Yep, I am the self proclaimed plus-one Maniac. This will not come as a surprise to some of you...
My cousin Jill introduced me to the most influential band in my life. It was 1987 and what started as me picking-up Jill from college, turned into the most epic road trip to Michigan.
Before hitting the road, Jill and I went to the Bucknell bookstore where I grabbed a pair of shorts and a shirt. I only had what I was wearing as this was supposed to be a roundtrip venture to bring Jill home for Summer break.
On the drive, we played the 10,000 Maniacs debut album, “In My Tribe” on repeat for hours. I became mesmerized by the music and lead singer, Natalie Merchant’s incredible voice. I couldn't get enough of the songs. Before I knew it, I was singing the lyrics of every song on the car ride and Jill was too.
Sidenote: Jill and I have been singing together since we were kids. I vividly remember my favorite Aunt Karen (Jill’s mom) driving us around in her VW bug with us sticking our heads out the sunroof belting out songs like: The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow, Leaving On A Jet Plane and any John Denver gem. Honestly, I don’t know who enjoyed these excursions more, my Aunt Karen or Jill and me. We loved every moment.
Back to the 10,000 Maniacs… Since that monumental drive 40 years ago, I’ve seen the 10,000 Maniacs perform live many times, including in a bar in Jamestown, up close at a local festival and Red Rocks in Colorado.
In 1993, when Natalie was leaving the band, I saw them play at Darien Lake with my cousin Matt. It was the second to last performance of 10,000 Maniacs before Natalie ventured on her own. I will never forget that concert. It was epic. It was electric. It was magical.
Since then, I’ve been closely following Natalie’s career as a solo artist and I have all of her albums, singles and bootleg concerts… just like when she was in the 10,000 Maniacs. I have some rare gems from her Maniacs days.
For years, I’ve been trying and wanting to see Natalie perform live as a solo artist… and July 8th, 2023 it finally happened…. In one of the most incredible venues, The Chautauqua Institute’s amphitheater, not far from Natalie’s hometown, Jamestown, NY.
I went with my cousin Jill and friends. It only seemed fitting to attend with Jill, my "sister cuz," who introduced me to the 10,000 Maniacs, 40 years ago!
When Natalie entered the stage and sang the first notes of Lulu, tears rolled down my face. That moment meant everything to me as did the entire show, something I will never forget.
Yes... These are days I'll remember...
Thank you Natalie Merchant for the last 40 years and the 40 years to come. You are my spirit animal and will always be.
Peace, Love and Verdi Cries,
Rach
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Love you sister cuz!!