All this week on my show (7pm-12midnight), win tickets to see Rush Monday June 9th at the United Center and qualify to win the grand prize... seats ON THE STAGE and backstage passes to meet Rush!

This coming Friday, I will be doing my show live from the Van Halen concert at the Allstate Arena. Some tickets are still available through our website at http://wlup.com/Concerts/Listings.aspx.

Hope you're enjoying the long Memorial Day weekend, and keeping the veterans who have given so much for our freedoms and way of life in mind.

The Kid Rock show at the Sears Centre on Friday night was a blast! Lots of cool Loyal Loopers stopped by to high-five me, voice their approval or simply to say hello during my broadcast from the venue. Much appreciated! Despite Kid Rock being a Detroit Red Wings fan, something I "kidded" him about backstage again (eliciting a hearty laugh from him), the show was an old-fashioned Chicago-style good time. Don't forget that you can post your photos from the show on the Loop's website www.wlup.com for all to see.

(See video of Kid Rock performing "Bawitaba" at the Sears Centre here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=JvFb7ODso24)

Stone Temple Pilots rocked the Charter 1 Pavilion Thursday night, all part of their ever-expanding reunion tour which also saw them play at "Carb Day" at the Indy 500. Tickets to both shows were given away in the days leading up to the concerts courtesy of the Loop. Dean DeLeo tells me they'll likely be going back into the studio right after the tour to resume working on new material. Months prior to the official announcement of their plans to the public, Dean called me from the studio to let me hear some of the new guitar tracks he was laying down. From what I heard, it should be a killer new album!

(See video of Stone Temple Pilots performing "Vasoline" at the Charter 1 Pavilion here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=A2BwMdQy_Tk)

(See Stone Temple Pilots' video for "Plush" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=y2xNyxc5VWs)

(See Stone Temple Pilots' video for "Sex Type Thing" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=-s3lmr09oVg&feature=related)

(See Stone Temple Pilots' video for "Interstate Love Song" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=8BDQ6mQzOKQ&feature=related)

Speaking of the Indy 500, Danica Patrick didn't have a very good day. Well, there's always next year. None needed for the Chicago Wolves, who are now headed to the Calder Cup finals. Congrats, and "go Wolves!"

All this week on my show, a chance to win tickets to the upcoming Chicagoland Poison/Dokken and Sebastian Bach triple-bill. Don't miss out!

This Friday, I will be doing my show live from the Kid Rock concert at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates. The Loop has arranged a special "Recession Buster" ticket price of only $15 for Loop listeners only. Purchase tickets here: http://wlup.com/Concerts/Listings.aspx. See you there!

Also this Memorial Day weekend, it's the Indy 500 with area racing phenom Danica Patrick attempting to win her first checkered flag at the legendary oval. All weekend long, 97.9 The Loop celebrates with the "Loyal Looper 500", playing back your 500 favorite rock songs of all time, as voted by you. Vote for your top 3 here: http://wlup.com/check_it_out/loop_500.aspx.

(See Danica Patrick become the first woman in history to ever win an Indy car race here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=C-S6Gedq_mM&feature=related)

Saddened to hear about the unexpected death of John Rutsey, original drummer and founding member of Rush over the weekend. John played with Rush from 1968 - 1974. He was 55. Leaving the band over concerns long tours would have on his diabetic condition, he was eventually replaced by Neil Peart.

(Hear the very first original song ever recorded by Rush (with John Rutsey on drums) from 1973 here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_mLP-PRxilw&feature=related)

All this week on my show, your chance to win tickets to see Iron Maiden at the Allstate arena June 11th and a copy of their 2 CD best-of compilation "Somewhere Back In Time." This week's Billboard magazine devotes some 40 pages to Iron Maiden and the upcoming tour. Up The Irons!

(See Iron Maiden's video for their newest song "Different World" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=n_KC8I0Vrbg)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "Aces High" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4Sam5omG0v0)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "Run To The Hills" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=kdIHyreVg7w)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "The Trooper" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=WZCZvk6dIPY)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "Number Of The Beast" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=bQB0vH2gPoE)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "Flight Of Icarus" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=dBY9Q39C1bs)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "Can I Play With Madness" here:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=QLvBwPOjZWI)

(See Iron Maiden's video for "2 Minutes To Midnight" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=frMMeYTtHT4)

Things are looking and sounding good for a new Metallica CD and tour this fall. See/hear and keep track of their progress here: http://www.missionmetallica.com/.

Might last night's show from the Police at the Allstate arena be the last we see in Chicago... perhaps for good? Tensions seem to be on the rise once again within the group. Drummer Stuart Copeland has been spouting off to various newspapers on the tour with increasing regularity. He and Sting have had a infamously tenuous relationship dating back to the early days of the band. Sting for his part, has been silent. Until the other night here in Chicago, that is.

(See video of Sting of the Police getting in a dig at Stuart here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=faZ5bq1FDTI)

(See more video of the Police at the Allstate Arena here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=3xmvSvMsxgQ)

If you were lucky enough to have won tickets from the Loop and attended the concert, you most likely witnessed history. You can share your photos with the world on the Loop's website here: http://wlup.com/showyourpics/browse.aspx.

Whitesnake has released their first new CD in 11 years (20 since the last one released in the U.S.) called "Good To Be Bad" and it is absolutely fantastic. Not a bad track on it, it will surely go down as one of their best. I recommend it highly!

(See the video for Whitesnake's new song "Lay Down Your Love" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=qp_uV83bwuQ)

After several months of open casting calls and voting by Loyal Loopers, a brand new Loop Rock Girl was crowned this past Saturday evening. Beginning with my live broadcast from the venue, it was a non-stop day of fun. Vince Neil of Motley Crue stopped by to say hello during my show and fill me in on the recording of the upcoming Crue CD "Saints Of Los Angeles." Vince told me it would be a sort of audio accompaniment to the now legendary Crue tell-all book "The Dirt." After having a few laughs, we gave away some tickets to this summer's Cruefest and a guitar autographed by Vince to some very happy Loopers in attendance for the broadcast. Lastly, Vince revealed his criteria for his role as a judge in the Rock Girl finals that evening. His answer? "A good personality!" A nervous laugh from Vince, followed by Vince blushing. In all the years I've known him, I've never seen him blush. Vince later jumped up on-stage with the band to belt out a great version of Journey's "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'" as well as Crue's "Girls, Girls, Girls." Speaking of which... after deliberating carefully over our sensational field of contestants, the judges ultimately crowned Kelly of Lombard the 2008 Loop Rock Girl. Congratulations, Kelly!

(See photos of the event here: http://wlup.com/photo_gallery/2008_finals.aspx, and here: http://www.austinsaloon.com/loopgirl08.html)

(See video of the event here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=kiiFp4C1voY)

Jimi Hendrix did a home porn tape? You be the judge (WARNING: contains ADULT content)...

http://vc1.hendrixsextape.com/?x=8db4ee25ae82a406e4bf9ebd624cf7ae

The Loop Rock Girl 2008 grand finale is this coming Saturday at Austin's Saloon in Libertyville beginning with a live broadcast with me starting at 3pm and culminating with the crowning of the new 2008 Loop Rock Girl. Vince Neil of Motley Crue will serve as one of our guest judges, and if you join me during my broadcast, you'll have a chance to win an autographed guitar signed by Vince, tickets to see Motley Crue this summer at Cruefest, Cubs/Cards tickets and plenty of food and drink specials as well. Come join me and cheer on your favorite girl. It promises to be a blast! All the details here: www.wlup.com/rockgirlshowcase2008/browse.aspx.

(See Motley Crue's video for "Girls, Girls, Girls" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=OJrSyFpK3iQ)

All day this coming Tuesday, 97.9 The Loop will be spinning tracks from the new, yet to be released CD from Def Leppard entitled "Songs From The Sparkle Lounge" and giving you a chance to win a copy each time we play a new track. Having had a chance to preview the disc, I can tell you it's terrific!

(See Def Leppard's video for their new song "Nine Lives" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Op_8ek4OAZY)

If you're a regular listener to my show and reader of this blog, you knew Judas Priest were about to announce a summer concert date here in Chicagoland, and that they were working on their (first ever) concept album about Nostradamus. Tuesday night, I played the new Priest song "Nostradamus" during the 10 O'Clock News and it was every bit as good as Rob Halford had promised it would be a few months ago when he called me on my show to inform me about the progress of the new CD. All this week between 7pm - 12midnight, your chance to grab a pair of tickets to the Judas Priest, Heaven & Hell, Motorhead and Testament show August 19th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre and the Kid Rock concert May 23rd at the Sears Centre from me. Don't miss out!

(See Judas Priest's video for "Breaking The Law" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=OYn5hxeFt10&feature=related)

(See Judas Priest's video for "You've Got Another Thing Coming" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=sr-rBAAfjjo&feature=related)

(See Judas Priest's video for "Living After Midnight" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=LcAwJ8tq9p4&feature=related)

(See Kid Rock's video for "So Hott" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=fLfwdl7rWTU)

(See Kid Rock's video for "Amen" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HMMLqmLaBNY&feature=user)

Busy week on the show! Alex Lifeson of Rush, Rickey Medlocke of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Vinnie Moore of UFO, and Carl Palmer of Asia all checked in with me to say hello, have a few laughs and chat about their latest doings. Alex Lifeson told me about his modest hopes for Rush in the early days (he hoped they would last 5 years) and about the new Rush concert CD "Snakes & Arrows - Live." Rikey Medlocke informed me that Lynyrd Skynyrd plan on recording a new album soon, and how much they were looking forward to Friday's show in Chicagoland. Vinnie Moore talked about the return of original UFO drummer Andy Parker to the band and how pumped they were as well to be returning to Chicago to play. Carl Palmer discussed the reunion of Asia after 25 years and their set list for Sunday which would also include songs from each member's illustrious past, such as E.L.P., Uriah Heep, King Crimson and Yes.

In addition to the above, I did my show live from the Sears Center Friday night for the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert, took in/MC'ed both UFO and Asia at the House Of Blues over the weekend, hung out with the guys, and got a chance to meet some more great Loyal Loopers, to boot! Phew. I think I need a nap! All three shows were tremendous.

(See UFO's video for "Only You Can Rock Me" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HZzZUyD00Fg)

(See UFO perform "Love To Love" with Vinnie Moore and Jason Bonham live in the studio here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=VNM9YHoG1YU)

(See Asia's video for "Heat Of The Moment" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Yk5tOion6F8)

As I indicated on an earlier blog, Motley Crue indeed announced their summer tour this week, which the Loop will bring to Chicagoland July 16th at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre. Special guests include Buckcherry and Sixx A.M., among others.

(See Motley Crue's video for their new song "Saints Of Los Angeles" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4sWpS8iSDIY)

Also announced this week, the Loop presents Poison/Dokken/Sebastian Bach August 3rd at the FMBA.

(See Poison recording "We're An American Band" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=X0bLKR5-G1g)

(See Dokken's video for "It's Not Love" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=R5bweZNXvzY)

(See Sebastian Bach's video for his new song "(Love Is) A Bitchslap" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpUTwDP42Oo)

My buddy Dean DeLeo, guitarist and founding member of Stone Temple Pilots called me during my show this past week to update me about their reunion tour (their first tour in 7 years) with Scott Weiland back in the fold and to share a few laughs and stories. Dean and I talked about what lead to the reconciliation with Weiland, the current feeling amongst the members and what lies ahead for STP in the near and distant future. The Loop will be bringing them to the Charter One Pavilion May 22nd, tickets are on sale now and going fast through www.wlup.com.

(See highlights of the Stone Temple Pilots press conference announcing the tour here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_0f_SDltiVo)

JY of Styx also checked in with me to chat about the Chicago blues benefit show they will be a part of tomorrow (Monday) night at the Vic Theatre. In a reversal of the "pay it forward" sentiment, JY and Styx, along with Koko Taylor and others will "pay it backward", raising money for the now aging bluesmen who laid the foundation for the rock movement, many of whom are now sadly destitute. A few tickets remain through www.wlup.com.

Alex Lifeson of Rush will be joining me this coming Tuesday night on the show at 9:30pm to talk about their new live CD and their upcoming concert at the United Center June 9th. Right afterwards I will play some of the yet to be released "Snakes & Arrows Live" disc. Also, this Friday night, I will be doing my show live (7pm-12midnight) from the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates for the Lynyrd Skynyrd show there. Come by and say hello! After the show, you will be able to upload your pictures and reviews of the show at www.wlup.com for the whole world to see.

(See Rush perform "In The Mood" live in 1976 here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Geus8-rbjr8)

(See Lynyrd Skynyrd perform "Simple Man" live here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=sHQ_aTjXObs)

Ever wonder what it's like behind the scenes at the Loop? We all had a little fun this week putting together a "sneak peek" for you.

(See the "Behind The Scenes At The Loop" video here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Lnrq6XylgDs)

The search for the Loop Rock Girl 2008 is in full swing. Narrowed down to the final 64 ladies, voting is currently underway. Vote for your favorite and come join us at the crowning party! All the details at www.wlup.com.

Many new Chicagoland concerts are being unveiled almost every day on the Loop. Recent announcements have included the re-united Stone Temple Pilots, Lollapalooza, Alterbridge and many more. Upcoming information on shows from Motley Crue, Triumph and a Poison/Dokken/Sebastian Bach triple bill are forthcoming. Keep it locked on the Loop for the breaking news and buy tickets via www.wlup.com.

Make sure you also dial in to my show from 7pm - 12midnight in the coming weeks to hear conversations with Alex Lifeson of Rush, JY of Styx, Dean DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots, and David Coverdale of Whitesnake to name just a few.

Sad news in the Led Zeppelin family recently. The vocalist for Jason Bonham's one time band Bonham, Daniel McMaster suddenly passed away from a blood infection at the tender age of 39.

(See Bonham's video for "Wait For You" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=74KheeagcLM)

Dave Foley of "News Radio" and founding member of the brilliantly funny sketch comedy troupe Kids In The Hall checked in with me on the show the other night to chat about their reunion tour that will see them make stops at the Star Plaza Theatre April 4th, and at the Chicago Theatre May 29th. Dave's dry, twisted sense of humor was in full evidence during the laugh-filled conversation.

(See a clip from the Kids In The Hall TV show here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=toFwUGusdK0&feature=related)

Anyone who says "they just don't make good music anymore" hasn't been paying attention, nor listening to the Loop. Here are four new "baby bands" who are betraying that sentiment.

(See the band The Answer here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=JL3gIO624X8)

(See the band Airbourne here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=CgAgG68TRKE&feature=related)

(See the band Black Tide here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=M0E6nsE6_e4)

(See the band Dragonforce here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=0jgrCKhxE1s)

It's official... "Guitar Hero" has become a full-fledged, bonafide cultural phenomenon! Topping 15 million units sold, the video game has generated some $1 billion in sales, and shows no signs of slowing. Competitions at bars have become widespread, and new versions featuring the music of Aerosmith and perhaps even Rush are on the way. For more info www.guitarhero.com.

New on the scene is the even more amazing "Rock Band" video game. Played with not just a single guitar-shaped controller but with guitar, bass, drums and vocals, this game is a cross between Guitar Hero and karaoke. In essence, you and your friends can all jam together! The company recently brought a demo version to one of my "Friday Night Live" broadcasts. To say it was a huge hit was an understatement. Check it out www.rockband.com.

Here comes summer! How can you tell? The concert calendar is starting to fill up! Upcoming announcements will include shows from Journey/Heart/Cheap Trick, ZZ Top, Kid Rock, King Crimson, R.E.M., George Thorogood, Boston, The Black Crowes, Peter Frampton, Seether, Pat Benatar, Lollapalooza, Yes, with many more to come! Keep it locked on the Loop for all the breaking concert news, and don't forget you can grab tickets through www.wlup.com.

Local playwright/director/thespian (and fan of my show as it turns out) Tony Fiorentino recently invited me down to see his latest theatre production "My Dinner With Amy." Sharp, funny and very entertaining, I enjoyed it a great deal. Tony has been on a roll lately, with an Off-Broadway opening in New York and rave reviews of his works. Congratulations, Tony!

After 30 odd years of estrangement and a type of "cold war", legendary Blackhawk players Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita were fianlly welcomed back as the heroes they are at Friday night's sold-out Hawks game against San Jose at the United Center. Chatting with the guys before the ceremony, they could not have been happier. Like the two kids they were when they first came to town to play for the Hawks, much giggling and ribbing of each other ensued. Both Hawks new owner Rocky Wirtz and new president John McDonough have made swift work of mending fences with Chicago fans and past players alike. Bravo!

(See the tribute video shown that night here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=AgI7lZc7rUE)

(See Bobby Hull's speech here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=NGkjKPnpqU0)

We lost a very gifted musician and kind man this past week. Jeff Healey finally succumbed to the cancer that took his eye sight at the age of 1. He was only 42 years old. During his all-too-short life, Jeff touched everyone he came in contact with with his razor sharp wit and his extraordinary musical talents. I count myself one of lucky ones that got to know Jeff over his brief life. As it turns out, Jeff was a regular listener to my show and a fan. I in turn, became of fan of his. Fortunately for us, Jeff had successfully completed recording his first rock record in nearly eight years "Mess Of Blues" which will be released in the next month or so. Rest in peace my friend. Thanks for the laughs and your great music. It was truly a pleasure to know you.

(See Jeff Healey perform live with the late Stevie Ray Vaughn here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=XqU9RZqvFKY)

(See Jeff Healey's video for "Angel Eyes" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=QYz_LHKrgDY)

(See Jeff Healey's video for "Confidence Man" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=6MevNeiO4Zk)

Speaking of great guitarists with a knack for catchy tunes, Steve Miller is set to play the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre July 5th.

Scott Weiland and Velvet Revolver just passed through town for another great Loop show, amid talk that the original lineup of Stone Temple Pilots will be reuniting for a show later this summer. Will STP do a full-fledged tour that might see them appear here in Chicago as well? What then will be the fate of Velvet Revolver? Could this set the stage for a Guns n' Roses reunion? In the next two weeks, STP lead guitarist and founding member Dean DeLeo will be joining me on my show to address these questions and more. Don't miss it!

(See Velvet Revolver's Video for "The Last Fight" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=JvFnBdNhQ1E)

(See Stone Temple Pilots' video for "Interstate Love Song" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=8BDQ6mQzOKQ&feature=related)

This summer, the Blackhawks will hold their inaugural "Blackhawks Convention" July 18th -20th at the Hilton Chicago. This will be a first for the Hawks and for any team in the NHL. Legendary players like Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita and Tony Esposito will be appearing as well as current stars Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith and Patrick Sharp, among others.

(See a Bobby Hull highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=uoCONk_jKl4, and another here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=loa3wsY_wdc&feature=related)

(See a Stan Mikita highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_USp_Bv8Ho8)

(See a Tony Esposito highlight montage here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=WZ7qqs5mYQs)

Keep up with all things hockey via my podcast "Byrd's Puck Podcast" available through my page at www.wlup.com.

The 100th annual Chicago Auto Show just wrapped up at McCormick Place this weekend. Far and away the biggest hit this year was Dodge's re-introduction of the famed "Challenger." What a car!

(See and read more about the 2008 Dodge "Challenger" here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?type_id=2&make_id=9&vehicle_id=600)

Also garnering many ooh's and aah's were Chevrolet's Camaro "BumbleBee" concept car, and the 2009 Corvette ZR1.

(See and read more about the Camaro "BumbleBee" concept car here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?type_id=1&make_id=20&vehicle_id=45)

(See and read more about the Corvette "ZR1" here: http://www.chicagoautoshow.com/vehicles/detail.asp?make_id=20)

A ton of new Loop concerts have recently been announced such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Police, R.E.M., Megadeth, Styx, Tom Petty, Van Halen, Dream Theatre, U.F.O, Rush, etc. with more being added every week. Keep it locked on the Loop for the latest. In upcoming weeks, look for Robert Plant, The Eagles, Triumph, Iron Maiden and more to potentially announce Chicago dates. Tickets and the most up-to-date list can be had on the "Concert Calender" page at www.wlup.com.

And last but not least... the 2008 Loop Rock Girl search is coming... details very soon on 97.9 The Loop!

Rik Emmett of Triumph fame checked in with me this week on my show to give me the scoop on the reunion of Triumph after 22 years apart. A number of factors have warmed relations between Rick, Mike Levine and Gil Moore over the last few years. Induction into the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame, the untimely death of Rick's younger brother (and subsequent emotional support from his former band mates), and a growing realization of their enduring popularity all contributed to a re-examination of the current status of the band. Triumph will play their first gig together this summer at a rock music festival in Sweden with scattered shows planned Stateside as well. Don't be surprised if Chicago is one of those stops. Rick said a full scale, worldwide tour is planned for the summer of 2009.

The Loop and the House Of Blues brought the 20th anniversary edition of the Laser Floyd show back to town yesterday. Both shows were packed to the brim with Loyal Loopers. After a quick hello and introduction from me, we all settled in for yet another amazing production. The show is different and dare I say it, better than previous years. If you haven't taken in the show, or haven't attended in a few years, you owe it to yourself to do so the next time it's in town. The show really does live up to its billing as the Laser Floyd "Spectacular." In the meantime, get your weekly Floyd fix on my show during "Thinks Pink" every Monday night at 10pm, exclusively on the Loop.

Queensryche once again descended on Chicago for two sold-out shows at the House Of Blues this past weekend. A mix of time-tested favorites, as well as their impressive version of Pink Floyd's classic "Welcome To The Machine" from their latest CD "Take Cover" were dished out for the rabid crowd. On Saturday night, the three finalists from the Loop's "Sing With Queensryche" contest joined me on stage to belt out their best. The winner (determined by audience response) got to sing lead vocals with Queensryche during the first encore. What a thrill for the young lady who won, and an impressive performance to boot! When Queensryche singer Geoff Tate checked in with me earlier this week, he was amped up to be playing Chicago again and looking forward to the contest. Unfortunately for Geoff, he became very ill Saturday night and was not able to manage their usual second encore. All in all though, another stellar swing through town for the band, and one thrilled Loyal Looper!

(See Queensryche perform "Welcome To The Machine" live here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=NYwBtIimi5E)

And what about the Superbowl? What a spectacular finish! Whichever team you were rooting for, the final few minutes were riveting to watch.

(See the GoDaddy.com ad with Danica Patrick that didn't make the censors cut here: http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/media/play.asp?mediaID=exposure&ci=11526&tab=sb)

Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers may well have pulled off the best half-time performance in the post nipple-gate paranoia era. Nicely done. By the way, The Loop is bringing Tom Petty and the band back to Chicagoland for a show July 2nd at the United Center. If you didn't win tickets to the show this past weekend from us, tickets are going fast at www.wlup.com. Don't wait!

Now that the holiday season has passed and your finances are finally starting to show some signs of life, here are some items I recommend you treat yourself to... in the event that Santa forgot to leave them for you.

Led Zeppelin's re-release of "The Song Remains The Same" on DVD. The sound and picture quality have been vastly improved, with previously unreleased material included for the first time. There are numerous versions available. A special 2-disc version, a collector's edition as well as HD-DVD and Blu-Ray editions.

AC/DC's "Plug Me In" DVD. A terrific collection of live concert footage that is quite extensive and excellent in its scope. I recommend the 3-disc limited edition.

Pink Floyd's "Oh, By The Way" CD boxset. All of their 16 studio albums re-mastered with faithful reproductions of the original artwork and dust-sleeves of the vinyl releases, all housed in an eye-catching box.

And finally... Nokia's line of cell phones with FM receivers in them. Some 20+ models to choose from, many with MP3 players and camera/video as well. Quite the devices!

After over 20 years apart, the original members of Triumph (Rik Emmett, Mike Levine and Gil Moore) have announced they will be re-uniting to play a Swedish Rock Festival this summer. Also possible is an appearance at the second annual "Rocklahoma" fest, with a full-scale tour in 2009 being discussed. My long-time friend Rik Emmett will be checking in with me on my show on Thursday, February 7th at 9:30pm to give me the exclusive on the latest developments, including his upcoming solo charity show in Crystal Lake next month. Don't miss it!

(See Triumph's video for "Lay It On The Line" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=oJi0liWsst4&feature=related)

(See Triumph perform "Magic Power" live at the US Festival here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=rRDS9AwDF6g)

(See Triumph perform "Never Surrender" live at the US festival here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=bYde7a8V2-8&feature=related)

The tally for the second annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive to aid the Greater Chicago Food Depository has just come in... this year over 80,000 lbs. (over 40 tons) of food was donated during the drive! Wow! Many thanks again to all the Loyal Loopers who contributed. Needless to say, a great many less-fortunate families were able to enjoy a holiday meal, that otherwise would not.

With the start of a new year, numerous great Loop concert announcements have been made, including upcoming shows from Queensryche, Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters, UFO, and return visits by Rush and Van Halen, among others. For the complete list and info, visit the Loop's Concert Calender at wlup.com/Concerts/Listings.aspx.

Welcome to 2008!

The Loop's New Years Eve Rock 'n' Roll Ball at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare to usher out 2007 was even bigger than last year and a smash hit. This time, we took over a whole hotel with entertainment in every corner and on every level. The hotel sold out of rooms, and the complex was packed with some 5,000 + Loop revelers having the time of their lives. For those who didn't get a chance to partake in the party first hand, ABC-7 TV covered the event, including my countdown to midnight from the ballroom stage. If you didn't go this year, make sure you go next year. It was one hell of a party!

Last week, I was interviewed and my show featured by the fine folks at "Chicago Radio Spotlight." You can check it out here: http://chicagoradiospotlight.blogspot.com/2007/12/byrd.html

And finally this bit of information to look forward to in 2008... Led Zeppelin are indeed considering a full-scale reunion tour! Their show at the O2 arena in London was phenomenal. The audience was delirious, and the band was very pleased and encouraged by the response and their personal performance. Needless to say... the Loop is the place to be as this story unfolds, as tickets will be gone in a flash!

(See Led Zeppelin perform "Kashmir" live at the O2 Arena in London here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=QZxukPZ0pjA&feature=related)

Happy Holidays to you and all your loved ones. I hope Santa is good to you (even if you haven't been)!

Ozzy Osbourne rocked the Allstate Arena last weekend in his first arena tour in more than six years in support of his latest CD "Black Rain." I broadcast my show live from the venue and the roar I got when I stepped on-stage instantly told me how pumped up Loyal Loopers were to be at the concert. Ozzy was in excellent form, dishing out all his classics as well as several songs from the new album. Ozzy's band was tight and the opening act, Rob Zombie won over many new fans as well.

(See Ozzy Osbourne perform "Crazy Train" live at the Allstate Arena here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=qrTMWODeD_Q)

2007 isn't even over yet, and the Loop's 2008 concert calender is already filling up! The Loop will be bringing Van Halen back to town by popular demand for a third show in the Chicagoland area, April 3rd at the Allstate Arena. If you missed the two previous shows... do NOT miss this one! Van Halen is firing on all eight cylinders and it is a must-see concert. Tickets can be had (while they last) through www.wlup.com/.

(See Van Halen perform "Runnin' With The Devil" live at the Allstate Arena here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Tvt6WSZcHf4

Not only is the Loop bringing Van Halen back to town , but we're also bringing Rush back for another show as well. Keep it locked on the Loop for the official announcement.

Are you ready for the Led Zeppelin reunion tomorrow night in London? Did you ever think we would see the day that Led Zeppelin got back together? JY Young of Styx will be there, and will be calling me on my show as soon as the concert is over for an exclusive review of the most anticipated reunion of them all. Don't miss it!

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra played two packed shows at the Allstate Arena today. After broadcasting my show live from the event and introducing the band on-stage for their two performances (3pm and 7pm), I had some time afterwards to spend with the the performers and brains behind the phenomenon, Paul O'Neill. Paul graciously donated a contribution to my "Byrd For Birds" food drive during our visit together. Thanks Paul!

(See Trans-Siberian Orchestra's video for "Christmas Eve Sarajevo" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=7iY4Tom6-wM)

It is with a heavy heart that I have learned that my friend Kevin DuBrow, lead singer of the band Quiet Riot was discovered dead in his home in Las Vegas this past week at the age of 52. There are no further details at this time, but I will be posting as soon as I know more.

(See Quiet Riot's video for "Cum On Feel The Noize" here:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=KW2J_UZ8lQU)

The second annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive was another rousing success this year, thanks to your time and generosity. Many Loyal Loopers took the time to drop off donations, including Chris Kennedy (son of the late Robert F. Kennedy). I should have the totals from the drive in the next few weeks, and will be posting them here. In the meantime, many thanks again to my fellow Loop on-air personalities Johnny B., Erin, Pete, Jane and ABC-7 TV for helping me spread the word. Special thanks also go out to April (the 2007 Loop Rock Girl), Bill Klaproth, Tisa LaSorte, Karla Carey, Guy Bauer, Jimi Hendrix, AJ Cox, Tommy King, and the entire Loop promotions staff for assisting me with their time and encouragement yet again this year. Last but not least, thanks to all the wonderful Loyal Loopers... you guys and gals are the best!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a happy and tasty Thanksgiving. Gobble, gobble! Zzzzzzzzzzz...

My second annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive will take place tomorrow from 8am til 4pm in the south lobby of the Merchandise Mart. I will be collecting donations of frozen turkeys, non-perishable food items and (if you prefer) cash and will be donating them to the Greater Chicago Food Depository (www.chicagosfoodbank.org/site/PageServer) so that less fortunate families in the Chicago area will have a holiday meal, too. I look forward to seeing you and thank you in advance for your generosity.

Sebastian Bach (of Skid Row fame) was in town this past week. He has just released his first full-length solo album called "Angel Down" that features no less than three tracks with the reclusive Axl Rose of Guns n' Roses guesting. The CD is terrific, and I recommend it highly. After checking in with me on my show, we went to lunch the following day to catch up some more. As I have previously mentioned on this blog, Baz and I have been close friends for well over 20 years (egads!) now and it was really great to see him during some "down-time."

Anne Wilson of Heart also called me the other night to update me on her debut solo album entitled "Hope & Glory", which has just been released. Her killer cover of Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song" from the aforementioned CD has been playing regularly on the Loop for some time now. It's no surprise to long-time Heart fans, since Anne and her sister Nancy are huge Zeppelin fans, covering many of their songs in their formative years. In fact, Anne shared with me how excited she was to be going to London next month to take in the long-awaited Led Zeppelin reunion.

Christmas came early this year for Blackhawks fans. Before a packed house at the United Center tonight, the Hawks beat the best team in the league and hated arch-rivals, the Detroit Red Wings for a third straight time this season, 3-2. The Hawks have now administered 3 of the Red Wings only 4 losses this season. The game was the first televised home game in years, and the coming-out party couldn't have been better scripted.

Prior to the start of the game, I was one of the invited guests to a private, pre-game celebration at the UC by new Hawks chairman Rocky Wirtz. It was small and intimate affair held in a party suite at the arena. Kid Rock also attended wearing his Red Wings jersey (he's from Detroit), which I razzed him about immediately. We both had a good laugh and then proceeded to talk hockey and music for the remainder of the party.

This Friday, join me and "Sweet Baby" Jane as we broadcast live from Hero's West, 1530 Commerce Lane in Joliet from 3pm-7pm for another Coors Light Unwinder. Plenty of Coors specials, Loop prizes and a chance to win Bears tickets!

Led Zeppelin's long awaited reunion will have to wait... but only for a few weeks.

AHMET ERTEGUN TRIBUTE CONCERT POSTPONED UNTIL DECEMBER 10th

Led Zeppelin Guitarist Jimmy Page Fractures Finger The Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert, originally scheduled for Monday, November 26th and featuring Led Zeppelin, Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings, Paul Rogers, Paolo Nutini, and Foreigner has been postponed until December 10th due to Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page fracturing his finger.

The injury to Page's finger, which was sustained this past weekend, will not allow him to play guitar for 3 weeks. The specialist treating Mr. Page said, "I have examined the fracture to Mr.Page's finger, and it is my opinion that with proper rest and treatment, he will be ready to resume rehearsing in three weeks time, and thus able to perform on December 10."
Jimmy Page added, "I am disappointed that we are forced to postpone the concert by two weeks. However, Led Zeppelin have always set very high standards for ourselves, and we feel that this postponement will enable my injury to properly heal, and permit us to perform at the level that both the band and our fans have always been accustomed to."

TICKET HOLDERS PLEASE NOTE ALL Tickets for the November 26th show will be valid for the rescheduled date. Any customers who are unable to attend the rescheduled concert on the 10th December will be able to obtain a full refund of the ticket purchase up
until midday (UK time) on November 14th 2007. Any tickets made available as a result of refunds will be offered to ballot winners selected at random from original registrations after the 15th November 2007.

Please refer to www.ahmettribute.com <http://www.ahmettribute.com/> for information on how to obtain a refund and for further information.

"Byrd For Birds" will be held this year on Tuesday, November 20th from 8am-3pm at the Merchandise Mart. As I did last year, I will once again be collecting frozen turkeys and non-perishable food items to donate to the less fortunate this holiday season. Please stop by and make a donation.

Van Halen proved to the skeptics that 22 years apart did nothing to dim the chemistry between Eddie Van Halen and David Lee Roth. The two sold-out Loop shows this past week were some of the best shows I have ever seen. It was as if time had stood still. The deliriously happy and drained Loopers will be talking about these shows for years to come.

Despite the continuing medical challenges Aerosmith has faced lately, it once again did not deter them from delivering another stellar show at the Allstate Arena recently. Rescheduled due to an eye injury suffered by Steven Tyler, the guys hit the stage with vigor and rocked the house as they always do. Joan Jett was a terrific opening act who told me how excited she was to be back in Chicago.

Playboy threw a bash in Wrigleyville the other night which they asked me to MC. A fun-filled night was had by everyone. Many Playboy models past and present attended the soiree.

Many thanks to all the Loyal Loopers who packed my recent "Friday Night Live" broadcasts around the area. It was great fun and I will definitely be doing another series of them soon, perhaps in your neighborhood! Looking forward to seeing you then.

The most recent Heaven & Hell show at the Sears Center in Hoffman Estates with Queensryche and Alice Cooper in tow was one of the best values for the ticket price in quite some time. The sound and performances from all three acts were note-perfect renderings of their most popular works. Queensryche surprised the audience with an inspired version of Pink Floyd's "Welcome To The Machine" which will be included on their new CD entitled "Take Cover" hitting stores next month. The sound and amenities at the Sears Center are above average for an arena, and I highly recommend seeing a show there.

The next stop in the "Friday Night Live" series will be this Friday (October 5th) at Shark City (www.sharkcity.com), 2240 Bloomingdale Road in Glendale Heights. Join me as I perform my show live 7pm - 12midnight from there, and as always, I will be packing cool Loop prizes, concert tickets, etc. to giveaway. Drink specials courtesy of Bud Light (always worth it)... see you there!

Also, all this week on the show, I will have coveted tickets to Van Halen and Velvet Revolver to give away. Don't miss out!

Aerosmith has rescheduled their concert at the Allstate Arena for this Monday night. Same time, same lineup, same venue, just a new day. Tickets for the previously scheduled show will be honored then. Some good seats were just released, so if you were hoping to go, now you can!Starting at 5pm, I will be reporting live from the scene and then doing my show live 7pm - 12midnight from there. We'll be playing plenty of Aerosmith tunes before AND after the concert to help get you in the mood and then get you home with the "Aerosmith Post-Concert Rock Block." If you are headed to the show, come by and say hello. If you can't make it, you'll feel like you were there.

This Friday will be the next "Friday Night Live" stop, this time at Q Billiards sports bar (www.qbilliard.com) at 8109 S. Cass (I-55 & S. Cass) in Darien. I'll be doing my show live from there 7pm - 12midnight, packing lots of cool Loop prizes, and of course, Bud Light (Always Worth It) specials. Hope to see you there!

The next "Friday Night Live!" stop will be this Friday night (September 21st) from 7pm - 12midnight at Tom Kelley's Chophouse and Pub (www.tomkellys.com) at 495 DeGroate Road in New Lenox. Join me as I broadcast my show live with lots of cool Loop prizes to give away, a preview demonstration of the killer new video game "Rock Band" (www.rockband.com), and of course Bud Light (Always Worth It) specials. Come join the party!

Led Zeppelin has indeed confirmed that they will be reuniting for an Ahmet Ertegun tribute show in November.

Led Zeppelin will reunite for a charity concert in honor of the late Atlantic Records founder and chairman Ahmet Etergun on November 26th at the O-2 Arena in London. Robert Plant tells the B-B-C they decided to reunite because of their love for Ertegun, who signed the band. "We wanted to pay tribute to the effect that he had on our careers. We said, 'Let's see if we can do it.'" Plant, Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones will be joined by Jason Bonham, son of late Zep drummer John Bonham. This will be Led Zep's first public performance since Atlantic Records' 40th anniversary party in 1988 and their first performance of any kind since they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. Ertegun died last year at the age of 83 after falling backstage at a Rolling Stones concert in New York.Promoter Harvey Goldsmith asked the band to do a 30- or 40-minute set, but they didn't make a final decision until rehearsing for a week. They were comfortable with the sound and came back to say they would play at least two hours.The show will also feature Pete Townshend, Bill Wyman and the Rhythm Kings, Foreigner (also with Jason Bonham on drums) and Paolo Nutini. Additional guests will be announced. Profits from the show will go to the Ahmet Ertegun Education Fund, which gives scholarships to universities in the U-K, U-S and Turkey.Tickets will be sold through a lottery system, but within minutes of the announcement, an estimated 20-million fans around the world rushed to register at AhmetTribute-dot-com, which crashed the site. According to service provider Pipex, around 80-thousand fans a minute have attempted to register at the site. All successful applicants will be entered into a random drawing for tickets.

And this update just in...

The deadline to register for tickets to Led Zeppelin's reunion concert on November 26th at the O-2 Arena in London has been extended to 7:00 a-m [ET] on Wednesday, September 19th. Upwards of 80-thousand people per minute (five-million per hour) have been attempting to register for tickets at www.AhmetTribute.com. In a 12-hour period yesterday (Thursday), there were 89-point-five million attempts to register at the site. The website has now been moved to its own server and is running smoothly. You should only register your name once, as the system is designed to pick out names at random and remove multiple entries. Successful applicants will be limited to a pair of tickets per household.

Beginning Friday (and for the next 3 successive Friday's after that), I will be bringing my show live out on the road to a neighborhood near you. Dubbed "Friday Night Live!" (get it?), my first stop will be this Friday (September 14th) at Cullinan's Stadium Club at 116th & S. Western (11610 S. Western) on the south side from 7pm - 12midnight. I will have Steve Vai concert tickets, Blackhawks tickets, premiere movie passes and lots of Loop gear to give away. The folks at Budweiser (who are sponsoring the tour) will have lots of drink specials, and you can of course then make your requests live from the bar! Come on out, bring your friends and join the party. Hope to see you there!

Took in some more great Loop shows lately. Cheap Trick played Naperville's Last Fling celebration, and it was a blast. Some 10,000 Loop listeners packed the hill near the riverfront on a beautiful evening for an energetic headline set from Robin, Rick, Tom and Bun E. Somewhat miraculously, Robin Zander's voice has survived years of road work perfectly intact as he tackled their new songs as well as their classics with equal aplomb. After I brought them on stage and checked out the show, a cocktail party-like atmosphere ensued afterwards. Tom Petersson and I shared some laughs about dating the same girl (not at the same time, though!) and I had a chance to catch up with the rest of the guys as well in the casual atmosphere. Great fun, contagious show. Cheap Trick is still a rush.

(See Cheap Trick perform "Surrender" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=pD8ymBR2Ufo)

(See Cheap Trick perform "Ain't That A Shame" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_E5L4MwMzzM)

Speaking of which, Rush stepped on stage after an introduction from me to a deafening roar from the 20,000 + Loop listeners at the First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre this past Saturday night. Another crown jewel in the Loop's 30th Anniversary Concert Series, Rush was welcomed in a near delirious fashion. The band played many rarely-heard-in-concert gems like "Circumstances" as well as a healthy dose of numbers from their latest effort "Snakes & Arrows", just as Geddy Lee had promised they would on my show the previous week. The guys were uber excited to be playing Chicago again, and it showed. Geddy filmed some shots of the audience from the stage with his personal camcorder "for the folks back home", and Alex Lifeson was bouncing around like a pogo-stick on caffeine. Even the usually all-business Neil Peart was pulling faces and grinning from ear-to-ear as he furiously pounded out the best licks heard on drums since John Bonham and Buddy Rich. As they have on recent tours, the visual gags were in ample evidence this time around too, with big-screen song introductions from SCTV's "Bob & Doug"and "South Park" and three chicken rotisserie's (complete with attending chef) where Geddy's bass amps usually would be. All-in-all, it was a brilliantly delivered "evening with Rush" (no opening act needed), with great sound AND fun sights. Give 'er! Beauty, eh!

(See Geddy Lee of Rush clown around here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=gwpGXfHmY-A)

(See a fan's terrific home-made video for Rush's latest "Far Cry" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=G-6SZZv91_w)

Led Zeppelin reunion rumors are heating up again with a press conference scheduled for Wednesday September 12th. Expect the surviving members of Led Zeppelin to announce a reunion gig in honor of the man who signed them to a record deal (Ahmet Ertegun) at London's new O2 arena on November 26th with Jason Bonham sitting in for his late father on drums. Whether this one-off gig will translate into a possible tour remains to be seen. Led Zeppelin has reunited only sporadically in the ensuing years since Bonzo's death. In 1985 they played at Live Aid, played together at their Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction in 1995, at the Atlantic Records 40th anniversary celebrations and jammed at Jason Bonham's wedding reception. Unfortunately, none of these resulted in a full-scale reunion or tour, so the pattern doesn't look good for anything more at this point. In the meantime, several "new" Led Zeppelin releases are planned for November. A new 24 track "best of" entitled "Mothership" November 13th, and the re-release (remastered with bonus tracks) of "The Song Remains The Same" concert on CD and DVD November 20th.

(See Led Zeppelin perform "Kashmir" with an introduction from Ahmet Ertegun here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=5pLEXy71Fxs)

Lead singer/bassist Geddy Lee of Rush checked in with me on the show this week. I've been friends with the band since their early days, so it was great to catch up and have a few laughs. Geddy told me the band is particularly looking forward to playing Chicago, because of the rabid following the band has in this area. He indicated to me that they would be playing more obscure tracks from their catalogue than in recent tours and several from the new disc "Snakes & Arrows." Rush fans are familiar with their very dry/silly, non-sequitor type of humor, which Geddy assured me would be on full display again this time around. I took Geddy by surprise when I asked him if they would perchance be performing the song "Liquor & Whores" (a comedy side-project they have recently been involved in back home in Canada) as an encore, sending him into fits of laughter. Upon containing himself, he replied that unfortunately they would not, but perhaps on a future tour. If you have not seen Rush before, do yourself a favor and take this opportunity to see a one-of-a-kind band.

(See Rush perform their classic "Finding My Way" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=D0DfWlgLByg)

Mattias Jabs, lead guitarist of the Scorpions also made an appearance on my show this past week. We chatted about their phenomenal new album "Humanity Hour 1" and the anticipation they also feel at getting to play in Chicago again. Mattias said to expect a fall or early next year stop here in town. Keep it locked on the Loop for the latest info and a chance to win tickets when the show date is officially announced.

(See the Scorpions new video for "Humanity" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=1w9AukcojEc)

This past week I was invited by Playboy magazine to drop by their offices on Lakeshore Drive to observe a photo shoot for an upcoming cover. I am constantly amazed and impressed at the professionalism of their operation and the respect and kindness which they extend to their models. Unlike some others in their field (who show little respect towards women), Playboy treats their models with the utmost in dignity and class. It amply explains why even 50 years later, they are still the benchmark by which all others are measured. They are an artful, class act which Chicagoans are justifiable proud of.

Had a chance to hang with legendary British theatre and movie actor/writer/producer Victor Spinetti this past week as well. Victor has appeared in over 30 films (including three Beatle movies "A Hard Day's Night" "Help" and "Magical Mystery Tour"), won a Tony award, directed "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Hair" and is a fixture on Broadway and London's West End. Victor is an uproariously funny and very down-to-earth man who regaled me with tales of working with the likes of Peter Sellers, Elizabeth Taylor and of course, the Beatles. In October, the Beatles classic action/adventure spoof movie "Help" (in which Victor played the mad scientist) will be re-released on DVD. Newly restored and now with plenty of extras, it's a very funny and influential movie (Mike Myers has cited it as an inspiration for his "Austin Powers" series) that is definitely worth picking up for your collection.

(See Victor Spinetti in "Help" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=1VTmllNMkZM&mode=related&search=)

(See Victor Spinetti in "Magical Mystery Tour" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=KaBDBpzuYjo&mode=related&search=)

As the Loop continues to celebrate it's 30th anniversary, our legendary sister rock station in St. Louis KSHE 95, is celebrating it's 40th anniversary. During the '90's, I was the morning show personality/anchor at KSHE. You will soon be able to hear/see/check out some of my past work there via the 40th anniversary museum on their website www.kshe95.com.

They vowed it would never happen, but Bloomington, IN native David Lee Roth and Eddie Van Halen have indeed finally patched up their relationship. DLR has officially rejoined Van Halen as their front man, confirming nearly a year of rumblings and persistent rumors that just such a move was in the works. Van Halen will be hitting not one, but two venues here in Chicagoland during the reunion tour. See them October 16th at the Allstate Arena and October 18th at the United Center as part of the Loop's 30th Anniversary Concert Series.

(See the Van Halen press conference here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=kxwjRJwAGQA)

In a related note, original Van Halen bassist (and Chicago native) Michael Anthony phoned me during my show to comment on the Van Halen tour and his upcoming Chicago gig with Sammy Hagar. While Michael expressed disappointment at not being asked to participate in the reunion, he stated emphatically that he would love to be a part of it if Eddie Van Halen invited him to, and that Sammy had encouraged him to accept if the call came. In the meantime, catch Michael and Sammy November 10th at the infamous Chicago Theatre.

Ozzfest 2007 was a smash success, bringing the annual "rock circus" to the area in two separate shows recently. As usual, Ozzy Osbourne rocked the house and displayed his hilarious non-PC sense of humor.

(See Ozzy's intro video here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=qDUpg3VQ7KA&mode=related&search=)

Look for Ozzy to return to our area December 16th at the Allstate Arena. Keep it locked on the Loop for more information and to win tickets.

Both Geoff Tate of Queensryche and Alice Cooper called in on my show this week to say hello and to catch up a bit. Even if Queensryche weren't such a highly regarded crowd-pleaser in Chicago, they would still find plenty of reasons to keep coming back here. Geoff's wife Susan is from here and so is guitarist Mike Stone. So with obvious delight, Geoff and the band will be part of a great triple bill featuring Heaven & Hell, Alice Cooper and Queensryche, September 22nd at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates. Since Ronnie James Dio will be fronting H&H, this will afford him the unique-to-this-bill opportunity to reprise his duet with Geoff from Queensryche's latest disc "Operation Mindcrime 2" and their new live DVD "Mindcrime At The Moore."

(See Queensryche and Dio perform together here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=HmfN7Fu2d6A)

(See Queensryche perform "Jet City Woman" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=fHZlfTPJdKw&mode=related&search=)

Geoff told me his first concert experience was seeing Alice Cooper when he was younger and that it had a very profound effect on him. He went on to explain that the theatrical nature of Alice's performances set the template in his head that he would later explore with his own band. Needless to say, Geoff is thrilled about this upcoming Chicago show!

Alice Cooper has been on a creative tear the last few years, churning out two magnificent new albums, "The Eyes Of Alice Cooper" and "Dirty Diamonds." Alice told me there is yet another one on the way soon and that he too is looking forward to coming back to the Chicago area, since he lived here at Lake Point Towers for some time. Alice and I shared a few stories and laughs about Alice's former producer Bob Ezrin who also produced KISS and the legendary Pink Floyd double-disc "The Wall." A few years ago, Bob was producing an album by a friend of mine and asked me to sing on the chorus of a song they were currently working on. I tried in vain to explain to Bob that I didn't think I had a very good singing voice, but he was having none of it. He was so intent on having "those balls!" (in reference to my baritone voice) on the record that he literally shoved me into the recording booth with the other members of the band to give it a go. About ten minutes and ten takes later... he had to agree with me. I was out, although I still got a credit on the album. Alice gave much credit to Bob for finding and crystallizing "our sound" as he put it, so don't be surprised if Alice works with Bob again in some capacity on the next album.

(See Alice Cooper perform "School's Out" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ib84GZVz2g4&mode=related&search=)

(See Alice Cooper perform "Man Of The Year" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=4z288_yi9Ig)

In addition to the bill with Heaven & Hell and Queensryche, you can catch Alice at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville on August 24th.

Tickets for all Loop shows can of course be had through www.wlup.com.

Chicago really ought to be re-named "The City That ROCKS!" Lollapalooza 2007 was even bigger and better attended and organized than previous years were, becoming the modern day successor of Woodstock in the process. After a warm-up gig at The Vic on Friday where they played such gems as KISS' "Black Diamond", Pearl Jam took the stage at 8:10pm at Grant Park launching into a 2 hour plus set with "Why Go" from their debut album. Eddie Vedder was particularly happy to be back home, commenting on the Chicago skyline, reminiscing about riding the "L" and taking BP Amoco to task over their dumping toxins into Lake Michigan. Mixing their classics with lesser known gems, serendipity kicked in when the museum campus fireworks coincided with Matt Cameron's fiery drum solo. Pearl Jam capped off the 3-day event with a rousing, guest-laden encore cover of Neil Young's "Rockin' In The Free World."

(See Pearl Jam perform "Daughter" at Lollapalooza here: http://www.pearljam.com/news/index.php?what=News#195)

(See Pearl Jam's video for "World Wide Suicide" here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=XLJ7C6-bYKg)

After Lollapalooza concluded, I attended a special, by invite only post-party at The House Of Blues "Back Porch" (the restaurant/bar on the main floor), where Lollapalooza founder and Jane's Addiction front man Perry Farrell thanked the organizers and the city with a buoyant set that included Jane's Addiction classics "Stop!" and "Been Caught Stealin'."

Once again, a phenomenal 3-day destination event that made Chicago look great to the music world. Lollapalooza 2007... bravissimo!

Ted Nugent swept through town with a trio of shows in the area in the last week or so, and he once again found some down-time to check in with me during my show. During his formative years, Ted lived in Arlington Heights, so coming back to Chicago is like "coming home." Ted was in an unusually sentimental mood this time, since a statue of his late mother (affectionately known as "Ma Nuge" in the Chicago area) was being dedicated on the grounds of Durty Nellie's nightclub in Palatine. Ted fondly remembered his mother's loving career/life advice (how many of the rest of us can say we were wise enough to listen to the advice we were given?) with which he credits his enduring success. Look for Ted's first studio album in five years, "Love Grenade" to hit stores September 4th.