In this episode of Seeing Them Live, Charles welcomes accountant and live music enthusiast Steve Pothel, a prominent figure from Charles’ book, “Ticket Stub Stories: A Memoir of Live Music.” Joining them is co-host and producer Doug Florzak. Steve reminisces about his early concert experiences, correcting his memory about his first concert, which turned out to be The Cure’s “Wish” tour followed by Lollapalooza ‘92 before U2’s Zoo TV show. They discuss iconic venues like The World (now known by various names) and Alpine Valley, sharing stories from their concert adventures. Steve recalls a memorable moment during an Ice Cube performance at Lollapalooza involving a sod fight instigated by the rapper, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The conversation shifts to their DJing days at a bar called the Tender Trap, where Steve and Charles spun records for an alternative night. They reminisce about attending concerts together, including a memorable encounter with L7 at Lounge Axe, arranged through Louie, who happened to be related to the drummer. Steve also recounts their experiences at House of Blues shows, including a chaotic Danzig concert where the crowd was rowdy, and a Monster Magnet show where Louie’s connection secured them access to the Foundation Room.
They delve into their shared love for bands like The Psychedelic Furs and their numerous concert outings together, highlighting the influence of music on their lives and relationships. Reflecting on their concert experiences, they share anecdotes of meeting band members and navigating the vibrant Chicago music scene. Throughout the episode, Steve and Charles’ passion for live music shines through, offering listeners a glimpse into their memorable concert journeys.
Steve also reminisces about a memorable encounter at the Foundation Room, where he found himself chatting with members of Stabbing Westward and Monster Magnet. The lively atmosphere of the venue, complete with private rooms for bands and a third-floor balcony offering prime seating, sets the stage for unexpected interactions. Steve recounts how Monster Magnet’s Phil reached out to invite Lisa, his girlfriend, to their show, ultimately sending a limo to pick her up from a wedding reception.
Reflecting on past concerts, Steve shares his disappointing experiences at shows by System of a Down and The Killers, citing crowd behavior and sound quality as factors. Charles joins the conversation, recalling their shared love for live music and their experiences attending concerts together, including memorable shows by the Psychedelic Furs.
The discussion turns somber as they remember Mars Williams, the saxophonist for the Psychedelic Furs, who passed away after battling cancer. Despite the loss, they cherish the memories of his electrifying performances.
BANDS:
Adele, Alanis Morissette, Cypress Hill, Harry Styles, House of Pain, Ice Cube, Imagine Dragons, Jesus and Mary Chain, Joan Jett, Journey, Korn, L7, Led Zeppelin II, Liquid Soul, Lush, Metric, Ministry, Monster Magnet, Monster Magnet, Pearl Jam, Porno for Pyros, Psychedelic Furs, Rage Against the Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, REM, Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden, Stabbing Westward, Stabbing Westward, Stone Temple Pilots, System of a Down, Temple of the Dog, The Cult, The Cult, The Cure, The Cure, The Killers, The Psychedelic Furs, Two Ton Boa, U2, Wetleg.
VENUES:
Alpine Valley (East Troy, Wisconsin), Aragon Ballroom (Chicago, Illinois), Chastain Park (Atlanta, Georgia), House of Blues (Chicago, Illinois), Lounge Axe (Chicago, Illinois), The Congress (Chicago, Illinois), The Metro (Chicago, Illinois), The World Music Theatre (Tinley Park, Illinois).
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Thank you Stevie for sharing your memories. I owe Steve Pothel and my cousins so much for my love of music. Whether it was Prince or the Cure. Hard/alternative rock and r&b and rap. How refreshing is it to hear someone who is passionate about ALL kinds of music tell his stories?