Today is Saturday, which means it’s time for that little column we call Random Fandom! When we first began doing this, I had a hard time figuring out what to write or share. I didn’t necessarily collect concert memes or fandom pictures. Happy to say, the process is getting easier now, and I found a clip to share for today that should give us all the happy and hopeful feels.
While I didn’t meet Amanda at a Duran Duran concert, I have met many others that way, or even at our pre-show get togethers. When I read through this little clip I found somewhere along my internet journeys over the past couple of weeks, I’m reminded of just how many of my “trusted circle” people I met at a concert. Spoiler: most of my current friends came about that way.
When I think back, as much as I love Duran Duran—and you know I do—the thing I miss most from the shows isn’t necessarily what I would see or hear from the stage. (No offense to Simon, John, Nick, Roger or Dom) It is the feeling that is described in this paragraph. I’m not sad when I write that. Wistful, of course—but also hopeful. I can’t wait to get back to going to concerts, meeting new people and yes, HUGGING, my friends with abandon. I have a feeling that first show….or ten, are liable to be very, very, emotional. Being a fan is great. Loving Duran Duran is a lot of fun. However, it is the village: the people that count me as a friend and vice-versa, that make my fandom something I treasure. All of you, whether you’re in the band, standing on the side of the stage, or down in the audience right next to me, have made my life so much MORE. I mean that.
I hope to never take another concert or “in real life” get together for granted again, that’s the lesson I’m taking from all of this.
Can’t wait to see all of you.
We are a lucky tribe.
-R
What a perfect sentiment. And despite the fact I have attended relatively few concerts compared to you, I confess to a bit of “Oh, ho-hum, they’re going to play ‘Ordinary World’ or ‘Rio’ again. They ALWAYS close with ‘Rio’-bit of jadedness .Well, I’ve had an epiphany, and will never again kvetch over a set list. I just want to see them, see my friends, and revel in the unique joy that is Duran Duran.