The entire drive (about 5 to 5.5 hours) to Las Vegas I just kept playing in my head over and over different scenarios for how this weekend could pan out. That is something I have done forever. I try to think of every possibility that could happen, that way no matter what actually does happen I can be ready. Or at least pretend. I was extremely excited. This band has gotten me through all my bad days and most of my good ones. Whenever I'm having a down day all I have to do is throw some of their music on and everything seems a little bit better. It's strange, but honestly 95% of their lyrics feel like they were written for me or about things I'm dealing with in my own life. To the point that it freaks me out a little how spot on they are. I can't go one day without listening to one of their songs. It just doesn't feel right. So the entire drive down I tried to think of what I could possibly say to the people that basically write the soundtrack to my soul.
We finally rolled in and checked in at the Hard Rock Hotel. I have absolutely no idea why it had taken me so long to finally stay at this hotel because it was the shit. Not too far off the strip and it was such an awesome place to stay! We walked in the doors and there sat the drum kit that belonged to "The Rev" from Avenged Sevenfold. I knew then that this was my homeland and that there would be many more nights spend in this hotel in my life time. I've always loved the Hard Rock Cafes that I've been to around the world, so I knew I would like this place. Not to mention it is where the flagship store for Affliction is located-I knew then that I was hooked for life. I refused to let myself go into the store because I knew that I would only end up leaving after spending entirely too much money. So I'm taking a rain check until May or October when I will be back.
After a day of playing on the strip and having a great time, it was time to head to the box office to do the meet and greet. As soon as I hopped in that elevator I swore I was going to pass out or throw up. I don't recall the last time I was so nervous. I'm just an average joe that has basically stalked this band for the last 5 years without their knowledge. Not to mention I am completely terrified of famous people in general. As I was waiting in line I almost regretted doing this because I was terrified and knew that no matter what I was going to botch this up. I have literally chased these guys across the country, having seen them 5 times in 5 states within the last year. I didn't want to go all "fangirl" on them and tell them how obsessed I was with them ( like I'm sure every other person there did). It almost felt like exploiting them. I guess that is just the nature of the beast. Their tour manager was really cute and a super funny and nice guy. I liked meeting him as much as I liked meeting the band. Now not only am I obsessed with this band on a "spiritual" level I guess you could say, but I also have a MEAN crush on Shaun Morgan-the lead singer (also, like every freaking girl there I'm sure). To the point that when I finally walked around that curtain and saw him standing there I thought my heart was going to stop. Like, I was pretty sure I was going to need some CPR or something. I shook hands with all the guys and was so completely terrified to even stand next to Shaun. He gave me the sweetest smile and once again I didn't want to go all fangirl on him, so I took the next best thing. Their very hot bass player. He was equally sweet and talked to me more than anyone else did. All in all it was a pretty short encounter, but it was worth every penny. I didn't talk to them as much as I wanted (or really much at all, it was more of a chat while we take your picture together kind of deal), but I hope that they could tell by the giant smile on my face how much they meant to me. Will I ever meet them again? Probably not, but a girl can dream! Another bonus of buying said VIP meet and greet package was all the sweet swag we got. A signed poster, a signed set list from that night, a drawstring bag and a pretty sweet beanie. All of which will be my most prized possessions until the day I die.
After the meet and greet it was concert time. Islander and Kyng opened the concert and did a pretty great job. I have always loved Kyng, so seeing them again was an added bonus. Seether freaking killed their set. They did such a great job and I was all too sad when their set came to a rousing end with "Remedy". Every time I see them ( I do believe this was at least my 8th time seeing them) I don't want their set to end. Ever. Shaun has so much soul for what he does and it just oozes out of him. For me, he embodies the true meaning of rock music. I love that quote by Bono that says " Pop music often tells you everything is OK, while rock music tells you it's not OK, but you can change it". Papa Roach came on to close out the night and did a stellar job as always. Jacoby may be the most energetic performer I have ever seen and I love it. He gives all he's got for every crowd at every show no matter how big or small. Not to mention how much love and respect he has for his fans. You can tell how aware he is that without the fans, he is nothing. I respect the hell out of him for that.
All in all it was a pretty spectacular weekend. One I will never forget. I can't help but feel so blessed for all the opportunities I have in life. There are so many people who keep telling me how lucky I am, and you know what? I am lucky. Out of all the people I know and lives I see, I wouldn't trade mine for anything. I have so many more awesome adventures coming my way this year and I can't wait. You only live once and I'm going to take the time that I have and enjoy every second. Life is too short for regrets. I am going to the Hellyeah/Like A Storm/Devour the Day concert this Friday which I'm completely stoked about. Then I have a month or so to recover from this last weekend's escapades before heading on my next adventure. Sadly it's not concert related, but hey I've got to keep a little balance! So the moral of this story is, if you want to know anything about me, just put on some Seether (especially the "Holding Onto Strings Better Left to Fray" album) and you will find out all you need to know about me. This band has changed my life and made the bad days more bearable. Check them out. I've posted a link below for one of my favorite songs. From one rockoholic to another. And remember, it's not just music-it's a way of life.
