TURNING REJECTION INTO GOLD

ONE SONG AT A TIME

~ by joel martens ~

The one thing supposedly guaranteed in life is the unconditional love of family. So no matter how many times I hear stories about a LGBT youth being rejected by his or her family, it never ceases to infuriate me. Unfair and so cruel for those who, for the most part, have already had far too many hard-learned lessons imposed by fear and a lack of understanding around their sexuality. Yes, in many ways it has gotten better, but there are still many who have to endure more than their share.

All you have to do is take a moment to read the stories about many of our youngest LGBT brothers and sisters to grasp the challenges they can often face, the inherent self-doubt, bullying, name-calling and angst that can come with growing up gay. Some have it more difficult than others, some less, with far tooo many having to hide in that less-than-comfortable closet. Many being forced out onto the streets when they step out of its confines—by choice or by a demand to leave. The statistics are sobering: between 20 and 40 percent of homeless youth are LGBT.

Read more: Here

At Denver’s historic Paramount Theater, Colorado Music Hall of Fame 2013 Inductee Judy Collins recalled many mile high memories from four decades. It was also announced at the SRO show that the Red Rocks Trading Post, located at the base of the world famous natural amphitheater (currently housing merchandise and food), would become the CMHOF’s new home. Also inducted were the Serendipity Singers, Bob Lind and Chris Daniels.

Read more: Here

Skip the Eagles for a Rocky Mountain High

There is no denying that tonight’s Eagles concert at the St. Pete Times Forum is the “Best of the Day,” as far as “big” events go. But the truth is I’ve always been a hater. Oh sure, I’ll grant you that “Take it Easy” is generally non-offensive, but that’s where my ability to “praise” the Eagles ends. I find the whole thing cloying — even Henley’s politics, with which I mostly agree! Of all the incredible classic rock bands of the 1970s and ’80s, why is this one still on the road? And don’t the members hate each other? So it’s all just one big cash-in. Sounds like fun.

But it’s a Wednesday night, which means alternatives are limited. One solid choice: Rocky Mountain High: A John Denver Tribute, which pays homage to the late/great singer-songwriter by showcasing many of his mellow hits (“Leaving on a Jet Plane, “Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” etc.) in live instrumentals performed by former members of his band accompanied by a string section, with John Denver joining them all in spirit (and via archival film projections). The musicians also share stories of life on the road with Denver. Classy and cool. Fuck the Eagles.

Rocky Mountain High: A John Denver Tribute, Wed., Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m., Palladium Theater, St. Petersburg. Tickets are $55/$75. Buy tickets or get more info here.