Respected for his incalculable influence on both jazz and rock, Billy Cobham is an important drummer – and one that I had never seen perform.

I saw body surfing up close at this Motorhead show, almost became an unwilling member in a mosh pit, and escaped unscathed. Who could ask for more?

People come to worship this band, not necessarily to enjoy themselves. A King Crimson concert is serious business.

Katy Perry’s concert was spectacle on the grandest of scales played out on an enormous, ever-changing stage. And the music wasn’t bad, either.

I didn’t get decked, and I did ask Glen Campbell to sign my album.

Garry Tallent assured us that this “was not going to be any four-hour concert.” He laughed, “I only know one person crazy enough for that!”

In spite of various career frustrations, Dave Mason’s name recognition was sufficient to pack the Turner Hall Ballroom in Milwaukee.

Marty Stuart calls his backing band the Fabulous Superlatives – and, the thing is, they live up to his claim on every tune.

La Original Banda el Limon, Banda Maguey and others performed at the gorgeous Eagles Club Ballroom – a space built for the likes of Glenn Miller.

Wicked Realm should be proud that they can make these songs come alive. Prouder still should be Milwaukee for being able to call them our own.