The Clearwater Concert: Creating the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
A benefit concert in celebration of Pete Seeger's 90th Birthday
Sunday, May 3rd, 2009, 5:00 p.m. Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
Although Matt and I decided to show up only for the second set, we stole great seats and enjoyed a truly special night of performers. Bruce Springsteen--you don't need me to tell you he's a legend, and there's no question. He mentioned sitting beside Seeger and Obama on inauguration day, stating, "He was so happy on that day. It was like, Pete, you outlasted the bastards!" He sent shivers down my spine, and played "The Ghost of Tom Joad" with none other than Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine. Arlo Guthrie played with several people, including Keller WIlliams and Warren Haynes. Guthrie's voice is fantastic! Robert McGuinn played The Byrds hit, "Turn, Turn, Turn!" with Tyler Ramsey & Ben Bridwell from Band of Horses. Ben Harper only stayed for one song but played with his mother and aunt! Dave Matthews played solo, and entertained the audience with the most beautiful version of "Rye Whiskey." We missed Ani DiFranco, Bela Fleck, and John Mellencamp, though I've seen the latter two before.
Pete Seeger entertained us with a few closing songs ("Amazing Grace," "This Land is your Land") and everyone joined him on the stage--what a sight! Legend standing next to Legend, Seeger enjoyed his favorite, most powerful means of change: singing together and changing the world through music. It was emotional and exhilarating singing along with a filled Madison Square Garden audience, most of whom were alive during the many wars and civil rights movements that have shaped our freedoms today. Pete Seeger's contributions to folk music and activism are incredible and outstanding for just one lifetime, and I can only hope to emulate even some. The concert proceeds went to his charity, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater.
No comments:
Post a Comment