Okee dokee folks…While setting up for my show the other day I had a conversation with the sound person about music. I was shocked to find out that he didn’t think much of a lot of today’s music. As surprised as I was, I agreed with him. He is 25 years old and I never would have guessed this would be his stance. He felt that most “classic” artists were better musicians. They had better instrumental skills and could sing better. They also had a better grasp of melody. I know that a lot of folks will not agree, but I am just relaying this opinion. I perform a lot of classic cover songs at some of my gigs and people really like ’60s through early ’90s music. They prefer it to contemporary songs. Granted I do hear often from older folks, like me, but I am hearing it more and more from people in their 20s and 30s, many saying their parents listened to great music and it rubbed off on them. Funny how it used to be the exact opposite. When we were young it was embarrassing to like the music your parents liked. My, how times have changed. And so has the music. I am glad it’s not just me and my curmudgeonly ways! Read on…
One of the most notable names in classic music is Graham Nash. He is known for his time with two iconic bands — The Hollies and CSN/CSNY. Graham Nash will be at The Park Theatre in Cranston on Saturday, July 19, and if you’re smart you’ll get a ticket for this show. I have seen Nash in concert many, many times, both with CSN (unfortunately and surprisingly never with CSNY) and solo. I can honestly say that Graham Nash, solo, is by far one of the best shows that I have seen. Even at 83 years old his voice is still strong. In addition to that his songs are timeless and his stories are wonderful. If you haven’t already, please listen to the podcast I did with Graham back in April. motifri.com/rootsreportpodcast/episode-115-graham-nash. There are clips of his new material and it’s just as good as his old stuff. For more about the show, “Marrakesh Express” over to: theparkri.com
Colleen and Steve Mulligan are huge fans of music, and Steve is often posting photos of Colleen standing up in the front row seemingly mesmerized by the music. This July they are both turning 60 and decided to celebrate this milestone with a celebration featuring one of their favorite local musicians, Mark Cutler. They often volunteer at The Narrows (and for Motif as well) so it was a no-brainer that they have this event at The Narrows. This is not a private event; it is both a celebration and a fundraiser, so the public may attend. The event benefits Mark Cutler’s songwriting workshop,The Same Thing Project. If you have never attended one of those workshops, you really should. You will be part of a group that composes a complete song! Cutler’s band for the evening will be the Men of Great Courage and the line-up includes Rhode Island Music Hall of Famers and Schemers members Jimmy Berger, Rick Couto, Richard Reed, and Dave Richardson. Opening the show will be The Berger Boys. If you want some fun, hit the Narrows on Wednesday, July 16. Celebrate with Colleen and Steve! For more, “Salvation Cruise” over to: narrowscenter.org
“This year’s Summer Series celebrates our fifth anniversary series. We’re presenting three tremendous artists whose voices and songs truly resonate with Newport Live’s mission to present meaningful music in inspiring settings,” said Dick Lynn, executive director of Newport Live. “We are thrilled to welcome audiences back to Norman Bird Sanctuary, one of the most beautiful concert locations in Rhode Island, to enjoy music that stirs the soul.” Jeffrey Foucault, praised for his poetic lyrics and smoky folk-rock sound, takes the stage at Norman Bird Sanctuary on July 18. In addition to the Summer Series, Newport Live is presenting John Gorka at Greenvale Vineyards on July 11. His performance at the vineyard was highly requested for a return engagement after a sold-out show last summer at the vineyard. For more about the summer shows, flock to: newportlive.org
This Summer, take in a concert at Indian Ranch on the lake with a record-long name — Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg! Lots of shows to choose from, too. Little River Band, July 6; The Pike HairFest 2025, July 19:Pyromania (Def Leppard Tribute), Empire (Queensryche Tribute), Shot Of Poison (Poison Tribute), Ozzmosis (Ozzy Osbourne Tribute), Beyond Purple (Tribute to Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Dio and Rainbow); Yachtley Crew, July 24; Almost Queen: A tribute to QUEEN, July 26; A Tribute to ABBA, August 3; Get The Led Out, August 22; KC and the Sunshine Band, August 30 (this is the REAL KC, not a tribute!). There are lots of country acts scheduled, too. For more, Webster over to: indianranch.com
PLEASE REMEMBER! Fight fascism and authoritarianism. Protect your immigrant neighbors, they contribute to this country! Deport the mango moron! America was great before Jan 20, now it is being destroyed by the felon-in-chief. Save this country from the MAGA cancer.
That’s it for now. BTW, I have been scheduling more podcasts again lately. They ebb and flow. I guess folks are chattier in the Summer months! You can listen to my podcasts at motifri.com/rootsreportpodcast and find my concert photographs at motifri.com/fuzeksfotos. Thanks for reading and listening. johnfuzek.com