Chevelle in Oregon!

Roseburg, OR August 7, 2015

The Douglas Co. Fair was in full swing and they brought one of my all-time favorite bands to town to play for them, Chevelle.  A great group of humble guys (family) that can put on a rockin' show.  The crowd was outstanding with warm welcomes and loud Oregon pride cheers as they performed.  

I have had the opportunity to meet Sam Loeffler at the Aftershock Festival in Sacramento CA in 2014.  SO nervous being the first person I have photographed or talked to who is very well known in the music industry, and just star struck at the fact I got to shake his hand.  Got his autograph and was on cloud 9!  But to my amazement, I got that opportunity again.  Ya, I got to meet them all this time before their show. 

As I watched everyone go through meet and greet, I noticed everyone just got their pic taken and took off. As I got up there, I asked, “Can I ask a few questions?” of course the tour mgr said, yes.  SO I walked up, shook their hands and it was so cool to be noticed and remembered.  Sam remembered the nervous girl behind the camera, and how incredibly hot it was at that show.  Got my pic with them and then I started talking.  Trying to assure that I did not trip over any words or look to nervous.  I did OK..

So being new to riding and an experienced crasher… LOL… I had to ask since I have seen posts of motorcycle riding.  I asked them all if they rode, Sam is the only one who really did, Dean (bassist) does a little.  I asked Sam, “where is your favorite places to ride?  Sam “I really like riding through the Red Woods, and there is another place from Vail Colorado where the road twits and turns all the way into Denver.” I was so excited to hear he loved to ride in our neck of the woods. Yes the Red Woods are amazing. 

I then asked Sam what his play list was when riding.  Sam “Well, I don’t listen to music when riding, really not ever.”  I understand that music is his career, so I am sure it would be an overload, his response “If I listen to music, I can enjoy it, I would just end up picking it apart.”  I understand that!!  After that he asked me if I rode, I said yes, for the most part. Told him I was trying to get back in the saddle after a good wreck.  He stated, to “just gear up, cause you never know.”  I agreed..

Though our conversation was short, I have to say it left a lasting impression and memories.  This was one HUGE step for this girl to suck it up and just go with the flow and not let nerves overtake a situation or opportunity.   I felt quite special taking pics for this event and of Chevelle's show.  I was the only one allowed behind the barricade and got a little more freedom than any of the other photogs there.  Not sure as to why, but I guess it is all on who you talk to. 

Thank you Jackie from Indegoot and Chevelle for the amazing show and for giving this girl some time.