My Favorite Concert(s)

Well, the BEASTIE BOYS are playing Chicago tonight and tomorrow and I have to miss both shows. This hurts me quite a bit, since I have never seen them and they are one of my favorite bands. The first show will be all instrumental, while the second is a full on show with lyrics.

This led me to think about what my favorite all time concert is. Well, this was very difficult, so I will give you the five best, in no particular order:

• The Police, Wrigley Field, July 5, 2007: For a long time, I always said that this was my dream show, and it did not disappoint. The played a great show that was tight and crisp. It was a gorgeous night, and we all know what I think of the venue, which is the greatest place on Earth. Top songs: "King of Pain" and "When the World is Running Down We'll Make the Best of What's Still Around"
• Rolling Stones, United Center, September 10, 2002: This was another dream show. I bought the tickets as a gift to my father and the payoff was excellent. Seeing those guys run around on stage at the age of sixty was unbelievable, it was quite the spectacle. Top Songs: "Happy", "Miss You" and "Sympathy for the Devil."
• Coldplay, Chicago Theatre, November 30, 2001: First off, the Chicago Theatre is a beautiful venue with impeccable acoustics. The show was memorable for the fact that it took place the day after the George Harrison passed away. As a huge Beatles fan, that was quite a blow. The acoustic perfection of the theatre made the band sound great and they were really on the top of their game since it was the final show of the tour. If none of us have seen them perform "Yellow" live, it is quite the treat. To top it off, they played "Here Comes the Sun" in honor of Harrison. It was truly a magical moment. Top Songs: "Shiver", "Yellow" and "Here Comes the Sun."
• U2, Soldier Field, June 28, 1997: This show was all about the spectacle, the music was an added bonus. It was awesome being at Soldier Field, which was transformed into a giant playground for the band. Although Pop in not one of U2's finest moments, my personal favorite is Zooropa, but they were playing the songs with an unmatched enthusiasm. Top Songs: "Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me", "One" and "Staring at the Sun."
• Foo Fighters, Riviera Theater, January 19, 2001: Another great show at an intimate venue. This was a show that was played as a warm up gig for the band as they prepped for the Rock in Rio festival. The band chose to play Chicago since it was not included in the previous. It was a fabulous show that I will never forget. They played with a vigor that I have rarely seen and we were about ten feet from the state. Top songs: "I'll Stick Around", "Hey Johnny Park", and "Everlong."

Feel free to share your favorite show or shows. Note to Wilson: Jimmy Buffet will not count since this is about musical performances, not to be mistaken for drunken stupidity.