First/Last-Joe Grushecky

Joe Grushecky & The House Rockers

Allegheny County Summer Concert Series

Friday, July 20, 2012

South Park

 "In a better world, Joe Grushecky would live in a mansion down the road from Springsteen's. Instead, this enormous talent spends his days teaching some of western Pennsylvania's most troubled children....Who do you know who has made back-to-backgreat albums more than 20 years ago, and is doing the same thing now. There's Dylan, Lucinda Williams, Neil Young, Springsteen, maybe a few more. He's on that level."

 

Thank goodness for Pittsburgh, it's not a 'better world'. Nothing says the Steel City like a free outdoor Summer gig with Joe & his band. Even though he's been kicking around for years, I have pitifully only recently discovered just how much fun one of his concerts can be. Better late than never. Find out for yourself tonight at South Park. My thanks to Joe for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.

The first album you ever bought?
The Kingsmen, “Louie Louie".

Your last album bought?
The Eli Young Band, "Life at Best".

Favorite album of all time?
Too many to list, though no one ever did five LPs in a row as great as the Stones’ "Beggars Banquet", "Let It Bleed", "Sticky Fingers", "Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out!" and "Exile on Main Street".

First concert attended?
I have been going to shows my whole life but my first show at the Civic Arena was The Dave Clark Five.

Last concert?
Bruce in Cleveland.

Favorite concert ever?
November 4, 2011 at Soldiers and Sailors.

Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Get out and support your hometown musicians!!!!

Thanks, Joe. I am with you on that Soldiers and Sailors gig. Incredible! As a fan, I sincerely say thank you.