No Small Thing

I was recently asked if I get sick of seeing the same show all the time. Just in case you didn’t know, I am a HUGE Tears For Fears fan and just attended my 15th show last night in Franklin, TN. I cannot tell you how wonderful it was for them to play in my new home state after relocating to Nashville two years ago. I saw my first TFF show in 2009 in Costa Mesa, CA and have traveled to numerous states and a few countries to see them ever since. I should have attended my 20th show last night but due to unforeseen circumstances such as cancellations, me getting covid and the Queen’s death, I had 5 shows I did not get to attend. To answer the question, no, I don’t get sick of seeing the same show all the time because each one of their shows has been a unique experience. Last night was no exception.

Never be afraid to do the things that make you feel free.

Yesterday was a perfect day. You know the kind of day when the sun is shining, and you know you are going to do something that brings you joy. It was also the first time I met my fellow TFF friend Lady A in person. There is a TFF Travel Fans community. If you weren’t aware of it, it does exist and has helped bring many fellow fans together. Lady A and I have mutual friends and “met” back in 2018 and have been great friends since. We were supposed to meet in person during The Tipping Point Tour Part 1, but I unfortunately came down with covid and missed Tinley Park and Indianapolis with our mutual friend who attended every TFF show across the United States last year.

It is common for some to do a quick turnaround to see a show. I traveled to three shows in England in three cities in three distinct parts of the country in 2019. It can make for a long day and a lack of sleep, but the adrenaline rush and excitement help tremendously. I live two exits from the airport which is a blessing for the number of visitors I get. Lady A arrived on an early morning flight. I picked her up in the TFF Mobile, unofficial of course. We had a lot to fill in the next 24 hours before her return flight home.

The Franklin show was extra special as they announced the day before that the entire concert was being filmed for an upcoming DVD release. Lady A and I were super excited as we had Front Row VIP with Soundcheck. If you can experience soundcheck or purchase front row seats you are in for a treat. I must admit it is hard to sit anywhere else once you get the taste of it. On The List did an incredible job last year with the tour and we were ecstatic that they were also a part of the VIP experience again this year. Thank you, Britt and team!

It was our first experience at FirstBank Ampitheater in Franklin. I must admit I was a bit leery when they announced that it was their choice of venue as when it first opened there were some traffic challenges. The venue is breathtaking, situated in an old quarry. The staff was extremely friendly. Acoustics were great! My only wish was that it was a bit closer to where I live so we didn’t have to drive. My night driving is not the best anymore. That’s my issue, not the bands.

The support band was The Cold War Kids. I had never heard of them but after listening to their performance last night, I will give them a listen again.

It was lovely to meet fellow fans before the show as well as catch up with friends made from previous shows. The number of friendships made because of this band is just as amazing as their music. Music brings people together no matter where you live, what you look like, or what you do. For that I am profoundly grateful.

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things

robert brault

Tears For Fears was absolutely on point last night. They added an additional two background singers for last night’s performance assisting Lauren Evans. That girl can sing simply fine on her own but the additional two added some lovely harmonies, and they looked like they were having so much fun on stage together singing and dancing. Lauren’s rendition of Suffer the Children sent goosebumps down my spine. She is a true talent and always so friendly and gracious with the fans. The entire show was phenomenal, and we are so excited for the release of the DVD. I would be amiss if I did not also say a special Thank You to Jamie Wollam, the drummer, for coming to say hello and letting us snap a picture. Jamie is always so kind and one hell of a drummer! Thank you to Charlton Pettus, the guitarist, for also letting us snap a picture. Thank you to Bill for being the best crew guy I know. We deeply appreciate you! Finally, Thank You to Roland and Curt for signing my license plate that is now displayed in my Tears For Fears guestroom. Yes, it is a real thing. You can check with Lady A. Hopefully; her accommodation was the icing on the cake for her short stay.

Express gratitude for the greatness of small things.

richie norton

With you, I feel peace.

sanket