%$#@!&* It was my birthday and I couldn't get into the sound check! I called the box office who referred me to the producers who referred me to the managing agency. I emailed all the principals and didn't even get a response! My girlfriend Terry offered to buy the tickets. Everyone tried to talk me out bringing my camera since it was a no camera event but I just don't believe in such a thing. As it was I only pulled out my Canon 30D w/ 70-200mm lens when the audience burst into applause so I wouldn't get noticed as much. Richie's brother arrived and sat in front of me. 1 year apart but they both look identical, same white beard,bald head and look in their eyes. He still lives in Brooklyn, I told him it's been 30 years since I photographed his brother. Richie's big hands covered the fretboard. His left thumb does more than just play the bass string as he uses it to finger his chords and like Hendrix his strumming hand moves at incredible speed, its like watching and hearing lightning!
Even though I couldn't photograph freely enough to capture exactly what I wanted, I did take note of the performers gestures & movements. I now know which chord Steve likes to accent by pointing to the ceiling and I'll be ready for Richie when he jumps up at the end of his set to kick the air!
