HOT: How Do You Like Him Now?
A “money trumps personal beliefs” theme was strong in Saudi Arabia this week. Handsome Boy Modelling School graduate Toby Keith took a break from writing songs about boozing to show once again how much he loves America and stands up for its values by performing a concert in Saudi Arabia where women and alcohol were not permitted, recalling his most famous song, “Courtesy of Whoever is Signing the Check.” Coinciding with President Trump’s visit, though not connected to it (Trump reportedly watched a few minutes on a TV simulcast, but didn’t attend), Keith’s concert comes at a time of true cultural evolution in the country — just months ago, a religious-minded ban on all public performance of music was lifted. Keith has nobly voluntarily played numerous times for troops stationed in the Middle East, so maybe this was just his opportunity to recoup some past expenses.
WARM: “Passports” Sell Out
Live music fans with a lot of disposable income apparently didn’t waste all of their money on a trip to the Fyre Festival. Live Nation recently launched a “Festival Passport” offer, giving music festival die-hards entry to any of the 90 events around the world that the promoter produces (including Lollapalooza, Reading Festival and events in France, Germany and beyond) for $799, even if the event sells out. While ridiculed in some corners of the internet, the 1,000 passports (a great deal if you have the ability — and travel and lodging funds — to go to just a few fests) sold out almost immediately.
COLD: Tragedies Rock Music World
Music headlines have been dominated by unexpected tragedy recently. On May 18, a godfather of the “Grunge” movement, Chris Cornell, hanged himself in Detroit following a concert by his band Soundgarden. The family of the singer/guitarist — who was just 52 — has suggested anti-anxiety medication (or other drugs) may have played a part in his suicide. On May 22, one of the worst concert tragedies ever occurred in Manchester, England, where an apparent suicide bomber killed at least 22 people and injured dozens of others (including many children) outside an arena where Pop singer Ariana Grande had just finished performing. The attack was still being investigated at the time we went to press; ISIS reportedly claimed responsibility.
This article appears in May 17-24, 2017.