Each of us, in our own way, have had interactions with Bob Shane and The Kingston Trio. We each have our own stories, favorites songs, concerts and wonderful memories …….Mine is very simple, as a 15 year old kid I had the occasion to see them in concert at the Uline Arena in Washington DC
I managed to get back into the dressing room area and met David Buck Wheat, he introduced me to the others. About six months later they appeared in a Night Club in DC, The Casino Royal. You had to be at least 18 to attend, that was the minimum drinking age for beer and wine, in DC at that time. I had not actually gone there to see the show, I was only 15, I had hoped to hang around out back of the club and see them when they arrived. Soon the staff began coming to work and I went in to use the rest room, I then walked around the empty clubroom and seated myself near the stage entrance. The Trio arrived and I ran out to greet them, it seemed they, somewhat remembered me from the earlier show, Nick and Bob picked up their instruments and I picked up a guitar case too. We walked in together and they vanished into the dressing area. No body from the Club staff seemed to notice me, so I sat down at a small table near the stage. I watched as they came out and did a sound check. Soon the audience began to arrive and as the lights dimmed the show began. After the first song, during a little stage patter, an employee noticed me and questioned me about a ticket and ID. To my surprise, Bob looked down and said, “Hey, he’s okay, he’s with us” there was some laughter and light applause from the audience. When the show was over I was invited back into the dressing room. I met every one and I was given an address of their office so I could stay in touch. I did stay in touch!! And that meeting resulted in 63 years of friendship with everything Kingston, and continues even today. WOW! What a long and wonderful ride that was.
I know, for an absolute fact, many of you have had similar recollections of wonderful interactions with Bob and the Trio. Some of you, Max, Gene, myself and a few others have attended meaningful concerts and KT outings together. And we’ve shared many wonderful stories. I still remain in touch with Bobbie, George, Rick, David Peel and others from those wonderful years long ago.
Bob Shane, during his 86 years managed to build a successful life, and along his journey - through all the fun and folly – he has made an enduring positive influence on the lives of most of the people he met.
Ralph Waldo Emerson -- 19th century poet, on the subject of success wrote the following, it sure sounds like he was talking about Mr. Bob Shane
“We should strive to laugh often, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of our friends; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and ignore false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find only the best in others; and to leave this earth a bit better place; to know that at least one life has breathed easier because you have lived here. This is to have succeeded!!! If this poets idea of success is factual, and I believe it is, Then, Bob, my long time pal, You Have Made It
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