Music Journalists Are Rock Stars Too, Right?

Last night I had the extreme pleasure of visiting The Kessler Theatre in Dallas' historic Oak Cliff neighborhood, where I was in attendance for the Wanda Jackson show.

Now, I already had her latest album, "The Party Ain't Over", and had purchased tickets for the event well in advance, but what made the show special for me (aside from obtaining Jackson's autograph) was that I was in attendance from the perspective of both fan and journalist. Yes, last night was my first official foray into music journalism, with camera in hand and iPhone by my side to take notes.

It was an interesting high for me, being able to enjoy such a show as a fan and professional. Granted, I wasn't being paid to cover the concert. I've been merely serving as a contributing arts and music writer for a friend's entertainment website, Boomstick Comics. Perhaps actual cash will grace my palms somewhere down the road.

Music journalism has always fascinated me, ever since being a journalism student in high school. I was able to cover a concert event here and there for my school paper, if I happened to be traveling to a show. I don't think I'll ever reach Cameron Crowe or Ben Fong Torres status with my music writing, but it is a fun side gig that allows me to be even more immersed in the music I love.

Wanda Jackson's show, with backing band The King Bucks, was fantastic. Even though she was fighting a sore throat and a grueling tour schedule, she managed to keep on trucking through her set list, as well as entertain the crowd with bits of storytelling interspersed, recounting her times with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and of course, Jack White and her new record. Jackson confessed to the crowd she rarely speaks so candidly about her life and career. In doing so, she was able to keep her vocal chords loose (in addition to the help of her glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.) Thankfully and surprisingly, the crowd was very respectful and encouraging, something I haven't really experienced with a Dallas audience before.

The King Bucks absolutely blew me away. They really hadn't had any time to rehearse with Jackson prior to the evening's events, and stuck by thick and thin, playing some of the best live rockabilly and country music I've heard in a long time. I compare them to the awesomeness of The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers. I was really happy to know they are from Dallas, so I'll be seeking out more of their shows in the future.

Prior to Jackson coming out on stage, The King Bucks blazed through an incredible version of Bob Dylan's "You Ain't Going Nowhere", which really got the crowd into a good mood.

This was my first time visiting The Kessler since they opened about a year ago, and I was impressed with the intimate venue. It holds a few hundred people comfortably, and the acoustics and speaker system sounded top notch. I didn't walk out of the theatre feeling I had my ears blasted off, like I have with some venues in Dallas. From what I understand, last night's show was the most attended show The Kessler has had. I hope it is a sign that more well-known acts will look to this tiny gem and bring more solid entertainment to Dallas.

By the end of the night, Jackson, looking very tired and ready for bed, managed to sit through with what I presume to be another few hours of signing autographs to eagerly awaiting fans. As I didn't get out of the theatre until after 1am, (with prized autograph in hand) I wondered just how long the guy at the end of the line had to wait for his. I happened to be the fifth person in line, thankfully.

For those wanting to check out my official review from last night's show, click here. Also, check out the candid after show Q&A session recorded by The Kessler here. The video sure beats out my failed attempt of recording the audio portion on my phone. Apparently, you actually have to press 'record' on the voice memo app if you want to capture sound. A rookie mistake, yes. Next time, I'll be better prepared...

I'm not sure what my next show to review will be, but rest assured, I will be posting quite a bit about my experiences here. Boomstick Comics and myself have already been in talks with the other area music venues about press coverage, and we'll get to pick and choose who we want to review. Not a bad gig, huh? Who knows where this will lead???