live music

Here's an addendum to my previous post.

I got an invitation today to join an old friend in California for a live performance by Dave Brubeck and sons. It's tempting.

I saw Miles Davis live. B.B. King, too.

I saw Dizzy Gillespie perform live, though I was standing outside the packed jazz club, peeking in through the window, which the club had covered with newspapers to prevent me from doing what I was doing. No problem hearing through the glass. I probably heard it better than the people in the back of the club, since the stage was right by the window.

I've driven a few hours to hear certain musicians who were passing near my part of the continent. A friend and I even drove 12 hours to Atlanta to hear a couple of sets at a bar and then drive 12 hours back. (Actually, the trip was more like 19 hours for my friend who had to drive 7 hours to pick me up first.)

But those days are behind me. One of the less profound reasons I look forward to fatherhood is so my kid will provide me with a better excuse than just being an old fuddy duddy.

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Postscript

And just as I finish this post, this song comes on the "radio" (meaning the Storyville internet jazz feed):

Don't Get Around Much Anymore

(Lyrics by Bob Russel, Music by Duke Ellington)

Missed the Saturday dance
Heard they crowded the floor
Couldn't bear it without you
Don't get around much anymore

Thought I'd visit the club
Got as far as the door
They'd have asked me about you
Don't get around much anymore

Darling, I guess my mind's more at ease
But nevertheless, why stir up memories

Been invited on dates
Might have gone but what for
Awfully different without you
Don't get around much anymore