The Dew Tour 2009, took over Portland and the Rose Quarter once again August 13th through the 16th, celebrating their five year anniversary. Whether it was Craig Mast’s attempt at a front-flip tailwhip in BMX park, or Bucky Lasek’s 360 grab in skate, the Dew Tour in Portland had something for everyone.
Other than watching athletes compete, Dew Tour created an experience that appealed to all age groups and interests. With the large part of the event taking place outside the Rose Garden arena, fans were able to mingle through the multiple booths of video games, food, and autograph sessions, as they worked there way towards the events. Wendy’s was a main sponsor of the tour this year, as they gave away free 1/4 lb. hamburgers and frosty samples.
Dew Underground was once again a significant part of the weekend, as it brought a taste of Portland to the internationally known tour. Local art galleries, and radio stations were present along with Fuel TV. Each of these components made the Portland Dew Tour 2009 a party just as much as a bike, skate, and moto event.
LMFAO headlined a concert this year as each stop the Dew Tour makes has a different group of artists performing. Known for their party like shows, LMFAO kept Dew fans pumped and ready begging for more.
As the tour came to a close, top athletes showed what they could do. Jamie Bestwick won the BMX vert crown, Garrett Reynolds won the BMX Park and Chaz Ortiz won the Skate park finals. One winner who got hundreds of fans excited was Ryan Decenzo who took home the honors of best trick in the skateboarding department. Dew Tour officials revamped a stair rail behind the Rose Garden arena, where competitors each took shots at landing the best trick they could off the rail and onto the concrete below. Decenzo, the winner took home $2500, but each athlete had the chance to take home cash depending on the trick, and the crowds response.
Dew Tour 2009, finished up Sunday with the finals for BMX Park. The Dew Tour in Portland was once again a success, and don’t miss out next year when the competition gets even more heated and the tricks get more intense.
Click here to see the skate park finals with champion Chaz Ortiz:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5P3wTsIZGOg
Bestwick, Ortiz, and Reynolds win in another successful Portland Dew Tour
Dew Tour coming to Portland!
The Dew Tour Wendy’s Invitational is coming to Portland, August 13-16, for the fifth consecutive year, and people couldn’t be more excited. Dew Tour is the most watched and attended action sports property in the world, with some of the most talented skateboarders, BMXers and freestyle motocrossers out there. Keep your eyes open for Paul Rodriguez, Chaz Ortiz, Ryan Sheckler and the rest of the AST Skate Park competitors as they challenge a new plaza-style course complete with concrete ledges, brick banks, a picnic table, a bit-three stair set, even a jersey barrier and a fire hydrant. Others to look for are skate legend Eric Koston, Dew Tour vet Jereme Rogers, and rookie pro Darrell Stanton. The Tour features skateboarding (park and vert), BMX (park, vert and dirt) and freestyle motocross. At season’s end, the overall points leaders in the six disciplines are crowned year-end champions and awarded the prestigious Dew Cup. Another thing to check out would be the LMFAO concert at the Rose Garden Fountain starting at 9pm on Friday, August 14, which is FREE this year! With the Festival Village, specialty competitions, and live cutting edge music, everyone is sure to be entertained and awe-struck at this event. Kids tickets are priced at just $5
The schedule of events is as follows:
Thursday, August 13th – Gates Open at 2:00p
3:30p – 6:00p SKB Park Prelims
7:00p – 8:30p SKB Vert Prelims
Friday, August 14th – Gates Open at 3:00p
3:00p – 4:00p BMX Vert Prelims
4:30p – 6:00p BMX Dirt Final
7:00p – 8:30p SKB Vert Final
9:00p–11:00p Concert–LMFAO–Rose Garden Fountain
Saturday, August 15th – Gates Open at Noon
1:00p – 3:00p SKB Park Final
3:30p – 6:00p BMX Park Prelims
7:00p – 8:30p BMX Vert Final
Sunday, August 16th - Gates Open at Noon
1:00p – 3:00p BMX Park Final
4:00p – 5:00p FMX Jam Session
***SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Ticket Pricing is as follows:
Grounds Pass
• Adults $15.00 Per Day - $35.00 3 Day Pass
• Children $5.00
Reserved Tickets
• $35.00 Adult/Children Per Day - $90 3 Day Pass
• Guaranteed seating for both event finals on purchased day
Action Zone
• $100 Adult/Children Per Day - $250 3 Day Pass
• Best seat in the house for both finals on purchased day.
The Blazed and Confused Tour Hits Portland
As the Blazed and Confused Tour rolled into Portland Friday night, teens and adults of all ages stood in line to see the king of rap and the man who popularized the suffix “-izzle”. From the tiki bar and the lyrical mix of the music, the underlying theme was apparent even before entering the building.
The night began with Mickey Avalon and his hit “Friends and Lovers”. Next in line was Stephen Marley, infamous musician Bob Marley’s son, who took the stage with his Jamaican roots and blend of reggae, rock and R&B music. Marley was accompanied by his son and two rhythmic backup singers throughout his performance, with his son waving the Jamaican flag in unison to the beat of the songs. Fans embraced Marley’s presence and synergy until the final lyric.
After a brief intermission, co-headliner Slightly Stoopid appeared on stage. Showcasing their sixth studio album, “Slightly Not Stoned Enough To Eat Breakfast Yet Stoopid”. Slightly Stoopid lived up to the hype with their acoustic rock feel and fan favorite single “2am”.
As the lights lowered and anticipation heightened, fans began rising from their seats to the sound of Snoop’s “Sensual Seduction”. From the guest appearances to his rapping abilities Snoop was able to keep the crowd entertained and energized for well over an hour. As the night came to a close, Snoop parted ways but left the audience with a lasting impression.
Jr. Blogger,
Sam Romohr
Legendary Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago
Though last Saturday’s Earth Wind and Fire/Chicago concert started at 7:30, fans were dancing, partying, and getting ready hours prior. Before the doors even opened die hard followers were outside the Rose Garden listening to live music, having a pre-concert dinner, or chatting with fellow enthusiasts.
In a night headlined by two of the most popular bands from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, much of the excitement came from the atmosphere created not only by the music, but the people in attendance. The show was well received by fans at the Rose Garden, many who have followed the bands for near 40 years. A few minutes after the 7:30 showtime, both bands emerged, starting the night with a combined set. From the moment Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire entered, until the minute they left the stage, old and new fans were dancing in their seats, the aisles or on either side of the stage.
Whether it was the stage presence of bass player Verdine White, or the vocal talents of Maurice White; Earth, Wind and Fire put on an entertaining show. Songs such as “Let’s Groove,” showed how capable and entertaining the band remains as they celebrate their 40 year anniversary.
After a brief intermission Chicago entered the stage playing “Saturday in the Park.” Chicago played the show with a new face on hand percussion. Taylor Hawkins, drummer for the Foo Fighters, who played the whole show with the epic band.
Each band did a set by themselves before the show ended with another combined set featuring many of their top hits such as “September,” and “Make me Smile.”
The combination of Earth, Wind and Fire, and Chicago was a headlining combination that could only be rivaled by the currently touring Billy Joel and Elton John, who are coming to the Rose Garden in November. Both bands entertained crowds to no end on Saturday in a show that was over three hours of fun and excitement.
This concert was part of the group’s third tour together, and after this weekend many Portlanders will be asking for at least one more.
Earth, Wind, Fire & Chicago Preview
Who: Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago
When: Sat, July 18, 2009 ● 7:30p
Where: Rose Quarter – Theater of the Clouds
Portland, Oregon
Tickets are priced at $94.00, $54.00, and $28.50. Tickets go on sale Monday, March 23rd at 10a and can be purchased at the Rose Quarter Box Office (M-F 10a-5p), all participating Safeway/ Tickets West outlets, by calling 877.789.ROSE (7673), or at ComcastTIX.com. For more information please visit RoseQuarter.com. Prices do not include service charges. To receive event notices, pre-sale opportunities, discounts and prizes join our free Rose Quarter CyberClub at RoseQuarter.com.
Music legends Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago have announced that they will reunite for a 30-city national co-headlining summer concert tour, including a date at Theater of the Clouds Saturday, July 18th. In 2004 and 2005, the two bands teamed up for what is still talked about as one of the great musical spectaculars in recent touring history. A DVD filmed in 2005 of their Los Angeles shows was certified double platinum almost immediately upon release – a tribute to the extraordinary and unique quality of this collaboration.
Earth, Wind & Fire’s founding member and singer Philip Bailey says, “The Chicago-Earth, Wind & Fire shows are magic and bring out the best in all of us – from the musicians onstage to the fans dancing in the aisles. We can’t wait to get out there with our friends again.” Chicago keyboardist and founding member Robert Lamm is equally enthusiastic, “Earth, Wind & Fire are phenomenal. When we first decided to tour together, we knew it would be good, but I don’t think we could have guessed that the Earth, Wind & Fire-Chicago shows would be some of our all-time favorites to play.”
The 2009 Summer Tour will be presented by AEG Live. Each band will perform a full set, and the two bands will come together both at the beginning of the night and for a final set that features both bands onstage together.
“What happens when you cross Chicago with Earth, Wind & Fire? You get a big, raucous, happy band, supercharging a packed house of fans.” - Daily Variety
Earth, Wind & Fire made international news recently when President Obama declared in an interview with RollingStone Magazine that the group was among his favorites in his iPod. He said, they are “rhythm and blues and pop staples for me.” The group was invited by President Obama to perform in the East Room on February 22 at the White House for the first social event of the new administration. The Earth, Wind & Fire 11-piece band is among the most influential, commercially successful and critically acclaimed bands of the last three decades. Formed in 1969 in Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire's 39-year history resulted in millions of albums sold worldwide and distinguished awards and accolades. Founding members: Maurice White (leader, vocalist, songwriter); Philip Bailey (lead vocalist, percussionist); Verdine White (bassist); Ralph Johnson (drummer and percussionist) have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and are credited with eight Grammy Awards, 20 Grammy nominations, Four American Music Awards, honors from the NAACP, the BET Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The principal members of Earth, Wind & Fire have received honorary Doctorate Degrees from the Arts and Media College at Columbia College Chicago. To this day, Earth, Wind & Fire remain one of the top globally popular touring attractions. Influencing top artists including Prince, Mary J Blige, Outkast and many more, Earth, Wind & Fire's signature sound and distinctive musical styles fuse pop, soul, jazz, rock n' roll, psychedelic, African roots music and disco with a base in funk.
Chicago has written, recorded and performed some of the most popular and musically innovative songs in rock history. Billboard Magazine positioned the band at #13 on their Hot 100 chart’s All-Time Top 100 – a byproduct of having sold more than 100,000,000 records and having earned 20 Top hits, 5 Number One albums, 5 Number One singles and 5 Gold singles. Chicago has also won a Grammy Award, American Music Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, had a downtown Chicago street renamed in their honor, and been celebrated with an exhibit at the Chicago History Museum. An incredible 25 of their 30 albums have been certified platinum, and Chicago is the first American band to chart Top 40 albums in five decades. Through it all, Chicago remains a working band, touring continually since forming in 1967. On the philanthropic front, Chicago actively supports two charities through their concert ticket sales. Since 1995, the band has donated a portion of each ticket sold to the Ara Parseghian Medical Research Foundation, which seeks a cure to the fatal children’s disease, Neimann-Pick Type C. For the last four years, the band has donated an additional portion of ticket sales to help raise money for Hannah & Friends, which works to improve the quality of life for children and adults with special needs. Hannah & Friends is the personal mission of Maura Weis and her husband, current Notre Dame Football Coach Charlie Weis.
American Idols Concert Review
With Portland selected as the first of 50 stops on the American Idols Live! Tour - it was exciting to see what the night was going to hold, since Portland would be the first to review Season 8’s first concert performance.
While entering the Rose Quarter to find your seats, you immediately saw the big stage, what was about to be filled with the 10 Top talented finalists from American Idol Season 8. Next to the stage were large plasma screens projecting videos from past American Idol winners like Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry and Dan Cook.
The Rose Quarter was filled with an all-ages group of both men and women whom all had a certain favorite idol in mind. Kids to adults had a variety of favorites, from Team Gokey or Adam Lambert, Kris Allen or who ever was their favorite on their shirts. But all were there to enjoy the Top 10 talented singers.
Michael Sarver was first on stage and kicked the concert off with "I Just Want a Girl". Announcing to the crowd to get ready to have the best show of their life, and to get them pumped up for the other idols to take the stage. He sang Closer by Ne-Yo to finish his set.
After Michael's performance, Megan Joy took the stage in a pretty-in-pink dress and started singing “Put Your Records On” by Corrine Bailey Rae. Afterwards, she gave the crowd a shout-out and then gave her own rendition of “Tears Dry on Their Own” by Amy Winehouse. I must admit, I like Megan's voice and version much better.
As each idol finished up, the lights on the backstage flicker and run through pictures to show the upcoming idol. Nest, Scott MacIntyre Raises up from below the stage on a piano and starts singing “Bend & Break” by Keane and “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton.
As the first three started out with more of mellow tunes,
Lil Rounds was ready to kick it up a notch with “Be Without You” and “Just Fine” both by Mary J. Blige and “No One” by Alicia Keys. With Lil Round spark of energy she was going to finish with a sassy style and choreographed dance singing “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” by Beyonce.
Anoop Desai sang a perfect pitch, “Always On My Mind” by Willie Nelson/Elvis Presley that would make them both proud. Anoop was no shy guy while singing on stage, as he put on his nerdy glasses and sang “Mad” by Ne-Yo and “My Prerogative” by Bobby Brown while teasing the audience with his dance moves.
Matt Giraud, the other great piano player, began playing “Hard to Handle” by Otis Redding and Black Crowes. Matt was able to get the crow really going and up on their feet as he sang “Georgia on My Mind” by Ray Charles and “You Found Me” by The Fray.
SECOND ACT
After intermission, Allison Iraheta arrived on stage with her beautiful rocker look, with bright red and rainbow hair and guitar in hand to set the stage on fire with her first song by Pink, “So What”! There was no So What! about her performance. It rocked all the way. Followed by “Cry Baby” by Garnet Mimms and Janis Joplin. All I know is I did not see a 17 year old girl on stage, I saw a very talented musician giving Heart a run for their money when she sang “Barracuda”.
Danny Gokey was next on stage and the crowd was going wild for the second runner-up Idol. Danny started his set with “P.Y.T.” (Pretty Young Thing) by Michael Jackson and it was nice to hear one of Jackson’s songs during the concert. Afterwards, he brought in some salsa fever with “Maria Maria” by Santana and “What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts. The best part of his performance was drawing the crowd in. Danny seemed to really connect with the audience and mentioned he was excited to finally meet the fans and gave some words of advice and dedicated “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts to all of the fans.
The stage was flickering with lights, noise and smoke waiting for the anticipation of one of America's most favorite Idols, the runner-up, Adam Lambert. He started it off with “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin and the audience was giving him a Whole Lotta Love back! This was defiantly no runner-up, simply another winner with a different style than Kris Allen. If you saw the finale of American Idol, it was about these two putting on a performance rather than a competition. Adam continued to sing “Starlight” by Muse, while showing his true rocker side wearing the coolest jacket I have ever seen. Leather with spikes and kind of like a tuxedo type of tail on the back. This rocker dude was showing his softer vocals too by singing “Mad World” by Tears for Fears and Gary Jules, which was more amazing to hear him sing it live versus on television. Once again, he kicks it up a notch with his partner in crime Allison Iraheta, singing “Slow Ride” by Foghat and “Life on Mars”, “Fame” and “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie.
Slowly rising on stage while his backdrop and lights come in place, 2009 American Idol Winner Kris Allen takes the stage. While keeping true to himself, he kept it simple, but even with his humble attitude towards winning, he was ready to rock the stage with his guitar and acoustic sets. It shows how comfortable he is on stage, as well. It was really cool to hear Kris's rendition of “Heartless” by Kanye West live. Kris finished his set with “Hey Jude” by The Beatles, as the rest of the Idol crew came on stage to join in to help finish the night.
Ending the evening with “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey (with a chorus of Steam’s “Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye”) seemed like a perfect song to end this groups performance of the night. Only 49 more states to go.
It was an amazing night and the show is better to see live, but I didn't want it to end. I was left wanting at least one more encore by the entire group. I like watching them as whole perform as well.
Jr. Blogger,
Stephanie Wagner
American Idols Live! - Interview with the Idols
I was sitting in a room with several other media folks from all over, for example USA Today, LA Times, Rolling Stones and some other radio stations too. Here I was, the Jr. Blogger for the Rose Quarter. Each reporter was given just 3-5 minutes to ask questions and with two idols together it was tough to try to fit a lot in. It was an exciting moment as an American Idol fan from the very beginning with Kelly Clarkson, to be able to interview Season 8 Top 10 Idols. Sitting there, a little nervous with my notes, wondering what am I really going to ask them?
My first interview with Michael Sarver and Danny Gokey, both great guys, it was like kind of like getting over stage freight once the music starts, it was all easy going. They were so easy going to talk with and it felt like old friends just having a chat. They were so excited to be on tour and thankful to have made it where they are now. They had been enjoying their stay in Portland and gave our city high remarks. Danny also gave future idolists some great advice, "Just be who you are and take that with you all the way down the road on your path."
Next up was Adam Lambert and Lil Rounds, and I was so excited to interview these two. One, I am Adam Lambert fan, and two they had so much energy, I even had a tough time keeping up. Again it was about being real and just talking about the tour and what to expect from the show. They just kept complementing on each other's performances on who did better at what. From the very beginning it was a tough journey for both of them, because of Lil Rounds having a family of her own and waiting for hours to audition, but knowing that they made it this far and having the support from their love ones will help to lead a long path on their career.
After waiting a few minutes for Idols to finish up with other interviewers Anoop Desai and Kris Allen arrived at my table. Here I was introducing them both on camera and excited to announce the 2009 American Idol winner. Kris just smiled back at me, with the most humble look. Both Anoop and Kris were so laid back, but also thankful to be apart of the idol crew. With Kris having a new album coming out soon, Anoop is going to be soul searching through the tour and we might possibly see an album from him in the future. As I talk to Kris and Anoop, I had mentioned about the loss of the King of Pop and re-watching the re-aired American Idol show, where they sang Michael Jackson songs. Anoop sang “Beat It” and Kris sang “Man in the Mirror” and another song. Kris mentioned when they first learned of the news, they were all rehearsing and they just stopped, because they felt they lost such a musical mentor they didn't feel right rehearsing the rest of the day. It was great to meet both of them and looking forward to see our next American Idol winner on his journey.
Last but not least, Megan Joy and Matt Giraud were next. As those two sat down, they were a bundle of energy as well and full of laughter. I immediately had to find out the story behind Megan's large tattoo on her right arm. She pointed out the front of the King and Queen, the Queen is her and the King is in the future in the glass castle (maybe Matt?) and the other side was her mom, brother and son. I had to see if there was a secret romance their and they both denied it, it was all for fun.
Allison Iraheta and Scott MacIntyre were there in the media room as well, but we ran out of time to talk, because all the Idols had to get ready for there meet and greet. I did get a chance to give Allison a quick handshake and say hello. She was so friendly. Scott was already escorted to the table. Those two would have been fun to interview as well.
It was an amazing time to be able to interview this talented and yet so humble group of Idols. They are all friendly and supportive of one another and I would have to say they are the most connected I have ever seen out of all of the seasons.
Jr. Blogger,
Stephanie Wagner
Jonas Brothers
“Future Mrs. Jonas” shirts were a common sight at the Rose Quarter on Saturday as the Jonas Brothers came to town for their Say Now World Tour 2009. The Brothers were highly anticipated in Portland, as was obvious by the thousands of screaming fans lined up at the Rose Garden doors. Outside the arena, the events started with Disney dancers, the Jonas Brothers tour bus, and lots of merchandise. As fans filed in, the music started with Honor Society, a pop/rock band from New Jersey whose upbeat dance along music, was easily compared to that of the headlining Jonas Brothers.
Asian pop sensation the Wonder Girls performed two of their international hits before the show brought out American Idol star Jordin Sparks. Sparks opened with her song One Step at a Time, and also sang her hits, Tattoo, and No Air. Whether it was the R&B feel, or her increasing popularity from American Idol, Jordin Sparks got the Rose Garden even more excited (if that was possible), for the Jonas Brothers.
Kevin, Nick, and Joe Jonas not only entertained a packed arena for over an hour, but they proved why they are one of the most popular bands of the year. The Jonas Brothers were joined by many other talented musicians, as they incorporated a horn section, violins, and other original sounds to the show. Whether it was the song Love Bug, or their new hit Fly With Me, fans continued to cause a ruckus with their excitement. Nick Jonas played the drums for a few songs, which was a new sight for many dedicated Jonas fans. Kevin and Joe Jonas also showed off their talents in songs off of both their new and old albums. The night ended with Jordin Sparks joining the brothers for a collaborative performance of her new song Battlefield. With the stage and lights spinning, fans going crazy, it was the perfect way to end a night of talent and Jonas Brothers fever.
The Jonas Brothers have a newly released album titled, Lines, Vines and Trying Times.
Jr. Blogger,
Scott Ostlund
Nogueira Autograph Signing
Come meet and get the autograph from one of the headliners from UFC 102: Couture vs. Nogueira. Antonio Rodrigo “Minotauro” Nogueira will be in
Are You Ready!!!
WWE is almost here!
MAIN EVENT
**Steel Cage Match for the WWE Championship**
JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE
The following SmackDown Superstars are scheduled to appear:
TRIPLE H
JEFF HARDY
THE UNDERTAKER
THE BIG SHOW
EDGE
THE GREAT KHALI
MVP
MR KENNEDY
CARLITO
SHELTON BENJAMIN
MICHELLE McCOOL
MARIA
MARYSE
MATT HARDY
AND MUCH MORE!
What a weekend!
What a weekend here at the Rose Quarter. If you missed Buckcherry, Avenged Sevenfold, Papa Roach and Saving Abel Friday you sure missed a great show...stay tuned over the next few days for some great pictures!
To change directions completely we just added more seats to last nights Grammy winner Brad Paisley!!! Also don't forget he will be joined by Dierks Bentley!
Here is Brad's last video with Keith Urban....
Here is Dierks latest hit "Feel that Fire", currently number two on the country chart!
