It is difficult for me to believe that we are coming up on the 2nd anniversary of the last time I saw Duran Duran live, before the nightmare of COVID-19 hit. The actual dates are the 7th and 8th of September, 2019. Additionally, it is the anniversary of the last time I saw Amanda and Jason in person, and the last time I saw many of you who might be reading this, as well.
Oddly ironic, I stood there in the audience of The Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan thinking that it could be a while before I saw the band. Famous last words, right? On any given road trip, on any given tour…try as I might to feel otherwise, that “last show” always feels bittersweet. Who knew?? I don’t think about what I might have done differently if I’d known, I think about how lucky I was to be there at all. I think about how that weekend was really one of the last I had with friends where I felt nearly carefree. Little did I know what was coming. Heck, little did any of us know.
I can remember standing with Amanda, watching the video play behind the band during Seventh Stranger. I can recall listening to Dom play what was once Andy’s guitar part, feeling so melancholy…but also proud at the same time. I distinctly remember looking around and noticing many other Duranies with tears running down their cheeks, smiling as we shared what was probably one of the most magical moments I’ve had as a fan.
I love the band. I care very much about John, Roger, Nick & Simon. I should add in Dom and Anna too, and of course Simon on the sax. Those two nights, at least in my memory hindsight, have become far more about being a Duranie, and seeing my friends for what may be the last time in quite some time. The bittersweet memories of all of you – band, fans, friends, and all from those spectacular few days in Las Vegas – are what will continue to keep me going.
I miss you.
-R
