Michael Bolton? Soft rock saxaphone solo mania?

I opened for him at the South Okanagan Events Center on April 10th. My goodness, this guy literally defines a certain genre of music, and hair. His infamous mane is etched in my memory as the quintessential mullet, waving gently in the wind, as some of the juiciest love songs croon out in a faked rasp, sexy like Brian Adams, but silky and more mellow.

I was honored to have my 20 minutes in the sun, as I had claimed that huge stage last year while helping out for the Feist inaugural first concert in our Events Center. It felt good to know that my goal-setting has been functioning in the energy arena. I truly believe that the things you set your spirit to will come to you when you really claim them.

And who better to open for? There was zero threat. Middle-aged romantics that like saxaphone solos couldn't get enough of what I was laying down. It was beautiful, and when my first three minutes were through, there were no more nerves left, just excitement to feel all of that electricity beneath my feet, the tremendous boom of my wooden box crunching beneath my feet, the deep and ominous fat "B" tuning I started my set with (BGDGBD, for you freaks). And spontaneously had the audience singing K'naan's "Wavin Flag" chorus to the song's outro.

Never met Michael Bolton. Apparently, nobody did. In fact, I talked to his guitar tech, who claims to have NEVER MET HIM!!I had the distinct impression Michael loathes his position in today's market: a cover artist of his former self. Lord, help me never, ever become that.

Finally, I must say, he has a frickin crazy good voice. Can't believe it. Tip of the sack to you, Michael!