Paul Portland 10/18/02

Paul's performance at the Rose Garden was his first solo gig in Portland. (The Beatles played the Memorial Coliseum, next door to the Rose Garden, in August 1965.)

About 30 fans waited out, and we were finally rewarded with a wave from his limo at 6:15 pm. I was especially excited to see Paul in my hometown. It gave the whole concert a special charge, especially since I had three family members in the audience who were seeing him for the first time.

I bought my ticket from Ticketmaster the day they went on sale, and got very lucky--I was in the 9th row, on the inside aisle, in front of the piano.

I know Paul saw me (madly waving my flag) during "Band on the Run." I saw both show in Las Vegas last spring, so I knew what to expect. As for Paul's performance, I have no objectivity! Just to see that face and hear that voice doing Beatles songs in my hometown was enough to make me happy. I felt like I was introducing him to my town. The best moment was when Wix began to introduce "She's Leaving Home." I knew what was coming, but they didn't. As soon as the opening string sections sounded, the audience went "ohhh".

I especially enjoyed hearing the uptempo "Fab Four" songs, such as "I Saw Her Standing There", "Can't Buy Me Love", and "All My Loving." I think "Back in the U.S.S.R." goes over better than anything. People seem especially pleased with the tributes to John and George.

In the ain't-it-peculiar department: Two women a few rows up from me left the floor and missed "Here There and Everywhere" and "Michelle" in order to buy popcorn and soft drinks. Go figure.

Local columnist Jonathan Nicholas reported that Marv and Rindy Ross (Quarterflash) and Ann and Nancy Wilson (Heart) were in the audience.

I'm awfully grateful Paul chose to perform in Portland. I've made several trips out-of-town to watch my favorites. It was a real treat to see Paul in the City of Roses!