Intelligent Life On Planet Rock
The world’s greatest bar band?
I just got back from my annual pilgrimage to the Shepherd’s Bush Empire (or whatever it’s called these days) to see Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. I’ve been to see them pretty much every time they’ve come to the UK in the past 25 years, and they’ve never let me down yet – that euphoric blend of rock, blues and soul never fails to lift the spirits.
These days, Southside comes over every November for a fortnight’s tour of the UK, playing places like Frome, Leamington Spa and Holmfirth. I can’t speak for those places, but the Empire was packed out tonight, as it always is for the Jukes. And this despite the fact that you could question 1,000 people in any high street in England, and I doubt you’d find more than one who’s even heard of Southside Johnny.
The only other example of this phenomenon – fervent support for an act who’s long since slipped off most people’s radar – that I’m aware of is George Thorogood, who similarly packs out the Empire on his regular visits. So who are the other acts in this category – the ones who thrive on their live reputation alone?
PS: to the Word team: how about an interview with Southside some time? He’d fit nicely into your ‘Prisoners of Rock’n’Roll’ slot...
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I love Southside Johnny
Saw him live at Shepherd's Bush Empire late 80s - and it was everything a gig should be. And then on a magical night a few years later I was working in NYC and went to see Brucie at Meadowlands and guess who was a guest? One for the memoirs that
He's the guy that even The Boss looks ups to - and this clip never fails to lift my spirits
Holmfirth
I went to see him in Holmfirth. First time I'd seen him but I thought he was fabulous. Really good band. I didn't think his own songs were great but the covers he did were fantastic. The place was packed - not bad on a wild night in the middle of nowhere.
Saw him in Bilston
on this latest tour. First time. Thought it was a fantastic show and i got the distinct impression it was a pilgrimage for most of the audience. One that I will be joining when he returns next year.
Yes Friday night
was a fantastic show, but why does such a loyal crowd feel the need to talk through every number? Is it because they know the songs? I came out of Shepherds Bush , having seen one of the worlds great rock & soul bands , feeling more angry than elated. There would be a cheer of recognition when the song started then back to the chat & phone. I appreciate it might have been better in the throng at the front but due to our fantastic rail service I only just got there in time & it was as you say packed. Calm now.