It’s an exciting time for music fans in and around Naperville. It’s that time when we find out what musical gifts we’ll be given come July. That’s right, Ribfest has started booking guests, and this year is already personally exciting for me.
The music of Supertramp was always readily available when I was growing up. My big brother, Glenn, was a sax player, and this was a band that incorporated the instrument into its classic rock formula. Glenn was particularly fond of their singer and main songwriter, Roger Hodgson, and has followed Hodgson’s career closely. So, you can imagine his excitement when I informed him that Roger was playing in our backyard.
I have many personal memories of Hodgson and Supertramp as well. I remember sitting in front of the turntable with my lifelong friend Ken Anderson and the lyric sheet to the hit “The Logical Song.” Ken and I decided we would learn every last word to the song one day. After about 8 hours and 90 repetitions, we had it down pat. That day still lives with me, as I can still recite every word to this day.
Hodgson has donated his time and signature song “Give a Little Bit” to help raise funds for Tsunami Relief, Red Cross, UNICEF, and Hurricane Katrina efforts as well as other worthy causes over the years. Glenn and I had a chance to meet this great man after a performance a few years ago, and it was something I will never forget.
I’d like to personally welcome Roger to our great community, and invite anyone who loves great music to mark July 5 on your calendar.
