Dickey Sarasota 5/15/2018


Man, "Hot 'Lanta" was tough to watch

There was a better quality video posted of "Blue Sky" (that has since been deleted) that was filmed from right in front of Dickey onstage. Not trying to be nasty or dump on him, And i understand that 3-4 yrs of rust would be hard for anyone one to try and deal with and this was a rehearsal gig etc,etc... But it was hard to listen to.

What was that!!!! Sheesh! They needed a rehearsal for the rehearsal show. I had a feeling this was gonna bomb. It looks like a lot of folks got swindled in buying tix's for the Beacon show thinking it was going to be some grand revival of ABB music. Wow,sorry but that was bad.

What was that!!!! Sheesh! They needed a rehearsal for the rehearsal show. I had a feeling this was gonna bomb. It looks like a lot of folks got swindled in buying tix's for the Beacon show thinking it was going to be some grand revival of ABB music. Wow,sorry but that was bad.
that was a legend in his 70's who hasn't played live in over three years on a stage, and probably didn't play much at all during that period. When an athlete is injured and doesn't play for awhile, often their "rehab" games are not much to watch and it takes time for them to get back into the swing of things. To me, their is an analogy here. I think most people who attended simply wanted to see him play. I don't know that anyone has the expectation of some grand revival of ABB music unless you are looking at Duane Betts and Devon Allman.

Reminds me of when I paid to see Willie Mays in 1973 when he got traded back to New York for the last go round.
We cheered for what once was and to live it again in the moment before that moment is gone for good.
I wanted Dickey to work up an all acoustic band and do a small venue tour.
Play stuff from Highway Call etc.
[Edited on 5/17/2018 by griff]

Well they do have 2 months of practice time before the Beacon.....

The man has arthritis, had a cut on his right hand and is 74 yrs old. He is a living legend who decided to do some shows for the fans. He does not need the money, he did it for the fans.
At the end of the day, we all have a choice to spend the money or not. I am just feeling blessed to be able to see the man in the hat one more time and get to say goodbye possibly for the last time at the Beacon theatre. Just grateful to have Dickey on the road, listen to that Dickey tone and watch him grace the stage one more time at the Church of Music which is the Beacon!

Amen. They need to find their center, Damon has some shoes to fill with Andy gone. I heard a couple sour bends, but those notes will be found. I'm excited for the 2 I'll be catching in NY. I'm sadly working for the Beacon show.
On a happy note, Mike Kach sounds great on Whipping Post. He's a sweet Gent who was struggling with sclerosis of the liver and was in pretty bad shape for while. I love the guy and to hear the strength return in his vocals is literally music to my ears. I saw him in a couple clubs in Florida in 2015 realized what an ugly infliction it can be. His wizardry on the keys never left him, but he was working hard to conquer it, God Bless Him.
I have realistic expectations and with that I'm expecting some special shows with some special people.
...................
[Edited on 5/17/2018 by Fretsman]

Reminds me of when I paid to see Willie Mays in 1973 when he got traded back to New York for the last go round.
We cheered for what once was and to live it again in the moment before that moment is gone for good.
I wanted Dickey to work up an all acoustic band and do a small venue tour.
Play stuff from Highway Call etc.[Edited on 5/17/2018 by griff]
When Mays tripped in the outfield during the 73 world series there was an article in the NYT that stated "an entire generation got old today."
Yeah we're older; but hoping for just a hint of magic at the Beacon. I was at Shea when Mays somehow got a homer over the wall in right (seemingly by inches) his first game back at Shea. Wasn't the Willie I saw in 1962 - but it was the best Wille I could ever see again

Yeah, the chronic cranks here aren't surprising anyone. No one ever expected these shows to be 1992 again, or even 2014. But he's surrounded by guys who know the material and him, and Damon Fowler is just as good as Andy (definitely a better slide player). People have been asking Dickey to go back out on the road for nearly 5 years, he's not taking anyone's money.
Dickey is back on stage. Friends of mine who are going know what to expect. But they want to see Dickey, in Macon no less, play guitar one last time, possibly alongside Jaimoe - which, if it happens, would just be an amazing moment to witness regardless.

I'm as sentimental as the next person and was intrigued to see what Dickey would bring to these shows.
Having seen the videos, I would keep my money in my pocket, I think. The rest of the band sounded pretty good but Dickey just dragged them down, which was sad to hear.
Those who want to go just to see and pay tribute to Dickey will happily do so and suspend their critical faculties. Those who would prefer to remember him in his pomp might be having second thoughts. Which is all how it should be.
As for not needing the money, charging $60 for a rehearsal suggests otherwise. If they felt the need to play before an audience, I'm sure 1,000 people could have been assembled for free or a nominal amount.
It's refreshing to be able to express unfavourable opinions on here, as the fan group on Facebook won't tolerate adverse views.

Those who want to go just to see and pay tribute to Dickey will happily do so and suspend their critical faculties. Those who would prefer to remember him in his pomp might be having second thoughts. Which is all how it should be.

As for not needing the money, charging $60 for a rehearsal suggests otherwise. If they felt the need to play before an audience, I'm sure 1,000 people could have been assembled for free or a nominal amount.
Dickey might not need the money, but the other 6 working musicians and road crew, not to mention the venue, probably appreciate it.
Personally, I'm not too bummed I can't make these shows. I'm content to remember the last show he did in NYC in 2014, which was excellent. I totally appreciate not wanting to witness the final ride, but I can totally appreciate those who want one last hang with their guitar hero. Playing music takes its toll: guitarists' fingers get less dexterous and adventurous, lungs lose their capacity, drummers' joints get worn down, etc. Like leafsonthwind said, it's all about expectations, and most people I know who bought tickets did so sentimentally and realistically.

As for not needing the money, charging $60 for a rehearsal suggests otherwise. If they felt the need to play before an audience, I'm sure 1,000 people could have been assembled for free or a nominal amount.
Dickey might not need the money, but the other 6 working musicians and road crew, not to mention the venue, probably appreciate it.
Agreed, about the other band members, at least; the venue would welcome 1,000 thirsty and hungry customers, I'm sure.
But the bottom line is that it was a rehearsal. I don't think I've ever heard of an act charging full prices for a rehearsal, which is by definition a practice and not an official performance.
Iron out your fluffs and bum notes in private, or expose them to the paying public at your peril.

Agreed, about the other band members, at least; the venue would welcome 1,000 thirsty and hungry customers, I'm sure.
But the bottom line is that it was a rehearsal. I don't think I've ever heard of an act charging full prices for a rehearsal, which is by definition a practice and not an official performance.
Iron out your fluffs and bum notes in private, or expose them to the paying public at your peril.
I agree $60 is steep for general admission to a bar. I imagine the venue determined the door - sure they'd make money on drinks, but why not make even more money on the local legend? And you know what? It sold out. Prices to his remaining shows are all over the place depending on the venue. But I have seen other artists have woodshedding shows, and the venue still charged a cover.

Agreed, about the other band members, at least; the venue would welcome 1,000 thirsty and hungry customers, I'm sure.
But the bottom line is that it was a rehearsal. I don't think I've ever heard of an act charging full prices for a rehearsal, which is by definition a practice and not an official performance.
Iron out your fluffs and bum notes in private, or expose them to the paying public at your peril.
I agree $60 is steep for general admission to a bar. I imagine the venue determined the door - sure they'd make money on drinks, but why not make even more money on the local legend? And you know what? It sold out. Prices to his remaining shows are all over the place depending on the venue. But I have seen other artists have woodshedding shows, and the venue still charged a cover.
This was not admission to a bar except in the literal sense. That was why it sold out at that price. It was a one off to see a legend. He also obviously did it at his own peril (whether he cared or not). Just look at some of the thoughts expressed here! I am sure this was for his band and the joint, obviously not a money grab for Betts.

I agree $60 is steep for general admission to a bar. I imagine the venue determined the door - sure they'd make money on drinks, but why not make even more money on the local legend? And you know what? It sold out. Prices to his remaining shows are all over the place depending on the venue. But I have seen other artists have woodshedding shows, and the venue still charged a cover.
This was not admission to a bar except in the literal sense. That was why it sold out at that price. It was a one off to see a legend. He also obviously did it at his own peril (whether he cared or not). Just look at some of the thoughts expressed here! I am sure this was for his band and the joint, obviously not a money grab for Betts.
I agree, Jonesy, it was "General Admission" in that it was standing room only, no seating. I honestly can't tell if you're trying to argue or agreeing with what I've written on this thread (I'm leaning towards "agreeing"). I was pointing out that the venue likely sets the price - the festival in Boca ($65 for the day) and the show in CT ($150-$200), it makes it clear.

I went and paid more than twice that amount for the Music Of Led Zeppelin Rehearsal at the City Winery, Tash didn't even have his guitar and had to borrow Jackie's?

I agree, Jonesy, it was "General Admission" in that it was standing room only, no seating. I honestly can't tell if you're trying to argue or agreeing with what I've written on this thread (I'm leaning towards "agreeing"). I was pointing out that the venue likely sets the price - the festival in Boca ($65 for the day) and the show in CT ($150-$200), it makes it clear.
I think I am agreeing! Nevertheless to my way of thinking this is all about context and perspective versus the literal facts of the venue price and the quality of the performance. Of course we want a great performance. I see a very intriguing scenario here that has nothing to do with Betts actual abilities to play guitar today. I believe he is in part doing this as a tribute to Gregg Allman. Nobody has commented, that I can see, on the setlist of this show but you can clearly see they played Midnight Rider and Whipping Post--something DB and GS never did--even back in the 70's. Also he is playing with his son, who is emerging in his own right. He is playing with Devon Allman, and I am sure Devon will be singing these tunes tonight. Tonight's show will be a memorable one just because of the symbolism and the warmth. I really hope Jaimoe shows up tonight to play with them. It will be cathartic and emotional. So the first "rehearsal" show was a start to more, and Isuspect many of the people who bought those 60 dollar tickets felt similarly. Betts could have continued whatever he was doing but he felt the need to do this for reasons well beyond the actual performance. Good for him

I really hope Jaimoe shows up tonight to play with them. It will be cathartic and emotional.
>>>>>>>>This will happen!

I have a feeling his playing will be better as time goes on.

I agree, Jonesy, it was "General Admission" in that it was standing room only, no seating. I honestly can't tell if you're trying to argue or agreeing with what I've written on this thread (I'm leaning towards "agreeing"). I was pointing out that the venue likely sets the price - the festival in Boca ($65 for the day) and the show in CT ($150-$200), it makes it clear.
I think I am agreeing! Nevertheless to my way of thinking this is all about context and perspective versus the literal facts of the venue price and the quality of the performance. Of course we want a great performance. I see a very intriguing scenario here that has nothing to do with Betts actual abilities to play guitar today. I believe he is in part doing this as a tribute to Gregg Allman. Nobody has commented, that I can see, on the setlist of this show but you can clearly see they played Midnight Rider and Whipping Post--something DB and GS never did--even back in the 70's. Also he is playing with his son, who is emerging in his own right. He is playing with Devon Allman, and I am sure Devon will be singing these tunes tonight. Tonight's show will be a memorable one just because of the symbolism and the warmth. I really hope Jaimoe shows up tonight to play with them. It will be cathartic and emotional. So the first "rehearsal" show was a start to more, and Isuspect many of the people who bought those 60 dollar tickets felt similarly. Betts could have continued whatever he was doing but he felt the need to do this for reasons well beyond the actual performance. Good for him
I think your perspective is right on, and you hit a lot of good points in one paragraph. Well stated!

I saw this posted on Dickey Bett's fans facebook page, WOW, Duane having at it with the Dad in the Hat watching, Special....

what was the setlist

Just in case anyone's interested: I always thought Great Southern was one of the best records Dickey ever made. Had it on vinyl but last I looked (probably 10 years ago) the CD was out of print. No Mas! Amazon has Great Southern and Atlanta's Burning Down packaged together for $11.99!

Just in case anyone's interested: I always thought Great Southern was one of the best records Dickey ever made. Had it on vinyl but last I looked (probably 10 years ago) the CD was out of print. No Mas! Amazon has Great Southern and Atlanta's Burning Down packaged together for $11.99!
i have that but i got mine more than 8 years ago. its on anther label too. just glad to have it on cd

what was the setlist
Dickey Betts' May 16 setlist:
1. “Hot ’Lanta”
2. “Statesboro Blues”
3. “Nothing You Can Do”
4. “Midnight Rider”
5. “Blue Sky”
6. “Get Away”
7. “Seven Turns”
8. “Whipping Post”
9. “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed”
10. “Ramblin’ Man"
Midnight Rider.

White Buffalo lol.
Show was not that great. Proving his playing at the equally hard to watch TTB sit in was no mistake.
It was nicely nostalgic to hear that famous vibrato again. Not worth $60.
For Rock Dinos, If rather go see kick ass RnR from Neil Young or Rolling Stones than a nostalgia act.
DB gave us his best. Paying to see him off like paying full price to hear Steve Stills sing horribly off key: ridiculous.

Wow - it is not a life or death moment here people.
As The Stones sang "It's Only R&R".
Guess what 9 out of 10 guys in their 70s don't perform as well as they did in the 1970s. Nor does any athlete, artist, comedian, etc.
If your expectations in life are that everything should remain at it's peak - always - then you are doomed to be let down.
Dickey will get in the swing. Damon will just improve every show. Pedro is always a monster. The band can smoke when in a groove.
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