What concerts that you regret not seeing when you were young?

[ksinger]

In 1980 I passed on seeing both Spirogyra, and Jackson Browne. I wasn't about to go out with the guy who asked me. But dang, it hurt each time I said no.

 

[ksinger]

Ah yes, I would have loved to see Joni Mitchell and James Taylor.

IIRC I've been to only three concerts of non-classical artists, Joan Baez, Natalie Cole, and Bruce Cockburn.

To me the concert experience has never held much appeal.
I hate crowds.
Non-classical concerts are too loud and the sound on the CD/record is vastly superior, cheaper, and can be enjoyed over and over.

I find nothing magical about being in the presence of a 'special' person, or go for laser light shows.
I don't get starstruck.
Living in LA for most of my life I've seen many celebs surrounded by frenzied gawkers.
I walk the other way or ask the waiter if we can move to a table far from the hubbub where I'll sit with my back to the celeb.
Everybody's shit stinks the same.

And here I thought I was a snob. I agree that most recorded stuff is better, and I'm not easily starstruck. I'm not a fan of huge concerts either, but still, a non-classical concert doesn't have to be huge or have laser lights. I prefer smaller, more intimate venues because I'm not into crowds either. Happily, the type of music I like is generally done in smaller venues. Which is handy, because larger concerts usually give flyover country a miss.

My favorites have been Narciso Yepes, Christopher Parkening (both classical, 'tis true), 3 times(!) seeing Michael Hedges, Kenny G (he had an amazing amazing band) and Loreena McKennitt. And John Denver. I was a fan of his music back in the day, but knew little of the man. I was amazed and impressed by what rapport he had with the audience. He was a true performer with a warm stage presence. I'm glad I got to see him.

I've seen a few others outside of classical stuff, that could be considered concerts, but haven't been to anything in quite a while.

 

[kenny]

Ksinger, if we ever meet (if I may) I'll pull out a guitar and play/sing some John Denver for you.
I'm not half bad.

 

[t-c]

NKOTB!

I don’t know if you’re kidding, but I was at one of these all-day music festivals sponsored by my local radio station and New Kids On The Block was the headliner (it could have been N’Sync, but definitely a 5-person singing dancing group). My friends and I went for the alternative music acts so we had planned to leave once they were done, but somehow we were still there when NKOTB came on and with a smirk, we decided to stay to see what the girls were screaming about. O.M.G. They were awesome! We had so much fun, we ended up screaming along

Off the top of my head, I’ve seen all the performers I wanted to see live. I had friends really into music and dragged me to all sorts of concerts. If I had regret, it’s not seeing a band at a specific venue or point in their career when I had the chance (U2’s free concert at Justin Herman Plaza — some friends skipped class; I didn’t).

 

[Mayk]

We recently missed Tom Petty when he was in Florida. Had tickets and had to let them go due to an illness in the family. When he died in California at the end of his tour it became a sad regret.

The Cars. I was invited but not interest in the guy asking. I hope they tour again if they get in the RRHF this year.

 

[stracci2000]

Led Zeppelin and the Pretenders.