Last Friday afternoon my office offered a few sets of tickets to Sting’s company-sponsored concert at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, and I was lucky enough to get to go. I’ve never seen Sting in concert and he’s one of my favorite artists. His consistency and relentless focus on just the music has stood the test of time. His rendition of Fields of Gold is one of my favorite songs of all time.
At 59, he sounds better in person than he does on any of his stellar recordings. He defines the archetype of the classy performer. He was in black, every day clothes, as was his small band consisting of a drummer, guitar player, keyboard player, and backup singer who have been with him forever. The lighting enhanced the show, but wasn’t the show. Black stage and backdrop. The evening was about the music and nothing more.
In an age of Gaga gimmicks, Perry costumes, and tabloid controversy, it was so refreshing to experience an artist up there on stage, offering exactly what he’s been offering for decades. Nothing more and nothing less. He didn’t need any grand entrances, elaborate special effects, or attention-getting stunts. A guy and his band, endlessly talented and greatly appreciated by people who have loved him and his music for years. It was a perfect evening. Just goes to show that the best plan for success, particularly in art, is quality – pure and simple.
I snapped the photo above during the concert.
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Christa Avampato 