Live Music is Life

When I was in college, a weekend rarely passed where I wasn’t out dancing at a student sponsored event, or paying to see The Ramones, The Clash, The Chili Peppers, T-Bone Burnett (usually $10), or any number of other bands passing through the University on their way from L.A. to Portland. Along with the late-night academic discussions held at coffee shops, I truly miss the excitement of authentic music more for the joy of entertainment than the choreographed, merchandise laden money fests they’ve evolved into today. It had literally been years since I committed to attending a music event beyond a musical or play, until I was walking in downtown Salem recently. I happened to walk by the Grand Theater, a venue I never knew existed until making copies in a nearby shop. A poster announced several local acts would be playing in mid-February at what was labelled, The Oregon Opry. Needless to say, I ended up attending that night, where I enjoyed a two and a half hour live music show for $10. Not only did I get my fill of woops and screams, I enjoyed the rare treat of canned Ranier beer along with fresh popcorn. I hope to return soon!