Today in Duran History – Berlin

When the bus pulled up this morning and I came to, I looked out the window and to my surprise we were in the middle of town, right on the river, at a beautiful museum. I look a little closer and I see a beautiful lawn and a huge stage. And I realize that we are playing an outdoor show on the lawn of a museum! This is one of the most interesting shows I have ever seen! Interesting good, I mean! The only thing that was less than ideal was the sparse rain through the day, but they held back the rain for the show, which is most important! Oh yes, there was also a sound restriction, so the folks further back did not have as intense of a sound as they do usually, but it was still a FANTASTIC night. 

The band had some interviews and what not, so they got to the venue a little later than usual. But just enough time for John to come into catering and steal part of my swordfish—he did not have any protein today, or so he says. He’s so funny; I guess if you are going to share your swordfish with anyone, John Taylor is a pretty cool guy to share it with. 

The band was in a really fun and playful mood.they walked out on stage and were all smiles and laughs. They were just having a really great time tonight. They seemed the most relaxed that I have seen them in a while, like they were there to have a good time with their friends. And the front row of VIPs was a very familiar crowd, lots of old friends with us last night! And John noticed.he said at one point “I feel like I know everyone in the audience!” And they played it great; a fun show to watch. It was still light out for the first half of the show, and that is always a treat. It’s truly like 2 different shows when that happens. Good stuff! 

The VIP was great, we had tables overlooking the river, tons of champagne and cheese and crackers and chocolates, a very cool little scene. And since we were only about 200 yards from the stage, many (almost all) of the guests took to the stage early, caught the support band’s sound check and claimed front row! 

This was a great way to start our German run. I can’t believe that we played at this place! It was so full of history, it was unreal. We are playing the most amazing places in Europe. Between this, and the Verona gig, and the massive festivals to follow, I don’t think I will ever be able to top it! I can’t believe how fast it’s going by. 

Thanks for stopping by, we are looking forward to Hamburg!!! 

Until next time. 

Jenn

I think it’s kind of neat to be nostalgic (yes, Duran Duran…I said nostalgic. I know how much time you all spend looking back…like none…so I’ll do it for you!) and see what was going on during that time.  The Astronaut tour was special in many ways – it was about the band reconnecting with the fans, and while I take nothing away from the shows before or after that tour – that one was special in it’s own way.  It was the first tour that we had DDM doing VIP’s, and for many of us (myself included), it was the first tour that I took part in with friends I’d made in the community.  Wish I’d been at this show in Germany, the setting sounded unique and beautiful!

-R