Last Sunday night, thousands were transported back to their teen years singing, watching, screaming, and maybe crying as Rick Springfield stunned Massachusetts with non-stop fun!
I Want My 80’s Tour
Rick headlined his I Want My 80’s Tour at the Lynn Auditorium last Sunday night. He brought his pals, The Hooters, Tommy Tutone and Paul Young.
I was surprised, and delighted to see the response for ALL of Rick’s opening acts. Watching The Hooters take the stage brought me back to my radio days in Philly, where The Hooters are from. It was fun to see the crowd scream for their hits And We Danced, and Day By Day. Paul Young did a decent job with his biggest hit, Every Time You Go Away. Of course, it was a blast to actually see Tommy Tutone play 867-5309 LIVE! It sounded great! Tommy also did a fun, up-tempo rock version of Jim Croce’s Operator. I was also delighted to see the enthusiastic crowd react to the deeper album cut, songs I didn’t even know! People are craving simpler times, and a trip to the 1980’s is just what the doctor ordered.
But the shock of the night was ahead…
True Rock Star
As you’re about to see below, Rick Springfield is timeless. The night changed the moment he hit the stage. Right before our eyes, we saw an actual TV star, movie star and rock star. His set opened with memorable clips of all of media success stories. While you see his uncanny modern day youth on TV and pictures, to see him in person is stunning. He looks YOUNGER THAN EVER. I was lucky enough to meet him again backstage. We met Rick in 2006. He looks YOUNGER TODAY. The moment he walked out, the audience knew we were in the presence of a true rock star. From that second, his charm, charisma and energy owned the night. It was a wonderful reminder that how great our life was, in the 1980’s. Rick made everyone feel GOOD, not old.
Hit After Hit
Using fun, big screen videos and graphics, Rick opened with Affair Of The Heart. From that moment on, no one sat down, as the fans relived all of their favorite Rick hits like, Don’t Talk To Strangers, the Sammy Hager written I’ve Done Everything For You, and of course, the encore, Jessie’s Girl.
Rick LOVES YOU
During his performance of Human Touch, Rick jumped into the first two rows, and hugged, kissed or high five every fan AS HE WAS SINGING. He did this WITHOUT help from security. Everyone was respectful, but got their share of love with a the rock icon of their childhood. I was lucky enough to get a dose, twice, backstage and as part of the show. Because, I’m in radio, he remembered me, and gave me a little “hi” in between lyrics, and screams, as he mingled with his adoring fans. See the pic below. I was stunned. Today, artists are not so giving, understandably, because of the new world we live in. Not Rick. He was ALL IN.
Timeless
He was very open and honest about his personal life. First, the audience was shocked to hear that he is SEVENTY FOUR. He looks and acts like a 35 year old. His energy ALL night could rival any teen band out today. Rick shared that he combated his past challenges with depression with meditation, and daily exercise with a trainer. He also credits his wife of 40 years, Barbara. Rick wrapped up his personal journey and segued into his song World Start Turning.
If you’re a fan, I recommend seeing Rick Springfield the next time he’s back. It’s an inspirational lesson in being the most you can be, while here on Earth. Watching him makes me want to eat better, and hit the gym!
I must mention with a wonderful experience the Lynn Auditorium was! With easy nearby parking, and a ton of fun restaurants within walking distance, it’s a great place to see a show!
Now, you be the judge, take a look at how Rick Springfield stunned Massachusetts!
Backstage!
Image by Jaybeau
Rick signing autographs back stage
Enter ROCK STAR, Stage Right
Image by Heidi
First look, opening the show with Affair Of The Heart
The Hooters!
Image by Heidi
Makin’ Philly proud! The Hooters sounded good and the crowd loved them!
Jesse, Meet Jenny!
Yes, that is Tommy Tutone singing, “867-5309!”
Can I Have This Jacket?
Image by Heidi
I need that jacket for my next LIVE appearance.
Wardrobe Change: View From Our Seats
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Wait ’til you see what’s next!
In The Crowd!!
Image By Heidi
NO SECURITY! Rick LOVES his fans!
Insert You Own Caption Here!!
Image By Heidi
Hey Rick!! Ok, I’ll sing….
Remember Paul Young?
Image by Heidi
Paul Young singing his hit “Come Back And Stay!”
How Old Is He?
Image By Heidi
Now you know why my wife wanted to take these pictures.
Rock Star Jump during "Jessies Girl!"
Image By Heidi
Careful, land on both feet!
She's A Little TOO Happy
Image By Heidi
I’m not taking my shirt off, sorry Heidi.
Back Stage!
Image By Heidi
Me and Rick. What a great guy!
