Do It Rockapella!!

12 years ago I got the opportunity to drive to New York City on a whirlwind semi spontaneous trip with my cousin and 2 guys I didn't know from Adam to see a group I had never really heard of before at a club I wasn't quite old enough to really go in. Now doesn't that sound like a fun trip. The cousin was Wendy, the guys were Jon and Joe, the venue was The Bottom Line nightclub in Greenwich Village NYC, and the group was Rockapella. And thus started my love affair with Acapella music as more than just a way to sing at church.

Besides seeing them in November 1998, I also got to see them in 2005, and then again LAST NIGHT!!! My husband got me the tickets for Christmas, after a little hint dropping and gentle reminding.

With every intention of going with me, he got sick yesterday, which had me scrambling for a date with only hours to spare. I asked cousin Wendy, I was thinking we could pretend we were carefree 20 somethings again, and reminisce about when were able to take off on a moments notice, drive 28 hours 1 way from OKC, OK to NYC, NY, stay less than 24 hours to see a singing group we hadn't heard of before, and not to mention travel with guys of which she only knew 1 and I knew none. Ah, good times. But alas, she was unable to go, because the 30 something unspontateous part of life took effect and her 2 year old came down with a fever, proving that we are in fact not as carefree as we were. I did find a wonderful friend to go with me, my coworker Lindsey. And though I am very sad that Troy wasn't able to enjoy the concert with me as planned, Lindsey and I had a fabulous time.

There are actually only 2 original members from the the first time I saw them perform, Scott Leonard and Jeff Thatcher. Both INCREDIBLY talented guys with INCREDIBLE talent, and the 3 "new guys" are wonderful as well. If you haven't heard of this group, you should listen. Google them, Youtube them, ITunes them. You won't regret it. I will most definitely be seeing them again next time they come to the West Coast, or who knows, maybe someday, after the kids are a little bit older I'll be able to road trip again to some crazy far away destination like some middle age groupie.

The group. Sorry the picture is a little blurry, I couldn't use flash.



Me and the One and Only Scott Leonard. I am so excited I got this picture. I know, I'm a dork.



Me and Jeff Thatcher. This guy is the MOST AMAZING vocal percussionist. He can make sounds his mouth and throat you didn't know were possible. Seriously, youtube him.


Here is Linds with Steven Dorian and John K Brown. Steven Dorian used to work in Branson at the Lost in the 50's show.


And here is the 2 of us with George Baldi, the bass singer. I hate to say it, but he is better than the original bass, Barry. Good thing Barry will never read this. =)