Alabama, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band & Diane Chase

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The photos of the Alabama Concert that took place in Kitchener, ON last night are up and running! The concert was an absolute smash......approximately 4500 fans filled the Kitchener Auditorium to see three long-awaited acts - Alabama, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and our local "Country Gal", Diane Chase. 820 CHAM hosted the event and it was a pleasure to see Joel Christie, Linda Martelli, Wendy Haennel, and Matt Bazinet at the event. Linda and Joel introduced Diane Chase and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

Diane opened the show accompanied by CCMA nominated and OCPFA Award winner, Jason Barry. Diane sang 4 of her hit songs from her current album, "In The Middle of Something". Diane has been opening for Alabama for the entire 'cross Canada tour. When this tour is over, Diane will be participating in the successful "Huron Carole" Christmas tour.

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band was up next. After 35 years of recording hit songs and touring, they were still at their best and fans gave them a standing ovation. They sang many songs including hits such as "Dance Little Jean", "Mr. Bojangles", "Fishin' In The Dark", "American Dream" and "Cadillac Ranch". It was my first time seeing them live and I was thrilled! Can't wait to see them again.

I've seen Alabama live many times and each time is just as thrilling as the last. They always give such an energetic show, performing countless hit songs, and interacting with the audience. Randy Owen, Alabama's lead singer, pulled a thrilled fan, Janet, from Burlington, ON up on the stage and sang her requested song of "Lady Down on Love" to her. Randy got birthday girl, Dawn, onstage and sang Happy Birthday to her. She was so excited I thought she was going to attack him! The highlight of the whole performance was during the encore when Randy sang "Angels Among Us", my personal favourite. Fans lit their bic's and the auditorium was sparkling in the dark during the entire song. It brought another standing ovation and cheers from the enthusiastic crowd.

As the happy fans made their way out of the building, I went to say "hi" to Diane Chase and Jason Barry and then made my way to the Alabama Meet & Greet. I was to meet the Spirit 91.7 FM contest winner, Patty Estrela, St. Catherines, ON, there and take some photos of them meeting the members of Alabama. Patty and her husband George got to meet Randy Owen, Mark Herndon, and Teddy Gentry, and, after sharing brief conversations, got photos and autographs. I even got a photo taken with Randy after he took my camera and gave it to Julie Calabrese (BMG). Also is a photo of CHAM’s Wendy Haennel, Teddy Gentry and Wendy’s Fiancé.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and I can't wait to see them again!

Alabama

with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Diane Chase

Kitchener Auditorium, Kitchener, ON

Oct. 23rd, 2001

***Please click on any photo to see a larger version***

(All photos except the last are taken by Marti Clayton. They may not be used or distributed for commercial purposes without express written permission by the owner)