STONES SCENE REPORT
History is made – with a taste of Texas
Stones' first Austin concert makes an indelible mark.
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Monday, October 23, 2006
"What a fantastic night!" Mick Jagger said early in the Rolling Stones' set at Zilker Park on Sunday night. "It's our first time in your fair city. We're virgins of Austin!"
That condition was rectified with a truly magical show that had 42,000 fans on their feet throughout, chanting "I can't get no!" during "Satisfaction" and singing the middle of "You Can't Always Get What You Want" so loud that they must've heard it all the way to Ben White Boulevard. Meanwhile, pockets of Barton Springs Road, where the massive main video screen could be seen between trees, were packed with fans not wanting to let the chance to hear true rock 'n' roll legends in their hometown pass them by. "The Rolling Stones in Austin!" one young freeloader exclaimed, hugging strangers.
Ralph Barrera
AMERICAN-STATESMAN
The Rolling Stones were given a raucous reception in Zilker Park.
Photos
- Send us your photos from the show
- Live shots from Zilker
- Shaping the stage at Zilker
- Rolling Stones through the years
- Over 40 years of rock
Live coverage
- Gallery: Live shots from Zilker Park
- History is made
- Show review
- Scene reports from Zilker
- Rubbing elbows with style stars
- Sound off: How was the show?
More on the Stones
- The Biggest Bang
- The Stones made me do it!
- Smoothing a path for the Stones
- From Altamont to Zilker
- Ranking the Stones. Did we get it right?
- A few fashion tips from a Stones wife
- Ian McLagan's life with the Stones
- Allowed and prohibited items
- Ticket and parking information
- Sound off: Where did you buy your Stones ticket? And how much did you pay?
- Full coverage
This was a concert for all of Austin, not just those who paid to see it.
Forty-two years after their first U.S. tour, "the world's greatest rock 'n' roll band" seemed on a mission as it came to a music Mecca. But first the Stones made Austinites wait even longer, with a torturous one-hour and 20 minute set break after support act Los Lonely Boys left the stage.
Maybe they were working up Waylon Jennings' "Bob Wills Is Still the King," which Jagger introduced as "a song we've never played in front of anybody before." When Jagger sang, "It's the home of Willie Nelson, the home of Western swing/ It don't matter who's in Austin, Bob Wills is still the king," the crowd hooted and hollered with titanic Texas pride.
Backstage before the show, band members mixed with Austin's elite.
"We've just met Lance Armstrong and Andy Roddick," the uncharacteristically chatty Jagger said at one point. "Not as a couple, mind you."
They also mentioned meeting Mayor Will Wynn, who looked his hippest in a lime green shirt. Maybe they were just buttering up the authorities so they could go over the 10 p.m. park curfew (by 10 minutes).
"This is such a big deal for the city, to host the ultimate rock band," Wynn said backstage. "The economic impact is like a Longhorns home football game — about $25 million — and we're also getting $300,000 (from the Stones) for our parks department. But perhaps best of all is seeing so many people having a great time here in Austin."
There have been concerts in town with larger crowds, from the 1974 ZZ Top show that drew nearly 80,000 to Memorial Stadium to last month's Austin City Limits Music Festival, which played to audiences of 65,000 each day. In terms of lasting influence, there's never been a more notable local concert than 1973's Dripping Springs Reunion, a mix of Nashville superstars and outlaw country upstarts that begat Willie Nelson's Fourth of July Picnic.
There have certainly been tougher tickets — $95 general admission tickets didn't sell out and were going for as low as $30 online. Scalpers did great business buying tickets from fans who unloaded their extras for as little as $10 or $20 and then selling them for $60 to $90, still below face value.
But once inside, fans became part of the most significant concert in Austin history — not just because, at about $4 million in ticket sales, it was easily the highest-grossing local concert. Fans glowed as if they knew they were part of something bigger than the live concert DVD being recorded.
On this "Bigger Bang" tour, the Stones have been playing mostly football stadiums. Zilker is the only city park on the itinerary, but for many Stones fans in their 40s, 50s and 60s, such a bucolic setting was not optimal, especially because general admission ticket holders had to stand or sit on the ground. Many fans, such as Alice Spencer, 45, of Austin, considered selling their tickets after learning that folding chairs were not allowed.
But when Sunday came around, Spencer's attitude changed. "We've decided to just tough it out," she said. "I've never seen the Stones before, and this could be my last chance."
Laura Figueroa, 37, wasn't planning to attend the concert until two hours before showtime. "It just seemed like an odd venue for the Stones," she said, standing roughly five football fields from the stage. "But the day was so beautiful that I couldn't stay away. And it's turned out to be a great situation. I'd like to be closer, but I'm really glad I came."
mcorcoran@statesman.com; 445-3652
Sound off
Did you go to the Stones show at Zilker Park? How was it? How did this show compare to other Stones shows you've seen? Was Zilker Park a good venue for this show? Post your comment.
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Comments
By carol
November 12, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
I thought Mick was great, but I have been pretty embarrassed about the quality of concert goers and thier selfish attitudes. Used to be the short girls and guys were graciously allowed in front of those tall big guys. Not anymore! I found the younger guys extrememly rude to people wanting to get closer up to whitness this extroidinary event! What ever happened to the honorable system of rotation where you got the chance for that up close glimpse and everyone shifted to accomadate ya?
By Gregg Orange
November 2, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this
I grew up in Austin in the 70’s and lived in married student housing on Lake Austin Blvd. and attended the newly built Austin High School until 1977. The idea of seeing the Stones in Zilker park still blows my mind. However, seeing the Stones today in 2006 just isn’t the same. Bill Wyman stoic presence is sadly missed and Ronnie Wood is just not the virtuouso guitarist that Mick Taylor was. These guys are in their 60’s, so this is really an “oldies” show in disguise…whatever!
By Brandy
November 2, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this
My first concert and I must say, it was incredible to see Mick Jaggar-I think I was a little star-struck at first, seeing this legend standing not too terribly far away from me. The downside was having to fight for every inch-the last time I saw people so rude was up in New York. I was also about ready to kill many of the people shoving to get in front. I can’t complain too much, though, I’m glad to have had the opportunity to see one of the last great intact bands.
By David Boggs
November 1, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this
Me, Jammin’ James, Bluesman Kevin and my Homey Jeromey drove eight hours from New Orleans to see the greatest Rock & Roll Band Ever, The Stones Dude. We fell in love with Austin, Keep Austin Weird, just like NOLA. Zilker Park was incredible. The weather was beautiful just like the Austin ladies. The shuttle bus service made the experience even better. This was my fifth Stones Show and the best yet. We were too young for Woodstock, but Stonestock was awesome.
By Donna
October 30, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this
It was fantastic to be part of Austin history with the Stones! What a day! What a show! You bet, we’ll be back if and when the Stones come back to town!
By Glenda
October 29, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
The boys rocked once again!! They are truly the masters! the stones once again busted their chaps for their fans of all ages. my son and i enjoyed every second and it was worth every penny!so move over little boys and bow to the masters!!
By M. Todd
October 27, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
Grateful Dead - twice, Dylan - Twice, U2 - Twice, REM - twice, Springsteen - once, Elton - once, Rolling Stones in Zilker Park 50 feet from the main stage and 15 feet from the moving stage - Priceless!!!!!!!! Jerry the Man was tough to beat as was Springsteen and Dylan. The Dead and Springsteen shows were all in excess of 4 and a half hours and the Stones topped them all. Nearly a week later I still can’t come down.
By Anonymous
October 27, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this
I never liked their sexist, immature, racist lyrics and prancing, arrogant stage presence back when they first came out so I am going to like them any better NOW?
I stayed at home and listened oldies I can relate to like Edith Piaf and Frank Sinatra and Jim Reeves…
Thanks but no thanks. I am allergis to marijuana and as far as I am concerned you HAVE to be stoned to like old stones.
By Glimmerfan
October 27, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this
Hey Spicer, I resemble that remark…what happened…I remember the first notes of You Got Me Rockin…the next thing I know they are playing Can’t Always Get What You Want…the quickest 2hrs on the planet, what an incredible show, thank goodness for the DVD, I think it will all start coming back watching that…
By mitsy
October 27, 2006 11:37 AM | Link to this
I went to the Rolling Stones concert and had a great time. I am now disappointed thought that I didn’t get one of the cool Longhorn Rolling Stones T-shirts. If anyone knows where I can get one please let me know…I REALLY WANT ONE!!!
By c spicer
October 26, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this
I don’t remember the first song. I don’t remember the last song. Hell, I can only think of two or three songs. But I KNOW I had a damn good time.
By Stoned!!
October 26, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this
Hey complainers! Sounds like none of you have ever been to a rock concert. There are cigs, weed, rowdy crowds and oh yeah loud music. The show rocked!!! I am still on a Stones high. Best rent money I have ever spent.
By Jerome
October 26, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this
This was my first time in Austin, Tx for me and my friends from Louisiana. I do have to say that Austin is a beautiful city and very clean. My opinion is that this concert was the closest I will ever come to experiencing WoodStock in my 39 yrs of life time. The only way that I can see Austin topping this concert is to get either Pink Floyd or perhaps Led Zepplin. Any other rock group would not do it justice in my opinion.
Thanks Austin, I really enjoyed it. Thibodaux, La.
By Steve Royal
October 26, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
This was by FAR the best Stones concert out of the 3 I have seen:
1966 in Sacramento when “Paint It Black” and “Lady Jane” were hits from “December’s Children…”
1969 at Altamont Speedway by Stockton, California when “Midnight Rambler”, “Gimmie Shelter”, and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” were hits from “Let It Bleed”. They also played a new unreleased song “Brown Sugar.”
By cmaxwell
October 26, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this
Responding to a comment from “Diane” a few days ago, about the lack of ‘Jumbotron’ projection from the small stage.
I have seen several tour show since the Stones began incorporating the small stage, and the omission of Jumbotron was not an anomaly. I suspect that it is part of a statement that when you take away all the production extravaganza, you still have a band that is credible on musical performance alone. So you get three that are stripped down and kick a*s.
By Idalia
October 26, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this
I had a wonderful time! I had never seen the Stones in concert but I do own a huge CD which has most of the songs they’ve recorded. It surely was a GREAT SHOW!! Mick Jagger and the Stones were awesome.
By Joey
October 25, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this
Im 14 and it was the best concert ever! Thanks dad!
By Mad Jack
October 25, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this
What a SHOW! Hey I had a great seat in the up in the reserve and I think our seats were better than the 500.00 one’s for sure. We all had a great time and thanks Stacie and Crew.. Man it was my Dream come true! Oh yea, some people who b***h about those seats in reserve were just jealous..I would be too. Rock on Stones and keep that fire going longer next time..It made us even warmer and the people in Austin are the Best and showed it!
By LAURA MARTINEZ
October 25, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this
MICK JAGGER IS STILL SEXY…. HE CAN MOVE, AND SING THE S**T OUT OF SOME ROCK ‘N ROLL…..I JUST LOVE THE STONES. AS FOR KEITH, WITH THAT DR SEUSS SCARF… BAD ASSS……..AND WELCOME TO AUSTIN, I RECENTLY MOVED HERE FROM TEXAS CITY BY HOUSTON. I HAVE SEEN THEM IN CONCERT A TOTAL OF 5 TIMES. THEY ARE SO ROCK’N…
By LAURA MARTINEZ
October 25, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this
OH MY, THE BEST CONCERT EVER. I AM 37 AND WORSHIP THE STONES. THEY WERE MY F1RST CONCERT WHEN I WAS 11; I SAW THEM IN HOUSTON,TEXAS AT THE ASTRODOME.I SAW THEM A TOTAL OF 5 TIMES.MY MOTHER BAUGHT 4 TICKETS FOR ME, MY BROTHER,HIS WIFE, & MY SISTER. THEIR CONCERTS ALWAYS FALL AROUND MY B-DAY. THIS YEAR MY TICKET WAS PURCHASED FROM MY FAVORITE NEPHEW, FREDDIE JR. I WAS ABLE TO ATTEND WITH MY FAMILY.
By Charlie
October 25, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
It’s Wednesday and I’m still having trouble coming down from this experience. A rock concert has never done this to me. Let me state for the record, the greatest sound I have ever heard in rock music was Keith’s guitar opening on ‘Tumblin’ Dice’. And Ron Wood’s solo on ‘Sway’ made me weep. YEEEEEEHAAAAAA what a great show!
By Zeno
October 25, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
If you didn’t like the blankets, get there early next time and stake out your own spot. Some people paid the price by getting to the park early in the morning. We reaped the dividends.
By leo
October 25, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a fan for 40-plus years but this was my first Stones show. I probably wouldn’t have sprung for the $100 gen’l admission ticket if a friend hadn’t advanced it for us, but by the time they did “Bob Wills Is Still the King,” I knew we had already gotten our money’s worth. Zilker was fine, and apparently the Stones enjoyed the setting. I’m glad the city let ‘em use it and the neighbors went along with the gig.
By Lori Melton
October 25, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this
The Stones rocked and so did the venue, could not have been better! SNAP
By Kelly
October 25, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this
I loved the concert!! It was my first conceret ever and I went with my best bud and a couple of her friends. It was riviting and I have hoarse voice to show for it. Mick Jagger is stunningly gorgeous even if people say he is old and Keith Richards is one of the best guitarest I have ever seen or heard. I just love their music even if it wasn’t from my generation!!! I hope they come back next year.
By James
October 25, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this
While Mick always puts on a great show, there are problems with the presentation of the music. TEMPO, TEMPO, TEMPO!. The Stones are showing their age unfortunately. TEMPO has been the #1 problem for the last few tours. Turn it up a notch and really rock! Songs like “B***h” don’t have the same effect if you can’t play it at the right speed…Ronnie - what has happened? Your the lead player - so play! Don’t just go thru the motions! Where is your enthusiasm?
By Susie
October 25, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this
Hey Dutchman. We who waited hours had every right to stake out our space in front with our blankets. You who got there late and trampled our belongings, cussed at the people in our group who were holding our spot while we went to the restroom, and spilled beer on them were the rude ones. A little courtesy would have gone a long ways. Have some class. That’s what GA is, first come, first served. Next time get there early and wait your turn like we did.
By David Torres
October 24, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this
Now that I’ve had a few days to think about the show I have to say that this was by far the BEST Stones concert ever. I have seen many of there shows since the early seventies and I was amazed at the technology and the engineering feat it took to put this on. We stood at about the middle of the park,had an awsome view as for the sound it was second to none you could actually hear Mick breath (no I wasn’t stoned), as for those whinners who say they got ripped off sitting in the bleechers “oh well
By Mark
October 24, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this
My Son went to the concert and said it was amazing and that Los Lonely Boys did one of the best sets he has every heard from them.. I LISTENED TO THE WHOLE CONCERT FROM MY HOUSE IN ROLLINGWOOD OFF BEECAVE. IT WAS LIKE I WAS IN THE CROWD (WELL ALMOST—-WISH I HAD ACTUALLY BEEN THERE)
By Lizardking
October 24, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this
Took my 17 year old daughter and she was overly impressed with the energy of the Stones. She has witnessed other concerts, but this concert was the best. I just hope this is not the last time we get to see the Stones in Austin. Where was gimme shelter?
By TANYA2U!
October 24, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
I CAN’T BELIEVE THAT Y’ALL, OR ANYBODY IN AUSTIN, IS WHININ ‘BOUT ANYTHAAAAAAAAAAAANG it is/was the ROLLING FRIGGIN STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONES!
By tracy caldwell
October 24, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this
WOW…We have been to 13 Stones concerts and this was one of the best…. We were close to the stage that came out into the crowd and Mick,Keith,Ronnie and Charlie were awesome… The Stones are incredible and we hope they keep entertaining us forever… Thanks Austin….
By PE
October 24, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
They sucked. As a fan of 40+ years I was excited to get to see them. I got bleacher seats for 4. Too bad I was on the left side of the venue and they did the catwalk show on the right side. Our view was completely blocked by the sound/lighting tent. There was no mention of not being able to see the whole show live.I got ripped off and want my money back. Again, they suck.
By Dutchman
October 24, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this
The Stones themselves were great, couldn’t have asked for any more.
Having said that, the yahoo’s with their blankets were a real downer, who the hell do you people think you are claiming a 10’ square for two or three people, morons, I hope your ears ring for a month.
By Jerry
October 24, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
That was the greatest show ever! I hope this will turn Zilker into more of a cultural gathering place.
By Camille LaRue Olsen
October 24, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this
Mick is so fit because he’s an avid runner — I ran 13 miles yesterday morning and the whole time I kept hearing those great songs in my head and pictured Mick shaking his torso and doing his antics and just couldn’t quit smiling. My favorite concert ever!!!
By EC
October 24, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this
I also heard the concert all the way in Lost Creek. INSIDE the house! I think the actual distance is more like 4 miles as the crow flies. Still, that’s pretty far. It might have been because of the wind direction or something, but you could hear it quite well here. I can only imagine how loud it must have been in Barton Hills. VERY COOL, though, to have the STONES in Austin.
By Grape Ape
October 24, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
First off, the band and music was great.
After that - all I have to say is $400 is way too much for anyone to pay to sit a 1/4 mile from the stage. I could see as well as the ppl standing outside the fence watching for free from the entrance. Congratulations to the promoters for ripping everyone off. My whole section felt that way.
By Lori Melton
October 24, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this
All I can say is….GENERAL ADMISSION ROCKS!!
By A true Stones fan
October 24, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
The Stones were fantastic, as usual, but the venue SUCKED! This was my 5th time seeing them and this was the poorest excuse for a venue that I have ever experienced.
What made the organizers think that Zilker was a good place? I usually avoid Zilker for the bigger shows but made an exception just because it was the Stones. I was not at all surprised at how bad the view was.
And for all you $$$ whiners. $95 a ticket to see a band of this caliber is nothing.
By kevin james
October 24, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this
what a nite,what a concert,what a weekend,,,,austin i love you,……
By nanker p.
October 24, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this
The Stones played great because they had to, filming a DVD and playing a hip town for the first time. However they ripped off the public who had to pay $100 or more for seats that didn’t even allow you to see them on stage, so you were reduced to a video screen….next time someone plays Zilker park ,make sure that from where you draw the boundries that the people can see the stage sufficent enough so that the band doesn’t look like a bunch of ants performing…..
By JHaven
October 24, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
Seems to me that Zilker is a great venue for these sorts of events, but their timing needs to be respectful of the sorrounding community. I live 3 miles away and was able to sit in the front yard and listen to the concert. Even at that distance the music was perfectly clear.
And yea, it was kind’a cool… but honestly, with that kind of noise bleeding from Zilker the City and organizers simply must work with the neighborhoods.
By Dana Martinelli
October 24, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this
I came from Houston with my daughter and this was my 5th Rolling Stones Tour Concert with the first one being the Steel Wheels Tour. I previously thought the Voodoo Lounge was my favorite but after this, I think I’ve changed my mind to the Bigger Bang Tour!! I loved it!!
By CK Carver
October 24, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this
It Was Great!!! Happy Birthday to me!!! Thank you Mick and the Boys!!! I’ll always remember this birthday!
By TANYA2U!
October 24, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Stones, for rockin this town’s butt! They ain’t never seen nothin like y’all and probably never will again! So, you had to stand UP. So, you had to pee in a port-a-pot. So, there was SMOKE was in the air. It is only Rock and Roll for cryin out loud. Stay home next time and wait for the friggin DVD. Weather was wonderful. Performance was perfect. A fantastic evening with the World’s GREATEST Rock and Roll Band!
By TX CAT GAL
October 24, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this
Son’s were unable to go, but I have to say that Mick Jagger is an “Aroebic King” I am 42 years of age and that man has the spirit and energy of a 21 year old. Mick and his group rocked so hard I am barely standing from so much fun and music I heard. I took off from work Monday to recuperate. I just knew it was going to be great! I hope he will come back again for everyone needs “health techniques.” You can learn it from the best!
By Carlos
October 24, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this
Wow what an awesome show. The Stones made up for taking 44 years to play Austin by delivering a remarkable, unforgettable, and extraorinary DVD performance for the ages. Upon hearing the announcement before the concert started that this show was being recorded for a DVD the excitement and buzz intensified drastically. Rock on to the Rolling Stones forever!
By George
October 24, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this
The Zilker Park Neighborhood should have no more say about what goes on in Zilker Park than the University neighborhood has a say in how U.T. is run. They are just fortunate to live close to the park, they have no more ownership rights to the park than the people who live in far South Austin or far North Austin. It is taxpayer funded and they are not the only taxpayers. If you don’t like it, move. You’ll get a lot more for your home than it is really worth anyway.
By EB
October 24, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this
We came in from Houston for the show, and what a night! Mick Jagger has endless energy and didn’t even break a sweat until two thirds of the way through the show. The crowd was on cloud nine all night and the anticipation really climaxed when Mick and the boys came down the catwalk 15 feet away!! Can’t wait for the DVD.
By GREG RUFFIN
October 24, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this
THE STONES ARE STILL THE BEST IN ROCK N ROLL. PERIOD. ZILKER PARK RULES
GREETINGS FROM DALLAS.
I GOT IN LINE @ 1:00 AND I WAS 20 ROWS FROM STAGE. FANTASTIC. BRING ON THE DVD.
By Elaine
October 24, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this
The Stones rocked and the day was beautiful. The best part was the catwalk which allowed those of use not able to see the stage to get 15 feet away from these legends!! I could see the twinkle in Mick Jagger’s eyes. They put on a helluva show, defintely the best concert of the year if not the decade. Only wish it would have lasted longer…they have so many great songs
By Lori Melton
October 24, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this
One more thing…..anyone know where to get the Longhorn shirt from the Stones show?
By Lori Melton
October 24, 2006 09:53 AM | Link to this
It was FANTASTIC!
By Lori Melton
October 24, 2006 09:35 AM | Link to this
The show was absolutely fantastic! General Admission got me front row to the B stage! Keith Richard gave me a guitar pick, one side as the tongue, the other reads, “Austin 10/22/06”
What a night!
By Russell
October 24, 2006 09:30 AM | Link to this
The show, setting,and weather combined to create a FANTASTIC evening and the Woodstock generation was out in force and reveled in the music that we grew up on. It was my 8th time to see them and they are indeed the WORLD’S GREATEST ROCK & ROLL BAND. A varied set list with old and new songs, a few chestnuts, and the Waylon song created a wide spectrum for The Stones to showcase their phenomenal talents. The entire event was priceless!!!
By Ramona
October 24, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this
My husband and I drove from Midland, Texas to see the show. Rollings Stones were awesome! The stage was perfect. The people of Austin were nice. We would attend another concert in Zilker park. We had a good time!
By Kitty Best
October 24, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this
Unfortunately I had to give my ticket to someone else due to the dam flu. But he enjoyed it immensely and was thrilled to go so all in all at least someone was happy along with the 89 year old woman next to them! Nice to make someone happy.
By Amy
October 24, 2006 07:31 AM | Link to this
It was absolutley Great! I got up to the front…thanks to my die-hard daughter that waited in line from 8am on….the last time we saw the Stones I was 9 months pregnant with her at the Steel Wheels Tour in LA…really great to come full circle! This concert really rocked….especially loved “Tumbling Dice” and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”……..and we got the Play List! ;)Thanks again for the “seat”, Lacy Jean!
By Susan
October 24, 2006 07:05 AM | Link to this
Absolutely fabulous night. The Stones never fail to put on a fantastic show. My only comment is about the 10pm curfew for the park. I know that they would have played another song in the encore if it weren’t for that curfew. Other than that, I loved it.
By Bethany
October 24, 2006 06:34 AM | Link to this
FANtastic show. Great music and Great Fun. That’s one show I’m glad I decided to go to. Many that didn’t go really missed a Concert of a Lifetime. The Best I’ve Ever Been To. It was a GAS GAS GAS. Peace!
By Angus
October 24, 2006 05:07 AM | Link to this
Now that Memorial Stadium has multimillion dollar grass, there will never be another concert there.
It really bugs me the power the neighborhood associations have over this. It’s not like Zilker just sprang up on them. It’s a 60 year old park.
There was a story in the Statesman where one of the neighborhood association geeks said, “what if U2 wants to come to Zilker?”
I wonder what they have against the Irish.
By Captain Mikey
October 23, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this
It was great to finally see the Stones in Austin. I had feared that it would be impossible to get a good view with the general admission tickets, but it was much better than I thought in that regard. I always like to hear the rarities at a Stones show, but these weren’t my favorites… I guess I just don’t dig the country tunes very much. Overall a great show though… I guess I would rank it at #3 of the 6 times I’ve seen them. Now if only THE WHO would come here!!!! (In TX this Nov. though!)
By Fernando
October 23, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this
It was awesome… this was my third concert and probably the best: they rocked the house, set list was a dream and the effects were incredible. No doubt, they are the world greatest rock and roll band… God bless the Stones
By Deborah
October 23, 2006 10:33 PM | Link to this
one word Priceless!!!!!!!!!1
By Roque Garza
October 23, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
ps.. I drove down from Houston just to make sure I was there… woo hoo!!! I am so glad I did.
By Roque Garza
October 23, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this
Oh my GOD!!!! That all I can really say… I was part of History and enjoyed every moment of it… I will be posting my pic’s and video’s on myspace if you would like to see some more of him… They rocked the park out..
By jim
October 23, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this
stones were great, venue was awesome. bring in more concerts like this. thanks to all who worked so hard to make this a magical night.
By Life is Survival of the Fittest
October 23, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
We were truly blessed to have a general admission show. Reserved seating has no place in Rock n Roll. If you have let yourself go downhill and can’t handle standing up or walking in public then stay home and rent a dvd. Reserved seats usually fill up with old tired people who sit down and generally make a quiet unenthused audience. These tired lazy people bring the energy level down and take the band’s performance quality with it. Long live rock n roll and Zilker Park!!!!
By Brenda
October 23, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
Go Stones! The greatest show on earth! First time to see the Stones and it was priceless. My son and I had the best time rockin and singin!Zilker Park is an awesome venue for the concert! Bring back the Stones! Go Mick!!!
By cheryl
October 23, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
WOW!!! The time of my life! Zilker was perfect—could not have been 15 feet away from the stage in the crowd and the Rolling Stones ALIVE AND IN THE FLESH in Memorial Stadium. The crowd was very cool nearer the front and it was easy to get closer. Have never seen them before and would do it again in a heartbeat. Too bad the orange shirts sold out so fast, though.
By Slimfinger
October 23, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this
My 2nd Stones show, 1st was in 1989, the Voodoo Lounge tour, in Oakland, CA. This show was far better and in fact I’d have to say it was probably the best rock concert I’ve ever seen. The band was incredibly tight and powerful, hard to believe these guys are in their 60s. They still rock, hard. The sound production was excellent, especially for an outdoor venue. The event was well organised and I thought Zilker Park was an excellent venue. I flew from Thailand for the show … rock on boys.
By CH
October 23, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this
Great show (my first Stones concert), definitely worth waiting a few hours to be so close (20 or so feet from the stage) to the Stones. It was amazing to be so close to Mick and the Stones…they put others 40 years younger to shame. I’d love to see more shows in Zilker such as this and ACL. Can’t wait for the dvd.
By Peter
October 23, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this
Perfect venue for this show. The set seemed to fit with the skyline, the pyrotechnics as good as it gets. I saw the Stones at the Rose Bowl and felt this venue more fun and unrestricted. Quite a spectacle. I’m sorry for the people who missed it.
By Jason Chaw
October 23, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this
We were 20 ft from the stage. It was awesome! I hope to age as well as Mick. Man, that guy is in shape! :-)
Best!
By Lacy
October 23, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this
I got to the park at 8am and sprinted to the barrier in the front of central A stage! Definetly worth every penny! I think the general admission added to the energy of the place, if your too old to take it you should have bought bleacher seats 50 yards back!
By Charlotte
October 23, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
Yes the lines were long. Yes the Show started late.Yes it was a long walk. Yes they ran out of t-shirts.All you people should have stayed home. Then the rest of us wouldn’t have had to deal with the above issues. Thank You Stones for a great evening. Thank you Austin for bringing us The Stones in concert. Thank you daughter for our tickets. We two oldies had a blast. A little discomfort goes with the territory.
By Adan Lerma
October 23, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this
Fantastic.
My first Stones concert. Like Mick, a virgin to the event. :-)
By Joe White
October 23, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this
What a great show! Last time I saw the Stones was November 1965 in Knoxville, TN. Unbelievable that their energy and music have come so far. Thanks guys for a once in a lifetime experience.
By Barbara
October 23, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
THANK YOU AUSTIN and all the people who worked hard to put this together. It was the BEST show ever. The wonderfully happy crowd, the weather - it could not have been a better show. ROCK ON STONES.
By David Soliz
October 23, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this
I’ve seen the Stones six times in the last three years and not one them compared to what i witnessed last night!! This set list was by far the greastest i have ever heard!! BEST SHOW OF MY LIFE!! And on top of that the stage was the most entertaining thing my eyes have ever seen!! KEEP ON ROCKING STONES!!
By Mary Edwards-Bailey
October 23, 2006 07:20 PM | Link to this
Wow—the best show I have ever seen, beats pink floyd & U2. The lights and stage were amazing. Was well worth it…I would go see them again
By pinball
October 23, 2006 07:18 PM | Link to this
Worth every dollar, and every hour trying to get out of the herd so my bike and I could zip home.
Fan Friggin Tastic.
By happy2be
October 23, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this
My 61st birthday and Mick and the Stones made it one, if not the most memorable birthdays I have ever had. Only one problem I’m Stone deaf today. Any one know how long it lasts?
By BillyW.
October 23, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this
The Stones were great!!! Nothing bad to be said about Greatest Rock & Roll Band. One of the best I’ve ever seen. But it’s QUITE clear that Austin doesn’t know how to put on a show like this. Austin’s city council NEEDS to come to Houston & learn how shuttle buses work. For the Rodeo your dropped off at the venue’s front door. Here your dropped off 2 miles away. Very poor planning by the city. Due to the poor plans for the concert I wont be back til Austin learns how to do it right.
By Ice
October 23, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this
Usually don’t like the big production shows, but I accept and enjoyed this one. Would have liked a different song selection, but was still happy to hear what I heard. The decible level was good and the nearby neighborhood needs to take one for the team. It’s all about nostalgia, reflecting back on life and the impact the Stones and rock-n-roll have had.
“Gimme Shelter or Gimme Death”
By T-Reb
October 23, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this
The Stones Rocked the Austin House in great style, would go again in a heart beat! The other stuff, quit your bitchen and just rember the Great music, friends and weather.
By Wade Duffy
October 23, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this
My wife, daughter and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary with the Stones. I knew it would be a good show, but it wasn’t, it was GREAT!!! Delays were unfortunate but somewhat expected. The only thing that we didn’t like was the ban on chairs. When the Stones come back we will too!
By Bethany
October 23, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this
FANtastic show. Great music and Great Fun. That’s one show I’m glad I decided to go to. Many that didn’t go really missed a Concert of a Lifetime. The Best I’ve Ever Been To. It was a GAS GAS GAS. Peace!
By Tom Watson
October 23, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this
I have been to seven Stones concerts, my first being in Houston with the Coastliners, Standells and the McCoys in Houston in 1964, I believe. This venue was so great. Ticket - $95. Being 45 feet from the main stage and 5 feet from the Stones at the runway - PRICELESS!
The song selection was amazing. The Stones were so entertaining. Waylon Jennings song was so much fun. I only hope this was not my last time.
By Susan
October 23, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this
Here was the playlist:
You Got Me Rocking Let’s Spend The Night Together She’s So Cold Oh No Not You Again Sway Bob Wills Is Still The King Streets Of Love Ain’t To Proud To Beg B***h Tumblin’ Dice Learning The Game Little T&A Under My Thumb Get Off My Cloud Start Me Up Honky Tonk Woman Sympathy JJ Flash Satisfaction Can’t Always Get What You Want Brown Sugar
By JB
October 23, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this
Great show. Zilker is a wonderful venue for these events and I’m ashamed of my neighborhood association (Zilker) for holding the City and event planners hostage over hosting these events at the park. Our neighborhood isn’t disrupted much at all now that the police help with traffic — you have to be awfully bitter to complain.
Oh, there were tons of toilets too to the side to the food court. I don’t know how they were missed by the people saying there weren’t enough.
By lakesnake
October 23, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this
Mick and the Stones were AWESOME! My first time to see them, but one of the BEST concerts ever! Zilker is nice because of its size, but too hard to get there and getting out was even worse! I liked Auditorium Shores or Southpark Meadows better!
By diane
October 23, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this
Okay, so I really enjoyed the last half of the show, but what was the deal with the projector on the jumbotron going off during about three of the best (imho) songs? Dang. For those of us who weren’t close enough to see the stage, we were in the dark all that time. Bummer!
By LIL
October 23, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this
The event itself was AWESOME!!! Those who complain must live a boring life. The taxi cab situation still needs work. A third company is truely needed!!!!!
By Jeff
October 23, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this
Forget ACL forever, the Stones rocked A-town. This is the kind of entertainment worthy of the title: Live Music Capital of the World. Not since the Armadillo days, have I seen such a rock show in Austin, TX.
Congratulations to all those folks who helped make it happen!
Rock on Rolling Stones.
By Natacha
October 23, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this
I wish I could have seen the stage. For the scale of the event, the location of the stage was not well thought. If not for the gigantic screen, I wouldn’t have seen anything, like when tthe ballon tongue come out of the screen. I don’t agree about using ONE EXIT only, it could have been a disaster. Accolades for capital metro and the full fleet of buses waiting for us. Thanks Austin for letting this happen.
By Natacha
October 23, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
It was my first time seeing them and I enjoyed it a lot! I’m not a fan so I’ve seen other bands with more compelling shows to me. Nevertheless, I was impressed by the amount of energy and physical shape of Jagger, he has the same age as my dad but has more stamina than me!
By laura
October 23, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
AWESOME show, the best! Does anyone know how to find lost items? As we were lifted out over the crowd (because he got dizzy), my friend lost his camera and binoculars.
By Laura
October 23, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
AWESOME show, the best! It was great to see a show like that in AUSTIN! It was so worth it & the rush of all the people. Does anyone know how to find lost items from the show?? My friend “got sick” close to the stage before the show and we were escorted away. We were both lifted over the crowd, lost our place. My other friend and I remained next to VIP backstage where we watched the show. I am still in a daze from being so close to it all!