Archive for June, 2011

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U2 360 Miami 6.29.11

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , on June 30, 2011 by DeenasDays

The U2 360 show in Miami was great! It was the same set list as East Lansing except U2 played North Star for the first time in the US. I had a great Larry moment during I’ll Go Crazy. It was hot in Miami, but not as hot as it was in Baltimore.

Sun Life Stadium Miami

U2 360 Miami 6.29.11

I spent the first half of the day relaxing in my fabulous suite at the wonderful Epic hotel. I left the hotel at 2:00 and was parked at Sun Life Stadium by 3. Luckily I didn’t have to walk too far to find out where everyone waiting for U2 to arrive. Around 5:30 U2 finally arrived, but again did not stop. I guess since they stopped and greeted the fans the first 4 shows I went to, I just assumed they would stop every time. I guess I shouldn’t have taken it for granted when I spoke with Bono in Seattle and Oakland. Hopefully they will stop at least one more time on my next 7 shows and maybe, just maybe Larry will actually come out and talk with me. There was still a GA line around 6, so I got in it and then straight into the inner circle with my Happy Birthday re-entry stamp.

inner circle stamp in miami

I stayed on Edge’s side of the inner circle so I could watch U2 enter under the stage. While waiting, I hung out with Rick, as I do most shows, and Dave and his son Joshua (yes named after The Joshua Tree). The inner circle was pretty full by 7pm. Florence and the Machine didn’t start until 7:45 and U2 didn’t come on until 9:15. Bono again shouted ‘Achtung Y’all!’ during The Fly. U2 debuted North Star in the US, in the place where Stay or Stuck in a Moment is usually played. During I’ll Go Crazy Larry looked at me, smiled and mouthed something to me. I’m not sure what it was, maybe ‘Hi’ or ‘Thanks’, but we locked eyes for a few moments. U2 exited on Adam’s side, even though they had entered on Edge’s side, but Larry did look in my direction as he came down the stairs from the stage. The Miami audience as a whole was enthusiastic and loud, but the folks around me in the inner circle didn’t seem too excited. It took me over 2 hours to get out of the parking lot at Sun Life Stadium, so I didn’t get back to the hotel until almost 2am.

Edge enters

 

LET ME IN THE SOUND!

Larry starts I'll Go Crazy with Sammy looking on

 

my view from behind the stage

  

Larry looking at me?

Please watch my video of U2 entering Sun Life Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3Do8syb1zs

Please watch my video of LET ME IN THE SOUND http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGSolBp5pmg

Please watch my video of the US debut of North Star http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjI6RqitLzU

Please watch my video of Larry starting I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvl3jYpKGNI

Please watch my video of U2 leaving Sun Life Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-u2zP2SFdZg

Please watch my video of U2 360 Miami overview http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPNrs2nQHJw

I’m spending today relaxing in my fabulous suite at the fantastic Epic hotel in Miami resting up for my long drive to Nashville tomorrow for the U2 360 show on Saturday.

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U2360USA from Michigan to Miami at the Epic hotel

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , on June 29, 2011 by DeenasDays

Days 45 and 46 of my U2 360 tour across America brought me from East Lansing, Michigan to Miami, Florida – 1,426 miles bringing my miles driven over 10,500 miles so far. I left East Lansing Monday morning after the U2 show Sunday night, drove through Dayton and Cincinatti, Ohio, drove through the blinding rain in Kentucky, and stayed the night in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Tuesday morning I left Chattanooga, got stuck in Atlanta traffic, drove through Macon, Georgia, drove through the blinding rain in Florida as U2′s Summer Rain came on my Ipod, and finally arrived at the lovely Epic Hotel in Miami at 8:00pm. After 2 long days of driving, it was wonderful to relax in such a fabulous hotel!

view from my balcony of my fabulous suite at the fantastic Epic hotel in Miami

Jacqueline Ploettner, Resort Manager at Epic, heard about my U2 360 tour across America and graciously upgraded me to a fabulous suite with separate living room, bedroom, huge bathroom, and a wrap around balcony with doors off the living room and bedroom. I could live here! Because she knew I had a long drive from Michigan and would be arriving late, Jacqueline had a cheese plate and chilled white wine waiting for me – and this amazing chocolate U2 guitar! There were also framed pictures of my Elvis and Cilla and U2.

Epic welcomes Elvis and Cilla

my living room

my chocolate U2 guitar

my bedroom

my wine and cheese

my bathroom

Elvis and Cilla love the Epic!

Because this suite is so fabulously relaxing, we are staying the day after the U2 show and driving to Nashville on Friday for the U2 show on Saturday.

Please watch my video of my drive from Michigan to Miami and a tour of my fabulous suite at the Epic hotel in Miami http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXBpP-zq1iM

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U2 360 East Lansing 6.26.11 – the halfway point

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , on June 26, 2011 by DeenasDays

The U2 360 show at Michigan State in East Lansing was good. The same set list as Baltimore, except Hold Me Thrill Me Kiss Me Kill Me was played instead of Ultra Violet. It stayed light out through Elevation. This East Lansing show was the least crowded show I’ve been to, even though it was sold out. They didn’t sell many GA tickets, so there was plenty of room inside the inner circle and the rest of the floor wasn’t even half full. There were no red zones and the catwalk of the inner circle went almost to the stands.

lots of room on the floor in east lansing

I started off my day in Michigan relaxing in my hotel room, ordered a pizza and walked to Spartan Stadium around 1:30. I walked around the stadium to the GA line, which seemed very calm and happy. It was right by the entrance the crew was using to go in and out of the stadium, so everyone assumed U2 would be arriving there – but it was the opposite end of the stage. I walked around the stadium to see if there was anywhere else U2 could drive in. When I returned to where I started, Dallas and Sammy were also walking back. I asked Sammy if U2 were really arriving here in front of the GA line, and he said there was no else to come in. Then Dallas asked how I was doing and shook my hand. A little while later Rocco informed us that U2 was not doing a soundcheck, so this indicated to me that U2 was going to arrive very late. I decided to go back over to where the catering was set up and where the crew was going in and out of. There was no back stage in the stadium – no dressing rooms. They had set up ‘backstage’ at the hockey arena around the corner. I waited there, later joined by Beth and Tim. We stayed until almost 8 and nothing. We saw Florence and the Machine arrive and leave, but no U2.  We learned later that U2 was driven right up to the stadium and let out there.

Spartan Stadium

 

GA line East Lansing

I went into Spartan Stadium at 8pm and still got inside the inner circle. There was so much room and behind the stage was smaller, narrower. We didn’t have wristbands and were not allowed to go up into the stands for concessions or bathrooms. There were no red zones. I stayed on Adam’s side of the stage because I realized U2 were again going to enter on Adam’s side – this was the first time I haven’t been on Edge’s side of the stage to see them walk under the stage. They actually entered through the stands – walking down the bleachers through the fans. U2 started their walk to the stage just after 8:45, and it was still light out and stayed light until 9:40 through. Please watch my video of U2 entering Spartan Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7cuHvjwUDA

U2 enters Spartan Stadium

 

Larry walks by quickly

I watched the first part of the show from Adam’s side of the stage and could even see Edge. It was nice to have a good view without being squished. I was very excited when Bono said, “Achtung Y’all!” during The Fly like he used to on ZooTv. I watched from the side of the stage until Pride, except during Mysterious Ways when Larry turned around I went behind the stage. He saw me and gave a big smile! Please watch my video of Larry and Bono singing LET ME IN THE SOUND http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_c_vp0Rsws

Even Better in the daylight

 

Bono on the bridge

At the end of the Pride, I went behind the stage and stayed there until Larry started I’ll Go Crazy. I got my usual nod and smile from Larry. Then I moved around to wait for Larry to make his way around the catwalk and watch him trot over the bridge and throw his conga to Sammy. Please watch my video of Larry during I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zubFFuEolLg

Larry at the beginning of I'll Go Crazy

 

Larry at the end of I'll Go Crazy

East Lansing was good, but not my favorite show so far. The crowd was loud, but more cheering than singing along. Although they did really love I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – as they should. Please watch my video of an overview of the U2 360 show in East Lansing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2ohUG7zif4 Please click here to see all the photos I took in East Lansing http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150249983514168.337102.734599167&l=66317ec837

This U2 show in East Lansing was the halfway point of my 360 tour – 8 out of the 16 I’m seeing on this leg. I have met some great people and made some great new friends along the way. I’ve talked with Bono twice – about getting Larry to come out and greet the fans. Bono stopped to greet the fans before the first four shows I went and hasn’t stopped at the last four shows - no one has. My ranking of my first 8 shows is as follows: Anaheim2, Seattle, Baltimore, Oakland, Anaheim1, East Lansing, Salt Lake City, Denver. Criteria for a good show for me isn’t always just about the music, it is about the whole feel of the show, the audience and quite honestly my Larry moments.

Anaheim2 is my favorite show so far because for the first time this leg U2 completely changed the set list opening the show with 5 songs from Acthung Baby and changed the order of the other songs. Also, it was the first time this leg that U2 played my favorite song I Still Havent’ Found What I’m Looking For, and I cried like a baby.  Seattle and Baltimore are tied as my second favorite shows so far. Seattle was great because Larry walked over to us as he was leaving the stage and shook my hand – he saw us standing there in our Larry Mullen Band shirts, smiled and walked straight toward us. Seattle was also great because I saw the show with my friend Jenny, and we had a great view of the stage from Edge’s side. Oh and I spoke with Bono before the show about asking Larry to come out to greet the fans. Baltimore was great because it was the most enthusiastic audience I’ve seen and heard so far. Plus it was my hometown show, and I saw it with my friend Tasha. And oh yeah, I saw Larry rip off his shirt as he was walking to his car after the show. Oakland was a great show because Larry sang a bit of Lou Reed’s Perfect Day, and I spoke with Bono before the show reminding him to please ask Larry to come out and greet the fans – he remembered me from Seattle.

Anaheim1 stands out because Larry smiled and waved at me as he entered the stage and when he left the stage. It was great to watch the show with my new friends Chuck and Michelle. During the introductions, Bono said Larry was the one they owe everything to. East Lansing was good because it was a really relaxed, not crowded show and the audience was really loud, especially for a small general admission. Also, the set list was similar to Anaheim2 and Baltimore, which is great. Salt Lake City’s highlight was Love Rescue Me – I cried. It’s one of my favorite songs, and I’ve never heard it before and U2 rarely plays it. Denver was cool because I was in the stadium where my beloved Broncos play, and it was the first show of this leg of the tour. It was also the first time I heard Zooropa and Scarlet.

I’m excited to find out what special moments will happen on my next 8 shows. Starting tonight in Miami. Look for my review tomorrow – if I survive the heat and rain in Miami.

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U2360 USA Day 43 – Maryland to Michigan

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , on June 25, 2011 by DeenasDays

Day 43 of my U2 360 tour across America brought me from Maryland to Michigan for U2 360′s show at Michigan State University in East Lansing tomorrow. I left my parents’ house in Ellicott City, Maryland at 10am and arrived in East Lansing, Michigan at 7:30pm – driving 578 miles stopping only twice. It was a long, boring drive along the Pennsylvania and Ohio turnpikes, costing me a total of $22. in tolls.

Please watch my video of my drive from Maryland to Michigan http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I5Epl8YrTE

They are very excited here in East Lansing for the U2 360 show tomorrow. There was a U2 flyer and a newspaper with U2 on the cover at the front desk of my hotel. Apparently U2 haven’t played in East Lansing since the early 1980s and there hasn’t been a stadium concert here since the Rolling Stones in the early 1990s. Should make for quite an excited audience!

U2 360 East Lansing

I’ve never been to Michigan before, but I’m not going to do any sight seeing while I’m here. I’m just going to rest in my hotel until it’s time to walk over to the stadium tomorrow – I have a long drive to Miami the morning after the show. This U2 show in East Lansing tomorrow is the halfway point of my 360 tour – it is show number 8 out of 16.

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U2 360 Baltimore 6.22.11 – a sort of homecoming

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , on June 24, 2011 by DeenasDays

They call me Memphis Mullen, but I was born and raised in Baltimore – I moved to Memphis 3 years ago. This U2 360 show in Baltimore was my hometown show. It was my 66th U2 show and my 7th of this leg of the 360 tour. It was the 10th anniversary of the last show on the 1st leg of Elevation (6.22.01). It was 10 years ago in Baltimore on the Elevation tour when Larry hugged me. It was also the first show Tasha and I were seeing together. Before it even started, this U2 360 show in Baltimore was special to me.

I arrived at my parents’ house, about 20 minutes from Baltimore, at 11:30am the morning of the U2 show, after my long 3 1/2 day drive from Anaheim. I unloaded the car, got the dogs settled, and ate a peanut butter sandwich. Tasha arrived around 1 and we were off. Luckily we found parking quickly and very close to the stadium. I used to have Ravens season tickets, so I kind of had an idea of where to go. We walked around the stadium to see where U2 would arrive, sat under a tree and waited. They drove in a couple hours later, but did not stop.

U2 360 Baltimore 6.22.11

We got into the inner circle, and it wasn’t crowded yet. We would have had a great view, but we decided to walk around. We ran into our friends at the soundboard and watched Florence and the Machine. She was good, but a little screamy. 

the claw in Baltimore

 As I do every show, I went behind the stage to wait for U2 to enter the stadium. This time they came out of the tunnel on Adam’s side, but still walked onto the stage on Edge’s side. As Larry walked by, he smile and waved at me like usual but the look in his eyes was one of surprise that seemed to say, ‘You’re here too? Didn’t I just see you in Anaheim?’ He kept looking at me. Then I was jolted out of my Larry bliss by a severe pain in my arm. A woman I had just met, Cindy, was standing next to me and was SO excited to see Bono walk by that she pinched my arm so hard that it hurt for 3 songs!

Please watch my video of U2 entering Baltimore’s M & T stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7aQUfFZQPk

I watched the show from Adam’s side, but still behind the stage so I could watch Larry. And actually Adam’s side behind the stage has a better view of Larry – more profile. But when he turned around during Mysterious Ways and Sunday Bloody Sunday, he is facing more towards Edge’s side – so both sides have their advantages.

Let me in the Sound!

Please watch my video of Let Me in The Sound http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=643zU5BnEzo

Please watch my video of Bono’s Sunday Bloody Sunday rap http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6QCT8rBLWY

At the beginning of I’ll Go Crazy, Larry started walking toward the back and Sammy had to catch up to him to give him his conga. Larry looked down at me and smiled. Then I ran around to the other bridge on Adam’s side to wait for Larry to make his way back to the stage. He smiled at me as he ran by before he threw his conga to Sammy.

Larry I'll Go Crazy

Please watch my video of Larry during I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcTb9yMUzDg

At the end of the show, I wanted to watch U2 leave thinking maybe Larry would come over to me like he did in Seattle. We could see their cars parked in the tunnel – they were almost inside the stadium. When they left the stage U2 walked straight to their cars, they didn’t even look over to us. But I kept watching Larry. He was almost at his car when he tore off his shirt, and I saw his naked back! Then he put on a black robe. That was almost as good as a handshake. We watched the cars pull away and stood there soaking in the moment. Then someone from the crew came over to me and gave me the set list.

U2 360 Baltimore set list 6.22.11

Please watch my video of U2 leaving Baltimore http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dls9o76S_B8

The set list for Baltimore was similar to Anaheim2. Magnificent was still not played, and they kept The Fly and I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. One and Streets were moved back to their regular spots. 40 was soundchecked, but not played. The Baltimore audience went nuts for Beautiful Day and again for Streets. They really sang along with Still Haven’t Found and Pride, proving my point that these two songs should never leave the set list. This Baltimore audience was the most enthusiastic I’ve seen so far – making it almost tied with Anaheim2 for my favorite show on this leg so far. It was definitely the hottest U2 show I’ve been too.

Please watch my video of part of I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69VbIayr-sQ

Please watch my video of the end of Pride http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slQhQTpoYLo

Please watch my video of the intro to Streets http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJOFNQng4Cw

Please watch my video of the band introductions http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg6BeZt2o3M

Please watch my video of an overview of the Baltimore show http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQMM2PGw2OU

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U2 360 tour across America – 2700 miles from Anaheim to Baltimore

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 23, 2011 by DeenasDays

On Sunday, the morning after the second U2 show in Anaheim I left for my cross country trip to Baltimore. I had just 3 1/2 days to drive 2700 miles from California to Maryland to make it to the U2 show in Baltimore on Wednesday. It was very important that I go to the Baltimore show because it is my hometown show, and I have great memories from the Elevation show in Baltimore 10 years ago.

People tried to dissuade me from trying to make this long journey in just 3 1/2 days, but I’ve never really listened to reason. Some said I should either skip the second Anaheim show or skip the Baltimore show in order to have a more relaxing drive. I didn’t want to skip either. I had made this challenge to myself to drive to every U2 show in the US on this leg of the 360 tour, so I had to try. For 3 1/2 days, I survived on subway subs, cheese crackers, pizza, water and sweet tea, stopped at Love’s and spent nights at Motel 6s along the way. But I made it! I left Anaheim, California at 7:30am pacific time Sunday June 19th and arrived at my parents’ house in Ellicott City, Maryland at 11:30am eastern standard time Wednesday June 22nd, the morning of the U2 360 show in Baltimore.

The first day Elvis, Cilla and I drove 777 miles from Anaheim to Albuquerque in 12 hours, stopping just 3 times. I passed through the towns in Arizona and New Mexico along Route 66 that I didn’t get to see last year on my Route 66 road trip from Tulsa to Albuquerque.

somewhere in Arizona or New Mexico

The next morning we left Albuquerque at 6:15, drove 733 miles to Ft. Smith, Arkansas in 11 hours, stopping just twice. I had wanted to make it to Little Rock or even Memphis, but I just couldn’t do it. I was wiped. It was the first day that I did not enjoy the drive. Although I did enjoy passing by Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan ranch in Amarillo, Texas where I had so much fun last year.

the long drive

The third day of our drive we left Ft. Smith at 5:40am, drove 863 miles in 14 hours to Wytheville, Virginia, stopping 4 times, sitting in traffic and driving through blinding rain storms. We also stopped by our house in Memphis, and it was still standing and everything was alright. It was nice to be home if only for a half hour.

Memphis skyline

 

The next morning it was finally Show Day – the reward for my long drive. We left Wytheville, Virginia at 6:10am, drove 326 miles and arrived at my parents’ house in Ellicott City, Maryland at 11:25am, stopping twice. I made it – and with hours to spare before the U2 360 show in Baltimore.  Again, never listen to reason, follow your passion – always!

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U2 360 Anaheim2 6.18.11 – the best show so far

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), Larry Mullen, U2 with tags , , , on June 19, 2011 by DeenasDays

Anaheim2 was the best show of the tour so far. U2 completely changed the set list beginning the show with 5 straight songs from Achtung Baby, including The Fly. My favorite I Still Havent Found What Im Looking For made its return tonight, and I cried like a baby. They kept Pride in the set list and took out Magnificent.

I stayed in my hotel room until I left for the stadium at 2:30. I didn’t get lost this time, so I arrived very quickly. I got my GA wristband and went around for U2 to arrive. They again arrived in 2 helicopters and again did not stop.

U2 360 Anaheim2 6.18.11

I went inside after the GA line had already went in. It was a more relaxed feel tonight. The inner circle wasn’t as crowded. I again got a soda and sat in the stands until Lenny Kravitz came on. As I walked around, I saw Cindy Crawford. She is stunning and very nice – posing for pictures.

Lenny Kravitz

 

Cindy Crawford

I went behind the stage and stood at the tunnel where U2 walks into the stadium. I again watched the show from behind the stage, so I could watch Larry. He smiled at me during I’ll Go Crazy. The black lighted jackets made a returned during Zooropa and City of Blinding Lights. I love Larry in that black leather jacket! There was only one encore tonight. I again went back and watched U2 leave the stadium. Larry saw me and smiled and waved and seemed like he wanted to come over, but didn’t – but he kept looking.

Larry enters

I had the best time at this show! I am SO glad I didn’t skip it just to get a head start on my cross country drive to Baltimore. Never listen to reason. Follow your passion.

Here is the great set list from Anaheim2:

Even better than the real thing
The fly
Mysterious ways
Until the end of world
One / amazing grace
Streets
I will follow
Boots / she loves you
Intros
Still haven’t found
Stuck in a moment
Beautiful day
Elevation
Pride
Miss Sarajevo
Zooropa
City of blinding lights
Vertigo
I’ll go crazy
Sunday bloody Sunday
Scarlet
Walk on / you’ll never walk alone
Ultra violet
With or without you
Moment of surrender

Please watch my videos from the great Anaheim2 show.

U2 enters Angels Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nI5eWYuXJyA

part of The Fly http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWM9_NbsgSI

LET ME IN THE SOUND http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljVjIHlOyGY

Band introductions http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v5DwcIkCnk

The end of Still Haven’t Found (uploading now)

Larry I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6meUtjd2vz4

Anaheim2 overview http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpIx4WhGxDc

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U2 360 Anaheim1 6.17.11

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), Larry Mullen, U2 with tags , , , , , on June 18, 2011 by DeenasDays

The U2 360 show in Anaheim had the best energy so far of the five shows I’ve seen in the US on this leg. The audience was really into it. It was the same set list as the previous US shows this leg. Please watch my video of an overview of the first U2 360 show in Anaheim http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbLzXCO37Jw

U2 360 Anaheim1 6.17.11

I spent the day in my hotel room conserving my energy for tonight’s show. I left for Angels Stadium at 2pm. I got a little lost walking to the stadium – I went the wrong way twice. I got to the stadium shortly after 2:30, even though the stadium is just a few blocks from my hotel. I was tired and sweaty, as June Gloom brought the humidity today. I think I got a little overheated and dehydrated because I had a terrible migraine the rest of the day and throughout the show.

Arriving at the stadium, I noticed 2 GA lines on opposite sides of the stadium. I walked around to where I thought the band would drive in and found most of my friends already there waiting. Of course we were all in the wrong place, so we moved around to the right place about a half hour later. U2 arrived around 4pm, not in their usual black towncars, but all in one white van. No one stopped, but Larry did smile as he drove by – I like to think it was because he saw my Larry Mullen Band shirt. This was the first time Bono has not stopped in the US this leg.

Please watch my video of getting to Angels Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4DWlNVA0v0

We got in the GA line and listened to the soundcheck, which included both The Fly and Ultra Violetbut neither were played in tonight’s show. We entered the stadium just after 5pm, got our stamps to re-enter the inner circle and then went up to the stands to sit and relax in the shade. Anaheim Stadium is a beautiful baseball park.

inside Angels stadium

my GA wristband

anaheim inner circle

Lenny Kravitz and his band arrived to the stage in golf carts. They played from 7:30 to about 8:15 and the same set list as the previous four shows I’ve seen. After Lenny’s performance, I went back to wait for U2 to walk in. The venue security tried to get us to leave, but Rocco told them we were allowed to stay there to wait for the band. U2 walked to the stage just after 9pm and Larry once again smiled and waved at me as he entered.

Please watch my video of U2 walking to the stage http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeumBjvJPOo

Please watch my video of Even Better Than the Real Thing intro http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDVbrMII62E

Please watch my video of Larry and Bono during Get on Your Boots http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NT6miRWeSiA

The inner circle was very crowded, probably because of all the VIPs. I stayed behind the stage for the entire show, which is fine because that’s the best view of Larry anyway. Bono’s band introductions were great. He thanked Larry for everything that U2 was, saying they would be nothing without him. Bono also brought Paul McGuinness on stage for the first time ever. Yesterday was Paul’s birthday, so we sang Happy Birthday to him.

Please watch my video of Bono’s band introductions http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEy7RYyeVSw

Please watch my video of Larry during the beginning of I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdlHTVzsMxk

Larry I

Please watch my video of Larry’s drum solo during Scarlet http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4aPgLgJasA

During With or Without You, I went back to wait for U2 to leave. I stood in the same place I did in Seattle, hoping that Larry would once again grace me with a handshake. He didn’t, but he did smile and wave at me. So a smile and wave from Larry on the way into the show and on the way out of the show isn’t too shabby.

Please watch my video of U2 leaving the stage at Angels Stadium http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXv8GaCjM3Y

Tomorrow there is another U2 360 show at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. This is the only time in the US that U2 are playing two back to back shows in the same city, so hopefully they will change up the set list a bit. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to blog about it tomorrow night or post videos or pics. I have to get right to sleep in preparation for my 3000 mile cross country drive to make it to the Baltimore U2 360 show on Wednesday. Please send good thoughts my way :)

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U2360USA Days 33 & 34 – Anaheim June Gloom

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011) with tags , , , , on June 16, 2011 by DeenasDays

They call it ‘June Gloom’ here in Southern California, and it certainly is. It is cloudy, cool and humid – yes humid. It’s 68 degrees and 70% humidity and after walking the dogs, I’m sweating more than I did in Palm Springs when it was 95 degrees and 10% humidity. Why do I live in Memphis? I hate humidity. But if I move to Palm Springs, can I still be called Memphis Mullen? Anyway, days 33 & 34 of my U2 360 tour across America have me relaxing in Anaheim.

Yesterday, I stayed at the hotel all day relaxing with the dogs. I watched the movie ’Country Strong’ and napped. Last night I had dinner at Fresca’s with Cherie and Mike and then went back to their house and played with their dogs. It was a good night.

This morning I took the Saturn to Hardin GMC for an oil change and make sure everything was ok for my long 3000 mile drive in 3-4 days to Baltimore starting Sunday.

I went to Downtown Disney, which is basically an outside mall with lots of shops and restaurants including ESPNZone and House of Blues. I wanted to check it out since I am in Anaheim a few miles from Disneyland, but have no interest in actually going to Disneyland – too many kids and I don’t want to ride the rides. So I walked around Downtown Disney and had lunch at La Brea Bakery Cafe – sat outside on the patio. I had a great caesar salad and cheese sliders – for once I didn’t get a tuna melt. I should really add caesar salad to my food tour along with tuna and pizza. After lunch I went into the huge World of Disney store and bought some souvenirs. I told myself I wouldn’t buy any tee shirts this summer while traveling across the US, but so far I’ve bought four – one from Red Rocks, a Nirvana tee from Seattle, one from Joshua Tree and one from Disney.

Downtown Disney

Please watch a short video of my time in Downtown Disney http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zeg2gpZZ7Ds

Now I’m back at my hotel and am going to relax with the dogs and maybe go over to Angels stadium this evening with hopes of hearing U2 rehearse for this weekend’s shows.

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U2360USA Day 32 – bus tour of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Venice Beach

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , , on June 15, 2011 by DeenasDays

Day 32 of my U2 360 tour across America was a great one spent on a bus sight seeing around downtown LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, the orginal Farmer’s Market, Venice Beach and Marina Del Ray. When I arrived in Anaheim Monday, I researched bus tours to Hollywood and found StarLine tours. They had a very comprehensive tour of LA and surrounding areas that picked me up at my hotel and brought me back after the tour. This tour was run by VIP tours. I was picked up at 9am and didn’t return until 6pm. It was a long, great day!

The first part of our bus trip, which was mostly folks from England and myself, took us to downtown Los Angeles. Our first stop was the LA Memorial Coliseum, the site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics and where the Dodgers used to play. We passed by USC on the way to the Staples Center and the Nokia Theatre. We drove through the financial district on our way to our next stop at Olvera Street, where there were streets vendors and LA’s oldest house built in 1818.

our bus

 

LA Coliseum

Staples Center

Olvera Street

Please watch my video of part 1 of my bus tour in downtown – LA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEtgusYSPL0

On our way to Hollywood, we drove by the Capitol Records building. Then across from the Hollywood Bowl, I spotted Bret Michael’s tour bus parked with the shades closed. I found out that he was playing at the Hollywood Bowl that night. We finally made it to Hollywood Boulevard and got about 45 minutes to walk around. I walked down the Walk of Stars and saw Mickey Mouse at his star and then came upon Olivia Newton-John’s star, which is the only thing I remember from our 1984 trip. I walked passed the historic Roosevelt Hotel to check out the footprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. The first I saw was for the movie Giant, which consisted of the footprints of Rock Hudson and Elizabeth Taylor. It should have also included James Dean, but he died, so instead director George Steven’s footprints were included. I came across the footprints of Natalie Wood, Bing Crosby, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward together, Roy Rogers and Trigger, Dean Martin, Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis, John Travolta, Nic Cage and finally Lana Turner. I searched everywhere for my favorite actress Lana Turner’s footprints and finally had to ask someone to consult the map.

Bret Michael's tour bus across from Hollywood Bowl

MIckey Mouse by his star on Hollywood Blvd

Olivia Newton-John's star on the Walk of Fame

Grauman's Chinese Theatre

the stars of Giant

Lana Turner

I left the Chinese Theatre to find higher ground to see the Hollywood sign. On my way, I came across a lot of people camped out in line on Hollywood Boulevard. I asked why they were waiting out. As U2 fans had done in Denver and Seattle, these folks had also brought shoes to donate to Souls for Soul and were waiting for their free U2 tickets from the Hard Rock Cafe. I went into the Hard Rock to get my dad a pin, as he collects them, and was told that June 14, 2011 was the 40th anniversary of the Hard Rock. I finally made it up the Egyptian mall to get to a higher place to try to see the Hollywood sign, but it was very hazy and far away – at least I saw it though.

Hollywood sign

We got back on the bus and headed through West Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard, which is actually Route 66. We drove by the Chateau Marmont where John Belushi died and where Marilyn Monroe lived. We saw Mel’s Drive In, where the movie American Graffiti was filmed – the parking lot looks much larger in the movie. We also drove by the Viper Room and saw the corner where River Phoenix died and drove by the Whiskey and the Roxy.

the Viper room on Sunset Blvd

Please watch my video of part 2 of my bus tour – Hollywood http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nLcvwmyULs

We drove through Beverly Hills and saw the former homes of Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Dr. Then we drove through Rodeo Drive and saw the most expensive car ever – $2.2M, and we drove by the Beverly Wilshire hotel. Our next stop was lunch at the Farmer’s Market, which was the first farmer’s market in the US. I had lunch at Du-par’s, which has been there since 1938. I noticed Diane Ladd was having lunch a few tables away. I snuck a picture, but it was too dark. The farmer’s market is located next door to CBS Studios, so I stood by the gate for a bit to see if I could see Maura West leaving Young and the Restless, but I didn’t see anyone.

Beverly Hills

Rodeo Drive

most expensive car

1st Farmer's Market in the US

Diane Ladd having lunch at the Du-Pars at the Farmer's Market

CBS studios

Please watch my video of part 3 of my bus tour in Beverly Hills and the Farmer’s Market (uploading now)

Next we were off to the beaches. We drove on Santa Monica Boulevard, which is route 10 – the longest freeway in the US from the west coast to Jacksonville, Florida. We didn’t stop in Santa Monica, but drove by the Santa Monica Pier. It was cloudy at the beach, but I could still see the pier. We then stopped at Venice Beach, and what a crazy place that is. It was a crowded cement boardwalk full of street vendors, dogs, bicycles, segweys, skateboarders and roller skaters. I saw someone pass out and the ambulance came for him. I also got in the filming for a Lipton tea commercial. It was quite an eventful 45 minutes.

filming a commercial at Venice Beach

Venice Beach

Please watch my video of part 4 of my bus tour – Venice Beach http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5PbZZYUS5E

The last stop of  our tour was at Fisherman’s Village in Marina Del Ray, which is the largest man-made marina in the world. It was nice to smell the salt air again. I had the best strawberry milkshake there.

Marina Del Ray

I really enjoyed my day touring around LA and glad I took the bus tour because it made it stress free, but it was sort of a blur. I was so concerned with getting all the pictures and videos of every hot spot in the time allotted at each place.

Please look at all of my pictures from my bus tour http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150218284079168.331187.734599167&l=626a66d4a0

Today I’m just going to stay in and relax and have dinner with an old friend later tonight. I’m taking the Saturn in tomorrow for an oil change and will probably check out downtown Disney and hopefully U2 will rehearse at the stadium tomorrow night. Then Friday and Saturday it’s U2 360!!!

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U2360USA Day 31 – Palm Springs to Anaheim

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011) with tags , , , , , on June 13, 2011 by DeenasDays

Day 31 of my U2 360 tour across America was an uneventful one, chores rather then sightseeing. We left the fabulous Palm Springs around 10:15am and were in Anaheim by noon. It was 89 degrees when we left Palm Srings and 73 degrees when we arrived in Anaheim. What a difference 90 miles makes.

The hotels gods have followed me to Anaheim. I checked into the TownePlace Suites to find that the manager had upgraded me to a two bedroom suite. I am very happy because I am going to be here for 6 nights, so it will be much more comfortable having this apartment-like suite as opposed to a regular hotel room. I have 3 flatscreen tvs, 2 bedrooms, a living room with a couch and coffee table, a dining table, bathroom and full kitchen. And I am at the end of the hall on the first floor right by the door, which is really convenient for the dogs. It’s like our own little apartment in Anaheim for 6 nights. Plus it’s only a 10 minute walk to Angels Stadium for the U2 shows Friday and Saturday nights.

After unloading everything out of my car, I went to the grocery store, which was only a mile down the road. I got enough groceries to last the week as well as for my 3-day drive to Baltimore next week. After grocery shopping, I did two loads of laundry because I had no clean clothes at all. Then I unpacked and organized the rest of my things. I still have to make an appointment to get my Saturn’s oil changed, which I’ll call about tomorrow. And I have to get a ticket to the Dodgers game Wednesday. But I did buy a ticket for a bus tour of LA and Hollywood tomorrow. They pick me up at my hotel in the morning, so I don’t have to venture out on those crazy LA freeways!

Please watch my short video of my short drive from Palm Springs to Anaheim http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0N4mtnxdf0

4 days until U2 360 in Anaheim!

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U2360USA Day 30 – Palm Springs: Harmony Motel & Joshua Tree

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , on June 12, 2011 by DeenasDays

Day 30 of my U2 360 tour across America was another perfect day in Palm Springs! I went to Harmony Motel, Joshua Tree National Park, and Las Casuelas. I was supposed to make the pilgrimage to THE Joshua Tree, the one U2 was photographed with for my favorite album The Joshua Tree, but I realized that it was almost five hours north of Palm Springs. I knew it was in the Mohave Desert near Death Valley and was not in Joshua Tree Park, but I thought it was on the way to Joshua Tree National Park.

Since I couldn’t go to the real Joshua Tree where U2 was photographed, I went to the Harmony Motel, only an hour away, where U2 was also photographed. U2 stayed at the Harmony Motel while making The Joshua Tree album. It was a very small, retro motel – a far cry from the five star resort hotels U2 stay at now.

Harmony Motel

 

Even though I couldn’t see THE Joshua Tree, I could see many Joshua Trees at Joshua Tree National Park. It is the 75th anniversary of the park, which is located within 10 miles from the Harmony Motel.

Joshua Tree national park

 

After my U2 trip to Harmony Motel and Joshua Tree, I had lunch at Elvis’ favorite Palm Springs restaurant Las Casuelas. My friend Aaron from high school and his two friends, who are in Palm Springs for the weekend, met me there. We had great Mexican food and great conversation. It was a good time. I highly recommend the Enchiladas Rancheros. After lunch, I walked around downtown Palm Springs before returning to my wonderful A Place in the Sun garden hotel.

Elvis' favorite restaurant

my Palm Springs stuff

Please watch video of my perfect day in Palm Springs at Harmony Motel and Joshua Tree http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYKdkECj_-Q

Tomorrow I leave the fabulous Palm Springs for Anaheim, where I will spend the next six days including 2 back to back U2 shows at Angels Stadium.

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U2360USA Day 29 – Palm Springs, a perfect day with Elvis

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011) with tags , , , , , , on June 11, 2011 by DeenasDays

This was truly a Perfect Day, in the words of Larry. I honestly love Palm Springs and am seriously considering moving here. The weather is perfect – hot, but no humidity so it’s cool in the mornings and nights. It is a very dog friendly town – even resaturants allow them. It’s not crowded, it’s clean and seems safe.

I love Palm Springs!

Day 29 of my U2 360 tour was one of my favorites so far. After a great night’s sleep at my lovely bungalow at A Place in the Sun garden hotel, I left by 9am in search for Elvis – well his homes. My first stop was Elvis’ home on 845 W Chino Canyon, which he bought in 1970 and owned until he died in 1977. Luckily the owner, Reno, was leaving as I pulled up so we chatted for a bit. Unfortunately, not much in the house is original because it was broken into 4 days after Elvis died. Reno has lived there for 7 years.

Elvis' Palm Springs home 1970-1977

 

My next stop had nothing to do with Elvis, but when there is a casino I must play. I went to the Spa Resort Casino and quickly lost my money. It is a very small casino, which did not have my favorite slots. I had lunch at the Oasis Buffet, which was ok, but no Paula Deen’s.

Spa Resort Casino

Next was my favorite part of my day. I toured Elvis’ honeymoon hideway. Elvis leased this house at 1350 Ladero Circle for a year, and he and Priscilla spent their honeymoon here on May 1, 1967. I had the most wonderful tour of every inch of this gorgeous 1960s house. It was great to see the living room that I had seen in so many pictures. Maria was the best tour guide and as big an Elvis fan as I am. It was a real pleasure to hear her Elvis in Palm Springs stories that I knew nothing about. She told me about Elvis shopping trips to Rite Aid and what he ate at his favorite restaurant. A visit to this Elvis house if a must for any Elvis fan visiting Palm Springs.

Elvis' honeymoon hideway

 

 

 
My last stop of the day was the Rite Aid that Maria told me about. I need to get some groceries anyway since I have a full kitchen here and I will next week in Anaheim as well. So I thought why not pick a few things up where Elvis shopped. And tomorrow I am going to have lunch at Elvis’ favorite restaurant in Palm Springs, Las Casuelas.
 
Please click here if you would like to see all of my pictures of Elvis’ home and of Palm Springs http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150218284079168.331187.734599167&l=626a66d4a0
 
Please watch my video of my Perfect Day in Palm Springs with Elvis http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwLZlWPD05I
 
Tomorrow it’s off in search of U2′s The Joshua Tree

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U360USA Day 28 – Oakland to Palm Springs, A Place in the Sun

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011) with tags , , , , , , on June 10, 2011 by DeenasDays

Finally it’s summer!!! For the first time since I left Memphis on May 14th, it is above 75 degrees. In fact, it’s in the 90s here in Palm Springs. I had one day in Denver above 70 and one day in Seattle above 70, otherwise it’s been cold. I am SO glad I am finally feeling summer. It is June 10 after all.

Day 28 of my U2 360 tour across America brought us from Oakland to Palm Springs. We left Oakland around 7:20am, and it was 55 degrees and arrived in Palm Springs just over 8 hours later and it was 95 degrees. We only stopped twice on our journey south on Route 5 up and down the mountains – again. It was a pretty drive though.

on the road to palm springs

I love Palm Springs! I haven’t seen any of it except driving through downtown, but I love the desert! A Place in the Sun garden hotel is my new favorite hotel - in fact I think I want to live here. It is named after one of my favorite movies, A Place in the Sun starring Elizabeth Taylor, Montgomery Clift, and Shelley Winters. The production crew stayed here while they were filming.

A Place in the Sun garden hotel

 

A Place in the Sun movie poster

A Place in the Sun garden hotel is a collection of bungalows situated in a rectangle surrounding the pool with palm trees and mountains in the background. It’s gorgeous! It was built in the 1950s, so it’s very retro, which I obviously love. There is even a walled in patio, so the dogs have a little space to go off leash. Yes, it is pet friendly here! And to make it even better, they upgraded me to a one bedroom bungalow, which is basically like an apartment with a full kitchen, dining room table, 2 couches and tv in the living room, a king bed, closet, and tv in the bedroom. They even have a library of books and movies for me to enjoy.

A Place in the Sun pool

inside my bungalow

my patio

Please watch my video of our day from Oakland to Palm Springs http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8S7s9trNeMk

I know I am going to really enjoy my time here at A Place in the Sun garden hotel and in Palm Springs. I wish I was staying longer than the weekend.

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U2360USA Days 26 & 27 – Oakland & San Francisco

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 9, 2011 by DeenasDays

Days 26 and 27 of my U2 360 tour across America were spent in Oakland and San Francisco. The day after the U2 show in Oakland, I just stayed in my hotel room napping, reading, watching tv and relaxing. Luckily I had enough leftovers, so I didn’t have to go out for food – just to walk the dogs. My hotel here is nice because it has free breakfast, free shuttle to and from the concert, and they delivered a microwave and refrigerator, but they have very thin walls. Everytime someone shuts a door or is talking in the hall, my dogs bark – even at 4am while I’m sleeping. So I haven’t really slept well since I’ve been here.

This morning I got ready and caught the 9:15am ferry from Jack London Square in Oakland to Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. Unfortunately, there were about four large groups of children on field trips on the ferry and it was cloudy and cold when I arrived in San Francsico. Of course it was warming up and sunny as I was leaving to return back to Oakland.

Port of Oakland

 

Oakland Ferry to San Francisco

 

Alcatraz

 

I spent my time in San Francisco at Fisherman’s Wharf, walking up and down and all around. I looked at the historical ships on Hyde Street Pier and had lunch at historic Boudin’s (sourdough since 1849). I could barely see the Golden Gate Bridge through the fog, but I could see Alcatraz and some good views of the San Francisco skyline and hilly streets.

Fisherman's Wharf

Hyde Street Pier

historic Boudin's

 

the streets of San Francisco

Please watch the video of my day in San Francisco http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KlsjDnANoA

I am really looking forward to going to Palm Springs tomorrow, not only because I’ve always wanted to visit, but also because it will finally feel like summer. I’ve been cold since I left Memphis 27 days ago. It will be 99 degrees in Palm Springs tomorrow! Yay summer – finally!  

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Larry Sings in Oakland! U2 360 6.7.11

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), Larry Mullen, U2 with tags , , , , , on June 8, 2011 by DeenasDays

The U2 360 show in Oakland had the same set list as the previous three shows in the US, but was a little different. First, the baseball infield was fenced off, so the GA area was smaller – as was the inner circle behind the stage. Second, there were two opening bands, so U2 didn’t come on until 9:30. Third, and most important to me, Larry sang!!!

I spent the first half of the day resting in my hotel room to conserve energy for the show. After four shows, I have it down to a routine now. I pretty much stay in bed reading and watching tv until about 1, I eat and shower, and then head over to the stadium around 2 or 3. I wait out for U2 to arrive, then get in the GA line and go into the show.

Even though my hotel is less than a mile from the stadium, I took the hotel shuttle over to the Coliseum just after 2:00. I walked around the stadium and arena and finally found my friends waiting for U2 to arrive. Bono arrived just after 5pm, stopped the car right in front of us and hopped out.

waiting for U2

As soon as Bono got out of the car, I pointed at him and then at my Larry Mullen Band shirt and said, “Now Bono…” He put his hands in the air and said, “I tried.” He walked over to us, and I said, “So he’s not coming (referring to Larry)?” Bono said, “I tried.” While he was signing autographs, I told him that it’s ok because I’ll be at other shows. Bono asked me, “What is your name Deah?” I said, “Deena.” He said, “Yes, I remember.” He went on to talk to others. Bono looked tired, his voice was scratchy, and he said he was sick. Before he got back into the car to go inside, Bono looked over to me and shouted, “I’ll try again.” I have 12 more shows to speak with Mr. Mullen and get my picture taken with him. Until then, the memory of Larry smiling and walking toward me to shake my hand at the end of the Seattle show will get me through.

Please watch my video of Bono greeting the fans http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1eF0e6TdKg 

Bono greets the fans in Oakland

I went into the Coliseum in Oakland after 6pm and still got into the inner circle. It was a strange set up though. The baseball infield was fenced off, so the GA section was a lot smaller. And the back of the inner circle behind the stage was a bit narrower as well. Also, there was a wall of sky boxes behind the stage, which made for an echoing drum sound. Because the GA was smaller, the inner circle was more crowded, so I basically watched the show from behind the stage, which is fine with me because I can watch Larry.

There were two opening bands for U2 in Oakland. Local band Moonalice played from 7:00 to 7:30. I was not impressed. The sound was bad and just not my cup of tea. Lenny Kravitz played from about 7:50 to 8:30. It was the same set list as Seattle. Lenny puts on a really great show. I think it’s going to be even better at the shows in Anaheim next week.

I waited for U2 to enter the Coliseum. They were going to enter from directly behind the stage rather than come around from the side, so I could get great video and pictures of their entrance. Well, I finally got good video that wasn’t shaky and was not of their feet walking in, but the picture I got was blurry – but it would have been great if it was in focus. As they walked to the stage, Larry looked at me and smiled and waved – and I captured it on video!

Please watch my video of U2 entering the Coliseum in Oakland http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukNAzjqnw3E

The set list in Oakland was the same as the previous three shows in the US with one notable exception (and for me the highlight of the show) – Larry sang a part of Lou Reed’s Perfect Day. There were no band introductions at the Oakland show. Instead, Bono talked about the summit with Greenday and Metallica the previous night and the possibility of doing a music festival with them. Edge spoke a bit about it and then Bono asked Larry to speak. Larry said, “What goes on at that summit, stays at that summit.” And then Larry sang a bit of Lou Reed’s Perfect Day, since Lou Reed was at the show. I couldn’t believe it! I was so excited! I haven’t seen Larry sing in concert since ZooTv!

Please watch my video of Larry singing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFV7ygHXkvM&feature=related

Larry sings!

 

Larry during I'll Go Crazy

Please click here for all the pictures I took at U2 360 in Oakland http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150215570834168.330503.734599167&l=c2b178321c

Please watch my video of my favorite part of Get On Your Boots – ‘LET ME IN THE SOUND’ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhSP6yUA8nU

Please watch my video of Larry during I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CS29Hu7z2o

Please watch my video of U2 leaving the Coliseum in Oakland http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u1TJ9b7R7Q

Please watch my video overview of U2 36- in Oakland http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sTUca_abHk

Now I have 10 days until the next U2 show – 2 back to back shows in Anaheim. I will then continue my quest to meet Larry, since it seems that is what my U2 360 tour has become. Until the shows in Anaheim, I will spend the day in San Francisco tomorrow, then spend the weekend in Palm Springs and make my quest to The Joshua Tree and then spend 4 days sight seeing in LA/Hollywood/Beverly Hills.

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U2360USA Days 23 & 24 – Seattle to Oakland

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 6, 2011 by DeenasDays

Over 800 miles and 2 days later, we’re in Oakland, California. I’ll be in California for the next 13 days and am really looking forward to my time here! We left Seattle just before 1pm yesterday and arrived in Eugene, Oregon just before 6pm. It was the first day I drove to another city the day after a U2 show, and I was exhausted. It was also the first time I drove and it didn’t rain. And it was the first backtrack of my trip. I drove north on route 5 from Reno to Portland, and the past 2 days I drove south on route 5 from Seattle to Oakland.

Today is Cilla’s 4th birthday, and she spent it in the back of my car. She is relaxing in our Oakland hotel now though, as is Elvis. We left Eugene just before 9am and arrived in Oakland just after 6pm, stopping 3 times along the way. I was in such a good mood on the drive today. I’m not sure if it was a good night’s sleep or the memory of Larry’s smile walking toward me at the end of the Seattle show that kept me happily on my way today. Even the guy at the California inspection was in a good mood. He was a U2 fan. He said the U2 trucks came through a few days ago on their way to Oakland.

Cilla's 4th Birthday 6.6.11

 

California for 13 days!

Please watch my video of our drive from Seattle to Oakland (uploading now)  

In addition to this being my U2 360 tour, this is also my tuna and pizza tour. I had the best tuna melt I’ve ever had at the Hotel VQ in Denver, had an ok tuna melt at Carrow’s in Reno, and a great tuna salad sandwich at Pike Place Market in Seattle. In addition, I’ve had tuna subs from various Subways along the way. I had a yummy pizza in Kansas City my first night on the road. I had pizza from the hotel restaurants at the Ramada Reno, Vintage Plaza Portland, and Monaco Seattle. The best of these was the margherita pizza in Portland. I also had domino’s pizza in Eugene last night because I was too tired to look for anything else.

Less than 24 hours until U2 360 in Oakland. Please say Hi if you see me at a show – would love to meet you!

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U2 360 in Seattle – It’s All About Larry – 6.4.11

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), Bono, Larry Mullen with tags , , , , , , on June 5, 2011 by DeenasDays

The U2 360 show in Seattle was better than the shows in Denver and Salt Lake City. Even though it was the same set list, the audience was much more into it, the band was having a blast and actually seemed a little more into as well, Lenny Kravitz was a better opening act than The Fray, and oh yeah I talked with Bono before the show about Larry and Larry shook my hand as he was leaving the show. Please watch my video of an overview of the U2 360 show in Seattle http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW1NdzIAaKM

Being so tired from walking around Seattle sight seeing the day before, I decided to stay in my hotel room and conserve my energy until it was time to go to Qwest Field. To further save energy, we took a cab to the stadium even though it is just under a mile away. We got to the stadium at 3:00, got in the GA line just long enough to get our wristbands and then walked around to wait for U2 to arrive. Our friends told us Larry had just went it, so I was a little disappointed – but they were wrong.

U2 360 Seattle 6.4.11

After meeting a few people I’ve been chatting with on Twitter and giving out some U2TourFans stickers, we saw the flashing lights of the police escort and black SUVs. Edge, Bono, Larry and Adam drove into Qwest Field right in front of us. We looked down the long driveway and saw Bono get out and head back toward us. He hopped on the back of the policeman’s motorcycle and in seconds was talking with us.

My friend, Jenny, and I were in our ‘Larry Mullen Band’ shirts as usual. I shouted, “Is Larry ever coming out to greet the fans?” Bono responded, “He only likes you. I love you.” Then Bono went on to say, “You like that kind of cold stare” (referring to Larry).

Chuck, Bono, and Me

Before Bono was about to leave, he asked the small crowd of about 30 people, “Where are the Larry Mullen people?” I shouted, ‘Right here!” and pushed my way toward Bono. He read my shirt as if to make sure I was the ‘Larry Mullen Band’ girl he had been talking to earlier. Then Bono asked, “Do you have a message I can deliver?” I said, “Yes, tell Larry to come out in Oakland since he didn’t come out here.” He said, “OK.” I then went on to tell him that I would be at all the US shows, but I don’t think he heard me. Bono then asked my name and repeated it back to me, “Deena.” When he got in his golf cart to go back, I saw him write something down, so we’ll see what happens in Oakland on Tuesday.

Please watch the short video of Bono and I talking about Larry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEJ22lgthb0

We got in the GA line and had about an hour wait in the hot Seattle sun before we were let into Qwest Field. While waiting we got to hear the sound check. I was quite excited to hear The Fly, but disappointed it wasn’t included in the set list later. Once inside, we got a nice spot in the inner circle on Adam’s side – a great view for Lenny Kravitz.

Lenny was a great opening act, a lot better than The Fray. He didn’t take the stage until 7:30 and only played 45 minutes, but played the four songs I know – It Ain’t Over Til It’s Over, American Woman, Fly Away, and Are You Gonna Go My Way. Lenny had these great female backup singers that reminded me of Elvis’ Sweet Inspirations. Lenny also did karate moves that reminded me of Elvis. Could Lenny be a fan of The King?

Lenny Kravitz

Please watch my video of Lenny’s performance http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLj09XzjFQ4

After Lenny Kravitz’ performance, we went over to Edge’s side and stood behind the stage to wait for U2 to enter. It was odd getting our neck’s stamped (instead of our hands) for re-entry to the inner circle. Security kicked us off the rail where we were waiting for U2 to enter, claiming the fire marshall wanted that space cleared. So instead of having us lined up along the rail like we were, they had us lined up horizontally sort of blocking the way to the inner circle. Not sure how that wasn’t a fire hazard.

But as soon as U2 came out of that tunnel, security couldn’t hold us back and we were again on the rail. Larry came by and smiled at me, and I think he may have waved – of course I was screaming his name and wearing my Larry Mullen Band shirt.

We decided to stay on Edge’s side for the show, and it was a good decision. We had a great view of the show. It was side view, but we could see everything. At the end of Vertigo, we went behind the stage to wait for Larry and his conga to start his walk for I’ll Go Crazy If I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight. He again smiled at me as I screamed his name and jumped up and down – actually I think he’s laughing at me, but I’ll take it.

Larry Mullen

Please watch my short video of Larry starting I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghqNvC3j58A

Please watch my video of the Discotheque snippet during I’ll Go Crazy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1KsN6uNLcc

Please watch my video of Bono introducing the band http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpFbG5eUTaE

For Moment of Surrender, we moved behind the stage to wait for U2 to leave. Instead of standing by the stairs at the stage where we could have gotten a good picture, we waited back toward where the tunnel is. As Larry was walking out, Jenny shouted, “Larry!” He smiled and made a b line for us. He shook Jenny’s hand and then mine – still smiling. I thanked him. But this does not excuse Larry from coming out in Oakland on Tuesday to meet me, assuming Bono gives him my message.

Please click here to see all the pictures I took at U2 360 in Seattle http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150212591979168.329327.734599167&l=dc9606d618

It’s off to Eugene today, and Oakland tomorrow for U2 360 on Tuesday!

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U2360USA Day 21 – Seattle, the day before the U2 show

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 4, 2011 by DeenasDays

Holy hills Batman! Who knew Seattle was so hilly? And who would have thought I would get a bit too much sun on my face in Seattle? But even with that, I had a great day touring around Seattle with Jenny, even if it did make me too tired to go to the Owl & Thistle tonight.

We started out our day with breakfast at the Blue Water Taco Grill. I had a yummy veggie scramble. Then we walked to the Monorail, which is still operating from when it started at the 1961 World’s Fair – the same fair where Elvis filmed It Happened at the World’s Fair. The Monorail took us to the Space Needle, but we didn’t go up in it. I went up in it 10 years when I was here for U2’s Elevation show in Tacoma. But right next to the Space Needle is the Experience Music Project, which is currently showing a Nirvana exhibit – the reason why I came to the EMP.

Seattle Monorail

 

Space Needle

 

The Experience Music Project was named and modeled after Jimmy Hendrix. The Nirvana exhibit was great. It had memorabilia, photos, performances, documentaries, and a studio where fans can record their Nirvana stories. I did not tell about the dreams/nightmares I had after Kurt’s death involving me yelling at Courtney.

Experience Music Project (EMP)

Nirvana at EMP

After the EMP, we wanted to take a bus tour and had only a short time to make it. While we were rushing to catch the light rail, we heard the drums for Desire. We paused because we weren’t sure we heard it correctly, but then we heard ‘Lover I’m on the street.’ We ran toward Desire. It was a band and gospel choir on the back of a semi truck. The banner above the stage read One Life No Regrets and then in smaller letters noregretsu2.

One Life No Regrets

The singer Patrick Stark turned 40 and wanted to make sure he was living his life with no regrets. He had always had a fear of singing in public, so to conquer his fear he is making a documentary about his quest to sing on stage with U2 – One Life No Regrets. Peter is going to try to sing on stage with U2 Saturday at Qwest Field. Today he sang a set of U2 songs with a Gospel choir – Desire, In God’s Country, All I Want is You, One, Until the End of the World.

Please watch my video of Patrick’s U2 lunchtime performance today http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IlMbq4_VpQ

After our impromptu U2 show, we headed toward Pike Place Market for lunch. We stumbled upon the Hard Rock and people were lined up just like they were at the Denver Hard Rock, so I inquire. Yes, just like in Denver, these U2 fans were waiting for free tickets to the U2 concert Saturday at Qwest Field. They brought shoes to donate to the Souls for Soul charity, and those first 100 people or so were to get free U2 tickets.

U2 fans waiting for free tickets at Hard Rock Seattle

We went to the Pike Place Fish Market and saw them throw the fish and then had lunch at the café overlooking the water. I of course had tuna. What else do you have at a fish market?

Pike Place Market

Now it was time for our Sub Seattle bus tour, which had tried to take at 1 but got sidetracked by Patrick’s U2 show. We lucked out and it was only Jenny and I on the tour. This Sub Seattle tour was supposed to tell us the non-toursity non-obvious facts about Seattle. We went to Beacon Hill, Washington Lake and my reason on going on the tour Kurt Cobain’s house. We also saw the Black Hole Sun sculpture, which inspired Soundgarden’s song. Looking through the hole, you can see the Space Needle in the distance.

our Sub Seattle tourbus

 

Kurt Cobain's house

Kurt's bench

 

Black Hole Sun

Please watch my video of our day in Seattle http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UqelrSx3RY

After our tour, Jenny shopped so I walked back to the our hotel up hill. I mean up, up, up hill – in the glaring sun. Then I had to walk Elvis and Cilla because they had been in their crates all day. It was just about 5:00, so everyone in Seattle was apparently out walking the streets around the Hotel Monaco with their dogs and their kids and on their bikes. This was all just too much for my non-big-city dogs. Between the up hill walk in the sun and my crazy dogs freaking out in the big city, I was dripping with sweat, so I relaxed with a nice cool shower.

Jenny returned, and we decided just to order room service from the Hotel Monaco for dinner. Luckily it was really quick service. In fact, they said it would be 20 minutes and it was exactly 20 minutes – I like promtness! My ceasar salad was fantastic! My white pizza was also good, but I really liked my ceasar salad with fresh slices of parmasan.

To see all the pictures from my time in Seattle (and Portland), please click here http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150209290514168.328250.734599167&l=9347e090fe

Less than 24 hours until U2 360 at Qwest Field in Seattle.

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U2360USA Day 20 part2 – the North American premiere of ‘Killing Bono’

Posted in 'On the Road with U2', 360 (2011), U2 with tags , , , , , , on June 3, 2011 by DeenasDays

Tonight Jenny and I attended the North American premiere of Killing Bono at the Seattle International Film Festival, SIFF. It was shown at the Neptune Theatre, one of the University District’s oldest theatres. The movie Killing Bono is based on Neil McCormick’s memoir Killing Bono: I was Bono’s Doppelganger. I liked the book better.

Neptune Theatre SIFF

North American premiere of Killing Bono 6.2.11

In Killing Bono, Neil McCormick tells the story of his life and how he was always competing, in his mind, with U2. He went to school with Bono, Larry, Adam and Edge and was forming a band at the same time they were. In fact, his brother Ivan was almost in U2 – he was in Larry’s kitchen at that first rehearsal. Neil always wanted to be famous and be in the biggest band in the world, but that happened to Bono not him.

The movie Killing Bono was good. It was well-done, entertaining and funny. I especially liked Robert Sheehan who played Ivan McCormick, Neil’s brother. I liked that the only U2 song that was played was I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, especially since I’m not hearing it live anymore. The Larry character of course did not do Larry justice, but the Adam’s character late 1970s hair was dead on.

What I did not like was that the movie took some liberties with the truth and added scenes for dramatic purposes that did not happen. One of these scenes was Neil McCormick pointing a gun at Bono deciding if he was going to kill him. I did not like that at all. It really freaked me out. All I kept thinking was ‘Mark Chapman.’ The book Killing Bono had more U2 in it, especially when they were starting out, and continued throughout Neil McCormick’s writing career – past 1987 where the movie ended.

After the showing, director Nick Hamm skyped in and did a Q & A with the audience. He said that U2, with the exception of Larry, viewed Killing Bono in Australia when they were touring there. He said they found themselves amusing, especially Adam’s hair.

I was suprised that the small theatre was only about half full, and that it wasn’t all U2 fans. There were some folks there with U2 shirts on and a few I think I recognized from twitter, but it was mostly film festival fans.  I expected it to be in a huge sold out theatre with wall to wall U2 fans. I mean I changed my plans and came into Seattle a day early just so I could see the North American premiere of Killing Bono.

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