The Elton John concert in Madison, WI last night was amazing. It was my first time ever with excellent seats (who says you can't sometimes get fabulous seats through Ticketmaster?) As soon as Elton appeared on stage, I made my move up to the side of the stage and had a great view him, and an even better view of John Jorgenson (I was a little to his left). In fact, John even threw one of his guitar picks at me during Simple Life, though I have no idea where it landed. Near the end of the show (I was so wrapped up in the moment that I cannot even remember during which song - possibly Crocodile Rock?), percussionist John Mahon came up to the audience and started tapping one of his tambourines on my hand!
While I did not take down the setlist (I assume it was just about identical to his other recent shows on this leg of the tour), I was surprised but not disappointed in the disappearance of The River Can Bend and The Last Song from the setlist. Actually, I thought Bennie & the Jets made for a much better ending than The Last Song (a song I've always liked - but not for an encore with its melancholy message).
It is always remarkable what a large cross-section of people one can find at an Elton John concert - from young children with their parents, to the elderly.
Watching the concert from the stage put a whole new perspective on the show for me. Being one of the lucky few to touch Elton's hand as he walked by and getting his autograph were experiences I will never forget. I've usually had nosebleed seats whenever Elton performs in Milwaukee and have always dreamed of being one of the lucky few up front. I can't even articulate how much it meant to me to be that close to him and the band last night. It was a dream come true and an unforgettable experience.
- Marisa zenreg@hotmail.com
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