Alright I know what you may be thinking. This is just another “fanatic” Stevie Nicks fan. Well you are not all that wrong. However, I stand by the singular title and this is why.
In addition to her amazing music, her unique voice, her mystique, her magical presence and her love for her audience we got to meet one of the soldiers who survived serious brain trauma. Stevie had visited him at some of her many trips to Walter Reed Army Hospital.
PFC Vincent Mannion and his family were introduced after Stevie sang Soldier’s Angel. This song is on her latest album In Your Dreams. But she had long given a copy of the comforting words to the countless soldiers she visited and if just for a moment took away some of their pain. She always knew she would record it as it was their song.
It was beyond emotional as photos of Stevie visiting with Vincent and his family were shown as she sang the song. When Vincent and his family walked onstage they were greeted with wild and warm applause. Stevie spoke about how the support of his strong Irish family contributed so much to his recovery as they were not going to leave that hospital without him.
Vincent, his mom, dad, and sister were all introduced by Stevie and each spoke to the audience. There was hardly a dry eye in the house as the emotion and joy of the moment along with the fear that it might never have happened just overwhelmed you. Vincent said to Stevie, "You’re my best friend.” and that spoke volumes about his love for and gratitude to Stevie.
The concert itself was memorable as Stevie bravely sang six songs from her new album after announcing that this was not a “greatest hits tour”. The new songs were Secret Love, Moonlight (A Vampire’s Dream), Soldier’s Angel,as mentioned, For What It’s Worth and Annabel Lee, my two favorites and Ghosts Are Gone. Stevie did a mesmerizing version of my classic favorite Gold Dust Woman. In addition Enchanted, Dreams, Stand Back, Rhiannon, Leather and Lace performed with her vocal coach, Steve Real, and Landslide all were sung with the love and conviction that Stevie still has for these timeless songs.
Stevie did Edge of Seventeen for her finale and at the conclusion walked across the front of the stage receiving gifts and flowers and shaking hands with her adoring fans. I can tell you I’ve had the joy of meeting Stevie at the stage many times and it is a thrill. This is a very special gift that Stevie gives to her fans.
For the encore Stevie did Love Is and said that we could interpret it any way we want. She was chatty throughout the concert giving some background about many of the songs especially the new ones.
At the conclusion once again Vincent and his family came onstage to enthusiastic applause and they all took the traditional bow with Stevie and her band. Stevie again thanked us for our support and especially for the way we welcomed Vincent. She said she would never forget this night and just how special it was to have Vincent there and for the reception he received.
Stevie lingered at the stage waving to us and Vincent leaning over even shook hands with a few fans. Stevie ever caring and motherly said, “Be Careful” to him. It was an honor to be in the audience for this most unforgettable evening.
Please Note Regarding the Photo: In the foreground you see Stevie Nicks about to embrace PFC Vincent Mannion. On the screen behind you see Vincent with his mother and father.
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