Let me tell ya, Friday night at Red Clay was one for the books. We set out to do something downright crazy: play both Moving Pictures and Signals in full and slip in our brand-new original, “Lost and Found.” Pulling that off meant guest players, extra rehearsals, and a lot of prayer that everyone’s calendars would line up. Miraculously, they did.
I practiced Signals every single day. That album is a beast, but little by little the notes settled into muscle memory. Suddenly show day was here. I got to the theater early, did the hair-and-makeup routine, and soaked up some backstage hang time with my band brothers. At 7:55 p.m. we slipped behind the curtain, hearts pounding. This was it.
We opened with “Dreamline,” then rolled into “The Pass” with our friend Jeff Blanks adding gorgeous keys. Along the way, I gave shout-outs: a birthday message for Jay from Debra, props to Jack who flew in from Michigan, and a huge thank-you to seven-year-old Maverick for the poster of us floating away on balloons (my heart still melts).
Then came Moving Pictures. Casey cued up the South Park intro, we hit “Tom Sawyer,” and the crowd roared. By the time we wrapped “Camera Eye,” they were on their feet—first standing O of the night. We closed the set with “Spirit of Radio,” and they yelled “concert halls!” right back at me. More applause, more gratitude.
After a quick break, we brought out violinist Justin Shuffler for “Animate.” His bow practically caught fire. So good. Next, the big moment: I told the story behind “Lost and Found,” invited Rob Dwyer out on acoustic, and sang from the very bottom of my soul. I couldn’t believe the song had come full circle! When the last chord rang, the house exploded. Longest ovation of the night. I hugged Rob, then Reese, then Ed, then Casey. I was so grateful for their talent and care. Lost and found, indeed.
Time for the final mountain: Signals. “Subdivisions,” “Analog Kid,” “Digital Man,” all the way through. Justin returned for “Losing It,” and his soaring solo made the room hold its breath. Another standing O. What an experience and a privilege to watch him play! We wrapped the album with “Countdown,” then sent everyone home on the epic sweep of “Xanadu.”
House lights up, I perched on the stage edge, signing books and hugging fans who raved about Justin, the albums, and our new song. Their love is fuel. We aimed high and, thanks to them, reached the stars.
All I can say is that we had a ball, and that our fans are truly the best in the world.
Can’t wait to chase the next crazy dream. Until then, Rush on.
