The Rolling Stones at Soldier Field

Don't you love it when you discover something quite old, but new to you?

A few weeks ago I took my Mom to see the Rolling Stones at Soldier Field in Chicago. It was the first time she had seen them perform, though she bought their albums back in college in the sixties. I had seen them last November in San Francisco. Sitting with my cousin and sister, waiting for the Stones to take the stage on a beautiful night by the bay, I decided to call my parents. My mother answered the phone and I told her "We are a few minutes away from seeing your college band."

I thought at the time how strong the bonds of friendship must be between these band mates- and between my mother and father.

When tickets went on sale for the Stones show in Chicago I bought four at first chance. The Stones career has spanned my parent's marriage and my entire life. I had already seen them once with my oldest sister. Now my Mom and I, Dad, and youngest sister were to see them. It was a frigid night in Chicago, windy and cold by the lake. Far from ideal weather for an outdoor show. But we didn't care. Mick Jagger thanked the crowd, "You are all heroes for being here tonight. We expected an Indian summer but instead we got a Bears winter." The crowd showed its spirit with a huge cheer. The Stones then demonstrated what a great rock and roll band they still are. On the drive home we listened to the local radio station's Stones mix as the first frost of the year formed on the suburban lawns. It was a night to remember.

I slept over at my parent's house that night. Woke up late the next morning glad that I took the day off work. Headed downstairs and found my parents setting the table for breakfast and listening to vintage Rolling Stones. They had dug out their old vinyl albums and were playing Sticky Fingers on the turntable. You know, the one with the famous Andy Warhol cover? The close up shot of a man's tight fitting jeans. That's when I made my discovery. Can't You Hear Me Knocking was playing. "What is the name of this song?" I asked my father. "This is really good." I could tell by his expression and the rhythm of his foot tapping the floor that he agreed.

I found some old photos online and made a slideshow set to Can't You Hear Me Knocking. Enjoy. 

     

An article by Erik No Comments