Back Stage Pass

JULY 2009

Harder Beat Magazine Online

Bryan Adams
Michael Schenker

by Andy Laudano

Michael Schenker with HB’s Andy Laudano
Photo: Rick Marion

Following his acoustic show at the Majestic Theater, Bryan Adams totally blew off three fans that caught him sneaking out the front door and into a waiting vehicle (while everyone else was waiting out back by the tour bus.) “Sorry guys, not tonight. I gotta go,” was all he had to say. You’d think he’d be more accommodating to his fans after charging them $60 – $125 a ticket! And, you’d also think a show — with no opening act to pay, just one band member, minimal lighting and equipment and no stage set — would cost less money.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, guitar legend Michael Schenker went the extra mile for fans at the House of Blues Pontiac Garage. Schenker was originally supposed to play HOB’s main stage but, after visa issues forced the tour to be rescheduled, MSG was forced to play the Pontiac Garage’s smaller stage. Schenker still put on an amazing show and solidified his legendary guitar hero status. After the show, a group of about 20 fans were told to line up along the side of the bus, as Schenker sat on a step inside and signed autographs and took pictures with fans. Some had stacks of albums and CD booklets and Schenker happily signed them all. After Schenker had taken care of everyone, vocalist Gary Bardin came out and signed too.

After their Seven Witches kick-ass show at the Rockstar, Jack Frost, James Rivera, Mike LePond and Taz Marazz hung out with fans and signed autographs. LePond mentioned that Symphony X hopes to have the new album finished and be on tour next year. In more good news, Rivera said he plans to return to the Rockstar later this year with both Helstar and his Savatage tribute band.