September 1, 2016
After Gregg Allman posted a statement saying that he was checking into the Mayo Clinic (doctor’s orders) right before this date, I had my doubts about this concert which was a double bill with Mr. Allman and ZZ Top. However, Live Nation quickly got the word out that the concert was on and they were adding Foghat and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes – (maybe this would still be worth the trip).
Unfortunately, tailgating too long caused us to miss Foghat, but we made it in time for Southside Johnny. He played some of his older tunes like “Havin’ A Party” and “Talk to Me,” however the acoustics were not right for his band and they sounded too loud. I happen to really enjoy his music but was not impressed by this particular concert.
ZZ Top came on and the PNC Arts Center came alive! They opened with “Got Me Under Pressure” and proceeded to play “Waitin’ For the Bus.” They were playing really well and their voices were in tune, even crisp. They entertained the crowd with their coordinated guitar sways while walking up and back along the stage in tandem. Their signature long bearded faces and dark sunglasses keep their looks mysterious. I had forgotten how many hits they had! They sang “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide” and “Pincushion” and the crowd was on their feet for nearly the entire show.
ZZ Top played one of my personal favorites, “Rough Boys”, which I didn’t expect because it’s a slow, mellow song but the crowd ate it up! Everyone continued to sing along to this band’s “Greatest Hits” tribute.
For their first encore, they played their popular tunes “La Grange” and “Tush.” For the second one, they played Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock.” It was obvious this crowd loved these three crazy dudes who seem to love to play rock and roll. I’ve read that they never thought the band would last beyond the 1970’s, let alone make it in the music business for over five decades.
If you like any of ZZ Top’s songs, go and see them if they are playing near you. You will enjoy their antics and remember ALL of their hits.
