Love When You Can, Cry When You Hafta

In 1973, I was 16 and besotted with Dan Fogelberg. A DJ at our local rock station WZZQ had somehow discovered him in his early years and managed to create a fan base for the little-known musician in Mississippi.

My friends and I would lay on the floor and listen over and over to his first album. "Be on Your Way" was the soundtrack to our break-ups and "To the Morning" was an anthem for our expectations for a brighter day. When he finally came to Mississippi for a concert in the city auditorium, no one was more suprised than he that it sold out. (I know this because I got to interview him later as a reporter for the local newspaper.)

The night of the concert I could barely contain my excitement as I got ready to join two friends. We ate at McDonald's beforehand, and arrived early so we could be first in line for the unassigned seating. Right before it was time to go in, I discovered I didn't have my ticket. To this day, I'm not sure where I lost it. But I was in tears as I called my dad to come get me. As I headed down the sidewalk to wait for my ride, I passed a guy from my high school. As I shared with him my sad tale, he handed me his extra ticket. His date had stood him up! I wish I could say that I invited him to sit with me -- I realize now that is what I should have done. Instead, I thanked him profusely and rejoined my friends at the auditorium doors.

Once inside we dashed down to wonderful seats in the front section. And I remember it was an altogether magical night. It was just Fogelberg and his acoustic guitar and I don't think I've been to a concert I've enjoyed more. I felt so grown-up watching the college kids in front of us sneaking sips of wine. And I can still remember that feeling you get from music and lyrics that speak to your soul.

When I heard of Fogelberg's passing, it was if I had lost an old friend. He was a great storyteller and a wonderful musician. When I interviewed him years later, I told him about that night. I suppose I came across as some lovesick fan, but I hope it meant something to him. Sappy, I know. But that evening is a moment in time that transports me back to that 16-year-old who thought "to love was not so strange."

Comments

[Dale Dorbandt]

That was a neat article you wrote about Dan Fogelberg. His music touched me deeply at that age of 16 & still does at age 53. I could imagine how you felt getting to personally interview him. I'm sure you were on Cloud 9!!
When you mentioned the song-"Be On Your Way"-I still cue that one up first when listening to Dan's first album/c.d. & I usually listen to it several times singing along to it. His lyrics & voice are so awesome!!! I saw him a number of times in concert including his last tour. He will be greatly missed by many...a very unique artist.
Thanks for your article...it brought back great memories.
~Daleski;)