his wonderful career and was a celebration of his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Jackson!

I've seen Jackson a couple of times at least in every decade since the 70's....How amazing to me, the timelessness and endurance of his songs. There was so much affection in the room that night, and such great interaction. We had '10th row center' seats, and how great it was to see and hear so clearly. As I am sure there will be other set lists posted; I would just like to say, that when he started to play 'Runnin' on Empty,' the response was a little less than he probably hoped for, and he stopped, and asked if we would rather he play something else. Well, he started it again, and got a much louder, more enthusiastic reception. What I think might have really happened is that we all sensed that it was almost over, and there was that feeling sweeping through the room, that we were close to having to surrender to the fact that he would be ending the show. It's that 'last song of the night' thing. Lots of emotion. All I can say is my admiration, and respect for you, Jackson, will never end, even though the night will. My own stunning mystery companion and I drove our own 'naked ride home' to Santa Cruz, and your words and music were (and are) still with us. Please, please, release a CD of your personal favorites of this tour.

Russ, thank you so much for this forum.

"..and the river opens for the righteous.."

This is such a great website! I really enjoy reading JB fans' concert reviews and general comments. I'd like to thank Russ for its upkeep. It's even more informative than JB's official website.

Along with another fan who wrote recently, I'd like to thank S. Woo for advising us about Netscape's Jackson Browne station. Even though I have all his CDs, it's great to hear all his songs without having to keep changing CDs since I only have a one-disc player. Plus the random order is nice.

Reading a couple of fans' comments about wishing JB would release a CD of his acoustic shows, reminded me of something he joked about at the October 13, 2003 Riverside Theatre concert in Milwaukee. Instead of calling out for a song, a fan requested that he put out a CD of his acoustic songs. Jackson said something like, "Maybe I'm recording this now and I just recorded you." So, fans, maybe there's hope! Even if he hasn't recorded any of his shows yet, he has heard at least one request for such a CD, so perhaps the idea has been planted.

I drove from Portland to San Jose after scoring (only a week before) 6th row seats! And it was SO worth it! Like a fine wine, Jackson just keeps getting better and better! He was in fine form and humor, and also chattier than I've seen him (and that's a lot!). He commented that his sister caught one of his S. Cal. shows and said she didn't think she'd ever heard him talk so much! Still high off his R&R HOF induction, he said that between his tour in his home state, and the induction, he loves when he gets his way! Obviously in a happy mood, he said after his opener (Barricades) when I requested "Sky Blue and Black" it was too early in the show for that, to remind him later. Unfortunately, we were never treated to that masterpiece. He did however play two of my other requests, "Walking Slow" (WONDERFUL TREAT!) and "Ready or Not", leaving out the last verse. He tried twice to play "I'm the Cat", forgetting the lyrics on the first line. He asked one of the crew to go online and get the lyrics, which he brought out for his first encore song. A guy who sat with us, who had never seen Jackson and was not familiar with most of the songs, commented after the show that he had never been to a concert with so much audience participation! He played (not in order):

Barricades
Walking Slow
Ready or Not
Fountain of Sorrow
Shape of a Heart
Looking Into You
Something Fine
These Days
The Times You've Come
Our Lady of the Well
I'm Alive
Pretender
Lives in the Balance
Bright Baby Blues
Running on Empty
I'm the Cat
Night Inside Me
Naked Ride Home
Mystery Companion
Late for the Sky
For a Dancer
For Everyman
Redemption Song

I have been a loyal and steadfast JB fan for over 20yrs. First concert was in 1983 at MSG and my last one was the phenomenal show at the Beacon following his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I thank him and his music for being part of the soundtrack of my life.

I totally agree that Bruce nailed it when inducting Jackson into the Hall of Fame. I was psyched to see that I could read Bruce 's induction speech and am curious if Jackson's speech is available anywhere. Any idea on where I could find a transcript of that?

hi russ, thank you again for your website, it's where i always go first when i get on the internet. i want to say a quick few things about the concert in sacramento, and mostly i want everyone to know that it was so cool that jackson got a rousing uproarous standing ovation when he strolled onstage unannounced (as he seems to be doing on his solo tour). the music was awesome, even better than the previous month in lake tahoe, i won't list all the songs, but suffice it to say he played for 3 hours with only a 15 min intermission. he was in fine form, interacting with audience comfortably, asked for final encore, "ok, do you want to end the evening with a song about the depths of despair, or despair with a silver lining?" and the crowd went wild, willing to take either, of course, but silver lining won out and he sang fountain of sorrow. most rewarding to have found my way to another night of listening to jackson.

Where to begin? Jackson closed out the U.S. leg of his Solo Acoustic Tour 2004 in Santa Barbara last night. The concert started promptly at 8 p.m. and ended at 11 p.m. In between Jackson played a mind-numbing collection of songs that spanned the 30-plus years of his newly-inducted Hall of Fame career. He seemed to be in a great mood and was clearly glad to be a part of Peggy Jones "Sings Like Hell" series at the Lobero Theatre. First off,is a big thanks from me to b j for the ticket. It was so great to finally meet you after all these years. It was really fun to meet all the other "Everyman" list people also there last night. Jackson played an incredible collection of songs. Probably my favorite moment came in the second set with a back to back combination of "My Stunning Mystery Companion" and "Sky Blue and Black" It was an incredible evening.

The Barricades of Heaven
Man of Constant Sorrow
The Pretender
For A Dancer
Your Bright Baby Blues
Fountain Of Sorrow
Call it a Loan
Looking East
Our Lady of the Well
Something Fine
--intermission--
For Everyman
Running On Empty
The Night Inside Me
Lives in the Balance
I Am A Patriot
Rock Me on the Water
Looking Into You
Don't You Want to Be There
Carmelita
Take it Easy
--encore--
These Days
Late for the Sky

What a night!! My seat was row G which was 9 rows from stage. I saw Jackson in Tahoe and the Sacramento show was far better. He perfomed about 23-24 songs. I'll list what I remember but in no particular order. The way he interacted with the audience was so cool. Some lady requested Rosie and he laughed then commented that he ususally gets this request from men not women, he then went on to play it. I tried to get him to do Shaky Town with no luck. It didn;t matter though all the songs were great. After some convincing from the audience to play Here Comes Those Tears he played that too. First he said he didn;t think he could do the song justice because of the country versions or something (I'd never heard a country version only the one back in the late 70"s) anyway, he finally said "okay, do you really want to hear it" and we went crazy. It sounded great. On the part ...."open up enough to let you in..." he had a country twang in his voice which was comical yet nevertheless very good. The huge smile on his face was awesome to see. You could tell he was having as much fun as we were. The rehab version of Cocaine was something else. Also, in the beginning someone yelled out "congratulations on your Hall of Fame.." and the crowd jumped to their feet. He got several standing ovations and hopefully he will come back to Sacramento next year. He even thanked us a couple of times for being so warm and kind. Man he's such a great guy.

In closing. I just want to share a personal experience I had with Jackson. It was January 9, 2004 and I was at the Burbank Airport. I walked out of the airport and standing practically in front of me was Jackson Browne. I couldn't beleive it. I went and sat down outside then finally got up the nerve to approach him. I told him how much I loved his music and that I had listened to him since I was a teenager (40 now). I then asked if I could PLEASE have his autograph. He smiled that shy smiled and said "sure". Afterwards, believe it or not, I put my arms around him, gave him a hug and thanked him. He was with his Stunning Mystery Companion and my friend told me they were both smiling. I felt like a kid again. Needless to say he made more than my day as I was there only to attend the funeral of a good friend of mine and this encounter lifted my spirits. Thank you Jackson Browne for being the person you are and I wish you all the good things life has to offer.

Now here's the songs I remember. There were a couple I was not familiar with so obviously I can't list them.

Barricades of Heaven
Jamaica Say You WIll
Linda Paloma
Rosie (request)
Ready or Not (request)
For Everyman
The Pretender (request)
Running on Empty
In the Shape of a Heart
Cocaine (rehab version - request)
Here Come Those Tears Again (request)
Bright Baby Blues
Rock Me on the Water
Late for the Sky
Lives in the Balance
My Stunning Mystery Companion
The Naked Ride Home
These Days - he told us the story of when he wrote this song at the age of 16
For a Dancer
Fountain of Sorrow
I am a Patriot
I'm Alive
Warren Zevon song but I do not know the name of it.
He sang a couple more but I do not know the names of them.

Thank you Russ for creating a place where all of Jackson Browne's fans can come and catch up on the latest.

Can I just say that I've been a Jackson Browne fan since high school....I'm 41 now. I remember seeing him in 1978 or so at the Providence Civic Center and my girlfriends and I were swooning! We ran down to the stage in time to hear him sing Sleeps Dark and Silent Gate....I thought I'd died and gone to heaven. I bought a Saturate Before Using Tee shirt and wore it out. Many years have passed since then and my taste has changed but I always had a soft spot for Jackson. I just purchased the CD of The Pretender and as I'm writing this I'm listening to it......Oh my God, I feel like a teenager again! Linda Paloma, Here Come Those Tears Again and my favorite, Sleeps Dark and Silent Gate. He hasn't lost his charm for me, I guess, even though I'm an old married woman with kids who don't really like that "California Sound". So cheers to Jackson Browne for making me happy and sad all at once and taking me back to my youth.....however briefly.

Great site by the way,

Sincerely,