Oakland Review

[Somajoseph]

It was a crazy night in the Bay Area tonight-Obama was in town, Janet Jackson was performing her second concert in SF, and Rod & Stevie drew what looked like a sold out concert in Oakland.
I have to say I really think alot of Rod for coming out to introduce her, and it was clear that Stevie had a very vocal & enthusiastic fan base in the crowd!
I would say the place was just over half full when she came out . By the time she was doing Dreams, it was a full house. She didnt say anything until she finished Dreams, and as always she said that coming to the Bay Area brings back so many memories. She said she had to keep it brief, because there were so many stories to tell.
Secret Love was received well with Stevie announcing this is my new single. Gold Dust Woman was the mid-set peak, with what looked like most of the people in the floor seats standing & a huge ovation afterwards. Although I have read on this board that people are sick of Landslide, it never fails to move me, and after a heartfelt introduction, she sang a very powerful & tender vocal.
Songs that normally dont do much for me-Sorcerer & Fall From Grace were also received & performed with alot of enthusiasm.
Introducing Love Is-Stevie said it was about someone who came into her life in a very difficult time, and even though it didnt last-it saved her life. This song has always been one of my favorites from TISL, and I was thrilled with the response she received. As the song went on you could tell that she was really getting the audience's attention because it got quiet and she nailed the vocal. Hopefully it's on You Tube tomorrow!
I love Rod's early 70's music and he came out strong with Tonight's the Night, and You Wear it Well.
When he introduced Stevie there was a great photo of them taken in 1977 displayed on this huge video screen right behind center stage. When she came out, she took Rod's hand & they both turned to look at it. It drew cheers from the audience. I gotta say Rod & Stevie sounded terrific tonight. He seemed tentative on the first performances of Leather & Lace on this tour, but in Oakland Stevie was all smiles , and they stayed standing close to one another for most of the song. He was great & Stevie didnt screw up on the verses.
All in all, a wonderful night, although my friend and I left after Rod did Reason To Believe.
Sorry but no pics. When I see Stevie, I am always just unable to do anything but give her my full attention. It was a great show!