I wanted to post a few words about the DDY show tonight...

[Zan]

Speaking of "regular part of the script," I loved: "Know what's great about being 65? Nothing."

Cracked me up. That's a keeper.

[cittadeeno23]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

[Everett]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

[cittadeeno23]

Yes, Dennis still has his sense of humor!

Back during the 1996 tour Dennis and Tommy did a little routine about Tommy's small guitar (mandolin) and Tommy commented on Dennis' shrinking Organ (Accordion) It was hysterical. I wish they would have left that bit in the RTP video.

The guys have always had a great sense of humor and it was one of the many things that made seeing them live entertaining.
I loved your comment, Zan that you made to your husband about "Loving Styx" during the show. I always had that overwhelming feeling every time I saw them live too! I love Tommy and JY as much as Dennis, but for some reason I feel more emotions when I see his show as opposed to Tommy and JY's show. I think Dennis' passion just shines through during his live performances and it brings out emotions in me. It really brings me back to all the Styx shows I saw in the 70's and 80's.

[cittadeeno23]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

I guess so becasue I felt differently than you and Zan did. I stood up and cheered when he said it along with most of the rest of the crowd.
I'd stand up and cheer also if Gowan said the same of Tommy at a Styx show. I'm not a fan of substitutes. I love Dennis and Tommy TOGETHER. But it is what it is. They are not the first band that could not stay together because they couldn't get along and they won't be the last!

[Zan]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

I'd bet a week's salary that the double entendre is not an accident. There are fifty thousand ways to compliment someone. But they use that one.

Look, it's his band, his show, his choice. I'm only giving my opinion. I think it cheapens the solo a little bit, and that solo is TOO GOOD to be marred by pettiness.

[yogi]

Say what you want and rip me but Styx always has and always will be DDY's baby. DDY always knew of the different aspects of the band, its members and what each brought to the table. No matter what the critics or anyone said he ALWAYS felt that Styx was cool. It was his baby and no matter what he would stand by it.

Tommy & JY respected the band but there were often things about Styx that embarassed them. Tommy & JY heard what many critics and others thought of Styx and often in their own ways tried to change that so as to not be embasassed by the Styx name.

I am not saying who is right or wrong and I have always tried to stay fairly neutral but IMOO Dennis loved this band and the name Styx in ways none of the others did.

While Tommy, JY and all the others were clear stars Dennis without a doubt was the SUPERSTAR. Back in the day he was the straw that stirred the drink.

[Zan]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

I guess so becasue I felt differently than you and Zan did. I stood up and cheered when he said it along with most of the rest of the crowd.
I'd stand up and cheer also if Gowan said the same of Tommy at a Styx show. I'm not a fan of substitutes. I love Dennis and Tommy TOGETHER. But it is what it is. They are not the first band that could not stay together because they couldn't get along and they won't be the last!

I think "The one & only Dennis DeYoung!" would have the same desired effect, without the (semi-transparent) jab.
Let's assume I hated Gowan and I was 100% in Froy's camp all along. I would *still* wish he wouldn't use that line because it looks like he's bitter (I'm sure he is, but you know the saying: never let 'em see you sweat). Keep a brave face. If you're really the best, then you don't need to remind people that you're the best. lol

I can't stress enough how friggin' amazing he was on the synths Monday night. It was an absolutely delight to witness.

The only reason I keep "talking about the remark" is because people keep responding about it. It really was not a huge thing...It just would have been better off left alone. I don't want to seem like I'm fixated on it or anything.

[cittadeeno23]

I agree with you that it would have been better to say The One and Only DDY instead.

I remember he had a few solos in Anaheim that I was pumped up about. Also, the guitar work in Rockin the Paradise (they tore that song up, it was AWESOME) and Suite Madam Blue were amazing from what I remember. He didn't do Born for Adventure though. It's almost worth me flying to the East Coast this year to hear him do that song!

[Zan]

I agree with you, Yogi. Although, I'd argue that Tommy was also a Superstar.

[Abitaman]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

That is how I was taking it.

[StyxCollector]

I think "The one & only Dennis DeYoung!" would have the same desired effect, without the (semi-transparent) jab.
Let's assume I hated Gowan and I was 100% in Froy's camp all along. I would *still* wish he wouldn't use that line because it looks like he's bitter (I'm sure he is, but you know the saying: never let 'em see you sweat). Keep a brave face. If you're really the best, then you don't need to remind people that you're the best. lol

IMO, DDY is at least publicly over it. Compare the CSA speech where he quoted "Don't Wait for Heroes" for years to now where August says what could be construed as a proverbial "double entendre". At least it's tongue in cheek.

The only reason I keep "talking about the remark" is because people keep responding about it. It really was not a huge thing...It just would have been better off left alone. I don't want to seem like I'm fixated on it or anything.

I agree it's much ado about nothing. Funny how people pick up on the negatives more - especially around here

[Babyblue]

I grined from ear to ear when I heard august say that last month. "Accept no subsitutes" so says the
subsitute ahh irony. Thanks for the review zan.

Enjoyed the review of the show.I did not care for the remark that was made.But whatever! I would love to see DDY and his band.As for Styx will be seeing them again in Nov.

August probably said it spur of the moment. Having seen the lineup a few times, I don't remember it being said (but it could have been). I can tell you from knowing August a little, I highly doubt there was any malice involved towards Gowan, especially considering DDY has John back there already playing keys. He'd be insulting John more IMO.

Everett said he heard it last month at the show he saw. I think it's a regular part of the script.

Well it maybe then.

[Zan]

I think "The one & only Dennis DeYoung!" would have the same desired effect, without the (semi-transparent) jab.
Let's assume I hated Gowan and I was 100% in Froy's camp all along. I would *still* wish he wouldn't use that line because it looks like he's bitter (I'm sure he is, but you know the saying: never let 'em see you sweat). Keep a brave face. If you're really the best, then you don't need to remind people that you're the best. lol

IMO, DDY is at least publicly over it. Compare the CSA speech where he quoted "Don't Wait for Heroes" for years to now where August says what could be construed as a proverbial "double entendre". At least it's tongue in cheek.

The only reason I keep "talking about the remark" is because people keep responding about it. It really was not a huge thing...It just would have been better off left alone. I don't want to seem like I'm fixated on it or anything.

I agree it's much ado about nothing. Funny how people pick up on the negatives more - especially around here

Well, at least nowadays this is the worst thing someone can find to pick at. If that remark is the most heinous thing about DDY's show, I think it's safe to say that it's a pretty freakin' good show.

[Boomchild]

Did I mention Mr. Roboto? lol
Seriously though, if I HAD TO choose a "best" song of the night, it would be "Born For Adventure." It positively slammed. The riverdancy melody in the middle, the edgy rock (TSO-like) sound, the harmony...just everything. They knocked it out of the park.

Did they do that little A cappella intro? I thought that was a really nice touch.

[Boomchild]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

I guess so becasue I felt differently than you and Zan did. I stood up and cheered when he said it along with most of the rest of the crowd.
I'd stand up and cheer also if Gowan said the same of Tommy at a Styx show. I'm not a fan of substitutes. I love Dennis and Tommy TOGETHER. But it is what it is. They are not the first band that could not stay together because they couldn't get along and they won't be the last!

I think "The one & only Dennis DeYoung!" would have the same desired effect, without the (semi-transparent) jab.
Let's assume I hated Gowan and I was 100% in Froy's camp all along. I would *still* wish he wouldn't use that line because it looks like he's bitter (I'm sure he is, but you know the saying: never let 'em see you sweat). Keep a brave face. If you're really the best, then you don't need to remind people that you're the best. lol

I can't stress enough how friggin' amazing he was on the synths Monday night. It was an absolutely delight to witness.

The only reason I keep "talking about the remark" is because people keep responding about it. It really was not a huge thing...It just would have been better off left alone. I don't want to seem like I'm fixated on it or anything.

I am sure it could be taken as a jab at Gowan. But, to me it does not fit the mold of how Dennis has conducted himself when speaking about his former band mates or the current Styx. He always seems to speak positively about them. The one time I saw Dennis asked about Gowan, I believe he had nothing but nice things to say about him.

[SuiteMadameBlue]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

What concert were you at that this was said at? He didn't say this at the Summerfest concert.

It's not a regular part of the show, I've been to a few, okay a few dozen DDY concerts and haven't heard this.

[SuiteMadameBlue]

Ok. We need a damn road trip. Seriously. Suite - set it up!

I'm ready for a road trip!!!! I'll keep watching the cities and dates and I'll put something together

I prefer to see his latest rock show if possible. Wouldn't it be really neat/cool/awesome if he would do another "Lost Treasures" show?

[pinkfloyd1973]

Ok. We need a damn road trip. Seriously. Suite - set it up!

I'm ready for a road trip!!!! I'll keep watching the cities and dates and I'll put something together

I prefer to see his latest rock show if possible. Wouldn't it be really neat/cool/awesome if he would do another "Lost Treasures" show?

Ummmm missy, the next Chicago show he does I expect to see you

[yogi]

I agree with you also Zan Tommy is a SUPERSTAR but in my opinion in regards to Styx he was not quite in the same league as Dennis.

Dennis was Joe Montana/Roger Staubach and Tommy was Steve Young/Troy Aikman.

[Babyblue]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

I guess so becasue I felt differently than you and Zan did. I stood up and cheered when he said it along with most of the rest of the crowd.
I'd stand up and cheer also if Gowan said the same of Tommy at a Styx show. I'm not a fan of substitutes. I love Dennis and Tommy TOGETHER. But it is what it is. They are not the first band that could not stay together because they couldn't get along and they won't be the last!

I think "The one & only Dennis DeYoung!" would have the same desired effect, without the (semi-transparent) jab.
Let's assume I hated Gowan and I was 100% in Froy's camp all along. I would *still* wish he wouldn't use that line because it looks like he's bitter (I'm sure he is, but you know the saying: never let 'em see you sweat). Keep a brave face. If you're really the best, then you don't need to remind people that you're the best. lol

I can't stress enough how friggin' amazing he was on the synths Monday night. It was an absolutely delight to witness.

The only reason I keep "talking about the remark" is because people keep responding about it. It really was not a huge thing...It just would have been better off left alone. I don't want to seem like I'm fixated on it or anything.

I am sure it could be taken as a jab at Gowan. But, to me it does not fit the mold of how Dennis has conducted himself when speaking about his former band mates or the current Styx. He always seems to speak positively about them. The one time I saw Dennis asked about Gowan, I believe he had nothing but nice things to say about him.

That says alot about a person then. We have 2 super great bands to see.Now if DDY would come my way. I would love to see his show.

[Everett]

It is a regular part of the script but he means it more as a compliment to Dennis than as a dig to anyone else.

Just depends on how you look at it. I just found it very humorus along with a facepalm moment when I
heard that.

What concert were you at that this was said at? He didn't say this at the Summerfest concert.

It's not a regular part of the show, I've been to a few, okay a few dozen DDY concerts and haven't heard this.

Yes it was @ summerfest laurie.

[masque]

I agree with you also Zan Tommy is a SUPERSTAR but in my opinion in regards to Styx he was not quite in the same league as Dennis.

Dennis was Joe Montana/Roger Staubach and Tommy was Steve Young/Troy Aikman.

interesting comparison.......but in the end they are/will all be in the hall of fame....so are dennis and tommy in my eyes....

to me dennis may have had more of the official "hits" but there is no way in god's name am i going to agree that "babe" is a better song than really any song tommy contributed or help contribute from crystall ball thru the paradise theatre album.

so what does that mean then? to me, it means that i dont really care which styx songs were "hits" because the "hit" isnt always the best song on that album.

[masque]

Say what you want and rip me but Styx always has and always will be DDY's baby. DDY always knew of the different aspects of the band, its members and what each brought to the table. No matter what the critics or anyone said he ALWAYS felt that Styx was cool. It was his baby and no matter what he would stand by it.

Tommy & JY respected the band but there were often things about Styx that embarassed them. Tommy & JY heard what many critics and others thought of Styx and often in their own ways tried to change that so as to not be embasassed by the Styx name.

I am not saying who is right or wrong and I have always tried to stay fairly neutral but IMOO Dennis loved this band and the name Styx in ways none of the others did.

While Tommy, JY and all the others were clear stars Dennis without a doubt was the SUPERSTAR. Back in the day he was the straw that stirred the drink.

im not going to rip you at all but i will say that I disagree strongly......tommy and jy i dont think "listened" to the critics as much as they listened to the ballady songs that dennis was contributing and thinking they were gonna have to cut more rock oriented songs from the set to inlcude songs like babe in there and they just didnt like that. in addition, once babe went to number one then the power of the band clearly shifted to dennis side and I dont think they liked where he went with that power.....it doesnt matter whether it was the right way or wrong way it was just a way that dennis wanted and they wanted a different way.

i think people forget that while lady was a huge hit that up thru pieces of eight that tommy had been as much of a hit maker for styx as dennis was because you had lady, loreli, mademoiselle, fooling yourself, come sail away, blue collar man and renegade all chart.....some obviously higher than others.

up to that point tommy actually had more songs that charted in the top 40 than dennis did. i understand that other songs such as the grand illusion, sing for the day and miss america were all played alot on the radio but those songs never officially charted.

so out of those seven songs that initially charted dennis had two monster songs in lady and come sail away and tommy had three big hits that were less successful in blue collar man and renegade and fooling yourself (as far as chart position).......loreli and mademosielle barely cracked the top 40 at all.

so i could easily see that at that point in their careers during the making of cornerstone and shortly thereafter when babe exploded that tommy and jy and especially tommy felt the power of the creative "back and forth" would now become less back and forth and more just what dennis wanted because of the chart success of babe.

and ironically i think they probably looked at things and said to themselves (tommy and jy that is)...."yeh babe is number one but damn its maybe our 20th best song". so it was probably a bitter pill to swallow and know that this tune and style would maybe become a big part of what your artistic business was becoming.

[Zan]

...just wanted to pop in again to say that "Mr. Roboto" was awesome.

[yogi]

Masque I would agree with you some but then I must point out songs like Little Girl World, Lonely School, See Me Now, Ever Since The World Began, Waiting, Just Be.......... The ballad can = $$$$$$$$$$$$$

Tommy Shaw is GREAT but IMOO he will never quite be in DDY's league. Back in the day most people equated the Styx sound to DDY's powerful vocals & distinctive voice. And as a bitter of a pill to swollow as Babe may have been I bet the money it brought in spent real good for all of the band members.

[gr8dane]

...just wanted to pop in again to say that "Mr. Roboto" was awesome.

Just wanted to pop the question..what happened to Styx 1 in your Styx cover flashings?

[Ash]

Yogi.. I understand what you're saying about Tommy Shaw... but there is one thing out there that puts a wrench in your theory.

Seven Deadly Zens.

That is, hands down, the best Styx solo record. 100 Years from Now is right there too... but 7DZ was out years before.

That is by far Shaw's best music. Ever. Period. Including Styx's heyday. That is such an incredible work. I don't see how it can be overlooked.

I do get what you are saying tho. Dennis is the polish to Shaw's rough edges and I totally understand that.... I don't know that it can be overstated how well those two men complimented each other. And they likely didn't even understand or appreciate it to the degree they should have.

But ... I can listen to 7DZ from start to finish not skipping anything. And I can only say that of maybe 4 or 5 albums total in my entire entourage.

[bugsymalone]

Just popping in to say, regarding, Babe, for the 4,001,510th time. (1) "Babe" was not even close to as sappy a ballad as many, many more that were out there. Like, say, "First Time" is. (2) EVERYONE was doing a ballad song. Before, during and after Styx had "Babe" as a hit. Hard rock groups, rockers, even metal groups. It generally spelled $$$ added to the coffers. Making a big deal out of "Babe" and not putting it into context is just, IMO, stupid. \rant off\

To Zan. My feeling about Roboto (and bless you for defending/enjoying it) is that Dennis has embraced exactly what it is. A camp classic that kinda rocks out, too. He treats it seriously and humorously at the same time. What is nice about going to a DDY show, especially now, is that those in attendance get to hear EVERYTHING he has done of note and put it all in context of a group that produced some amazing music of great variety. They were not, and never were, a group of ONLY beautiful/sappy ballads or silly/fun techno-geek songs, but many, many great sounding pop and rock songs as well.


Bugsy

[Cassie May]

I totally agree about 7DZ. Amazing album always queued in my car's CD player. As far as the whole superstar thing goes, not many people note what Tommy has achieved. In 2007 (with Styx): Lifetime Achievement Award, in 2009: induction into Alabama's Music Hall of Fame; in 2010, Hollywood F.A.M.E. (film, arts, music, entertainment) Award. I'm sure it will be argued that he wouldn't have accomplished all that without Styx (and by extension, DDY), but, as Styx was the band he joined in 75, we'll never know what he would have done musically had he not joined them. I think it's a moot point to discuss who is in whose league when TS and DDY have very different backgrounds, styles, and tastes.