They say, ‘never meet your heroes’, as you are bound to be disappointed. I have to disagree with that sentiment, as I have met quite a few of them… And have always been pleased with the opportunity. The latest was legendary musician Alan Parsons.
My wife and I checked into a hotel this past weekend, so that we can see his band in concert that night. The venue – and the hotel – was an hour and a half away from our house, so we thought we would make an overnight trip of it. A quick getaway. My wife, who I affectionately call She Who Must Be Obeyed, was barely familiar with Alan Parsons. Me? Well, I have been a far for most of my life.
My father was a member of the Columbia Records Club, and one of the albums he got in his first assortment of “8 records for a penny” order was Eye in the Sky, by The Alan Parsons Project. It was the first “adult” album I ever heard, and I was hooked. I ended up buying all his output, and was (and am) a huge fan. So was my dad, who is no longer with us.
I’d never seen his band live, so when tickets became available for this newest tour I snapped them up instantly.
As I was checking in, I noticed a musician seated in the lobby, guitar case in hand. I walked over, asked ‘Are you in the band?’ He was, and after some excited small-talk he said, ‘Stick around, Alan is on his way down.’
I DID hang out, and when the rest of the band arrived, he waved me over. ‘Alan, this guy would like to meet you.’ I gushed, and probably made a fool of myself, but he was the kindest guy. A true British gentleman. And TALL… Like, 6′ 6″. We talked about his newer album, and his health issues (he has sever back issues, probably because of his large stature).
As they were leaving for the sound check, I didn’t ask for an autograph or selfie, and quickly dismissed myself before I wore out my welcome. After that, the concert was icing on the cake. It was the first time seeing them live, and it was fantastic.
It was a classic “right place, right time scenario”. I’m still flying high. I shook hands with the man who produced Pink Floyd’s DARK SIDE OF THE MOON.
And I was really sad I couldn’t call my Dad and tell him.