The little festival that could turns 50
with his band Savuka, was exceptionally emotionally charged, timed as it was with the recent release of Nelson Mandela and the upcoming free elections in South Africa.
ZZ Top (2005) I have no idea how I managed to get myself wedged into the midst of a pack of cracked-out, boozebaked bikers driven to frenzy by the hirsute hillbilly rockers, but there I was, struggling to control panic and claustrophobia, while wriggling myself to safety.
Sarah Mclachlan (2012) Following the afternoon sound check, the awed superstar told a clutch of journalists she had not performed in the city since 1993. A reporter promptly produced a ticket from that show at Salle Albert Rousseau. Later that night the ethereal songstress, clearly affected emotionally by the experience, entranced a rapt crowd in a thoroughly packed Plains bowl.
Metric/half Moon Run (2012) It’s one of the wonders of FEQ’S spinning wheel of talent that people’s favourite bands may end up on the same bill. This came to pass at the Parc de la Francophonie site on a magical night when both Metric and HMR were particularly on fire with new hit albums.
Johnny Hallyday (2014) The veteran French rocker, now 74, is still touring though battling lung cancer. He was in fine form a few years ago when he returned to Quebec City after an absence of 30 years. He took time out during his visit to ride a motorcycle for the benefit of the Pat Burns cancer charity.
Billy Joel (2014) Being a fan of the Piano Man for a long time, it was a treat to have him fetch up in front of the monster crowd on the Plains. He seemed blown away himself, declaring “I’ve been doing this damn job for 50 years and never played Quebec. What the #$@% took me so long!” (Or words to that effect). Amazing show, with a sea of fans singing a chorus or two of his signature tune acapella.
The Rolling Stones (2015) A particularly memorable moment, apart from general astonishment at Mick and Keith’s ageless agility, was when a normally sedate and serious local politician, in a state of ecstatic delirium, was heard declaring “this is the greatest night of my life.” In the top half, for sure, eh?
We could go on and on, but to wrap this, let’s just say for kicks … Keith Urban (2015). Not only was he a most disarmingly humble country-rock deity in a preshow interview, he totally delivered on DEAR EDITOR;
Owhat has probably become a bit of a slogan for FEQ performers and fans alike: Now, THAT was the best show EVER.
And so many of them were over the past 50 years. Thanks, FEQ.
n behalf of the Richmond Legion I would like to thank the people who made our CANADA DAY 150 PARADE and ELVIS SHOW possible.
•First and foremost the Town of Richmond for the use of the ARENA as well as the services of several employees.
•The municipalities of Canton de Melbourne and Cleveland for their generous funding and participation.
•Donations were also received from the Agricultural Society, and Caisse Desjardins.
•Thank you to our local Maxi store who is always very generous and supportive of all our events.
•John Deere and J N auto – the use of your vehicles and drivers is greatly appreciated and thank you also to all the other chauffeurs for our distinguished guests and floats.
•Thank you to Karine Vallieres, Députée de Richmond, and her father Yvon, Mayor Martel, Alain Rayes, Député de Richmond-arthabaska, and all the parade participants - it was a wonderful parade, because you came and participated!
•Thank you Sarah Oakley and friends for leading our parade on your beautiful horses and we can’t forget our Parade Route security volunteers.
And last, but not least “THANK YOU” Richmond Legion - Branch 15 executive members and Canada Day Committee. Our Ladies Auxiliary gave out candy along the parade route, and both Branch and Auxiliary members contributed to a Bake Sale raising funds for the parade and Elvis Show. Great job everyone!
DEBRA KNOWLES, PRESIDENT RICHMOND
The Record welcomes your letters to the editor. Please limit your letters to 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, legality and taste. Please ensure there is a phone number or email where you can be reached, to confirm authorship and current town/city of residence. Names will not be withheld but the address and phone number of the writer are not published, except by request. Preference is given to writers from the Eastern Townships.