Live Music

I grew up in a musical family. Ever since I can remember, my father has been in some sort of band, playing the keyboards or bass guitar. I have two older sisters that were involved with marching band, choir, and concert band.  One was the high school drum major and the other is still a middle school musical director. Unfortunately my mother and I were not blessed with musical talent. However, over the years, I have become an outstanding audience member.

Last week, I went to the Jason Aldean concert at the Iowa Events Center. I sat in my “nose bleed” section seat and watched the first opening act - only recognizing his sole hit. Next was Florida Georgia Line, who did an excellent job of warming up the crowd for the main event. Jason Aldean did not disappoint! This was my second time seeing him in concert and I’d say it was even better than the first time around. Nothing beats hearing songs on the radio come to life on stage.

Seeing the country star in action got me geared up for the next concert on my calendar. It might be the complete opposite of country music, but I am very excited to see Hairball on January 31.  This will be my first concert at the Jacobson Exhibition Center on the Fairgrounds.  Guns n’ Roses, AC/DC and Journey might have been before my time, but nothing beats an 80’s rock show. Mark your calendar because tickets are still available for this Fairgrounds concert.

After next week, I don’t have any other concerts planned until the Fair in August. Seeing a show in the Grandstand is one of a kind. My very first concert was actually at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. I saw LeAnn Rimes in 1998. I knew every word to “One Way Ticket” and “Blue”. I think listening to music in an outside venue is the ultimate summer tradition.  

I’m sure soon enough, the Fair will start to announce the 2014 Grandstand lineup. Most nights of the Fair, I will be finishing up work while the concert is going on, but I know I will still enjoy the music and Fireworks.

Now is your chance to avoid the “nose bleed” seats for the 2014 Grandstand concerts at the Iowa State Fair. Members of the Foundation’s Fan Fair program are able to purchase Grandstand tickets before they go on sale to the general public. For each $150 contribution made to the Fan Fair program, you become eligible to purchase 2 show tickets during a special presale. The deadline to join Fan Fair is March 1.

If you are a fan of country, rock, hip hop, folk, the blues, or any other type of music – be sure to keep the Iowa State Fair in mind for live music this summer.