|
A lot of the inspiration I got for what I did in the RF's came from Paul Revere. I loved the combination of music and comedy, something the Raiders did better than anybody. I thought it was a good way to connect with the audiences, and it was also kind of natural to me. I can't think of anything more enjoyable than being onstage with a good band, playing music I love, and entertaining people. Most of the band members did not appreciate this, though. I got a lot of complaints from them about "too much talking and goofing around onstage" (although, oddly, I also got complaints from a few audience members that we didn't do ENOUGH comedy!!). Our approach changed over the years, though. Our presentation got a bit more serious in our final years, but it wasn't a wake or a funeral, it was still a rock and roll show. "War Games" is a serious statement; "Safe from Harm" is a love song. You can't do those laughing or standing on your head. Even the Raiders have done some pretty serious material (the "Ride to the Wall" cd being a good example). I applaud them for the work they did to raise awareness of veterans causes in the early 00's. They raised a lot of money to help out homeless vets, and draw attention to the POW-MIA issue. The shows they did in 2001-2003 were the best I ever saw. I sure do miss the guys now. Paul and the guys stopped touring several years ago, and they're not recording anymore, either. I've got 40 years of Raiders records to listen to, though. I always find time for some Raiders songs on my radio show. If it was up to me, they would've been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame years ago, but they are honored at Experience Music Project in Seattle, with an exhibit in the Northwest Passage. Check it out next time you're in town. |
