CDD Christmas In The Heartland Tour 2007

GENERAL: Tour Dates

2007-12-31T22:33:00.000-05:00

Magical Holiday Christmas Tour 2007

Although we make every attempt to make this list as up-to-date as possible, head over to the Clayboard where Joy2talk2u has a list of concert dates and ticketing information that is updated on a regular basis.

Date	City	Venue	More Info/Tickets
November 26, 2007	Wichita, KS	Central Christian Church	On sale 8 PM CDT Sept. 4 through iTickets.com \| More info
November 27, 2007	St. Louis, MO	Fox Theatre	TBA \| More info
November 28, 2007	South Bend, IN	Morris Auditorium	On sale Sept. 15 @ 10 AM EDT via venue website \| More info
November 29, 2007	Waukegan, IL	Genesse Theater	On sale June 29 (venue members' presale)/June 30 (public onsale) via Ticketmaster. \| More info
November 30, 2007	Kalamazoo, MI	Miller Auditorium	Venue presale Oct. 10, public on sale Oct. 11 \| More info
December 2, 2007	Washington D.C.	Warner Theater	On sale Aug. 24 at 10 AM EDT through Ticketmaster \| More info
December 4, 2007	Wilkes Barre, PA	F.M. Kirby Center	Venue member tickets on sale Sept. 14; Public on sale Sept. 19 thru venue \| More info
December 6, 2007	New Brunswick, NJ	State Theatre	On sale Aug. 29 at 10 AM EDT \| More info
December 7, 2007	Albany, NY	Palace Theatre	On sale Oct. 6 at 10 AM EDT through Ticketmaster \| More info
December 8, 2007	Poughkeepsie, NY	Mid-Hudson Civic Center	TBA \| More info
December 9, 2007	Uncasville, CT	Mohegan Sun Casino & Resort	On sale Oct. 27 @ 10 AM local \| More info
December 11, 2007	Red Bank, NJ	Count Basie Theater	Now on sale... official on sale date: Aug. 1 \| More info
December 12, 2007	Easton, PA	State Theatre	Venue member on sale Sept. 27 @ 10 AM EDT; Public on sale Oct. 3 \| More info
December 13, 2007	Morristown, NJ	Mayo Center for the Performing Arts	OFC presale sales begin August 13 through venue website; public on sale through website begin August 15 \| More info
December 15, 2007	Williamsport, PA	Community Arts Center	On sale Sept. 25 @ 10 AM EDT through venue website \| More info
December 16, 2007	Erie, PA	Erie Civic Centre Complex	On sale Oct. 27 through Ticketmaster \| More info
December 17, 2007	Cleveland, OH	Playhouse Square Center	On sale Oct. 27 \| More info
December 19, 2007	Minneapolis, MN	Orchestra Theater	Aug. 13 to public through venue website \| More info
December 20, 2007	Minneapolis, MN	Orchestra Theater	On sale June 25 to orchestra subscribers; Aug. 13 to public \| More info
December 21, 2007	Omaha, NE	Orpheum Theater	On sale 9 AM CDT to venue subscribers, public/fanclub on sale TBA \| More info
December 22, 2007	Merrillville, IN	Star Plaza Theater	Pre-sale: June 29; Public on sale: June 30 ... both via Ticketmaster \| More info

GENERAL: Jesse Vargas' Christmas In The Heartland Tour Photos

2007-12-29T18:33:00.001-05:00

Clay's musical conductor and pianist Jesse Vargas has posted some cute photos from the recent Christmas tour which wrapped up last week.

MINNEAPOLIS: CDD's J4Clay's Concert Review

2007-12-24T18:25:00.000-05:00

I just returned from my trip to Minneapolis to see Clay in two Christmas concerts. So for your reading pleasure (I hope its pleasurable), here is my summary of that trip...the good and the bad, and Clay's concerts...the awesome!

My plane didn't leave till 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, so I had to go to work all....day....long. Its hard to work when you know you will be leaving to see Clay soon. Thankfully, I work not far from the airport, so I got there in about 15-20 minutes with traffic. I got to the airport in plenty of time to even stop and get a bite to eat. So it was nice and leisurely for a change. No rushing to catch a flight because I'm running late.

I walked down to my gate (which somehow always manages to be the last one). We started loading not real long after I got there. Now, I have a chronic lung condition that means I have breathing problems on occasion. When I got on the plane, it was HOT, I mean hot, humid, and stuffy. For whatever reason, the air was not working unless the plane was in motion (it did cool down later on). I was already having a difficult time with my breathing, so this just made it worse. I got to my seat, sat down a little while, but kept feeling as though I couldn't breath. So I told one of the flight attendants my dilemma...that because of a lung condition I have and because of the heat on the plane, I was having a little trouble breathing. Did they have oxygen I could use until the plane cooled down. Well, she started checking my pulse (which she never could find -- guess she thought I was the living dead sitting there), felt me and said I was hot, and went to get another flight attendant. This was drawing attention from the other passengers. I wished I hadn't said anything, but too late. Meanwhile, the plane started backing up and moving toward the runway. The attendants started asking me questions, and I told them about my lung problem and that as soon as it cooled off I'm sure I'd be fine.

All of a sudden the captain announces over the loud speaker that they have a problem so they have to go back to the gate. I'm hoping I'm not the problem. Pretty soon, some guy from the airline comes walking down the aisle to me and asks me about how I am. I told him the same stuff I had already told everyone else. He said that the captain was probably going to ask me to leave the plane. I said, "What! You've got to be kidding! I travel with this condition all the time! The problem was that it was so hot in here. I'll be fine once it cools off." I'm thinking, "Hey, don't ever tell a Clay fan on their way to a Clay concert that they have to get off the plane!!" He then says he is going to go talk to the captain and walks back down the aisle. It hit me that they are talking about me and that the captain needs to know exactly what the problem is. So I walked down the aisle too. I wanted to tell the Captain, "Sir, don't you understand, I'm headed to a Clay Aiken concert. Even if I did faint on the plane, I've thudded and fainted many a time from seeing my man up close and personal. Please, sir, going to Clay concerts is the single most important event that there is." Instead, I told him again what the problem was and that I fly all the time and have never had a problem because it has never been hot like that. Thankfully, he changed his mind, and I wanted to get down and kiss his feet..."Thank you sir, thank you for not taking my Clay concert away from me!" Instead I just went back and shrank into my seat, wishing people would quit looking at me, and knowing I'd never make this mistake again!

Anyway, all went well during the flight, except for the lady who kept kicking the back of my seat ON PURPOSE every time I moved in my seat because she said I was hitting her knees. I didn't make a big deal about that because I was already on the captain's naughty list, I'm sure. But now I know about how Clay feels about being purposely beaten on when you weren't doing anything you were aware of.

My friend was waiting in a different terminal in Minneapolis and her terminal was about 5-10 minutes away. So the Super Shuttle picked me up and then we drove over and picked her up. Now, I think me and my friend (from here on out known as "K")were really in 2 different cities, because she thought it was SOOOOOOOO TERRIBLY COLD, and I thought it was "SO WONDERFULLY COLD"! It felt so good. Breathing in that cool crisp air instead of Houston's warm steamy air. It took maybe 15-20 minutes to get us to our hotel, The Hyatt Regency. Two of our other friends were also staying there. Clay, however, was staying in the Hilton we heard. Bummer.

I had sent in 2 stories for Clay's contest, and had high hopes for at least one of the stories. I figured I was 35,000 feet in the air when, if it was chosen, I would get the email about it. So when I landed in MN, I called a friend who I had gotten to check my email for me, but nothing. She checked for me for the next 2 days, in addition to me checking as well, but I didn't get chosen. I was a little down about that at first, but finally got over it...sort of.

The walk to Orchestra Hall where Clay was performing was only about 2 blocks, but it was brrrr cold. I mean COLD!! Probably in the single digits or so. I had a coat, but it wasn't a real heavy coat. I had oxygen sent to the Hyatt to use for the walk to the Hall, and I am so glad I did. For whatever reason, going to the venue, I had a really hard time breathing both nights, even with the oxygen. Coming back, I did okay. Maybe it was knowing I was about to see Clay "Mr. Take Your Breath Away" Aiken live and up close that did it to me!!

In the lobby of Orchestra Hall was a long banner hanging from the ceiling with pictures of upcoming performers. And Clay was at the very top of that banner! We had been looking outside for a picture of Clay advertising his performance and never could find one, to our dismay. We were quite pleased to finally see this awesome banner with a gorgeous picture of Clay.

Our seats the first night were in Row 8, Seats 1 and 3, right on the aisle closest to the middle. Second night they were the same seats but in Row 9. They were fantastic seats. We had a perfect view of everyone on the stage. It was one time I was glad I wasn't on the second or third row, where the view of Clay was blocked in some sections by the piano. I'm not sure I understand why they had Clay set up behind Jesse. He's the main attraction, so I think he should have been in front of everyone and closer to the audience. But, who knows why they did it they way they did.

Clay sang beautifully both nights. That voice just melts my heart and then sends it soaring. I've never heard such a beautiful voice, ever. His version of "Oh Holy Night" is the best I've ever heard. His version of Jingle Bells was fun!! Kinda jazzy. I loved it!! Mary Did You Know was beautiful as always, although I like it sung a little less slow like on the CD. IBHFC just brought tears to your eyes. Oh my, it made you get a lump in your throat, it was so touching. DSIAFCD was amazing! The first night, he hit the note spot on, but then it cracked a little before he got back right on the note. Still it was amazing. The second night, he hit and held it perfectly! K and I were both leaning forward holding on for dear life before he hit it. I sort of know how those of you who went to Merrillville last year felt. Not exactly, because the miss wasn't the same. But still, you're sitting there knowing there is that .5% chance he might miss it and holding your breath that he won't. The crowd went crazy that second night when he hit the note. I mean crazy, and absolutely came unglued during the cheers before the encore. I mean, the roof almost came off because of the loud cheering!! AIW was perfect both nights. He hit those notes and, well, there are no words. The last night especially I was in tears. I knew it was all over for a while, and crazy as it might be, I already started missing him. We look forward to weeks, even months, to seeing him again, and then you turn around twice, and its over with. He hits that last note, he bows, he walks off the stage, and he's gone. *SIGH* What that man does to us. What is it? Why is it? Its hard, if not impossible, to put into words the feelings we have for him and that he brings out in us. I'm sitting here shaking my head because I just can't figure it out.

Oh, Faye sat right in front of us about 4 rows up the first night and the second night she was a couple of rows up over to the right. I can't even count how many people came over there to get autographs and have their pictures made with her. Jerome even came over during the intermission to see if she wanted to come back stage, but she stayed. She was so sweet and gracious to everyone, even kneeling down to 2 little girl's level for pictures (Kel saw this, I didn't). The last night, after the show as over, I went over and talked with her briefly. While she was signing something for someone, I looked up, and there sitting by her was Jaymes Foster!! It shocked me, I wasn't expecting that! I probably acted like an idiot. I kind of pointed to her and said, "Oh, you're Jaymes!" She nodded her head and said, "And you are...." I told her my name. Then I told her that we were all excited about the new CD. She said that they were working hard on it. I told her I loved all his CD's, covers or new songs, I loved them all, it didn't matter to me as long as he was singing them! Jaymes seemed very nice. I made a comment to Faye about them going to Mexico and she kind of lit up and said, "Yes, please pray for us" and I said I would. And that was that.

K and I walked down to the Target Center on Thursday afternoon before the second concert. Now, downtown MN is wonderful! There are these quaint little shops all lined up like they came from "Its A Wonderful Life". There was old snow everywhere, but still stacked up a foot tall here and there. SNOW!! You know, that white stuff we never get in Houston!! Yes Virginia, there is snow!! We saw a snow angel along the way and K took a picture of it. She accused me of pushing Clay in the snow for that (can't you see his arms flailing around everywhere to make those angel wings!!). Actually, the truth is that Clay pushed ME into the snow! Shame on you Clay!!! ;) Oh, there were lights everywhere that were just beautiful at night. My favorite were these two-toned blue lights used to decorate a tree. It just all looked and felt and smelled like Christmas. And there was this neat ice skating rink right next to the theater. I fell in love with DT MN!!

What am I leaving out? Probably something. I missed bantering Clay. He said a couple of funny things when introducing everyone, but I forget what they were now. I wish he had moved around some on the stage and not stayed in one spot. But whatever, he was awesomely wonderful. That voice, oh that voice.

Oh, one more thing. I bought Clay a Christmas ornament and gave it to Jerome to give to him. I looked and looked for Jerome to come out, and had about given up when there he was! I had to make my way through the mob of people around Faye to get to him. I gave him an envelope from 2 other friends for Clay and then gave him my box and note for Clay (okay K, so it was a novel..hehe). I told Jerome that my gift was breakable so please don't let Clay sit on it. He laughed. I told him he was so sweet and what would we do w/o him. He said, "Give your things for Clay to Jesse?" We both laughed. He is so nice. There's the "stern don't get near Clay" Jerome, and then there is the sweet laughing funny Jerome. Big hugs to Jerome! I hope Clay liked my ornament.

What a wonderful trip it was to Minneapolis to see two glorious Clay concerts. The concerts are never long enough, nor is the time spent in the cities where he sings. But I'm sure you are thinking this review is long enough, so I'll end it now!!

MERRILLVILLE: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-23T23:42:00.001-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/videos thread - Merrillville, IN

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From CDD's ClassAkt MK:

OK... here are a few quick memories for Kim. Not a recap because I'm still tired... it was a long drive... and others did it so well.

In South Bend... thanks to a lucky draw by Mamarose.. I was in the second row of the pit. That was the first time I had ever watched a concert that close. My girlfriend said we were so close that we could count his freckles. I could actually see flesh!! Unfortunately though I was so close I couldn't see much of the rest of the stage so it was a good thing that Clay and Angela/Quiana were on boxes.

So to Merrillville... First of all I was in the Mezzanine 4 second row center. It was like having a private box seat with Clayfans all around me.I could see the entire expance of the stage and still see Clay pretty well also. He was right in the center of it all. I could see all of Angela/Quina, the Orchestra AND the readers. I haven't been to as many concerts as a lot of you because I'm stuck in the middle of no where and I have a demanding job... so going to two of the same concerts was new to me. In a month Clay's hair had changed dramatically but he was still the polished, classy professional this time.. a bit different from last year when he was more casual.. but sometimes showing many sides to the public is a good thing!

More random impressions:

Clay again reached into Christian Contemporary Music for "new" spiritual "reason for the season" songs. I believe the best of the new holday songs (with a few exceptions) imho are coming from CCM and Clay knows this... thus WTOW.

Quiana and Angela were elegant and lovely in their gowns. From above they looked like those Barbie doll decorated cakes where cake and frosting make up the bottom of the dress and beautiful dolls are placed in the top.

Clay's voice and sound were better in Merrillville and he was having Q and A help him cover the notes he might struggle with. Good idea. The songs thus felt seamless.

Despite being tired... Clay put all his energy into the concert as he did with the very first ones! And he was gorgeous. How exactly blonde that he really is now was quite a surprise!

That's it for now. I may edit something in later if I remember. I type very sloooowly!

There you go Kim!

Oh and I went with Andy (alfrank04)... poor woman. Every time I go with her I have some sort of accident. First time I fell and hurt my knee and she chose to miss the concert and go to the ER with me. Last year there was the "too tight girdle" dash during the concert. I'll leave that one to your imagination. And this year going into the restaurant... Andy asked me if my car lights were on. I told her they would turn off in a couple minutes but when we came out they were still on. I had to get a jump. Poor Andy. I can't talk and walk at the same time. Forget the gum!

And lastly... I got to meet and enjoy the company of Cindilu over dinner after five years. We were on the original (first) Clayboard together and that was a very special treat!

From the CB's VoxAngelicus:

I got home from tonight's concert a few moments ago and thought I'd post my recap of the concert while it was still fresh in my mind. The weather tonight was unusually warm for this time of year (upper 40s) and drizzling rain, so it was a lot better than the snowy weather for last year's Merrillville show. Just before the doors opened at 7 pm, I saw Jerome walking in the corridor outside the center entrance, and someone near me said that she had seen Mary walk by. Once the doors opened, I noticed that Clay's mother was near the main entrance, chatting with some fans and having her picture taken with them. She's petite and very pretty! I didn't want to intrude on her so I went with my hubby and mom to be seated. But it was exciting just to think that I had been that close to Clay's mom!

The venue looked about 75% full. Most of the main floor was full, except for the back rows and some of the seats on the far left and far right banks. From my seat I couldn't get a good view of the balcony, but my guess is that not many folks were up there. There were plenty of men in attendance at this show, and my husband commented that the audience appeared on average to be a little younger than at some other Clay concerts we've attended.

The show began slightly late, around 8:10 pm. I had only one complaint about this show, so I'll get it out of the way first and then focus on all the good stuff. Similar to what was reported at some of the other concerts during this tour, the lighting was a bit strange. Rather than red and green backgrounds, the colors tended to be blue, pink, and purple. Also, instead of snowflakes being projected on the backdrop, at one point it looked as though there were a bunch of Good and Plenty candies in the background. But that's my only gripe. In every other way this was a fantastic show!

Clay looked very handsome (as usual!). His wore his glasses and the shorter black jacket. His hair was quite light, and from where I sat, it looked as though he wore bangs for the first set. After the intermission, it looked as though his hair was brushed more to the side so that more of his forehead was visible. At least, that's how it appeared to me. If any of our excellent clack goddesses were able to take pictures, we'll know for sure. It didn't look to me as though security staff were harassing anybody, so I'm hoping that there will be clack of tonight's show.

Angela and Quiana wore the ball gowns with the full, ruffled skirts. They looked beautiful and both sang their solos very well tonight.

When Clay spoke to introduce the stories, he described them as the cream of the crop, and they were. I'd heard the first story at the Waukegan concert, about the woman whose dress caught on fire. The other three stories were new to me and were quite touching. The second story was about the little boy with cancer who wanted a puppy. The third story was the one about the couple who met and fell in love before the young man was sent to Korea on military duty, and the final story was about the homeless family who received a large sack of presents from an anonymous benefactor. I wiped some tears from my eyes, especially after the second story, and I heard people sniffling around me so I know that other people also were moved by these Christmas stories.

Clay was in very fine voice tonight. Toward the end of the Jazzy Medley he gave a wonderful little growl when he sang "I said a-walkin'...." He sounded particularly beautiful on WTOW and the "Sentimental Medley." He was accompanied tonight by the Bill Porter Orchestra, who had accompanied him for last year's Merrillville show and this year's concert in Waukegan.

One thing that was different about tonight's concert (I don't know whether Clay did this at any of the other recent shows) was that when he sang MGUCL, Quiana and Angela each did a duet with him for part of the song, and then the three of them sang together. It was lovely!

At the end of the show, Clay thanked all of his tour "family." He had Jamie, Jerome, and Mary come out on stage to be acknowledged, and he also thanked the lighting and sound crew members (I think their names are Fern and Jason).

Clay also mentioned that his mom and his brother Brett were in the audience. When Clay said that Brett had been serving in Iraq, the audience gave Brett a standing ovation. Clay then joked, "It's still my show! All eyes up front!" He then launched into a spectacular rendition of DSIAFCD. He walked over to Angela and put his arm around her while singing, "A hug is warmer when you're in it." Then he did his best Elvis impersonation when he sang, "Oh baby, that's a fact!" Next he walked over to Quiana and sang with her. At the end of the song, he deliberately took his time adjusting the mic stand to see if Angela and Quiana could hold the note before his final line. Quiana managed to hold the note the longest and did a little dance of joy for having done so well. Clay hit his beautiful falsetto notes at the end of DSIAFCD and wished everyone a Merry Christmas before leaving the stage.

Of course the audience whooped and hollered, so thankfully tonight Clay did sing AIW and sounded gorgeous! On the way out of the venue, I heard a woman commenting about what a powerful voice he has. That's for sure!!

It was a great finale concert, and I wish I could tell Clay "THANK YOU" for another excellent Christmas tour. He, his mom, and Brett are flying to Mexico tomorrow. Hopefully they'll have a safe journey and we can look forward to Clay's UNICEF blogs from the field.

From the CB's ClayFanNC:

Thank you for the great recap! To help answer the questions about the stories: My story was read tonight and I had no idea that it was going to be read. I found out when I got home from a Christmas party. (I had listened to almost every show on the stream, but had to attend this party.) Even my husband said that if he had known that it had been selected for tonight, he would have wanted to be there with our family to experience this honor. My story was also selected in Cleveland and I did not know that it would be read. My story was very personal, about our little boy who had cancer (story #2.) I had received notice late on a Tuesday night that my story was selected for Easton, the next day. Kinda a long story ... my travel buddy for the Easton concert was hospitalized the week before our trip ... the morning after the DC concert (and she is still in the hospital up there) ... so I had cancelled my plans for the Easton concert, including my plane ticket, hotel reservation, and concert ticket. So, when I received that email ... I knew I had to be there ... even if I had to walk to get there! I booked a plane ticket after midnight and was on my way to Easton the next morning! Thanks to the kindness of my Clayfriends, everything worked out! I read my story in Easton and that night Jamie told me that Clay wanted me to read it again the next night in Morristown ... and who can say 'no' to Clay? I read it again in Morristown and flew back to NC the next day. I also had no idea that stories would be read multiple times, without notice. I do know that Clay said that a story would not be read by someone else until it had been read by the writer. I have no idea how they they selected the readers (non-writers) of the stories for multiple concerts. All I know is that my son, Dusty is still giving me the most amazing gifts. I had never met Clay before and this whole experience was an honor and I am grateful. (Please don't let my low post number fool you ... I am a dedicated fan and spend countless hours on the CB and all things Clay!)

From the CB's Sue4AllYouDo:

Vox !!!! That was an excellent recap!! I could imagine everything as I was reading. I could not get on the Clayboard last night (problem with Yuku???) and missed the entire finale show, so your re-cap is very special to me. I can't wait to see the video of this, it sounds like the best show of the entire tour. I love when he interacts with Quiana, Angela, all those on stage and most of all, "US". That is what I missed the most this year, although I LOVED this tour. The stories were a wonderful touch and Clay puts his heart into everything he does, so I can't complain one bit (except the next time I see him, I must question him as to why my VERY FUNNY story was not picked!!!! image image LOL!!! JUST KIDDING!!!!!....(but I really wanted to read it !!!! image ) I'd love to meet Clay one day so I will just keep waiting for that day to come. Thank You again, ClayFanNC, for doing all you could to get to Easton....I've told folks your story many times since seeing you in both Easton and Morristown. You are a woman I greatly admire and maybe someday we will meet. That brings me to this.....Everyone....please do as Clay asks....Support your local Arts....We here in Easton are a somewhat struggling little town, and for Clay to play here twice in a row means so much to me. Please, those of you who came to my hometown, Easton, let the State Theatre know that you enjoyed the show and/or the pre-party....this staff takes their cue from the members and the audience. I begged from 2003 to 2006 for them to bring Clay and when I told our Executive Director that Red Bank had booked him for 2006, she jumped on it. So, they do take their cue from other "sister" venues, too....venues that are similar in size and that are within a decent distance of each other. Let the venues know that you love Clay and that you want him back!!!! If you are intersted in contacting The State Theatre in Easton, PA, their web site is: www.statetheatre.org and their phone # is 610-252-3132 or outside the 610 area, it's 1-800-999-STATE. The gentleman that helped us so much with the party is David and his e-mail is: dyanoshik@statetheatre.org. If Clay should return to Easton, we will do our best to have another pre-show party. If he does not, I already know that Wilkes-Barre, New Brunswick and DEFINITELY Morristown will be on my wish list....maybe even a real dandy of a trip to Williamsport, too!!! Thank you all for making this so much fun!!! Thank You, As Always, Clay. You are loved and greatly admired, more than you will ever know.

From the CB's yaknelle:

My husband loved the concert in Merrillville. He was sitting in a sea of women, who all were amazed that I didn't have to drag him there, and I swear if one more had told me he was a keeper, I was going to be sick.

Earlier in the evening, when we were having dinner he asked me, if after listening to the concert for 20 nights, if I thought that it would be as good tonight? I gave him the " you poor, foolish man look." He laughed.

Well surprise, after one concert, he was a believer. He was blown away by the professional presentation, the arrangements, but most of all by Clay. He leaned over after "Mary Did You Know," and said, "I love that song."

The Jazzy Melody left him shaking his head,especially the Elvis ending, but his reaction to "Welcome to Our World," was one of reverence and awe. When it was done, he looked at me and said, "I've never heard that song." "Where's it from?" "My God that was beautiful."

He chattered the whole intermission about Clay. I loved it. So did all the females in the row. Back away women, he's mine!

During the second half, he was mostly quiet, but he applauded hard, stood when called for, and held my hand during the sad, poignant songs. He hadn't a clue that "My Grown Up Christmas List," was radically different. He just enjoyed it as a great, rousing rendition. Love these concert virgins.

A strong arm around me and a kiss during "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day, " coupled with squeezing my hand for the entire song, let me know this was no ordinary concert for him. He was into it, and he was moved.

Later he would say, "Anyone can sing Christmas songs, but this was so different. I really felt the words."

What can be said for "All Is Well," that hasn't been said. It was stunning and both my husband and I could see that Clay was exhausted, I mean really, really tired, but just as last year at Merrillville, he hit that note. We applauded and applauded and...

ALL IS WELL!

From the CB's artz11:

Oh my, I waited so long for this final Concert and it was were minute. I sat between Claykevfan and my husband. MH replaced a friend that couldn't come at the last minute. He didn't drag his feet at all. We thought it would be a nice weekend for us just before the Christmas blur. I really enjoyed meeting Claykevfan, but forgot to say goodbye to her.....so Thanks for the chat and shared excitment of the night, CKfan.
The recaps are already detailed and fun to read, but here goes another one.
The concert was beautifully produced, Clay's voice and the Symphony sounds were all about the wonder of the season as I think they should be. The focus was pure....The Voice that I love, Friendships evident on stage and throughout the audience, and Clays recognition to his fans as writers and readers. And yes, we did see that big grin when he broke the serious Clay mode a time or two. I really enjoyed seeing Faye and Brett. Clay's recognition of his family was filled with joy and pride. I believe Brett was humbled by our standing ovation for him and his service to our country. Clay's friendship with Quiana and Angela was on full display as others have described. When he introduced them near the end, he said,"I couldn't do this without either one of these ladies. Not only are they extremely talented, but they always have my back." I think that's been very evident during this tour and the recent summer tour.
I can't leave without commenting on Clay's appearance. He was handsomely beautiful, strikingly blond, tall and thin. This was certainly the Hair Tour...and every "do" was perfect, but at Merrillville we got a twofer. Bangs for the first half.....Forehead for the last half....what a guy. Sometimes, he does try to please all of us. I'll be looking forward to NY and the new CD. I've made my UNICEF donation and will be waiting for some field notes.
Bless Clay, Faye, and Brett on their Christmas journey. May they have us much pleasure together as they have given me.

From the CB's starfishy2000:

What a great night. Rebecca and I arrived fairly early in the day. We figured we would relax and chat with others. We drove around the venue and checked on the busses. You know, to know that clay was safe and sound!! We met up with plenty of ladies socializing in the lobby. Ethel helped us out and introduced to our roommates for the night (Thanks again!). Dinner at the hotel was nice, but was even better was the walk to the venue. I love the fact we didnt have to drive or bring our coats!

After we found our seats, we heard Faye was out in the lobby. One of my concert buddies had something for her, and we all had our pictures taken. This is the closest I will ever get folks......lol! We went back to our seats and I saw Brett. He was in the row behind me, a little off center. I called into the cellcert and figured out I was doing something wrong, and got all the bugs worked out. The venue made the typical camera announcements, then 2 ushers came and stood by my seat (I was on a corner). I heard one say no flashes. I asked if pictures were ok, and he repeated the no flash policy. I was like....woo-hoo!!!

Jesse came out and the lights lowered......except a handful of bright lights over our section. They were real bright. It seemed to take forever to get them out, but once they did we started. Clay came out, and seemed to have the hall in his hands. His voice was so soft, but in complete control. It just seemed effortless. The first half of the show flew by.

During intermission, people surrounded Brett and Faye, who seemed to enjoy it. Lots of pictures being taken.

The second half, too, flew by. I loved the new arrangement of MGUCL. Clay looked just plain happy singing with his girls. During the introductions he again had this grin I don't remember seeing this tour. He had Jamie, Jerome and Mary come out on stage. Then as he sang DSIAFCD he GOT OFF THE PODIUM!! We weren't sure what was happening! He sang a verse with Angela, all snuggly, and then with Quiana. After we erupted in applause, he came out and sang AIW. Nailed it and left the stage.

The lobby of the hotel was clack heaven afterward. Thanks to those who shared It was great meeting you all!

I know this isn't the most detailed recap.....but during the show I was certing and taking pictures. I will have to look at the clack to catch some of the nuances.

OMAHA: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-22T11:20:00.001-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photos/videos - Omaha, NE

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's nebclayfan:

Here is a short recap. I had seats in the first row after the pit seats in the middle. His voice was amazing-I thought he sounded better than he did in Wichita which was the other concert I attended. His hair looks very blond. He did not sing an encore-don't know why he did not. His mom was there in the 3 row I believe -I talked to her a minute at intermission She said Brett would join them tomorrow night and they were all 3 going to Mexico. I enjoyed the concert so much-especially since I brought my mom who has only been to one other concert to see Clay ever. The camera police were out so I don't know if anyone got much clack. I know Toni7babe and Invisible were in front of me in the last row of the pit and at intermission they said they were being watched and couldn't take clack. The woman behind me was getting some video but in the second half they came and told her they would remove the camera if she took more. I love Clay singing Christmas -nobody does it better.
Patty

From the CB's psmurf752:

Clay looked and sounded wonderful, the concert was over way too quickly.... and there was no "AIW" encore for whatever reason. Yes, it would've been nice to hear it live, and at the time I was bummed. I'm thinking "this is my only concert, so why now???" But on my way home I reminded myself that I've got mucho clack of Clay singing "AIW", so no big deal really. I'm so glad I waited to hear him sing "WTOW" live because that is such a beautiful song.

I did manage to tear my eyes away from Clay long enough to focus on the story readers, and Angela and Quiana's beautiful solos. How I did that I'll never know 'cause the image of him standing there directly in front of me (although on a raised platform) dressed entirely in black is burned in my memory.

From the CB's NEClayfan1:

The doors to the venue (seating area) didn't open until about 7:45, so they must have been running behind schedule. Looked like a good seller.....really packed floor. Couldn't see the balconies, though. Bought the red hat (ivory one was also available), gray/greenish colored scarf (odd color!) and a poster. Weird thing about the poster was it had a number 200-something. Not sure how they've sold them at other shows, but it seems odd to have that low of a number at the second to last show. I'm on air that I got some merchandise. The crowd seemed to love Clay and crew and even whistled a couple of times. Standing ovation on DSIAFCD, and Clay did his cute little salute when he left the stage. Clay sounded great overall, but he got really soft in parts (feeling the songs' meanings?) and possibly was a bit off toward the end of the concert (hard to tell with the speakers....not the best sound system). Maybe he didn't think he could hit the AIW notes and skipped the encore as a result? Or maybe they had to get on the road to try to beat the storm that is supposed to be in eastern Nebraska and Iowa in the next few hours. I am really BUMMED that we didn't get an encore because I missed last holiday's shows and have yet to hear AIW live. Maybe some day. I am soooooo happy that I had the opportunity to attend this year's show, but I'm sad I can't go to another. That's the thing about Clay....he ALWAYS leaves you wanting more.

From the CB's Madam President:

It's 2:04 am, and my mom and I just drove the three hours home from the concert in winds that were absolutely ridiculous, though Clay's bus should get some pretty good mileage heading east! I'm tired, and I really want to sleep, but if I don't write this out now, I never will.

I had originally planned on taking a non-Clay fan friend to the concert, but she ended up not being able to go, so at the last minute I offered to take my mom. She likes him, but certainly not enough to travel great lengths for him (at least not after a 15 hour drive to Salt Lake City for the IT tour when she had no idea what she was getting into). We got to the venue early because I have apparently forgotten how to calculate time zone differences after living in the East Coast for 14 months. We stood forever, which mom wasn't a big fan of, having had both knees replaced earlier in the year, but it's Clay. You do what you have to do.

I did notice something interesting during all of the waiting. There were a lot of security people around, and they seemed to be looking for someone. I overheard a few conversations about keeping an eye out, and at one point, one of the security guys was pointed in the direction of the restrooms and told "I think we saw someone with that description going that way." No clue who they were looking for, but it gave me something to ponder while we waited.

When we finally got ot our seats, they were good. No, really pretty great. We were in the second row behind the pit, right on the aisle of the center section. That was good for mom so she could get out if she needed to, and good for me because with my new camera, the pictures would be excellent. Except for the fact that the Orpheum means it when they say no cameras. Truthfully, I didn't even see a lot of people trying to take pictures, but I think that's because the security people were so adamant about it beforehand. My camera stayed in my purse the entire time, so I'm glad to see that some photos of tonight do exist.

About five minutes before showtime, I look over to the side and there's Faye! Kind of exciting. Then I realize they're directing her to the seat right behind me. Excitement turned into nerves. Not the "oh my goodness it's Clay's mom!" kind of nerves, but the "oh my goodness, PLEASE, may all that's holy just keep me (and mom) from doing something so stupid that we become the amusing, but not in the good way, fan story to be shared later on the bus" kind of nerves. I immediately said to mom, "Oh, it's Faye." Mom's response? "Who's Faye?" Fabulous. I quickly explained to her that it was Clay's mother, so she became instantly curious and probably started staring. Meanwhile, I was trying to do everything I could to not look at her at all because why make her the monkey in the zoo, right? However, when she sat down behind me, I immediately turned around and said, "I'm sorry I'm so tall." Why did I say that? Well, people have yelled at me at other concerts for being too tall in front of them, and let's face it, Faye's not that vertically blessed. When she laughed and said that she could see just fine, I turned around and didn't look back.

Mom told me on the drive home that she wondered if I was ever going to speak to Faye, or just pretend she didn't exist, but I did talk to her. Asked her if she would be going to the show tomorrow night and asked her what her favorite song on this tour is. Mom on the other hand had an entire conversation with her, I think, because mom has never met a stranger. And that is what I was worried would get us into the story to be shared later on the bus category. You see, my mom likes to share. She's a sharer. I made an off-hand comment one time right after college graduation while trying to find a "real" job that if I were a racehorse, I'd be glue. Fast forward a few months, and I actually managed to win a car, and my mom repeats that comment to the DJ for the radio station hosting the contest, and the DJ passes that on to thousands of listeners that Monday morning when they were talking about the car giveaway. I had no hope that I was not going to be thoroughly embarassed by my mother at some point during the evening. It may even have happened, but miracle of miracles, I don't know about it if it did.

The concert started, and it was good, except because I'm neurotic, all I could think about was the fact that Clay's mother was sitting right behind me. I tried to not bob my head to the music, just in case it got in her way. I sat up straight because Faye probably thinks posture is important. And I was ridiculously worried that somehow my bra strap was showing, and how uncouth would that be. I once had a meet and greet with Clay, and he also talked to me from the stage one time because of a sign I'd held up. Neither of those times was I as nervous as I was sitting in front of his mother, doing absolutely nothing.

He was wearing the glasses again tonight, which was great. Except the glasses really do something for me, and it just felt odd lusting after him with his mom sitting behind me. A little like making out with someone while his parents are downstairs. It's a little different obviously, but still a strange feeling. To me, he's hot. To her, he's not. And I was praying the entire time that mom wouldn't lean over and in her stage whisper say, "Does his pushing up his glasses still do it for you?" Thank goodness for small favors!

Ok, on to things other than my apparent abject terror of Faye's disapproval. Let's talk about the hair. Is the man a Chia pet?? I could swear that he did not have that much hair in Cleveland! Mainly it was just styled differently or maybe he got a little more friendly with the volumizing spray tonight, but it looked like he'd grown about half a head of hair in four days.

The songs were all beautiful, and I think the acoustics were better tonight than they were in Cleveland. My friend in Cleveland, Michele, commented on how he seemed a little loud on certain songs, almost to the point where it disturbed the quality. I tended to agree with her on that. But tonight I didn't get any of that. We were sitting just to the left of the speakers sitting stage right, so it created kind of a weird situation. I could hear what was being put out through the speakers, but at times, I could hear Clay's voice coming directly from the stage, directly from the mouth, I guess. There wasn't any sort of echo or delay between the two; it was just very separate and distinct at times. It gave it a more intimate feeling in a way.

It was great to see Angela back, and I loved her rendition of WWIAK because all I've heard so far is Quiana's from Cleveland. I don't know which is "better." I'll have to download both and compare. I will say that when Quiana finished WAYC, my mom leaned over and said "She's got a great voice." Duh, mom! I don't know that I ever compare Angela and Quiana in my head. They're just "the girls." But I will say that everytime Quiana sings, I get chills. That's not to say that I don't like Angela, too, but there's something in Quiana's voice that resonates with me more. Like how some people just don't hear what we hear when it comes to Clay. Still, it was good to see both of the girls again, and at least neither of them disappeared unlike the last time he was in the area and suddenly the tour was Jacob-less.

The readers were good, but I think I preferred the stories from Cleveland more. I've been telling that siren story to people for three days now, and they always laugh. I didn't really laugh or cry at any of the ones tonight. And I still think my story about dill pickles would have been a good addition, but oh well. It's probably a good thing I didn't get picked anyway. Because sure as anything, I'd have somehow tripped and fallen off the stage or something and then had to go back and sit in front of Faye, humiliated. Any night I can leave an event with my dignity still intact is a good night.

I'll admit to being a little disappointed that there was no AIW at the end. When you know there's an encore coming, and then it just...doesn't...it makes you feel like a bad audience member. Like what did we do wrong to not deserve AIW and the awesome lighting at the end? But we'll probably never know why we didn't get it. Voice fatigue maybe. During DSIAFCD, I saw Clay look to the side of the stage and shake his head. At first I thought maybe he'd just missed a note or something, and being the perfectionist he is, he was upset about it. Then I thought maybe he wasn't going to go for the glory note, but he did, and he hit it. I wonder now if maybe he wasn't saying with that slight shake that he'd decided not to do the encore. When the lights came back up over Jesse and the orchestra and then nothing else happened, the auditorium got kind of quiet. Then Jesse jumped off the piano bench, and the curtain went down. I leaned over to mom and said, "That wasn't supposed to happen." I tried to look a little over my shoulder at Faye, and she seemed surprised, but there wasn't a shocked "something must be wrong" look on her face, so I doubt it's anything too drastic.

I'm very glad that I got to see the two shows. First, because you can never get past the Clayfog to remember anything the first time. At least I can't. And second, because it gave me a little bit of everything. I got to see AIW the first time and Angela the second. I got to share Clay with Michele in Cleveland and mom in Omaha. And I got four solid hours of good entertainment, always a good thing.

MERRILLVILLE: Northwest Indiana and Illinois Times Previews Concert

2007-12-22T09:01:00.001-05:00

The Northwest Indiana and Illinois Times posted a pre-concert preview article for Clay's last 2007 Christmas in the Heartland tour, tonight in Merrillville, IN. A great article to end the tour in style:

Clay it again
Friday, December 21, 2007 4:01 AM CST

BY PHILIP POTEMPA ppotempa@nwitimes.com 219.852.4327

Singer Clay Aiken isn't worried about any shortage of holiday songs to perform for his Christmas show Saturday at Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville.

His first Christmas album, "Merry Christmas with Love," came out on Nov. 16, 2004, and immediately was hailed as a new holiday classic.

And that same season in 2004, Aiken hosted his first Christmas television special, "A Clay Aiken Christmas," airing on NBC and featuring him with special celebrity guests Barry Manilow and Meagan Mullally of "Will and Grace" fame.

In fact, when Aiken brought his Christmas concert to the Star Plaza last year, it easily sold out.

When Aiken is center stage on Saturday, surrounded by singers, poinsettias and Christmas trees, he says his mind will forget everything, including his favorite foods, and focus on his music.

"We'll do a nice mix of some old-fashioned Christmas favorite songs and also some spiritual Christmas hymns, which are always at the top of the list for requests," he said.

"We want to get everyone into the spirit of the season and get them singing right along."

As for Aiken's own holiday list of things to do, like Christmas shopping and sending out his Christmas cards to all his friends old and new, including those from his "American Idol Days," Aiken said his being on tour during December gives him an excuse to be a little late sending out his cards while "on the road."

And when it comes to holiday shopping, the timing of his tour actually gives him an advantage.

"When I'm traveling from city to city, I get to visit some of the best places all over the country for shopping," Aiken said.

"I'll have all my gifts bought in plenty of time."

MINNEAPOLIS: Day 2 Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-21T17:18:00.001-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photos/video - Minneapolis, MN Day 2- Dec. 20

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's CA4CA2:

I found it to be a wonderful experience! The concert was great! The place was packed in all sections. Lots of men---one by me shouted "Bravo" after one of the songs. 2 gals next to us were from Canada. I thought Clay was in great voice and hit the AIW note. We Minnesotans showed him our love which was nice to see. Everyone liked it when he said that his very first tour stop was in St. Paul. I just couldn't quit staring at him. He is so mezmerizing. Everyone gave Jesse lots of applause too and the girls. Angela and Quiana looked great in their black gowns. And, of course, they sounded great too! Well, I'm finally unwinding and getting tired. I'll never, ever forget my M&G with him this evening. Just couldn't believe I got that close to him!

Cheryl

OMAHA: Omaha World Herald Previews Concert

2007-12-20T23:01:00.000-05:00

The Omaha World Herald has posted a pre-concert article for Clay's concert tomorrow in Omaha, NE. Here's a preview:

Clay Aiken sings with Symphony on Friday
BY JOHN PITCHER
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER

Clay Aiken may well be the most successful also-ran in recent music history.

In just over four years, the fresh-faced and improbable pop star from Raleigh, N.C., has sold millions of records (his first album alone went double platinum), co-written a New York Times bestseller and hosted his own primetime Christmas special.

Aiken's nice-guy image will be on full display in Omaha on Friday, when he brings his "Christmas in the Heartland" tour to the Orpheum Theater. No doubt, the singer will perform many of the tunes from his best-selling "Merry Christmas With Love" CD. And no less an ensemble than the Omaha Symphony will be his backup band.

This year, Aiken will select four Nebraskans to come onstage and share their favorite Christmas memories, with their stories being interspersed throughout the 90-minute concert. Those stories were solicited for the tour as part of a fan club contest. Aiken says he has received more than 300 stories from area fans.

"I'll read every one of those stories and pick four," Aiken says. "So far, I've come away believing that all of the fans have had more interesting Christmas experiences than me."

MINNEAPOLIS: Day 1 Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-20T22:25:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photos/videos - Minneapolis, MN Day 1 - Dec. 19

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CV's Thankful4Clay:

Getting out of the parking ramp at Orchestra Hall was hell. We just got home. He was @*+%*+% gorgeous. He really was.

As soon as he walked out, I noticed his beautiful blond hair. I didn't see a trace of red. I leaned over to my mom and said, "He's so beautiful."

My cheeks hurt from smiling so much. I was in the second row right on the aisle. I felt like he was looking right at me. How does he do that? How does he make every person there feel so special?

Fromclaygary was sitting right behind me and right behind her was Faye. Poor Faye was swamped with people wanting pictures. I left her alone. As we were leaving, Faye was walking right past us and my mom stopped Faye and asked her if Clay's singing gave her goosebumps. Faye looked a bit surprised and then said, "Yes, it does." My mom kinda liked the show.

I kinda liked it too. I'm so in love.

I think I have audio of the whole concert except I screwed up during O Holy Night.

From the CB's mad4clay:

Hello all,

I just got back home after a beautiful evening with the man of the hour. The show went by way to fast. I didn't want it to end. He sang beautifully. Looked amazing. Loved the hair. He looked way more blond then he looked before. The girls did wonderfully as well. I had taken my mom and my son with me tonight. My mother was in tears most of the time and she even did a little bit of a cellcert with a dear friend of hers that just loved what she heard. The venue was WELL PACKED. Clay should be very pleased with the turn out. I was impressed. Many men in attendance. That's nice to see. Believe it or not this was my first show. I wasn't a virgin so I know what to expect. So I just soak all that I was hearing on. The man is AMAZING! I adore the jazzy medley and love the sentimental medley. MDYK and MCWL just melt my heart. WTOW was so reverent. MGUCL was as if he were talking to a friend in the beginning then he pulled out his magic and soared to the end. As I said before this show goes by much too fast. The 4 storys were both funny and heartbreaking.

Momma Faye was there at the other end of our row and I wanted my mom and son to meet her, so we introduced ourselves during intermission and had our picture taken with her. She remembered who I was. I thought that was nice.

I'm so glad I get to see it one more time tomorrow. Goodnight all!

From the CB's Clayisheaven:

I am not very good at writing recaps, I would rather read them but I will try.

What can I say, Clay was absolutely gorgeous, stunning, sexy, hot, etc. etc. , you fill in the blanks. I don't know how anyone got pictures, I was finally seated in front row but just could not take that camera up to my eye. It seemed every once in a while the camera police were attacking someone and I didn't want to cause a scene. Thank you to all who braved it. I just wanted one picture in my own camera or cell phone.

I love the blonde hair, I was kind of shocked when I saw it since watching the clack it has seemed more reddish. It is BEAUTIFUL!!!! He looks so slimmmmmmm, yummy and luscious. I'm so envious of all the meet and greeters who will be able to put those arms around Clay when they get their pictures taken. I would probably pass out. My heart was just pounding I think right up until intermission and then I calmed down a little bit and could breathe. I have never been that close to Clay before. I just love MDYK and MCWL but also love MGUCL, OHN, EMMANUEL, oh heck I don't have a favorite, they are all my favorites.

We had a wonderful pre-party put on by MNClayFans and thank you to everyone for a wonderful time.

There was just something so hypnotizing about Clay and what he did to me that I could hardly move, all I did was sit, smile and stare at him thinking he was returning that glare but we all know he seems to look at everyone that way.

It was such a beautiful night I will treasure it forever. Luckily I have tonight also with my daughter and husband.

image to all the new fans I met last night and to all the other fans I was able to see again since JNT05.

From the CB's sarajean10:

Back from the concert last night!! Just warning ya... this might me a long recap!

It was AMAZING!!!! I am still in shock... I actually parked about 2 blocks down by the St. Thomas campus and there was no traffic for me whatsoever. Got out of there in about 2 minutes after finding my car. If there's anyone else going tonight I definitey recommend parking a little distance away. Got insanely lost trying to find the orchestra hall but I made it in one piece! I actually tried pulling into a "driveway" during my search for the place but the width of it was only about a foot bigger than my car. And of course it had to be on a busy street so about 100 cars saw me trying to maneuver out of this thing. Car got scratched I think... I was so determined to get out of there fast without looking stupid. It'll be a souvenir from last night!

I went with a Claymate friend Kelsey (whom I'd never met before this) and we were probably one of the first people there at the venue, but they wouldn't let us in. Went to Starbucks... tried to find a bathroom which took at least a half hour... then got kicked out of Caribou for having contraband and went to Target! We asked if there was a shopping mall close by and some lady was real rude about it. We were misinformed about the whole "Nicolette Mall" thing. That was an adventure for sure!

When we actually got to the hall we were still one of the only ones there. We met 3 out of the 6 that got the Meet and Greet and we talked for a while. Was nice to do that since I don't really talk about Clay like that on a daily basis. Let me just say that Claymates are AMAZING! I had so much fun talking to everyone and everyone is so friendly. We then found the busses. Got my picture taken in front of it! Whooo!!!! I GOT MY PICTURE WITH ANGELA AND QUIANA TOO!!! We were just hanging out inside and they strolled in. Tney are hilarious! SO Glad Angela is back.

Row 7.... I was amazed that we were that close to the stage. All my other Clay concerts were in the nosebleed section, with the last one being Solo in 04. We were having fun taking pictures and such when some dude, whom we dubbed "camera nazi", came over and told us that there were NO PICTURES ALLOWED. Someone then told us Jerome said that he'd "like to see them try"!! Which is completely true of course. I knew Faye was going to be there but when she came out with Jerome I was speechless. She is absolutely gorgeous. I feel really bad about it now but I also got my picture with her. Kelsey and I were the only ones over there at that point but we felt bad when we sat down because she was then bombarded with people. She seemed to really like the fans though. She is so cute! When we went over there she thought she met me before... apparently I must look like someone else because I had at least 2 other people ask me if we've met because I looked familiar. Faye was telling us that she just got a haircut and she was all excited about it and how it "flipped out"! It was cute!

The concert itself was wonderful. He looked absolutely stunning and I WAS NOT expecting his hair to be that color! Looks good though. I swear that he made eye contact with me a few times but someone was telling me that he can't see past the second row... oh well. Sure gave me butterflies though! He sounded perfect IMO and Angela and Quiana were as well. Quiana got a LONG round of applause for her song. It was over WAY too fast but it was great!

AND I get to do it all over again tonight!!!

From the CB's Heather:

Well, we just got home a few hours ago from MPLS. I couldnt attend both shows as I had someone else watching my young son.

I had my 8 year old daughter with me. She didnt know about the concert till the night before. It was her early Christmas Present. We got to the Orchestra Hall about 6:50pm. At that time we were inside but couldnt take out seat. So we were all hagning around in the Lobby! At 7pm the door opened and we found our seats in 3rd Row. My daughter was all excited that she got to see Clay and the Girls(She absoluetly loves Quiana). We were talking to a few people around us. I turned around to look and see how full the venue was. I'd say it was about 80% full. I then noticed Jerome and Faye standing in the middle of the seating area. I turned and said to my daughter, "Look, Theres Jerome & Faye". She then turned around and got a huge grin on her face. Then Jerome and faye started heading down the aisle. All of a sudden, Faye sat down right behind us. I then turned to my daughter and noticed she was crying. I asked her what was wrong and the Lady that was with Faye seen my daughter crying and asked if she would like to meet Faye. She wiped her tears and got a huge grin on her Face. After Faye Finished talking with someone, The lady that was with Faye (Sitting on Faye's Left) then told Faye that my daughter would like to meet her. So my daughter went over to Faye and shook her hand. My Daughter said to Faye, "I'm a Clay Fan." Just then Faye replied back with, "I'm a Clay fan too" lol. My daughter laughed at that. My daughter then asked if she could have her picture taken with her so Faye knelt down and I snapped the pic. My daughter was soooooo happy. That totally made her night.

The concert was Absoluetly Amazing. His voice was very Glorious. He looked soooo good. His bangs were combed to the left side. I got Chills when he started to sing WTOW. I absoluetly love that song. My daughter & I enjoyed every minute of the show. My daughter loves the song "Where are you Christmas" and her eyes started watering when Quiana rocked that song! Clay said she must of had "The Spirit" lol.

All in all I dont think last night could have been any better, aside from maybe having a meet-n-greet,lol.

My daughter said this is the best concert she has been to. She later told me that she was Crying cause she was Nervous that Clays Mom was sitting behind us. Also During Intermission, my daughter got Faye's Autograph on the page with Clay and the AArticle on him (Page 40 of the program). She wants me to Frame that page and have the picture of her & Faye blown up to poster size,lol.

If I can think of anything more I will post it but for right now, i'm still in Clay Heaven.

CLEVELAND: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-18T08:17:00.001-05:00

Look at the new lighting set up! Cool!

Photos

Clayboard Cleveland, OH Photos/Videos

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's scruffy13:

Just back from Cleveland.

After a very stressful day of watching the internet IN CASE the m and g's were announced, I had to give up and leave to go to the concert. (wouldn't have mattered,anyway, as I didn't win )

The venue is beautiful. My husband and I took my mil to the concert. She went with us to the JBT and liked it, but she loves Christmas music and loved this concert! She had a wonderful time watching Clay fans reconnect with each other, and I had to laugh when someone came up and tried to get her
to start posting on a board!! I keep telling her that I am just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to enthusiastic fans, but she didn't believe me.

Now she does! She thought it was wonderful how people from so many states know each other because of their interest in Clay.

There were many couples around our area, but most of the men seemed to be already "indoctinated". I heard some of them telling what they knew about Clay and comparing this show to others this series that they had seen. They all seemed to be enjoying the concert.

I had great seats- I think I was sitting beside one of the cellcerters for the phone connection. She moved at intermission and came back for the last few songs.

Clay had the shorter jacket, as was reported, and glasses. His hair was more blond looking than strawberry, and from where I sat, looked similar in color to the Just by Chance Clayton. His glasses are barely noticable from the audience. I loved the way he had his hair tonight- it was parted on the left side and had kind of a lift in the bangs to keep them off the forehead a bit. He looked VERY trim.

Clay's voice was wonderful, as usual! I have not watched any clack this time around, so was surprised at the way he changed his delivery of MGUCL. Even though he was singing, he separated the phrases out and made it sound as if he were really telling us a story. I liked the way he did this, as he was also acting as if he was just talking to a friend. Later, he sang with the longer, more drawn out phrases. Just beautiful.

I love Quiana's voice, so of course loved her songs. I did like her dress, as it reminded me of a Christmas tree- broader and rounded on the bottom, and her head kind of completed the triangular look. I guess that sounds insulting, but it is really not meant to be. I thought it was very appropriate. The diamonds just glistened!

I loved all the songs and the subtle change -ups in them over past years.

Clay played a little how long can you hold that note game with Quiana at the end of one song, but don't recall which one. He took a long time moving a mic stand so that she had to hold the note. Cute.

Clay asked Quiana to tell his NYEve resolution story and she screwed it up. He finished it.

The crowd did seem respectful. I wouldn't say subdued, but not boistrous and yelling or standing all the time. However, the majority of the floor stood for parts of the last 2 songs, and cheered and clapped enthusiastically!

I ran into a few people who were fans but not Internet connected. One of the ladies had her elderly mother with her, She had been ill and all she wanted was to meet Clay. The lady asked me if Clay would be coming out after the concert to speak with people. I told her that Ididn't think he has been, and told here that sometimes, when Clay does get wind of a story that involves an elderly fan, he will allow a special minute. I directed her to tell her story to an usher and see if she could get a message to Jerome. She tried, butI don't know if anything came of it. It was so clear that she so wanted to make her mother's wish come true...

Well, I know that this isn't interesting, but I have to go to bed so that I can get up in 4 hours.

...love Clay, loved the concert...

Scruffy

From the CB's Angel53:

Another wonderful night with Clay. I could not see the balcony area but the lower level seemed full. Everyone was filled with excitement. The crowd was very receptive and that seemed to please Clay. His performance was excellent (of course) and he looked very handsome. Quiana's voice was flawless and she looked beautiful. Jessie's magical hands definitely adds that special touch and we must not forget Sean's contributions to this "wonderful family". Thoughts and prayers to Angela and her family. Unfortunately she could not be there due to a loss in her family. Clay said hopefully she will join them soon.

Thank you Clay for another wonderful Christmas.
Peace To All.............................................

From the CB's Sugarpie311:

My family of six had a wonderful time last night! We were in the center mezzanine. The upper level was full except for the balcony section, only a few people on each side. Clay sounded and looked great. I love the way he moves his feet to some of the songs, like he wants to dance! Even though he says he can't!! My daughter in law loved Quianas dress and said she would love to have it but than she would also need a place to wear it. My mom missed having Angela there and I did too! It seemed like part of the family was missing. I thought the crowd was very respectful, except for the flashes I saw going off! I know it was very distracting to me to see these lights flashing all the time, so I can only imagine how it must be when you are on stage. We loved all the stories. The first one had me laughing but the second had tears running down my face. I thought it really was a wonderful addition to the show. Clay started his speech about not saving it all for Christmas but asked Quiana to do it since he does it every night but she didn't but in all the details and told Clay maybe you better do it. Of course that brought laugher from the crowd. He also made her hold the last note of dsiafcd, which was also funny! All Is Well was fabulous and the crowd was on there feet from the ending of dsiafcd showing Clay the Ohio love. It was a wonderful way to share a holiday memory with my family!! I had to leave for a few minutes, the grandsons just got here. I also want to say that from the clack that I have seen, I think WTOW last night was one of the best! And my family also thought Clay got a little choked up at the end when he was talking about Angela not being there and how much they missed her! If I remember any more details I'll post more later!

From the CB's claysangel1981:

My friend and I had a great time last. I brought my mom with me and my friend brought her daughter and another friend. Her daughter was soo cute. She had her Christmas dress on. We were about 17 rows back on the right side of the stage. I actually met some people from my small town of New Phila, which was cool since there weren't too many people from my area that are big fans of Clay. We stopped at the will call box to see if we might have won a meet and greet, since emails were never sent outimage, (stupid Clique). Anyway, Clay was awesome, my favorites songs of the night wee WTOW, OHN, DSAIAFCD and AIW. The jazz medley was great too, I wish he would have done the growl, like he did in Erie, PA. The lighting was odd that night, I felt like i was back in the 60's..lol. I saw Jerome out in the audience during intermission, apparently his daughter and his grandchildren came to the show. I didn't know Jerome had granchildren! My friend, Jen, was sitting 1 row behind them, and he was seeing if he could get everybody wristbands to go back stage. His grandson didn't want to go backstage...lol. The only downfall of the concert was when Jerome was trying to talk to his family, and people just kept on coming up to him and giving him stuff. I think one girl asked him if there was going to be a bus line, I just don't understand people sometimes. I just thought that was rude. Great job Clay!!!!

ERIE: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-17T16:53:00.001-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photos/videos - Erie, PA

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From CV's anglety:

I just got home from Erie. I bit the bullet and left early in the day to set up for the party. I hate to drive so this was a big effort for me. But roads were fairly good then.
BUT, things rapidly changed and I decided I wasn't driving home in the BLIZZARD so I got a room at the Avalon.Best decision I ever made after hearing it took a friend 2 hours to get home going 15-20 mles an hour in zero visability. We are only 30 miles from Erie

We are leaving this afternoon for Cleveland. The storm has passed and roads are clear. So we will be fine.

The concert was awesome. Many people despite the awful weather. Clay said he was staying all week because of the weather...big cheers. He seemed really grateful he had so many out. At one point at our party we heard it was cancelled but we called Fox and WJET and they said they had no cancellations on it. Phew.

The party was great! At first we thought only about half were going to show. But by the time they all staggered in, we had most of our 45 people. Made $1,000 for BAF!!!!!!!!on our auctions. I was able to win the bid on one of our signed All Is Well cd's so I am thrilled!

My three new guests are all hooked. They were in awe. It was a sight to behold, hearing them gush and hug and get chills with the power of his voice. Loved it!!!

ERIE: Times News: Clay Pleases Concertgoers Despite Storm

2007-12-17T16:42:00.000-05:00

The Erie Times News has posted a short review of Clay's Erie, PA concert last night:

Crowd braves winds to hear Aiken

By SARAH WEBER

It would have taken more than a winter storm to keep Sharon Seigworth from surprising her daughters with seats at "American Idol" star Clay Aiken's Tullio Arena concert Sunday night.

Though wind and snow whipped though the city, Seigworth and about 1,700 stubborn concertgoers huddled into the arena by the time the pop star bounced up to the microphone at 7:45 p.m.

Aiken opened the show, which was accompanied by the Erie Philharmonic and pianist Jesse Vargas, with a medley of familiar Christmas tunes. He and backup singer Quiana Parlor received warm applause from the subdued crowd.

Aiken greeted the audience saying, "Thank you so much for braving the weather to be here with us this evening."

Later he joked, "Thanks to the weather, we'll be here all week."

Backup singer Angela Fisher, who was supposed to have accompanied Aiken on stage Sunday, was absent due to a death in her family, Aiken announced.

MINNEAPOLIS: Twin Cities Pioneer Press: Clay Aiken "keeping things simple"

2007-12-16T13:54:00.001-05:00

Clay's pair of Dec. 19/20 concerts in the twin cities Minneapolis-St. Paul is getting some great press coverage. On Friday, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune published an interview with Clay and today we found this from the Twin Cities Pioneer Press:

Clay Aiken hard at work keeping things simple
BY ROSS RAIHALA

There was no grand plan behind the concept for Clay Aiken's fourth annual Christmas tour, which stops in Minneapolis for two shows Wednesday and Thursday.

"It came out of me being lazy," the "American Idol" veteran said with a giggle.

It was a simple idea, really. Aiken decided to build this year's tour around cherished holiday memories.

All of which, of course, is a brilliant way for Aiken to keep those faithful fans interested. Aiken hasn't been able to maintain the record sales of fellow "AI" vets Kelly Clarkson, Chris Daughtry and Carrie Underwood. His second album, "A Thousand Different Ways," flopped at retail.

Yet Aiken hasn't disappeared. His lucrative Christmas tours help pay the bills, and he has continued to be a familiar face on television, from frequent appearances on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" to, most recently, the celebrity edition of "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?"

In a continued move toward diversification, Aiken's next venture will take him to Broadway. He'll take over the role of Sir Robin in "Monty Python's Spamalot" for a four-month run starting in mid-January.

One thing that won't surprise people, though, is Aiken's next album, which he hopes to release in 2008.

"We're trying to find songs that are musically me," he said. "I love Justin Timberlake and Maroon 5 and a lot of the stuff on the radio. But I'm not Justin Timberlake or Maroon 5, and I'm never going to be as cool as them. If I try to sing something too cool, it doesn't work. It's like your mom trying to use slang words - it just sounds wrong."

WILLIAMSPORT: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-16T10:28:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - Williamsport, PA

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's feetofclay:

Just back! What a glorious concert. He looked gorgeous -short jacket, light hair, lots of bangs and very thin. Angela and Quiana looked fabulous too in their black dresses. He is in great voice - everything perfect and heartfelt. Angela and Quiana sang beautifully as well. The orchestra and the accoustics are so good in that theater. It wasn't full but there were no empty seats til way in the back. Mixed audience of men and women and some very young fans -6-10 yrs old. Lots of fans. No problems with cameras - not many flashes. A great audience - you could hear a pin drop when he was singing. There will be clack! Spotted some of the very best photographers up front. Weather has turned bad - icy and cold and some snow.

From the CB's clayzycarol:

I must say this is probably my favorite Christmas concert. Clay was vocally perfect.....Clay is a master of taking a song you have heard thousands of times and has the ability to make it new and truly his own.

The jazz medley was fun, OHN gave me chills and DSIAFCD and AIW are what sets Clay apart from all others in the music industry, there is no one and I mean no one that could do these songs like Clay. To hear AIW in person is breathtaking. His voice is Amazing!!!

The stories were good, in fact, my husband said he enjoyed them and one especially touched him.

Angela and Quiana were wonderful and you can see the love and respect they have for each other.

Jesse is extremely talented!

This is a concert not to be missed1 Now I hope the weather is better for my last concert, I'm going to try and savor every precious minute of the show. Clay said this is a "classy" show and he's right, it is!!

WILLIAMSPORT: Sun Gazette Interviews Clay Ahead of Tonight's Concert

2007-12-15T14:31:00.000-05:00

Clay is set to return to Williamsport's Community Arts Center tonight. It will be Clay's 2nd time at the venue, after a sold-out show during his 2006 Symphonic Christmas tour.

The Williamsport Sun Gazette published this interview/concert preview article yesterday. Please give the full version, at the Williamsport Sun Gazette website some hits:

Clay Aiken returning to Community Arts Center

Former “American Idol” runner-up Clay Aiken will return to Williamsport at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Community Arts Center, 220 W. Fourth St.

This year’s holiday show, “Christmas in the Heartland,” will feature the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra.

In a recent interview with the Sun-Gazette, Aiken discussed “Christmas in the Heartland,” as well as how he’s grown since “American Idol.” Since being a contestant on “Idol,” Aiken said he believes he’s matured and learned the tricks of the trade when it comes to show business. When a performer is a novice in the industry, Aiken said it’s easy to be pushed around.

“Probably more than anything, I’m definitely more savvy when it comes to understanding how not be a pushover,” Aiken said. “When I was on ‘Idol,’ I wouldn’t say ‘no’ to anybody for anything. I think I’ve learned not to be taken advantage of.”

Aiken added that many members of the touring crew have returned to do the show all four years, so it’s become a tradition around the holidays and a family type of atmosphere. Having that bond is important when it comes to touring, and it becomes stronger each year.

Personally, Aiken said touring is something that he’s really gotten into, and he enjoys the consistency of being on the road and knowing exactly what lies ahead for the following day.

“When you’re not touring, you never know where you’re going to be the next day,” he said. “Somebody could call me and say, ‘I need you in L.A. tomorrow,’ and so I’m off to L.A. I like knowing where I am tomorrow — because nobody can change that.”

Aiken also looks forward to bringing the tour back to Williamsport. He said that Pennsylvania is always a great area for them to visit, and he refers to the state as a “microcosm of the country” — having big-city, urban areas, along with more quaint, rural areas.

“I’ve always enjoyed those smaller-town, Americana-type shows,” Aiken said. “The audiences are a lot more in line with what I grew up doing. I just really enjoy small-town audiences because I think they represent the country a little more.”

NEW BRUNSWICK: Morning Call: Clay brings "performance filled with warmth and sentimentality"

2007-12-15T14:23:00.001-05:00

The Morning Call posted a constructively critical, but overall positive review to Clay's New Brunswick, NJ concert.

CLAY AIKEN

Clay Aiken's heart, if not his voice, was in the right place for his ''Christmas in the Heartland'' concert at the State Theatre Wednesday night. Backed by the Chelsea Symphony from New York and two female vocalists, the ''American Idol'' runner-up gave a performance filled with warmth and sentimentality.

It was not that his voice lacked strength -- the louder he sang, the more the loyal audience cheered -- but unlike the tight muscularity heard in his recordings, his midrange was harsh when pushed and his pitch often went flat. Some songs had awkward phrasing. There were some notable exceptions. ''Hark the Herald Angels Sing'' was delivered with heartfelt conviction, and he gave a medley of Christmas favorites, ending with ''Winter Wonderland,'' a neat Elvis-like touch.

WASHINGTON: BellaOnline Reviews Washington D.C. Concert

2007-12-15T12:40:00.000-05:00

Michelle Anne Cope of BellaOnline has posted her "fan" review of Clay's Washington D.C. concert. Great review!

Clay Aiken & Christmas

This year, I had a chance to hear that Christmas spirit performed live by Clay Aiken at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. I went with my best friend, Kelly.

As part of Clay’s holiday tradition, he uses his God given gift of voice to share the Good News with his audiences. This year, he also shared the stage with his fans. Clay invited fans to send in personal stories about Christmas. He read, he laughed, he cried, and then he chose the best ones to be read on stage. Some stories were read by their original writers, others were read by friends or family. In Washington, D.C., we laughed about fruit cakes, shared the loss of a child, and marveled over the everlasting romance of a young couple separated by war. In between the fan stories, we heard stories told in song. Dressed simply and majestically in black, Clay Aiken, Angela Fisher, and Quiana Parler filled the theatre with music, song, and spirit. There were times I felt goose bumps because the message was so clear; the promise of God, the birth, and the Good News filled my heart.

MORRISTOWN: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-14T18:31:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photos/video - Morristown, NJ

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's Sue4AllYouDo:

Just got back from Morristown and all I can say is one word....PERFECTION !!!!! Not only from Clay and the Girls, but from that wonderful venue. This is a venue that has been under renovation for the last 12 years, so I've been told tonight by the staff, but it was well worth the wait!!! The sound system was the BEST I'VE EVER HEARD, and when Clay opened his mouth to sing the first note, I just knew tonight was going to be his best vocal performance EVER!!!! And, IT WAS !!!! Not only did he sound magnificant, he looked magnificant and VERY HAPPY !!!! The bangs returned tonight along with the long jacket. Clay was VERY animated tonight when he sang. His very large hands and long fingers were very expressive tonight and he was clowning with Angie and Quiana a few times, especially during DSIAFCD. I am still in awe of the "Sound" of tonight's concert. I'm willing to bet that this is going to be the concert to get for the audio version for each and every song. I met a lot of fans tonight and we had a very fun time. The trip from Easton to Morristown was easy, but coming home was a bit tricky. I hope everyone gets home safe and sound and Clay has an easy trip to Williamsport. My vote is definitely IN for a return visit for Clay and Company to The Community Arts Center in Morristown, New Jersey. This is one venue you have to see and HEAR !!!! Good Night Everyone!! Tonight was my last of 4 live concerts. I'll be joining you on the upcoming cellcerts again!!! This has been a wonderful year, and 2008 is looking mighty good, too!!! Safe travels to those of you going to Williamsport!!!!

---

Good Morning, Guys!!! I'm back again first thing this morning because I just can't stop thinking about the way the show sounded last night in Morristown, NJ!!! I was SOOOO impressed that I'm considering joining their membership, and I don't even live close to Morristown!!!! As I was telling my husband about the show this morning, there was something I wanted to let you guys know. Last night, before Clay sang DSIAFCD, he introduced the Chelsea Symphony once again, and for the final time of the tour. He said "I'm losing these guys tonight" and he sounded as if he was dissappointed about it. I got the feeling that he really loved the Chelsea Symphony and the 4 (or 5 ???) times that they accompanied him this year and last. They stood up and faced the audience after Clay talked about them, and we gave them a standing ovation. Then, they turned to Clay and THEY all Clapped, bowed their heads, and their smiles at him were from ear to ear!!!!! Truly, very touching moment, and very sincere...one great set of professionals to another fellow professional. It was one of those moments that you will always remember. Clay is our shining star and we are very Blessed to have him. I want nothing but the best for him, and for him to sing to me for the rest of my days!!!! Once again, Bravo!, Morristown!!!! This perfection was tailor-made for our Star !!!!image

EASTON: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-13T18:51:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - Easton, PA

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's GrandmaJoan:

I attended the pre-party and the show in Easton tonight with my daughter, Laurie, (ghsoapfan), granddaughter, Maria, Barbara (flyingstarship), AnnMarie (true4Clay) and Gail (I forgot her screen name). Sorry Gail. The pre-party was wonderful, very well organizerd, lovely door prizes and it was great talking to other Clay fans. Sue4AllUDo, WinkyDink and the others who helped did a great job and we appreciate all the effort they put into making this such a special night.. Sue, all the gifts were wonderful.

Mikayla was at the party with her parents and Logan, one of the children who illustrated the book. Maria had asked us if she could go to the concert with us. She heard us talking about the fact that Mikayla would be there and so we thought she would enjoy both the concert (she had been to two of his summer concerts) and meeting Mikayla. Mikayla's parents are wonderful and her mom brought Maria over to Mikayla to meet her. She took Maria's hand and brought it over to rest on Mikayla's hand, Maria smiled and said hello to her and stood there for awhile. Mikayla was sleeping for part of the time, but she opened her eyes and knew Maria was there, although she couldn't see her. Maria had brought a picture for Mikayla that she had drawn. She drew a little girl wheeling another little girl in a wheelchair into a house, with a bright sun in the sky, lots of trees and birds chirping - a very happy picture. She had done this in her first grade class as a project and told her teacher she planned to give it to her "friend" Mikayla. We did bring the picture with us, but left it in the car. Maria did not have a chance to give it to her......yet. She told Mikala's mommy that her mommy would go out to the car later and get it and she would give it to Mikayla.

The show was awesome, as usual. Just when I think he couldn't top his previous performance, he went and did it again. I noticed that there were a lot of newbies at this show, mostly from the local Easton area. A lot of them just sat there for a few of the songs and then politely clapped. However, as time went on, these same people got much more energentic and enthusiastic and, by the time Clay got through with MGUCL and went into DSIAFCD, they, too, were all standing, yelling, applauding, wanting more. So, when he came out to sing AIW, we all went over the top, but it was fun to watch these people who had never had the experience before. Both Quiana and Angela sang their hearts out. I loved both of their songs so much. Shawn is so cute. He seems to fit right in and loves the applause he gets when Clay introduces him. Jesse is a prize possession for Clay and I hope they continue to work together for a very long time. He is amazing and so creative with his arrangements and musical abilities. What a great team they all make!!!

Anyway, after the show, we went out into the lobby. Mikayla and her parents were there. Her mom came over to us and said if you have the picture for Mikayla, she would love to have it. Maria' mom went to get it and brought it back and gave it to Maria. Mikalaya's mom told Maria to please give it to her since Mikayla was sleeping. Maria showed her the picture, the mom loved it and brought it over to show her family. Then she brought the boy named Logan over to meet Maria. He liked the picture, too. Mikayla's mom asked Maria for her address and promised that she would send her a copy of the book signed by Mikayla, and then wheeled her out of the theatre. Maria was so thrilled to have been able to present her picture to the family and even more thrilled to meet Mikayla. The whole evening was fabulous, but this was icing on the cake. It was very emotional to witness. ALL IS WELL.

From the CB's taikenwithaiken:

WOW! I admit...I hadn't read any spoilers before seeing the show..I went COLD TURKEY....so when the orchestra came out, I was expecting them to play along for the first half- like last year...what a shock when CLAY emerged like a phoenix from the darkness..LOL.....he was in FINE voice last night.....I was surprised, again, because I didn't read anything, that there was so little banter...but you know what? His warmth and charm even exudes when he sings...and perhaps I didn't notice that as much in the past because, I love the banter...but he doesn't need to chat to connect with the audience..the sheer beauty of his voice and the joy in his face when he sings hits you !!! And what a mature, seasoned performance/performer he is....I loved alot of newbies seeing that....I was so proud to have been around from the AI days to now to see who is just getting better and better as time goes on.....DSIAFCD was hands down, the best for me.- his growl and little smirk never get old ..but Emmanuel was stunning, AIW...was amazing..when he left the stage and just the microphone is illuminated....WOW.....what wonderful arrangements....the stories told by the local ladies were wonderful....and the one from the lady who lost her little boy....not a dry eye in the house..they all really brought home the meaning of Xmas...Clay knows what he is doing......I could on and on about all the songs....but everyone was a gem in its own right......sigh... I need another tour to look forward too!
hope everyone had safe travels
taiken

From the CB's Sue4AllYouDo:

I love this tour!! Once again, Clay was amazing and in very fine voice. As all the great pictures show, he is looking happy, healthy and just plain FINE !!!! The stories were great, #2 in particular was very emotional. I have to give credit to the reader because although it was a heartwrenching story, she remained calm and up beat throughout it, a real tear jerker none the less. Makes you think about how Blessed we are and how precious every day is, just what Clay wants us to realize. Our pre-show party was a blast!!!! I want to thank Denise and Meg for helping to put together an evening that we will remember forever. Thank you, GrandmaJoan for the wonderful re-cap. I always look forward to seeing you and all the Pink Jacket Ladies, everyone is always so loving and helpful. Congratulations, Ann Marie, on winning the $500 Gift Certificate to Beverly Palm Jewelers. This is a very fine Jewelry Store in Easton (Palmer Township) and it is on a main road (William Penn Highway) and will be very easy to find when you are ready to treat yourself to some really fine jewelry!!! Merry Christmas to YOU !!!!! Your dad is surely watching over you, Hon!!!! Congratualtions to all the other winners (Cindy!!! YEA !!!) and to GradmaJoan for the generous donation. I love you!!! Thank you to ALL who came to our party...YOU made it the most fun of all!! All the children were just plain adorable and helpful and it was so nice to see the interaction with Mikayla and her family. To all the great gals from Up North, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Area, All MY Love....you guys rock and all your love and support is much appreciated. I'm so proud to be a part of this fandom I could burst!! So, if you are up for another trip to Easton, just let Shelley Brown know how much you love Clay and her theatre, and I'd be willing to do this again, and make it even better than last night. I've already begun my begging, just one day after the show, to try to get Clay lined up for next year. The final decision is up to him, but after seeing that beautiful smile and the shake of disbelief from that beautiful red head as he came back on stage last night to sing "All Is Well", I think he knows just how much we love him!! Easton showed the LOVE last night!!!

To all those travelling to Morristown tonight, drive safely and I'll see you there!!!!!

ERIE, WILLIAMSPORT: Erie Times News, Sunbury Daily Item Preview Concerts

2007-12-13T18:50:00.000-05:00

Two new Christmas concert preview articles were published today.

The first one is from The Erie Times News. Clay performs at the Eric Civic Complex in Erie, PA on Sunday:

Letters from the heart
Who'd have thought reading fan letters during his Christmas concerts would be a 4,000-letter success? Clay Aiken has only himself to blame.

BY DAVE RICHARDS

For his fourth holiday tour, somebody in Clay Aiken's camp had the bright idea of asking fans to write about their memorable Christmases. Aiken would personally read every submission, then choose four fans in each city to read their letters on stage during his concert.

After more than four thousand letters poured in, Aiken's eyes are aching. Better believe the person who dreamed this up is feeling his wrath.

"I've kicked myself a few times for having this idea," said Aiken, with a laugh, during a phone interview. "But trust me, I'm a control freak. I wouldn't have let someone else do it."

Actually, he said, the letters thrust plenty of heart into his "Christmas in the Heartland" tour, which arrives Sunday at Tullio Arena.

So far, Aiken said, the onstage readings have moved him as much as fans.

For Sunday's show, in addition to the Erie Philharmonic, he'll be joined by vocalists Quiana Parlor and Angela Fisher. Aiken will draw heavily from his 2004 smash, "Merry Christmas with Love," performing "Mary, Did You Know," "Winter Wonderland, "O Holy Night," and "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing."

The Christmas show, he said, is more comfortable than any other tour.

"It's like slipping on an old shoe, so I do it quite a bit," Aiken said. "I'm able to relax."

The Sunbury Daily Item published this about Clay's Saturday concert in Williamsport, PA. It will be Clay's second time playing the Williamsport Community Arts Center, which was also included on Clay's 2006 Symphonic Christmas Tour.

Clay Aiken to bring sounds of Christmas to the area

By Jeffrey Allen Federowicz
For The Daily Item

WILLIAMSPORT -- One of the most joyous and beautiful parts of the holiday season is the music that celebrates this special time of year. From "White Christmas" to "Hark the Herald angels Sing," each note has the ability to evoke a cherished memory from a Christmas of long ago.

On Saturday, the sounds of the holiday season will fill the Community Arts Center when Clay Aiken, along with the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra, deck the halls with holiday sounds with "Christmas in the Heartland."

"Each one of us has a special memory of the holiday season. That is one of the aspects that make this time of year so great. For me it was going to my grandparent's house on Christmas and be-ing with all my family," said the popular recording artist and "American Idol" runner-up in a recent phone interview.

"This is the fourth year we have been doing a holiday show and each year it just gets better and better. Being on the road this time of year allows us to see and experience so many aspects of the holidays. A lot of us on the tour come from places like Los Angeles or down south, so seeing snow is always a great experience. We drove up from Philadelphia to Wilkes-Barre the other day and there was snow on the ground and covering the trees, it makes everything look so beautiful."

The "Christmas in the Heartland" stop in Williamsport marks Mr. Aiken's second visit to the area since last yearÂs performance at the Community Arts Center, which was a sellout, drawing fans from across the state as well as New York and Ohio.

OMAHA: Clay Interviewed by Star 104.5 FM

2007-12-12T18:13:00.000-05:00

Clay's was interviewed by Omaha, NE's Star 104.5 FM (KSRZ-FM) today. The full interview is now available at ClackUnlimited. Star 104.5 is running a banner ad for Clay's Omaha concert on its website (see screencap above). Clayversity's hosaa brings us this recap of the interview:

talking about how it's hard for Clay to get up in the morning, even on Christmas morning - he didn't have the energy to get up and even look at his unwrapped presents.

He's still on the bus, somewhere in Pennsylvania. And yawning, the DJs are laughing about it.

Talking about SPAMalot, 8 shows a week is tougher than touring. (Yawned again, laughing!)

How does a Southern boy do a British language. Dialect coach? "I think I've got it."

DJs tried to get him to provide a line, he said "You can see it on January 18!"

They asked if he started memorizing his lines yet, and he said "I think I've got most of 'em." Sounds very cute and confident!!

RED BANK: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-12T17:10:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - Red Bank, NJ

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's PlatinumClay:

Wow- what a loud crowd! NJ really showed the love last night at RedBank- the applause was loud and long from the start of the show to the standing O that started in DSIAFCD and seemd to continue ont o AIW. Clay even mentioned about alot of noise for a small venue ( its not the size of the venue Clay, its the size of our hearts- we are loud and proud

Lots of NJU's and, unfortunetly, lots of flashes.

The mid 20's couple sitting in front of me included a slouching, baseball cap wearing, gum chewing guy who was heard to say..."what's with the stories"...but by the third story was sittting up straight and didn't take his eyes off the reader. Both had followed Clay during AI but hadn't been to a Christmas concert. The woman had MOAM and ATDW but hadn't realized he had released Christmas albums...she was enlightened.

I really can't find the words to comment on the singing. He's fantastic.From "a hug is warmer when you are in it" he was looking at ANgela and tehn he truned to Quiana for "Oh bebey, tthat's a fact", he seemd to chuckle and shake his head at our screams and applause of those lines. I absolutely adore Emmanuel, O Holy Night, and WTOW and AIW and...(you get the picture). Angela and Quiana were amazing and look so beautiful in their gowns. I was in the Lobby when Jesse's Uncle came in and asked for him. I let him know how talented I thought his nephew is and how fantastic his arrangements are. Jesse's Uncle let me know he has been into music from an early age...he seemed proud and very nice.
I didn't bring my camera as so many other clack goddesss do so much a better job. I hope someone captured Jazzy Jingle bells as he seemd to really get into the song .

It was great to see so many friends at the concert, sorry I didn't get to talk to as many as I would have liked but I was fixing a ticket situation and had to do some running around.
Well, I guess that's it. Leaving for Boston in a few and I hope everyone going on to the next venue travels safe.

From the CB's hippoga:

Another quick "review". On computer for 30 minutes for $5!

Really great show! It was my first-was amazed at how it seemlessly flowed from one song to another and how the "stories" fit into the flow-Clay, ya done good! It was worth reading 1600 of them! I do miss the banter but what I miss is the "funny stuff" and "picking at the fans" which would be totally inappropriate!

He looked great! Glasses, parted hair, long well-fitted, long frock coat. Did I mention "well fitted"!!?? And a little thing to notice, he's not wearing a belt! Did I mention "well fitted"!?

Loved the jazzy medley, loved WTOW

Gotta send, time is up!

HippoGA

EASTON: The Express-Times Previews Easton, PA Concert

2007-12-12T16:47:00.000-05:00

The Express Times has posted a nice pre-concert article/interview for tonight's show in Easton, PA. Here's a preview:

Clay molds nicely to life's offerings
"Idol" Clay Aiken takes all in stride with Christmas show tonight at State Theatre
By JOHN A. ZUKOWSKI
The Express-Times

"I enjoy everything I do," says Clay Aiken with a laugh. And he sounds like he means it.

But it could have been anything he's done recently -- from his appearances on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" to preparing to star in "Spamalot" on Broadway to his current tour "Christmas in the Heartland," which brings him to Easton's State Theatre tonight.

The "American Idol" runner-up may be enjoying things so much because he's carved out a niche for himself.

The revenge of the wholesome might be the best way to put it. He's like the kid who was in high school plays but never hip enough to become the star. Aiken has become Opie in an era of Britney.

Last year on Aiken's Christmas tour, he took a break to visit Lower Nazareth Elementary School. Aiken is co-founder of the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, which published the students' book "Our Friend Mikayla" written and illustrated by Mikayla Rush's third-grade classmates two years before.

Aiken's foundation works to have children with special needs included in the world around them.

The stop in Nazareth must have been one of many appearances he's made over the years. So one would think it's iffy whether he would remember it. But he does.

"Of course I remember it," Aiken says before going into great detail about the book and the events of the day.

And that includes the limousines he ordered for the students to be taken back to school after an assembly.

"I wanted the kids who wrote it to stay so I could talk to them," he says.

UNCASVILLE: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - Uncasville

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's mandym1988:

Yeahh first recap!

So, the show tonight was AMAZZZZIIINGGGG. And yes, the extra letters in "amazing" are needed because it's beyond amazing, haha.
My grandmother and I were in section 24, all the way up to row S, but we loved the seats because we could see over the top of everyone.
Security was very strict about the "no flash" before the show started. Over where I was, there was a "camera nazi" running about, checking to see whose camera was rolling and whose wasn't. I was worried he'd steal mine while I was videoing some of the songs, but thankfully I'm sneaky and wrapped my scarf around it so he couldn't tell what it was.
As for the concert itself..I was just blown away. I haven't seen Clay since 2005, so two years of not seeing him especially paid off tonight. The music, the lighting, the atmosphere itself was just pure electric. And at the end, you could tell Connecticut was feeling the love because we were stomping on the seats and floor for an encore. I think Mohegan is going to have to replace the ceiling, because whatever was left of it was blown off tonight.
The weather was good, and did hold up well. I left right after the show, and it was only raining. I'm about 10 minutes from the casino, and it was fine driving. My heart goes out to those who couldn't make it tonight because of the weather. You were with us in spirit!
There were only a few things that completely irritated me. One was the people who decided to leave in the middle of the show. HELLO. Don't waste $35 on your seat if you're going to leave because it's a Christmas concert. Read the title and get the point that "Christmas in the Heartland" means "CHRISTMAS CONCERT." Don't use your damn camera with flash, because he asked you NOT to. And don't whine if you get caught, because honestly, there are us Clay fans who are laughing in your general direction for putting boyfriend's eyes at risk.
And..that is it.
My mind is in a fog right now. If I can think of more, I'll write more.
:]

From the CB's PJMain:

Every year I forget how much I love the Christmas concerts, and I only get tickets to one show...and then I regret it when that one show is over!!
(so please, next Christmas, someone make sure i get to more than one concert!!)

Seeing Clay at Mohegan is different - there are so many people there just for the casino I felt less bonding with fans before the show than at some venues. It also seems that there are many more non-board people attending, which I think is great, (except when they get up to leave before the encore because they don't know what they are about to miss).
I actually thought there were a lot of flashes at first, considering they supposedly did a check before you entered the venue. And it IS amazing how obvious those little red and green lights from cameras are when you look out into the crowd. Someone behind me used the flash a few times during the first song but then it stopped, thankfully.
Our seats were way over on the side but with Clay on a pedestal like he is image we had a perfect view (although we moved a bit closer at intermission). It filled up slowly at first (almost sparse) and I bet there were people who stayed home due to the weather predictions, but it filled in well. Still, I felt bad for the people up in the high sections when there were empty seats around us.

Of course, he looked great - is his hair really that light for this tour or is it the lighting? Glasses. Nice and trim. Took his suit jacket off for AIW.
The guy behind me said he can't wait to hear Clay talk because he's really smart and funny. That's how I feel too, but still - the show is so great I hardly missed the banter and audience interaction. (But I loved the guy behind me for saying that!)

Personally, I thought I heard his voice crack in a few places (STILL SOUNDING GREAT, don't get me wrong!) and was holding my breath for those glory notes. NOt to worry though!! But can someone tell me - it seemed like he ended AIW abruptly. Is that the arrangement for this tour?

The stories were great and were a nice touch. What I wouldn't have given to be one of the readers!!

And last, I will just say that I did miss seeing those long lanky legs stroll about the stageimage but all in all, another wonderful performance!!

PJ

From the CB's Clayscience21:

Just back! Awesome show tonight. I have never heard Clay sing so well. His voice really boomed out over the arena yet he was so subtle with the songs that needed subtlety. The orchestra music was a glorious accompaniment. The arrangements were awesome, especially the one that ended with Winter Wonderland. The stories chosen tonight provided good segues to the music. Quiana and Angela looked so glamorous. My only complaint - no Jumbotrons. I was in the back of a very big venue and am glad I brought my binoculars (Even with binoculars, I'm only 90% sure he was wearing glasses tonight. LOL)

Wishing safe travels to all. It's very icy out on the roads.

From the CB's alittlelate:

Never done this before - go easy! LOL!
What a wonderful night - though I am exhausted from the day and the drives. It should be illegal to have hockey tournaments on teh same day as a Christmas concert. My car needs an oil change after today alone. As I came to this whole thing "alittlelate" - this is only my second concert. The first being the bug festival in NH this summer. I was struck by how much more professional this one was. The whole presentation was so polished and the voice was amazing. I dont think we need to worry about the effortless glory notes. They are still there - but the control with the gentler tones of his voice is something to behold. Based on my clack overdoses of the last year, I'm not sure he started with that on Idol, but he sure seems to have mastered it now. It's also amazing to hear him glide into his falsetto and back like a walk in the park. And here I am sounding like I know what I am talking about. LOL! Quiana is a gift! The lasting impression for me was from the end of jazzy medley. The end of Winter Wonderland has the same swagger as Mack the Knife only four years older and more confident. Just WOW!

BTW - little one loved it too! We may have a new tradition. Do all the venues have Krispy Kremes on the way out the door?

From the CB's tsunamimommy:

I could write sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much about tonight. I could tell you the good and the bad and the really ugly, but for now, I will say one really big thing. I HATE ICE! Say an extra prayer for those traveling in New England tonight. It wasn't icy when we left Mohegan Sun, but it was getting there.

As for a real recap, What a night...what a weekend....just wow. I think I've been through every emotion possible this weekend, so for tonight to turn out the way it did, well, it was just the best ending I could have hoped for.

Yes, I was the first reader tonight. Yes, I was nervous as all get out. Yes, I did take more then my fair share of Immodium and Pepto to get through the night. Yes, I did indeed almost fall off the stage. Yes, I did almost fall when I turned to leave the stage (I swear that amp was NOT right behind us during rehersal!) Yes, I did get my sweater caught not once, but twice! Jamie is as sweet as pie! I think she deserves alot of credit for wearing so many hats! She has a lot to keep straight, but through it all she has the sweetest smile and just an absolute pleasure to work with. Heck, she put up with me and when I'm nervous, I'm a babbling lunatic. At one point, she said she needed to run and get Clay dressed. I just politely said I'd be happy to help her with that if she needed it. Somehow, I think that comment alone may have put me on "The List".

Oye, so much I could say. Perhaps I'll throw in a NJU quickie. My 2 best friends of course know that I love Clay. Well, I wound up with extra tickets for tonight's show, so earlier this week, I offered them to my friends. They said as long as the weather isn't too bad, they'd love to go. They came out and enjoyed the show, though I daresay I didn't get to see too much of them tonight, which I felt HORRIBLE about. I did talk to them a little bit, and they had nothing but praise for our man. They loved the show and thought Clay's voice was a true powerhouse instrument! I am so happy they were able to make it to the show tonight.

When I'm more awake and have the time, I'll write everything else out. If you happened to hear me talk about the night, then you already know, it's a LONG story and I tend to ramble even on the shortest stories, so this one is bound to be a doosie!

From the CB's Rhustress:

Wow! What a show!

Through a series of weird circumstances and in all honesty, just being at the right place at the right time, I was one of the readers at last night's show. One of my friends was rooming with a woman (Hi Cindy!) whose story was selected for the Mohegan show. She was not going to Mohegan and was trying to get ahold of someone to read her story. She had a person in mind but could not get ahold of her so she needed to find someone else going to Mohegan and I just happened to be sitting in the room.

The story was great and I knew it was important for her to share it so I agreed. It really was a very sweet story.

I showed up when instructed, did a run through and good thing too because they didn't have the last line printed out in the book I was supposed to be reading from...the story just cut off mid sentence. They quickly fixed that and Jamie, who really is just the sweetest person you could ever hope to meet, told reader number 1 (Val) and I to meet right by the stage 5 minutes before the show was to start.

Again, as instructed, Val and I were waiting by the stage and psyching ourselves up to read. As most of you know by now, that is when Jamie came out and told me that Clay wanted a last minute change. He thought reader #3 should read the story that I was reading and that I should read story #3.

Looking back, it made sense as to why he wanted to do that. The story was about her 23 and 27 year old children and it was obvious I was not the mother of a 23 and 27 year old. I had also mentioned this fact to the writer of the story the night before and asked her if she perhaps wanted to see if she could find someone who was more age appropiate to read the story.

However, in that moment all logic was gone and all I felt was complete panic! Not only was the story nothing I had read before, but it was also 3 pages instead of the 1 and 1/2 I had been preparing to read for the last 24 hours. I don't think I can stress enough how nervous I was. For a moment, I looked around the floor to see if I could find someone I knew, dressed in all black, to read it.

Needless to say, the first half of the show was a blur. I think I spent most of it trying to read through the story a few times when the lighting was just right and I could actually read what was on the paper. I had heard Lynn read her story the night before so luckily, I was somewhat familar with it. Right before the end of intermission, I went to the pre-determined spot and myself and reader #4 headed back stage. The entire time I kept thinking to myself ...only for Clay....only for Clay.

I went up the steps and waited for my cue. I remember asking Jamie for water and literally chugging it down. I also jumped around a bit like a fighter in their corner before a match to try and get the nerves out. God bless Jamie because she was right there joking with me. At one point I asked her, "If I faint, would you come get me?" She said, "Sure!"...I told her don't worry, I had never fainted before so I should be ok. She really is very, very nice.

The song ended, the curtain opened and I walked out, trying not to trip, trying to make sure the mic was at the right level and just started to read. Luckily, you really can't see anyone in the audience. All I saw were black shadows. I remember thinking I couldn't wait to turn the page because that would mean I was almost finished. I calmed down some halfway through it and realized it was really not that bad and thought to myself way to psych yourself out. Don't get me wrong, I was scared but I think the time leading up to reading is more frightening than actually doing it.

I finished, turned around and started to walk back towards the curtain. For a second I thought I was going to fall off the stage. While reading you are illuminated with this brightest of bright lights and then when you turn around all you see is blackness and it was a long walk from the mic to the curtain and I have to agree with Val that the amp was not there during the run through and I almost tripped right over it.

After the show, three of us went back stage to briefly meet Clay, Angela and Quiana. They were all extremely sweet. Clay thanked us all for reading and made a point of thanking the two of us who he switched. We all agreed that it fit better that way and I made a joke about why wouldn't people believe that I had a 27 year old son? I could have just had some fabulous work done! He took the time to talk briefly with each of us. I went over and told the girls that I loved their dresses and asked if they had hoops or crenlins under them. Quiana lifted her dress up to reveal lots of crenlins. I have to say it was a really relaxed and fun meeting. It was almost as if a bunch of old friends were meeting up with each other after a few years. Everyone was up talking to everyone else and there were several conversations happening at the same time. Clay then said it was time for pictures so we each got to be part of a group pic and then he said he had to run, gave us all a hug and he was off.

It was a great night.

NEW BRUNSWICK: A Clay Fan's Story - The Making of 9 New Fans In New Brunswick

2007-12-09T23:26:00.000-05:00

We've been seeing some mighty good recaps of the various concerts on The Christmas In The Heartland Tour. And here is another one I just know you will all love. Psbintl from The Clayboard entitles her review NINE NJUs!!! WOW ! An Evening With Clay!!. Upon asking, I found out that NJU stands for "Not Just Us", and you'll read in this story all about the making of 9 new fans in psbintl's group.

Well,

Just got back in town about two hours ago, back here in California from my trip to New-York and New Jersey.

As I posted earlier, I decided to make a the best of a business trip with my family this week and treated them all to a night out on the town Thursday, to see Clay in New Brunswick at the State Theatre.

There were 11 of us! Only two of us were Clay fans, the rest of the family and significant others remember Clay from AI, but had not followed him at all since then.

As everyone else who attended the New Brunswick concert has attested to, Clay was not only stunning in looks but in voice as well!

Ok, so our evening started with seven members of the party meeting me at my hotel room in New York. I had previously arranged for us to have the night out in style! So a fourteen passenger, beautiful, white, stretch limosine pick us all up from the hotel!

The limosine then took us into Boundbrook New Jersey, where we picked up the remaining three members of our party. From there we went to Bridgewater New Jersey, had a wonderful Italian dinner at a place called La Catena and from there the limosine took us to the New Brunswick State Theatre!

What I must share is that the entire time we were in the limosine the group was treated to seeing the Juke Box tour in it's entirety AND the Pala, Cal concert! I made sure the limosine had a DVD player and I brought along several of his concerts on DVD.

THEY LOVED both concerts!!! They loved Clay's amazing voice, his sense of humor and entertaining stage presence!!

The Holiday concert at the State Theatre was amazing! Clay, Quiana and Angela were just brilliant and Clay outdid himself! The little "snafu" everyone has been cheering about was taken by the group as humorous and endearing!

Everyone single person in our group LOVED HIM!!

One of my brothers asked me twice for the website were he could download and watch the concerts and so I gave him Clack Unlimited.

At the end of the evening what was so amusing was that when we came out of the Theatre ( it never dawned on me this would happen!)(DUH!), but there were a swarm of fans buzzing around and hanging close to our limosine! I completely forgot that some unknowing fans might have thought it was for Clay or some other famous person!

I felt sorry for those fans! All they got to see were a bunch of dressed up unknowns getting into the limo!!

As an early Christmas gift for the entire group, each family group received a gift copy of AIW, MCWL and ATDW along with my signature Clay Holiday greeting card! They all just loved their gifts!

The night was a complete success! For the entire ride back in the limosine the talk was about Clay, his magnificent voice, Quiana and Angela, the classiness and beauty of the concert, where Clay's career could go and the lack of good music in the industry!

WOW!!

NINE NJU's in one night!!

WOO HOO!!!

POUGHKEEPSIE: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-09T21:00:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - Poughkeepsie, NY

Videos

ClackUnlimited

Clayboard cellcert recap:

HERE WE GOOOOOOOOOO!!!

I HEAR THE FIRST NOTES OF OH HOLY NIGHT...

EVERY NIGHT I AM THRILLED TO LISTEN TO THIS GORGEOUS SONG....

Oh Holy Night... he sounds devine... his voice carresses the notes and the words... sigh.

Fall On My Knees...A Holy Night Indeed....Divine...You said it Clay!!!
Beautiful the way he feels the music.. It's of the moment...Glorious...
WORLD REJOICES....FALL ON YOUR KNEES......OH NIGHTTTTTT DIVINE....OH NIGHT ....HOLDING REALLY LONG NOTES....A NEW AND GLORIOUS VOICE. FALL ON YOUR KNEES OH HEAR THE ANGELE VOICES....OH HOLY NIGHT... OH HOOOOOOLY NIGHT....OH NIGHT DIVINNNNNNNNNNNNE....

So strong and lovely. Clay's voice sounds so rich...brightly shining...Clay just shines on this...Audience is applauding and screaming...
HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING.....
Hark The Herald Angels Sing...I hear an angel singing indeed. Must be the wings soaring on the angels that keeps the sound going in and out...still beautiful.

I love how he holds the note so full and strengthens it without taking a new breath. It's like his glory is growing and deepening....

Come us let us adore him....I adore...I adore...

Doing that amazing lord...ready to explode

COME AND BEHOLD HIM, BORN THE KING OF ANGELS...

OH COME LET US ADORE HIM

OH COME LET US ADORE HIMMMM

CHRIST THE LOOOORRRRRRRRDDDDDDDD.....

SOUND IS CRYSTAL CLEAR FOR THE MOMENT - SPECTACULAR!

JOIN THE TRIUMPH...CHRIST IS BORN IN BETHLEHEM....HARK THE ....CHRIST THE EVERLASTING LORD....WITH MENT TO DWELL...HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING GLORY TO THE NEW BORN KING....OH COME YEA, OH COME YE TO BETHLEHEM....OH COMME LET US ADORE HIM CHRIST THE LORDDDDDDDDDDDDDD. OH COME YEE, OH COME ...CHRIST THE LORDDDDDDD. THE LORDDDDDDDD. LOTS OF SCREAMING AND CLAPPING.

THE LOOORRRRRRDDDDDD...

EEEEE - CHILLS - AUDIENCE ERUPTS IN CHEERS!!

ANOTHER STORY NOW..

The looorrrrddd.....And the crowd goes wild....

Now a story. A couple meet at an USO dance...

NEXT STORY. REPEAT OF STORY ABOUT COUPLE SEPARATED BY THE MILITARY. (I'M HEARING DINGS ON THE CELL CERT LIKE PEOPLE LOGGING ON AND NOW CAN'T HEAR ANYTHING ELSE.) NOW SHE IS BACK. SHE HAD WRITTEN HIM A FEW DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND TRIED TO BE BRAVE...RADIO ANNOUNCER ....TOLD ABOUT A COUPLE SEPARATED BY WAR AND KEPT IN CONTACT THRU LETTERS, HOLIDAYS TE HARDEST TIME, WHEN SHE HEARD THE SPECIAL SONG AND THE COUPLE'S NAMES.....50 YEARS AS HUSBAND AND WIFE AND TWO DAUGHTERS. I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS IS THEIR SONG. HER MOM PASSED AWAY SUDDENLY 2005 TWO WEEKS BEFORE CHRISTMAS. PLAYED CHRISTMAS MUSIC AT FUNERAL AND OF COURSE I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS.

Medley - I'll Be Home For Christmas... fits perfectly with the story just read - this song was dedicated to the wife as her husband was on his way home from the service that very day in 1955. Their tradition is to listen to this song by Bing Crosby every Christmas.

Either the crowd is so awed they've hushed completely or we've lost the stream...

We're back...I hear the storyteller now. Family gathering to listen to Christmas music on the radio. The announcer tells a story about a couple separated by war. Similar to their own. Separated for more than a year and the holidays the hardest time. Dedicated song to the couple...I'll Be Home For Christmas. Parents got to spend that day together and holidays ever since. Mother passed away in 2005. Tribute to her mother...IBHFC playing...she'd stop and smile hearing the song.

I'll Be Home For Christmas...Clay singing sweetly.

CV: 3rd Story -- I think this is a repeat -- young couple in love -- he went to serve in the Korean war and they were separated over the Holidays

radio announcements -- told the story of a couple apart at this time -- she tried not to cry -- they dedicated a song to her -- "I'll Be Home For Christmas" -- he rec'd an early release and was on his way home that day -- this was her mom and dad -- he came home for Christmas -- her mom passed away in 2005

I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS...

HIS VOICE IS SO CLEAR AND HE SINGS THIS SO WISTFULLY....

I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS IF ONLY IN MY DREAMS.....

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire... Jesse's piano tinkling the ivories...

Chestnuts roasting on the fire...Jack Frost nipping at my nose...really. Jack Frost got quite a bite.. But Clay singing the Christmas Song is warming me up.

Tiny Tots with eyes all aglow....Clay could light up the world with his voice....Sweet and strong at the same time.
SOME TURKEY AND SOME MISTLETOE....EYES ALL AGLOW...LOTS OF TOYS....EVERY MOTHERS CHILD....SIMPLE PHRASE FROM 1 TO 98....MANY WAYS, MERRY CHRISTMAS....

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS...

FROM NOW ON OUR TROUBLES WILL BE OUT OF SIGHT...

FROM NOW ON OUR TROUBLES WILL BE MILES AWAY.......

He got it right this time... Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Beautiful voice, soaring, sailing through the melody.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas...

May your troubles be out of sight....Amen....Let those troubles go miles away....Clay is warming my heart...

Those golden years...faithful friends will be near to us once more. They are right now.

Hang a shining star upon the highest bough....Clay your wish is my command. Climbing now.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas now....applause and love.

LAST STORY...

Reader now.

80 degree Christmas. Not New York I can assure you. Okay, Hawaii. With a frosty 60 degree Christmas. Something about nobody being able to remember the words to something. Sing songs...Silent Night, Rudoph.

This is bigappleforclay.
Christmas in Hawaii?
Quiana - Where Are You Christmas

WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS....QUIANA...SHE SHINES WITH THIS SONG....

(MORE GOOSEBUMPS)

End of story and applause. Couldn't make this one out as clearly as the last. Something about moving to Northeast.

Now Quiana with WAYC...Very pretty. Good song for her.

My Grown Up Christmas List. The way he sings it, it's so from the heart, he means every word. It's like a prayer.

DO YOU REMEMBER ME...

I SAT UPON YOUR KNEE

AND WROTE TO YOU WITH CHILDHOOD FANTASY

I'M ALL GROWNUP NOW'

STILL NEED HELP SOMEHOW

NOT A CHILD, BUT MY HEART CAN STILL BELIEVE.....

Nice applause for Quiana.

My Grown Up Christmas List. Clay sings this so beautifully. Until he sang it I don't think I felt the meaning. No more lives torn apart, wars would never start....everyone should have a friend...right should always win...love should never end...

What a beautiful list right from Clay's heart.

I'M ALL GROWN UP NOW....NOT A CHILD....HERES MY LIFELONG DREAM...NO MORE LIVES TORN APART...EVERYONE WOULD HAVE A FRIEND RIGHT WOULD ALWAYS WIN AND LOVE WOULD NEVER END....THIS IS MY GROWN UP CHRISTMAS LIST...AS CHILDREN WE BELIEVE....HEAVEN ONLY NOWS, PACKAGES AND BOWS...NO MORE LIVES TORN APART, WARS WOULD NEVER START, ...(OH NO, LOST THE CELL STREAM FOR A MINUTE).....LOVE WOULD NEVER ENDDDDDDDD. MY ONLY LIFE LONG DREAM...

Right will win because Clay is on the job....making a difference...

The illusion of the innocence of youth....we'll find the truth...I don't know of a singer like Clay who can live a song....wow...This is my grown up Christmas list. My only lifelong wish...Beautiful...sweet...huge applause..

SIIIIGGGGHHHH...

GORGEOUS..

INTRODUCTIONS NOW..

DSIAFCD....

AUDIENCE CHEERING....

They are screaming and laughing at the beginning of DSIAFCD...wonder why?

Introducing Angela and Quiana and Sean and Jessie and orchestra

Laughter...Clay joking about 'you with your cameras...ready....'
Asking people to share with people they love....Don't Save It All For Christmas Day...Big Woo from the audience just as he started...laughing with joy...

A little is enough...if you say so Clay....Give a little love every day....
LOST THE STREAM..

Oh no! CV stream went out on the two glory note songs!!!

THANK YOU NEW YORK...INTROS...LAUGHING.....OPPORTUNITIES TO HEAR STORIES....OPPORTUJNITIES YOU'VE HAD. DON'T WAIT UNTIL DECEMBER...SHOW HOW MUCH YOU LOVE THEM....DSIALCD. LOTS OF YELLING AT BEGINNING OF SONG. LOVVVVVVE. HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE CRYING...HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR LOVE/ DON'T SAVIT IT ALL FOR CHRISTMAS DAY. (BELTING IT OUT)....MORE SCREAMING DURING THE SONG....WONDER WHAT CLAY IS DOING. WHATEVER IT IS THE AUDIENCE IS LOVING IT....FIND A WAY TO GIVE A LITTLE EVERY DAY...HOLIDAYS COME AND GO ...LIVE ON....MAY ALL THE CHILDREN KNOW EVERY WHERERE THEY GO THEIR WHOLE LIFE LONG LET THEM KNOW LOVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVE....FIND A WAY...CHRISTMAS DAY....(LOTS OF SCREAMING DURING THIS SONG)...LOVVVVVVE.

Hit the falsetto note perfectly!! Screams galore!!
Huge screams for Baby That's A Fact....Don't hold back...And they didn't.....

Find a way....give love....let all the children know....everywhere they go....let there know...LOVE....

Now Clay...LOOOOVVVVVEEEE Just wow...Audience is screaming so loud the glass in buildings miles away must be shattering....

Screams for the amazing falsetto 'Find A Way' ... Beautiful playing with the notes on the ending and the audience is blown away....Screams that won't stop....screams on top of screams...I'm Clay Aiken.....More screams....Yeah....Audience is wild...Even louder screams...The phone is shattering from those piercing screams. Clay is wowing them.
Everyone's still screaming their lungs out for Clay!

AIW - Clay starts off with quiet tones. Beautiful.

AIW - Now, Clay's buidling up momentum in the song. All is We......llllllllllll! Born is now Emmanuel...Born is our Lord and Saviour, singing Alleluia...

ALL IS WELLLLLLLLLLLLL!!

Screams galore again!!

SCREAMING AND CLAPPING WAITING FOR AIW. HERE IT COMES. MY CONNECTION GOT BAD ALL OF THE SUDDEN. ALL IS WELLLLLL. LIFT YOUR VOICE AND SING....LORD IS NOW EMMUAEL BORN IS THE KNING AND SAVIOR SING AL....ALL IS WELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL. BORN IS NOW EMMANUEL BORN IS THE LORD AND SAVIOR. SING....ALL IS WELLLLLLLLLLLLL. HIT IT. LOTS OF SCREAMING

All Is Welll....

It is when I hear Clay's warm rich voice singing this. Allelujah...Low notes are so full...They radiate out and fill the room, even miles away. Cutting out a bit but can still hear the beauty of his voice....Allelujah.. Deepening the volume and key change....Song intensifying....All Is Well held so strong and glorious...whipping audience into a frenzy of emotion...

Next key change....even richer....crescendo to the skies....ALL IS WEEELLLLLLLL!!!!! Holding that glorious note. Audience goes wild!!!! Woo hoo...Applause and whistles and screams....They're amazed.

From CV:

He almost fell off the stand

ALBANY, NEW BRUNSWICK: Mamarose's Clay Aiken Christmas Adventure

2007-12-09T13:30:00.000-05:00

The CB's mamarose10 has posted this huge recap of her Albany and New Brunswick concert and meet and greet experience. Reading this made my day... enjoy!

Christmas stories, right Clay? You said you wanted Christmas stories! Of course you added down the road the stipulation that they could NOT be about you. Well Clay, this one IS about you, because YOU continue to be an integral part of the Christmas memories your family of fans are making together, with you, each and every year. Your tours, OUR tours, each Christmas have become our own big Christmas party, family reunion, holiday gathering! We come together, we laugh, we cry, we love…as all families do.

So Clay, here is a 2007 Christmas story for you!

New Brunswick, New Jersey: Dec. 6, 2007

We began, Newmie and me, leaving her house in Connecticut on Thursday morning. Our destination was New Brunswick, NJ, and Clay Aiken's Christmas in the Heartland tour concert number one for both of us! We set out that morning with plenty of time and a new companion…Newmie's brand new birthday gift, a GPS system that she had christened "Mindy." I have been told these GPS systems often have other not-so-nice names, but I won't go there (though you can bet I am thinking it now). For the uninitiated, a GPS system is a little handheld gadget that actually speaks to you as you drive along and tells you where to go to get to your destination (Clay Aiken). image

In the beginning, we wanted to get to know Mindy. We wanted to be Mindy's new best friend as we would be sharing this most joyous and special time of the year with her (Christmas, Hanukkah and Clay Aiken)! Newmie insisted that she was a brunette. I supplied that I was SURE Mindy was a Clay Aiken fan. And I was also sure she would love us! Ahhhh…if I knew then what I know now! Now I know…Mindy secretly listens to Daughtry and she drinks! image

Anyway, we rendezvoused with SecretGarden and then with Claydorkable, then split up and proceeded in two cars. We did not directly follow each other, nor exchange too much in the way of directions. After all…we had Mindy!

Getting used to Mindy at first was a challenge. It wasn't her friendly but sometimes jarring chirping of the orders that got to me. It was the particularly perplexing "stay right and then stay right, and then stay right" she liked to repeat, over and over and over! Don't even get me started on her propensity to say "turn left, and keep right." Yep, I was beginning to realize that not only was Mindy drinking, she didn't share!!

We detoured into the Bronx to pick up another dear Clay fan friend. We parked on a residential tree lined street to pick up our friend. On returning to the car, we learned a little known fact! Bronx birds have a diet rich in colorful fiber and they DO like to share…and I mean really share…all over your vehicle. Needing a clean and clear windshield to drive (and reach Clay Aiken), Newmie squirted the wiper fluid and turned on the wipers….only to watch the passenger side wiper flop free and useless from it's moorings and scratch across the windshield. No…Mindy didn't squawk out "clean windshield and clean windshield" as I half expected her to. Newmie and I quickly decided A.) We didn't know how to fix the wiper and Mindy didn't either. B.) We needed a man for this and C.) We can and will drive through bird poop to get to Clay Aiken.

So off we went. But this is where things REALLY started to go downhill. There was an accident on a bridge somewhere in the NYC area. Who knows where…I can't remember…but the result was our once one hour trip became a three, four or was it more hour trip, bumper to bumper in standstill traffic in our green spotted car. We were at times LITERALLY sandwiched between four tractor trailer trucks with zero visibility. Mindy, of course, had several melt downs trying to recalculate our route as she couldn't "see" either and couldn't seem to cope with either overpasses or standstill traffic. Newmie and I munched trail mix and ate Lindt chocolate truffles and kept in cell phone contact with the equally-stuck somewhere Claydorkable and SecretGarden.

As time dragged on and on, it became woefully apparent that our plans would have to change. A stop at the hotel to change into our concert duds before the pre-party WAS NOT going to be possible. Oh my! Here we were in jeans, having had no REAL food since breakfast, with a decision to make. As time wore on and Mindy directed us everywhere but to our hotel, three things became crystal clear: 1.We would have to go directly to the pre-party if we were to make it at all. 2. We would have to change into concert gear SOMEWHERE, and 3. Mindy was NOT our friend. We finally found the venue and, after a few more circles around the block, we found a parking garage.

And then Newmie uttered the words: "We will have to change in the car!" I just looked at her! "Newmie," I said, "I am a big woman! I can't change in a car!" She said "Yes…you CAN!!!" It was that simple. I knew that being in concert clothes was all that stood between me and possibly the three most glorious things in life: Food, Drink, and Clay Aiken! I grabbed my duds from the suitcase in the back, piled back into the front seat of the car and paused. We were here…the party was in there…and somewhere waited Clay. Oh heck, what was I waiting for?! Clothes started flying. Of course by this time, I was uncontrollably laughing. Add in the fact that it had been a very long, long time in the car without the use of a rest room, and well, you get the picture. About that time I realized there was a man sitting in his car, about two cars away from us doing God knows what and we were here whipping off our clothes! For Clay! I put it out of my mind. Such is the resilience of Clay fans! image We accomplished the task at hand!

In the brisk walk from parking garage to the pre-party, I discovered my pants were on backwards. I had just changed in a car. I had only eaten trail mix and chocolate all day and hadn't relieved myself in about five hours. As I turned into the rest room, I could here Mindy say "Bear right and bear right."

As I was flipping my pants in that thankfully warm rest room stall, trying to bring my breathing back to normal, I was struck with the incongruity of this situation when relating it to my life five years ago. Five years ago, could I have ever imagined being here, re-routing my backwards pants in a restroom after changing my clothes in a very cold car in a very public parking garage? But now, five Clay years later, it didn't seem that unusual after all. Hey, we're Clay fans. What can I say!

And so our family holiday reunion party officially began. Kudos to the wonderful HopelesslyDevoted for arranging such a lovely event. It was JOYOUS to be with family together again…Clay's family. And we all knew in an hour we would be with the man who brought us all together and we would be able to sit and listen to an angel sing.

One cosmopolitan on a totally empty stomach later…well…let's just say we DID make it to the venue! No one had to carry anyone there! image

Clay in New Brunswick was amazing. I was struck, as I know many have been, with the difference of this show from other Clay shows. True, he does not talk to us as we are accustomed too. But this tour has a beauty and a symmetry all its own. It has a beginning, middle, and an end. It is compact, but in a good way, like a gem perfectly formed. You can hold it up to the light and turn it in your hand and just look at its perfection. Clay very obviously sought to create this type a reverent show and he succeeded. It is something he is clearly proud of, as he should be. It is something he has done himself and given to us, a gift he created and wrapped and presents to us, his fans, with love.

I was also struck in New Brunswick by his voice. (I didn't know what was to come in Albany). Sitting there in New Brunswick, I was stunned (a word I will be using a lot) with the beauty of his voice. How stupid it seems to say that. I know what Clay sounds like by now. But he is just in totally stunning voice right now. It took my breath away even more so that usual.

The show ends much too soon. Not a criticism, just a fact. I just wanted it to go on and on, so I could just sit there and soak him in. But after the last note of "All Is Well" triumphantly rang out, we knew it was time to go and we had to once again hop into our Mindy-guided spotted green sleigh and find the hotel.

I won't go into detail. You don't need to here the names that Mamarose called Mindy that night. Let's just say that Mindy (the blond, booze-guzzling selfish Daughtry-loving hussy) guided us to a RESIDENTIAL area, down a DEAD END ROAD, and at the end of that DEAD END ROAD she said: "TAKE A RIGHT!" There WAS NO RIGHT!!! There is NEVER a RIGHT at the END of a DEAD END ROAD. There is ONLY DEAD END AT THE END of a DEAD END ROAD Mindy! image

At that point, Newmie decided she would do the opposite of everything Mindy told her. I believe she was mad at Mindy! If Mindy said "Go right," Newmie would go left. If Mindy said "Go left," Newmie, now shouting at Mindy, would go right. I am not sure exactly how we got to the hotel. I think God took pity.

Finally, in jammies and after wine, Cool Ranch Doritos and much talk, Claydorkable, Mamarose, Newmie, Secret Garden turned in. As I climbed into bed I am sure I heard Mindy say "Turn Right."

Albany, New York: Dec. 7, 2007

After breakfast with JojoCT, we found a MAN! That is a man (the hotel concierge) to reattach Newmie's windshield wiper. Things were looking up. We gathered together, somewhat well rested and this time, driving in tandem and not trusting Mindy (thank goodness), we headed to Albany.

Albany: Where I had a Meet and Greet!!!! I had managed in many ways to put it out of my head until this point. But today there was no denying it. I was admittedly nervous. I really needed an uneventful trip to Albany and thankfully we got one. We arrived at the hotel in Albany with lots of time for lunch and concert prep. No backwards pants for Clay tonight!!

At about 5 p.m., Claydorkable and Newmie, knowing how I was feeling, took me by the hand and escorted me from the hotel to the venue Will Call window. Clay fans are very knowing and caring people! Then they went back to the hotel, but I was not alone. Clay fans are never alone are they? Family is always nearby. The other Meet and Greeters began to arrive in varying degrees of nervousness and we waited. Finally we were moved to the theatre lobby and finally that glorious hunk of a man., Jerome, appeared. He is the sweetest guy! He took us to an upstairs hallway, had us put our gifts on a table right there, sat us down in a semi-circle of chairs, gave us the lecture, and then went down some stairs to the left to retrieve Clay. That would be Clay Aiken! Oh my.

.

Now one unfortunate thing is, in keeping with the Christmas season I guess, there seemed to be no room at the inn that night. It seems that the Palace had no place to hold this Meet and Greet, so we were conducting it right there in that upper hallway. And this meant, again unfortunately, that the Meet and Greet was somewhat rushed. I am not complaining, although it is too bad that had to be the case.

Soon I saw Jerome coming back up the stairs from whence he had departed. And on the steps below him, following behind, it came into my consciousness, very slowly, that it was Clay. In that first glance as he was well down the stairs I am sure I uttered an OMG. Had I really not realized up until this point that Clay was planning to come and talk to us??

But as he reached the top of the stairs it all suddenly seemed, well, how can I say this …NORMAL. A friend had told me to remember that it is just "my Clay." Her words came into my head and after that point all nervousness was gone.

He made the circle of the chairs making introductions and finally plopped himself in his own chair. He looked…well…you know how he looks. Wonderful!! Having him right there before me…he looked wonderful! My head was shouting "remember what he is wearing," Folks always want to know what he is wearing. I attempted to make that mental note. I noticed the navy blue sweat pants of some sort, the well-worn slippers, some sort of hoodie. Oh forget this…I will never remember…back to concentrating on Clay breathing before me. So there he sits looking all casual and tousled and perhaps a little like it has been a hectic day and there I sit and what am I thinking?? I am thinking we need tea. Yep, we need tea. And the cookies are right over there on the table in their red Christmas bag. But, we need the tea on this cold winter night, and I need to be in my sweatpants and slippers too Clay. My mind wanders. I digress. At this point I realize Mindy might be saying: "Keep right, and keep right."

I pull my mind back to listening to Clay speak. We talked about where we were from, someone asked what was in his stocking at Christmas. He replied he got an orange…to which I added that we did as well. Just fruit and candy….no presents. He got the same. (Makes for a bit of a boring Christmas stocking I think).

I really felt that I did not want to ask him any serious probing "Clay saves the world" or "give us the real and only scoop" type questions. I just wanted to talk to Clay …casual, silly, stupid, easy. I didn't want to tax him, I didn't' want to probe him (down smutters). I just wanted to talk to him. So I said to him, there is a game we play at home in my family. We ask each other, if you are on a desert island and you can have unlimited supplies of ONLY ONE type of drink and ONE type of food and you can only have one movie to watch forever…what would they be. I imagine at this point Clay is making a mental note that Mamarose is clearly unbalanced.

But what I found so amusing was that he seemed to really mull this question over, like it was the toughest question in the world. Like he had to get it right…he was kind of agonizing over the choices, thinking about his options. He said he just could not pick a movie, period. Then he said that he gets on kicks where he will drink only one thing for a month or so…and then switch to another. He said he had been on a Dr. Pepper kick but last night had some Mountain Dew so now he figured he would be on a Mountain Dew kick. I think I might have said at this point "you don't have to over-think this Clay but you better love what you pick because it is all you are getting." So he arrived at Mountain Dew as his drink. But he added, this is too hard, to only have one thing would be torture. But then he said…I guess mac and cheese would be the food. No surprise there.

I know others asked other questions. One person asked if he would like to do another Christmas show (I believe TV) and have his Mom come on and sing with him. He rolled his eyes and very vociferously said "No!" And that she would not do it anyway. Someone asked him about if he would home school his own children, he again said no, citing the lack of socialization I believe. He signed things as he was talking. He is very good at multi-tasking.

At one point Mary stopped us and gave us the order of the picture taking, telling us to remember that order. Well, we got to the picture taking point and we all stood up…but not a one of us could remember the order. I asked Mary to repeat it…and really at this point we were all talking at once. A gaggle of women chattering until Clay yelled at us, smiling of course. He shushed us all, and laughingly said we were "unruly." Yes, Teacher Clay. Yell some more Teacher Clay!

Picture taking is a bit of a blur. I did get the sense that they were rushed. They had to get us out of the hall I assume before they could let the concert patrons in as it was all totally open and not blocked from the public in any way. We took the pictures…and one Meet and Greeter started in with one last question. She started out saying "Clay, when you have children one day," to which he broke in saying something like "oh now they have me with children already." She said "well you will someday," and continued with the question about what value or lesson would Clay most like to give to his children. Obviously in a rush, he tried to get her to the actual question by drawing a question mark with his fingers in the air. I tried to stifle my laughter at that but I probably failed. TEACHER CLAY with a capital T and a capital C!!!! I can just see him doing that in a classroom. He answered her question saying that "independence" and being able to handle things on their own was the one thing he would most like to instill in his own children. And then he was gone, whisked away by Jerome. The air kind of leaves the room when he is gone. image

I went downstairs, yep…Aiken fog definitely. I met up with my group and proceeded into the concert.

To say that Clay Aiken was ON that night in Albany is such an understatement. He was great in New Brunswick. He was STUNNING and BREATH-TAKING in Albany.

WHAT AN EXPERIENCE for ME. For as hard as I tried I could not really meet up the two very different Clays in my mind. I had just come from a Meet and Greet with a slightly rumpled, very casually dressed kind of unassuming, snarky, funny but sweet young man. I had just sat in a hallway and talked about Mountain Dew and Christmas stockings with this person.

But up on stage, before me, was this enigma that bore practically NO resemblance to that other young man. He was so powerful and gorgeous to a fault. And I, who have been in this fandom from the beginning, almost five years now, who have been to many concerts, and who spend my days, every day, with the CB and with Clay, was really struggling to reconcile the two Clays.

I was blown away by the power and nuance and perfection of his voice and his presence that night. Even as I type this I know my words are failing me. It is truly the voice of an angel that comes out of his mouth. I am sure of that. Nothing we will one day hear in heaven will compare.

And again…all too soon…it was over. Over! And there were the inevitable goodbyes. Not just to Clay, who slips from the stage and takes a piece of my heart with him EACH AND EVERY TIME. But the goodbyes to our family, our wonderful Clay fan family. The people we must carry in our hearts until the next time…the next tour, the next family gathering. Sigh!!!

So to sum up…what have I learned:

1. Clay Aiken is most clearly an enigma…a contradiction that I have to wrap my mind around several times to even come close to understanding why my feelings are so deep. For five years I have been wrapping my mind, and my heart, around him. I am not stopping any time soon.

2. Clay Aiken gives us a gift every Christmas. NO he doesn't come to my house. Mamarose and Clay will never have that teapot moment in jammies and slippers…although if you think my heart will ever give that up you are sadly mistaken. No…the gift Clay gives us each Christmas is each other. A chance for his fan family to gather, to hug, to sit in awe of him, to cry, to love, to just be in each other's presence and breathing the same air with him…and EACH OTHER!. I will never be able to thank Clay enough for that…that most important gift he will ever give me.

3. I am not sure I will ever understand what Clay thinks of Mamarose, but then I am not sure I will ever understand just why I feel all of what I feel for Clay either…so in that regard we are even. We go on Clay. I love him. I will be here…ALWAYS. That is all I know.

4. I don't like Mindy! image

Love and hugs to Newmie, Claydorkable, SecretGarden, Kat, all our most beloved TWWMAD family, Snarkystripes, Sonnets, Gerwhisp, Rhustress, NYmom, Gengen and EACH AND EVERYONE of our Clay fan family that I know my "I have only had one cup of coffee" brain is missing. I love you all! image

POUGHKEEPSIE: Poughkeepsie Journal's Sean McMann Blown Away by Clay

2007-12-09T12:48:00.001-05:00

We've had some great tour coverage all last week from the Poughkeepsie Journal's Sean McMann. Sean was able to catch the last half of Clay's show last night in Poughkeepsie and had some great things to say about Clay.

All of Sean's Clay coverage is up at his blog, Sean's Space.

Article 1 - "It's the day after Clay...":
I was blown away by Clay Aiken's "Christmas in the Heartland" stop at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie.

Clay has the best voice of anyone I've ever seen in concert. And I mean it!

Sure, it comes through on CDs, but to hear him live is a totally different experience. A microphone is all he needs; his voice is his own instrument. I swear, I heard him hit notes last night that I've never heard a male singer hit. It was truly amazing.

I knew the guy could sing; but you can't appreciate how well he can sing until you hear it live in person.

... the best I've seen at the Civic Center in all of 2007.
Article 2 - "How about that Clay Aiken???":
In short, the hour I was there for was an amazing hour of music! In just that hour, I decided Clay has the best voice of anyone I've ever seen in concert. Barry Manilow is the greatest overall performer and showman I've ever seen (you remember my GF and I are seeing him Monday night, right?) and is the total package on stage, and Britney Spears is the most beautiful singer I've ever seen in person, but Clay has the most singing ability of anyone I've seen ... and I've seen a lot!
... don't forget, Sean is still looking to talk to people who went to the concert last night... give him a shout at journalsean@aol.com:
So here's where I need some help: If you're heading to tonight's Poughkeepsie show, feel free to e-mail me at journalsean@aol.com after the concert and share your thoughts! Snap some pics of the concert? E-mail them, too! Just please include your first name and hometown in the body of your e-mail.
there are even more Clay articles/blogs from Sean at Sean's Space.

POUGHKEEPSIE: Poughkeepsie Journal Publishes Interview

2007-12-09T12:26:00.000-05:00

Sean McMann of the Poughkeepsie Journal published his great interview with Clay at his blog, Sean's Space this past Friday, December 7.

If you remember correctly, Sean asked for Clay fans to write in their questions to him and he would ask Clay. He told us in his blog dated November 29 and entitled Clay Aiken answered YOUR questions! which questions he used. Now Sean gives us the entire interview dated December 7 and entitled Without any further ado: the Clay Aiken/Poughkeepsie Journal story. Sean says:

So after working at a fever pitch for the past week (securing the interview with Clay Aiken, soliciting readers' questions for Clay, actually speaking with him a week ago and then traveling throughout New England earlier this week and finishing the writing), Friday, Dec. 7th is here and my story about the former "American Idol" runner-up and his tour stop here in Poughkeepsie is being read throughout the Hudson Valley.

For all you Claymates from around the country and around the world who've come to "Sean's Space" over the past week and are not in the Journal's coverage area, I give you following ...

Check out Sean's blog to read his outstanding interview with Clay and then scroll down from the top on down to read several days worth of blogs about Clay. Sean had some great things to say I think you will agree.

Thanks, Sean, for a great week of fun for Clay's fans and for a really awesome interview. You have made our day!!!

POUGHKEEPSIE: Poughkeepsie Journal's Sean McMann Looking for Concertgoers

2007-12-09T12:25:00.001-05:00

Sean McMann of The Poughkeepsie Journal has written up some great articles about Clay and his Christmas tour. He had even hoped to go to Clay's concert in Poughkeepsie and then write about it. However, he has a job that night covering a sporting event and won't be able to go.

Sean has an assignment for any fans who will be at the Poughkeepsie concert. Here is what Sean's request is from his blog dated December 8 and entitled, Say, "Hey!" to Clay for me.

Now if you've been here at "Sean's Space" in the past week, you'll know I have a work assignment this evening and won't be able to go to Clay Aiken's show at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center.

Instead, I'll be at John Jay High School covering the Patriot Invitational, one of the largest high-school wrestling tournaments in the area. Good stuff and there should be a lot of action on the mats.

So here's where I need some help: If you're heading to tonight's Poughkeepsie show, feel free to e-mail me at journalsean@aol.com after the concert and share your thoughts! Snap some pics of the concert? E-mail them, too! Just please include your first name and hometown in the body of your e-mail.

Just like when I asked for fans' questions for Clay, I'll pick some of the best reviews and pics, and post them here at "Sean's Space," hopefully before I travel to Mohegan Sun on Sunday for Clay's next show, which I'll be reviewing. Again, please include your first name and hometown when you send your thoughts and pics so I can give you credit on the blog.

So if you'd like your own review and pictures included in Sean's Space, email him as soon as possible and let him know what you thought of Clay's Poughkeepsie concert.

ALBANY: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-08T18:57:00.000-05:00

Photos

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's ncsupack88:

howdy gang im on the road back to massachusetts and unfortunately my laptop battery died. we stopped to eat at Pump Station Brewery and i found an outlet to charge battery but apparently it didnt work cuz the battery is stil dead. i was gonna try to upload Clack if i could with my wireless card but no such luck. I got busted
TWICE at worst times...during OHN and DSIAFCD. I thiught they were thinking i was flashing but it was folks behind me somewhere. jerome even came out to the side entrance and shined his flashlite in my direction. i forgot tape for red light so when i was videoing i put my hand over light but im thinking there was still a red glow. Oh well i tried. my camera doesnt take the best vids anyway.

i am with Sue9459 and her dh, son and his friend. she'd never seen clay before and although i wouldnt go as far as tosay she'''s Clayerted she thought he was great and was really impressed by Quiana. i thought Clay's voice was scratchy at some points so i was holding my breath for AIW but he fought for it and nailed it. WTOW was very poignant. I had only heard it once.

as many have said this seemed like a more professional concertl i do miss the banter but this is Clay's baby so if hes happy with it I am. its hard typing on this iddy biddy keyboard. i bought a new MotoQ phone last week and it has internet so ihope this works.

i met Marlovesclay, Riversend and Clayitagain. River had a M&G and u should see how clay signed her framed lei. i sent it to claybug71 and she was gonna try to post. i dont know how to upload from this thing and u cant right click and save!!! well i.ve written a book and am going blind from typing on this thing . In essence the man was great. the rchestra was great and A, Q Jesse and Sean were great. i posted this in cellcert thread and dont think i can copy it so if a mod will move it to recap thread i will appreciate it. no proofreading either so forgive the typos.

one last thing Yanks. i dont have an accent. YALL DO!

From the CB's LynninnNJ:

Sooooo glad to have been in Albany last night!!!!!!

It was a looooooong, snowy drive from NB to Albany (4 hours when it should have been 2 1/2 i think) but we did make it.......stayed with ALL the other Claymates at the Hampton Inn, grabbed a quick bite to eat and were on our way....the show was at 7:30 last night.

The Palace in Albany truly is an INCREDIBLE place. It was built in 1931 so really has that "old time" feeling.....but was renovated in 2001......really, really cool! I would say that the house was about 3/4 of the way full....and there were alot of seats!!!!!!! I was in Right Center - about 6 rows back (thanks hotclay!) and on the aisle........i was loving life.....it was the perfect seat!!!!!

Clay's voice was in TOP FORM again last night.......a few flubs with some words (MDYK - one line) but recovered perfectly!!!!! The problem with last night though was.......
THE LIGHTING AND THE SOUNDS GUYS!!!!!! Good LORD....don't know if they all went out for Happy Hour before the show last night or WHAT, but there were some WACKY things going on during this show. Mind you - nothing that RUINED the show of course, but just some strange occurrences. WHAT WAS THAT SHAKER NOISE DURING MDYK???
Don't know if it was from percussions (not Sean) or some other instrument but it was NOT RIGHT!!!!! During the 1st reader you could see motioning to the sound guy to turn up his mic.......his arms were flailing!!!!!!!!!!! Things got better as the show progressed, but they still weren't quite on......Angie's spotlight was flickering alot and they missed a few lighting shots.......it was kinda WACKY!!!!! Toward the end of the show, he had this crazy HAND SHAKING thing going on (we assumed it was to get someone backstage's attention)...it was all quite odd!

The readers were really wonderful last night.......the first a Hanukkah/Christmas story that was really cute (she got Chutes and Ladders from Santa!), the second Chris Wilson's story about her son's young death, the third a Christmas traveling from home story and the forth a inspiring nursing home story......they were all perfect for the show.

OMG - WTOW is now this amazingly haunting song.....sung in almost a whisper......it really ends the first half with a statement!!!!! I LOVE how Clay has evolved with this song......it's an amazing addition to the show - perfect!!!!!

DSIAFCD and All is Well were as POWERFUL as ever - the notes perfect......and the sound LOUD!!!!!!!!! I'm surprised the Palace's Roof is still in place....seriously!!!!!!!!!!
I'm sure he BLEW the newcomers away...........i didn't get a chance to speak to many people after.....but the sweet lady next to me from New England (*waves*) was pretty SPEECHLESS!!!!!! It was her first and only show of the tour - and i think she was pretty impressed!!!!!!

ANOTHER AMAZING PERFORMANCE FROM MR AIKEN........BRAVO!!!!!!!!

From the CB's snarkystripes:

Last night was a very unique experience for me. It was the first time I went to a concert with Mr. Snarky where we sat together. That, combined with the fact that I was 16 rows back, gave me a new, fresh perspective on Clay concerts. And, I think I liked it.

Our seats were really very very nice. Full view of stage. The readers were directly in the front of our view. Really a fine view of Clay. Obviously we couldn't see his face up close, but that's ok. This time it was all about the music.

It was kind of an "out of body" experience in a way. As I waited for the concert to start, and at intermission, I looked down below at all the women who were standing, milling about, interacting with each other. The loyal groupies, LOL. For some reason, I actually felt....I dunno...NORMAL...for once. It felt kind of refreshing actually.

The orchestration and Jesse's work...sheer brilliance.

When the beginning of "Emmanuel" started it took my breath away to see Clay rise out of stairs that were behind his mic, center stage. He steps up as the music begins and my God, there's Clay. I grabbed my husband's arm momentarily. My heart skipped a beat. There's something about Clay entering the stage that grabs me every time.

From what I could see, he was gorgeous in an elegant sort of way. His profile revealed longish hair swept back on each side. And from a distance, the narrowness of his face and the prominence of his cheekbones were striking. His thin frame graced center stage. THe long fingers on his hands take their place prayerfully around the microphone. And then that voice. My God. His voice was so pure, gentle and reverent. And other times so playful and sexy. His intonation and the emotion are impeccable. Brilliance throughout.

As I viewed Clay from a distance with his red sweptback hair and his glasses I thought...My God...he's Clayton. There is Clayton! How much he reminded me of the boy from Hometown Connection vids. And then I thought...this boy has truly become a man. And as I listened to his heart and I listened to the wonderful stories, considering that he had picked them, I thought "How....HOW could ANYONE see bad in this person and how could anyone wish anything bad for this person?" I felt last night, more than ever, what a true gift Clay Aiken is to this Earth and to us. I believe with all my heart that he was brought to the stage for a divine reason. He is so unique, special. Such a gifted performer. And what a heart he has. Yes, he is gorgeous. But last night I felt all that pushed aside temporarily as I sat away from the Claymates, next to my husband, and next to a very nice woman who was a non-internet, first-time Clay concert goer...simply soaking it all in. I felt so blessed.

(But the flashes were horrific and I got very very mad by the end of the concert at how the theater turned into a strobe light.)

ETA: Mr. Snarky went to one concert last summer but away from me, in the balcony. Last night, after the Albany, he said , " Now THAT is a concert." He liked the flow, the continuity, the message...and the fact that there wasn't silly banter with fans up front and so many inside jokes.

NEW BRUNSWICK: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-07T18:06:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/video thread - New Brunswick, NJ

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's me7160:

Just got back from New Brunswick and Clay was PURE PERFECTION. Had on long coat, glasses and hair looked great. He looked very happy. He did a little giddy up during Sleigh Ride and had a little mess up during Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and The Christmas Song. I saw him look down at Jesse and knew he was in trouble he kind of had this funny look "like help me". I think Angie helped him out because he said ladies and gentleman Ms Angela Fischer and when they went to the 3rd reading he turned to Angie and signed TY. Always the gentleman. He had everyone in the palm of his hands audience very receptive. He brought the house down when he nailed the glory notes during DSIAFCD an AIW. I am always in awe of his voice. I could not believe how he sounds live it is something everyone should experience. Last year I saw him in Englewood and was lucky enough o be in the 1st row and have him sing to my husband and myself. Now that was something I will NEVER forget
I didn't see many flashes and someone was handing out electrical tape.

From the CB's Sue4AllYouDo:

Ellen and I just got back from the most amazing concert EVER!!!! First, Thank You, Paula, for putting together a fun pre-party at the hotel across the street from the State Theatre in New Brunswick. The food was excellent and the company was THE BEST. Hi Strolly!!!! Hi Laurie and Barbara....please give Joan our love and I want to hear that she had a fantastic time in Red Bank!!! I definitely need to see her in Easton!!! The moment Clay walked up to the mic, I just knew this night was going to be magic. He had a happiness about him that was contagious, but maybe it was because he could feel the love right from the start. The New Brunswick audience was electric. Clays vocals, all night long, were spot on. That man can kill you with those low notes. The stories were great, and Ellen and I sat next to one of the readers. She told the story of being raised in a Jewish family and that her favorite Christmas memory was that her parents let her believe in Santa, and she loved Santa for bringing her the most special Christmas Present of all, a bride doll. She told us that she was married to an Italian Christian, and that they each shared their different religious backgrounds during the holidays, also. It was a real pleasure to be sitting next to them and sharing nice conversation with them. Clay looked fantastic, his suit had the long jacket, his hair was cut and shaped perfectly with the bangs, he wore glasses and his face was clean shaven. He looked simply adorable. He smiled quite often, made fun of himself for "messing up" The Christmas Song and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, and appeared very humble, yet appreciative of all the love that was being sent his way. Seeing Jesse's face when Clay started to sing the wrong song was priceless!!! He is a gentleman also, because the look that he gave Clay was that of being puzzled, yet patient, and he knew full well that Clay would handle this just fine, AND HE DID!!! I think that Angie was trying to help him out and he recognized her for that by saying "Miss Angie Fisher!!!" It was a very cute moment, and after the show, I was talking to one of "the husbands" and he said that Clay is a Master Performer and handling a mistake like that only proves it more. He loved the show!!!! Welcome to Our World was breathtakingly beautiful, as was Quiana's Where Are You Christmas. Angie is showcasing her lovely high tones as Away In The Manger was soft and sweet. There truly are no words to describe Clay's Vocals tonight, so I will end this with my favorite moment of the evening......All Is Well...... When Clay ended the song, he was bathed in White Light that still sends a chill through me. It was a stunning image....He was hitting the last long note and his stance was that of glory. The white lighting on him....I really can't find the right words. I hope there is Clack of this because you just have to see it to believe it. Then, the mic was standing alone in the dark, and 4 white lights from 4 different directions were shone on it, a very dramatic effect. It was left that way as we were all starting to leave. The lighting for All Is Well was PERFECT and I hope they can continue to achieve this at all the upcoming shows. Bravo Clay, Bravo !!! Thank You for this precious Christmas Gift!!! We love you and appreciate you so much.

UNCASVILLE: 94.7 WMAS-FM Interviews Clay

2007-12-07T18:01:00.001-05:00

94.7 WMAS-FM in Springfield, MA interviewed Clay this morning ahead of his December 9 date at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT.

CDD's Clayscience21 recapped the interview for us, which you can now download from ClackUnlimited:

DJ went through list of Clay's accomplishments - music, every TV show imaginable, hosting TV shows, book, President's committee.

Clay laughed and responded that he hasn't won an Academy award like Jennifer Hudson.

DJ mentioned Clay's screaming fans. Clay mentioned he's confused about fans sticking around since he laughs at himself since no one said his name 5 years ago.

DJ said he was a friend of Clay's mom and that she said that people had cut out pieces of her lawn. Clay said that they got her more security and that his mom was more guarded now (not inviting people in).

Talked about Fifth grader show. Clay mentioned that their goal was to raise money for 100 summer camps, and that they were well on their way since he was now smarter than a third grader.

DJ asked for the TBAF website and Clay gave the site name.

DJ asked about who from idol that Clay stays in touch with - Clay mentioned he stays in touch with Kelly since they toured together and were friends; stayed in touch with Ruben who would be doing something for Unicef in the coming week. Stayed in touch with Kim Locke.

Doesn't watch idol much anymore. Analogy to idol being like high school. Once you leave, you don't go back.

Spamalot Jan 18-May 4 (didn't say much else)

Mom is going on Unicef trip to observe.

Asked if he would open a restaurant like Kim L, Ruben, Taylor. Clay was confused and thought they meant eating at a restaurant. When they clarified, he said no, no, no, joked about maybe a Krispy Kreme franchise.

The DJ promoed the Mohegan Sun concert.

UNCASVILLE: Clay Talks About "Spamalot", New CD with The Day

2007-12-07T17:51:00.001-05:00

Connecticut's The Day has posted a superb interview with Clay at their website. The interview, focussed on the the current Christmas In The Heartland tour and his stop at Mohegan Sun this Sunday, offers some new information about Clay's new album and Spamalot.

On Christmas:

He likes celebrating Christmas so much that he does a holiday concert tour each year, but he doesn't like celebrating his birthday and so did nothing special for his 29th.

On Spamalot:

He thought “Spamalot” was “one of the stupidest things I had ever seen in my life” — and yet he's agreed to star in the Broadway musical beginning next month.

He never saw “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” the movie that inspired the Broadway musical “Spamalot.” There was talk of him being cast in it, so he decided to see the show.

“Earlier that weekend, I had seen a typical Broadway musical, which gives you the highs and the lows and you leave with your heart soaring, blah, blah, blah. You go to 'Spamalot,' and your heart's not soaring, necessarily. It's confused.”

He went a second time, now understanding that the show doesn't have a real storyline, that it's just fun and silly.

“I laughed so hard. It's the funniest show that's possibly ever been on Broadway. It's just that off,” he says.

On the forthcoming CD:

Aiken is due to release a CD next year — his first of entirely new music since “Measure of a Man.” He and his team are looking for material now and expect to record next year. As for what folks can expect, Aiken says, “It's kind of hard to say. We're going to do all original material, but it's going to be me. I can promise it's not going to be trying to stretch into a new arena, something that's so out of the box that it's unrecognizable. We're going to try to do stuff that's just one millimeter left of center. The producer says, 'Stay in your own lane.' That's what we're going to do.”

In the beginning, producers suggested material more appropriate for pop performers who are in vogue on the singles charts, like Timberlake or Maroon 5.

“It's always the issue, I think because there's such a push for really commercial stuff, and Justin Timberlake and Maroon 5 are very cool. I can't do that type of stuff,” Aiken says. “It's a struggle, because a song, a demo, will come in, and it'll be such a great song, and I'll love it. But the more I sit with it (I realize), let's be honest, I'd love to listen to it — from someone else.”

That said, Aiken says his new CD is “going to be very current in sound, but we're looking for songs that are great for me and will produce them in a current way.”

WILKES-BARRE: Pennsylvania's Time Leader Reviews Concert

2007-12-06T19:09:00.001-05:00

The Times Leader in Northeastern Pennsylvania has put up its review of Clay's Wilkes-Barre concert. Many thanks to the CB's alisonangus for the scan, above.

Aiken spreads some holiday cheer REVIEW
‘American Idol’ runner-up fills Kirby Center with the Christmas spirit.

WILKES-BARRE – Chatter filled the F.M. Kirby Center while the Lee Vincent Orchestra was onstage, quietly playing Christmas songs. The orchestra went virtually unnoticed until the concert master came onstage and took his place at the piano.

That’s when the fans silenced.

They knew Clay Aiken would be coming on stage soon.

Aiken sang familiar Christmas songs – “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bells” and “Winter Wonderland” with a big band ending – sandwiched together as medleys. The lesser-known songs (like “Mary Did You Know” and “Welcome to Our World”) were full-lengths, which perhaps was purposely done to eliminate turning the concert into a group singalong.

[...]

WILKES-BARRE: Citizens Voice: Clay "packed a punch"

2007-12-05T17:41:00.000-05:00

The Christmas tour has so far been positively received by the press, and this continues with a new review of the Wilkes-Barre, PA concert from The Citizens Voice.

Aiken delivers holiday greetings
BY KAYLEE ZIOLKOWSKI
12/05/2007

WILKES-BARRE — Clay Aiken packed a punch with a score of passionate holiday favorites during his “Christmas in the Heartland” before a packed crowd at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts in Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday night.

Sporting his modern long-coat suit and thin-rimmed frames, Aiken opened his first set with “O Come O Come Emmanuel,” hitting his signature high notes and falsettos.

Aiken told the audience he wanted his fans to share their favorite holiday memories to help everyone remember the meaning of this time of year.

Before concluding his final number, he urged audience members to support the local arts community, and challenged them to appreciate each other all year round, not just during the holidays.

WILKES-BARRE: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-05T17:26:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard photo/media thread - Wilkes-Barres, PA

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's alisonangus:

So I got back a few minutes ago and started crying. It was a mix of sad and happy as I set down my poster, Ivory scarf, and ivory hat. How long have I been waiting.....6 months and all of the magic is over. Didn't mean to be a downer but I really do think this Post Concert Disorder is a true medical condition. Tonight was like a child's first experience at Disney World, or a seat on Santa's lap.

Clay sang beautifully, what else can I say, he's a wonderful man. His true feeling through music is not typical. He feels every meaning of the lyrics every time we hear his voice. His voice was powerful at times, but in great control and rhythm, especially in the faster medleys. Tonight, what else happened? To tell you the truth I really can't answer that. I know that cold temperatures made the crowd feel warm and cozy. Clay is so happy, and he doesn't hide nor fake it. Tonight he gave the crowd a few great heartwarming smiles that proved a flow of happiness during the long never ending standing ovation. His love for Christmas music was not ignored and he let people know that this was a serious time to know what to be grateful for.

My Middle School band teacher was in the orchestra on precussion and we saw him come out of the Kirby while we were impatiently waiting in the handshake line. If you were there, the very few that stood there, I was the one with the poster, hat, and scarf, trying to figure out exactly where Clay would be at that time and I was planning on telling my mom I was in an alleyway. My band teacher told me that unlike last year with the banter and jokes, Clay's main intention was to spread Christmas joy and spirit through gentle and heartwarming music.

During the handshake line, a few brave souls decided to wait in the line(if you can call it that) in twenty degree temperatures. We waited in an alleyway. There was hope but some also said there was no way he'd want to come out. Well I thought that he would have to go to the bus sooner or later. I think I saw Jesse on the streets but I couldn't figure out why he'd be there. Then we saw Durham taken out for a potty run I was assuming. That excited me in ways I never thought possible. But anyway, we waited and we waited. I was happy to get video of the bus with my phone. We probably waited a long time. We were cold, I wasn't though, I had a new scarf and hat. Clay came out and I think I was the first person to scream before everyone followed me. Clay didn't do the handshake however I thought the close wave was enough for me. He looked happy and comfortable. He was wearing glasses still from the concert obviously and he was wearing red pajama pants. It was the closest I'd ever been to him and it was paradise.

From the CB's riversend22:

Hey y'all. I'm a bit tired but thought i'd give a short recap of tonight's show. This was my first show in a series of 8 that I will be seeing of this tour and I've gotta tell ya...I don't know if his voice will EVER be as PERFECT as it was TONIGHT. I have seen an incredible number of shows (I think i'm coming up on having seen around 70..LOL) and I was blown away tonight by the quality and tonality of his vocals. I am a big music person and I can tell if someone misses a note and Clay did not miss one. In a nutshell, I'm speechless. Tonight, for the first time (for me), Clay Aiken's voice seemed effortless. You could just tell he was singing from his heart and it truly shone through in the final product. Bravo Clay. You proved to me once again that your incredible gift is one of the most precious that I have ever had the pleasure of hearing.

Ok...now onto some details. I thought he looked good. I was in the front row and although the piano was right in front of me and I was VERY close to the stage I had the perfect view of Clay. Matter of fact, he's all I could see..LOL. Long coat, glasses, hair swept off to one side...it actually looked wet to me when he came out. I had heard that they were running a bit behind because the show was earlier tonight so I don't know if he was rushed getting ready or something. But he did look very happy as he was smiling quite a bit during the show. At one point he actually starting giggling and I have no idea who or what he was giggling at...but it was definitely cute.

I will also agree that the lighting guy is a genius. That microphone at the end of All is Well gave me chills. Although I couldn't see the girls sing their solos..their voices soared with beauty and they blew the roof off of the place. I loved it. As far as the stories go, I may need to let them warm up on me. I thought everyone did a great job reading them but I also thought some were a bit on the long side. Despite that though, I still enjoyed them. There was actually one that rang very personal to me and as soon as Clay started singing "I'll be home for Christmas" I started to cry. It was hard for those personal reasons..but the song was beautiful.

I would also like to say that Jesse is a phenonmenal musician. His talent hypnotizes me. I watched him quite a bit playing the piano and I was awe struck at how talented he really is.

Ok, I think those are all the highlights for me. It was a great way to kick off the tour. As I said, I have quite a few more shows to go to, and I can only hope that they will be as great as this first show was.

As they say in Italian...BRAVO!

~river~ :bananas:

From the CB's LynninNJ:

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS SHOW!!!!!
I had the honor of reading my "I'll be Home for Christmas" story again last night....it truly was a blessing and something that i will FOREVER be grateful to Clay for.
My travel mate and I had plans to meet 1/2 way in PA on the way up to Wilkes-Barre (or over, whichever it may be!)
I got the email notification Tuesday am cause i had passed out Monday long before the email came in. But i responded to them that i would love to read my story, but i probably wouldn't be able to make it to rehearsal...a girl's gotta work some time!

The venue was really pretty in a cute little town - and we didn't even get lost - AND we had McD's for dinner....all was well!
We got to the venue at about 6:30pm.........and pretty much went right to our seat....the place seemed big and we were excited to be there......so we sat right down!!!!
We were excited listening to the "lite buzz" about the happenings/questions from the M&G from the women around us.......
The show started a little late but was a 7pm start........AND THEN HE APPEARED......GLASSES CLAY WAS BACK!!!!!!
We had 2nd row Center seats.....GOOD LORD we were close! I didn't bring my camera with me - and although they announced no cameras - obviously some had them.
AND THANK GOD THEY DID - I'M SOOOOO THANKFUL FOR THE CLACK GATHERERS THIS SHOW!!!!! THEY ARE AMAZING!
Luckily, our seats were off to the right of the section a bit........cause we had a PERFECT view of Mr Aiken.....torso up - niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice!
We actually didn't even realize he had on a long coat - until i saw it backstage during the 2nd half....we would have NEVER known!!! Jesse and the piano were CLOSE,
AND THAT MAN IS A FREAKIN MASTERMIND ON THE PIANO....IT WAS SOOO COOL TO BE UP CLOSE TO WATCH HIM! I think that is what i enjoyed MOST about this show, that i was able to have Jesse AND Clay right in the same view....so i could watch it all...it really was magical!!!!!!!!!
The music was AMAZING - perfection again but not as "perfect" as DC we didn't think.....the sound was a little echoy......no problems at all with his voice...just the sound wasn't as good. However....the Lights??!!! GOOD LORD - they were INCREDIBLE!!!! If you ladies haven't witnessed the SPOTLIGHT yet during the end of All is Well.....LOOK OUT!!!! It's incredible!! Let me know with FREAKIN CHILLS for about an hour after it ended......it really is a spectacular addition! (but makes me miss him RIGHT AWAY!)

I really, really enjoyed the stories this evening from memories of a Dad's videoing of Christmas (we can ALL relate to that funny one!), to the Miracle of Christmas for a baby grandson, to the joys of seeing the Holidays through a 4-years olds eyes......they really are an awesome ACCENT to Clay's musical talents. The girls looked and sounded AWESOME as usual.........QUIANNA DESERVES AN AWARD for WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS....she blows me away everytime!!!!

It's interesting to me that Clay seems like be downplaying a few of the songs now - more so than he did in the first few shows....like Grown Up Christmas List and even I'll be Home for Christmas (which i usually CRY my eyes out during anyway!)........but then on songs like Jingle Bells and others from the Winter Medley - he's really ROCKIN and giving it to us even more!!!! I'M LOVING HOW HE KEEPS EXPERIMENTING AND CHANGIN THINGS UP.....HE'S AMAZING!!!!!!!!

GENERAL: Bubel Aiken Foundation to Publish Christmas In The Heartland Tour Stories

2007-12-05T16:56:00.000-05:00

The Bubel Aiken Foundation will publish a selection of fan stories submitted to the Christmas in the Heartland Christmas stories contest, recently held at the Official Fanclub. The OFC posted this information on its homepage:

12/05/07 : "Christmas in the Heartland" Tour Story Book!
By Team Clay

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation would like to compile a book from the stories submitted for the "Christmas in the Heartland" tour. Even if you were not chosen to read your story at a concert, your story may still be added to this wonderful collection of memories. All proceeds will go to TBAF and the book will be available for purchase on The Clay Aiken Official Online Store.

Do you want your story to be a part of this special compilation? Download and fill out this release form, attach a copy of your story with your initials and the date on each page and then return it via e-mail to: contactus@bubelaiken.org, via fax to: 919-882-2155, or via mail to:

The Bubel/Aiken Foundation
8601 Six Forks Rd. Suite 400
Raleigh, NC 27616

UNCASVILLE: Mohegan Sun's Interactive Web Promo for Clay's Concert

2007-12-04T16:42:00.000-05:00

Mohegen Sun in Uncasville, CT has posted a cool video promo for Clay's December 9 concert at the huge casino/entertainment complex. Check it out at Mohegan Sun Insider!

WAUKEGAN: KALAMAZOO: Concert Programs

2007-12-03T17:01:00.000-05:00

The CB's LUVClay26 posted concert program scans for two of Clay's recent Christmas concerts.

First is the tour program by the Genesee Theater in Waukegan, IL:

And here's the concert booklet prepared by Miller Auditorium in Kalamazoo, MI:

WASHINGTON D.C.: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-03T16:53:00.000-05:00

Photos

Clayboard Photo & Video thread - Washington D.C.

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CH's 30000Sunsets:

I got home from the concert rather quickly. I went with my sister and friend, and they aren't the avid fan I am, so I didn't even hint at perhaps waiting around to see who I could see. But ... At least I beat the crowds to the metro.

I'm not as articulate as most who post recaps, but I'll share some thoughts anyway. My apologies for their disjointed nature...

The venue was quite full. I was front row mid balcony, and couldn't see much of the floor, but the floor I did see was very full. I looked up behind me, and the mid balcony was full, and the upper balcony was also pretty full, but it had several empty seats in the far left and far right section. But, in the grand scheme of things, I think it was a great turnout. The area below the mid-balcony -- the "VIP" area or something, where they get drinks served and what not -- also had some empty seats, but I don't think those seats were for sale on TM -- at least they weren't the several times I looked. Maybe they are for season ticket holders or something (if that even exists... call me clueless). There were, of course, TONS of women, but there were lots of men, too, and lots of couples. BTW -- My seat would have been the perfect clack-gathering area for someone with decent zoom. You could capture the entire stage, if desired (and see his big black boots at the same time!) or get closeups with no blocked views. When folks stood, I could still see the entire stage. It was GREAT! And with my binocs, I could see every cute expression he had for us tonight.

He came out to "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" and was WONDERFUL! He looked fantastic in the long coat suit and his GLASSES! And that voice! That wonderful, glorious voice! He does Christmas as it should be done, and as no one else I have ever heard. Mesmerizing.

This is the first time I've heard Q & A's songs. I really liked them both, very much. Well chosen selections, and the girls did a great job on them.

I've seen that his "I've read 1600 stories ... big mistake" comment made it to the boards. I think, out of context that can be seen as him expressing a regret or something. I didn't take it that way AT ALL. He did mention he'd read like, A LOT, and did use the word mistake, but his follow-on commentary left me the impression that although it was/is really, really hard and time consuming, he is still glad he did because it lets us (and him) experience different aspects of the Christmas season through others. Maybe the mistake part was his underestimation of the response (more stories than he anticipated), or the time it actually takes to go through all the stories. Maybe I'm just being all "the glass is half full", but I really didn't detect any regret in that comment. I hope folks are not interpreting it as such.

He didn't introduce the readers this time around, which I missed; I think the first reader was Cookie (Dianne, I think her name is) -- the lady with the Claymobile who was on the Mike and Juliet show last fall. I may be mistaken, but if I am, Cookie has a twin running around the DC area today!

I've read that folks were standing up very often. Being in the balcony, I didn't notice that. They weren't standing in the balcony (much to my dismay!!), but after DSIAFCD they DID stand up -- the whole theatre was on it's feet cheering and whistling. Then he came back out for "All Is Well" sans coat. Beautiful! The pants were bigger -- not as well/form fitting as the pants-of-perfection in years gone by -- but they did look very, very nice. Then Jesse starts to play and all goes silent. Man, what a gorgeous, gorgeous song. Clay is so mad talented! The first long "All is WEEELLLL" seemed to go on forever. Then he caught his breath, hung on to the mike, and started that terribly challenging, but perfectly executed final verse. Then, of course, at the end the whole audience erupts again and was on it's feet. What a fabulous reception DC gave him; I certainly hope he felt the love! I was so proud. And you folks who thought you heard "I'm Clay Aiken" at the very end of the Intros -- You heard correctly!! I don't recall him doing that in any other clack, but I've not watched it all, and often the clack ends with the music. Regardless, I'm so VERY pleased he did it again, just like the summer tour. YAY! I hope it continues.

Throughout the whole concert, I don't think I noticed even 1 missed note. Actually, I think I heard 1 itty-bitty crack during the early numbers, and there was a brief 2 or 3 word sound problem during one of the songs ("Mary Did You Know?"? can't remember). It was like the mike was turned down or something, but it came back pretty quickly. I feel so fortunate to have been there, and wish I could go again. My sister (a Clay-concert virgin) and my friend (has only seen him live for JNT05) both enjoyed it, especially the last 2 songs. They'd go see him again. I told them both that "All Is Well" will be on iTunes on Tuesday, so hopefully they'll download it.

Oh -- the lighting on "All Is Well" was different. We didn't get the huge "pencil light" from the ceiling like the last couple of venues did. Perhaps the Warner isn't set up right or something. It was still nice lighting all throughout, but that final lighting for "All Is Well" is way cool! One other cool thing (this is just the geek in me coming out...)-- the lights on all of the musicians stands were all controlled by the lighting guy, I guess, because they all dimmed and came back up at exactly the same time. Maybe this is common and is done all over, but I don't get to many shows, and I just find it cool that they hook up that many music stands and control all those lights remotely. Ya gotta love technology!

Looking forward to the Clack. I bet my sister and friend that at least some pictures would be up by the time I was done posting. The show has been over for 2 hours now; I think I'll go look around a bit before turning in.

Thanks for listening to my rambling. And I'll repeat what many before me have said -- If you don't yet have tickets to a show, do anytning possible to get to one. This is a must-see -- and it DOES deserve to be on TV. It's a brilliantly conceived, perfectly executed masterpiece.

POUGHKEEPSIE: Follow Up on Sean McMann Interview

2007-12-03T08:17:00.000-05:00

Poughkeepsie Journal reporter Sean McMann is the new best friend to Clay fans. First, he writes a great, positive blog about Clay with lots of good information; second, he lets Clay fans write in questions for Clay; and third, he reads Clay's Daily Double!! What more can we ask for?? Well, we didn't ask for it, but Sean has some more good news for us.

Before I tell you the news, I want to apologize to Sean for mispelling his name in one of last week's articles. How could I do that after he's been so supportive to Clay and his fans! Its been corrected and it won't happen again.

Now for the news. Sean is looking for some fans to talk to for his story, which will be out on December 7. Sean told CDD this:

My story will appear in the Journal on Friday, Dec. 7, the day before Clay comes here to Poughkeepsie. Anyone heading to the Poughkeepsie show can e-mail me at JournalSean@aol.com, as I'm looking for fans to speak with for the Dec. 7 story.

So if you are going to the Poughkeepsie concert, be sure to email Sean at JournalSean@aol.com so you can talk to him about Clay, the concert, whatever he wants to talk about!!

And also check out Sean's blog, Sean's Space again. I love his blog from December 1. Here's a bit of it:

I've got to give a big thanks to all the Clay Aiken fans who have responded to "Sean's Space" since Wednesday night, shattering the single-day record for hits to the blog!...Having posted Clay's answers to your questions right at midnight Thursday night, I waited to see who'd come back to read the post. The response was amazing! Between midnight 12 a.m. Friday morning and 11:59 p.m., you devoted Claymates jammed "Sean's Space," breaking my previous one-day total for visitors to the blog by 225 percent!"

Yep, that sounds pretty typical for Clay fans! You might want to check out Sean's Space throughout the week. In a blog last week, he said:

C'mon back here to "Sean's Space" throughout the week for more on Clay's upcoming show here in Poughkeepsie on Dec. 8.

Thanks Sean. We're looking forward to reading what you have to say about Clay and his upcoming concert.

KALAMAZOO: Concert Recaps & Media

2007-12-01T14:07:00.001-05:00

Photos

Videos

ClackUnlimited

From the CB's SoliTaire52:

Just arrived home from last night's amazing concert. I went with my friend Sue who needs to use a wheelchair - and the folks at Miller were very accomodating, they helped us thread our way through the crowd and took us in through a wheelchair access door. Great folks! I wish sometimes though that folks who are in a chair were not relegated to the "back of the bus" for seating, it's kind of a shame. You get to park up front if you have a handicapped sticker but you can't sit in front, or rarely! Going to concerts with her has really opened my eyes to what people with disabilities face on a day to day basis. But I digress.............on to the concert itself.

From the moment Clay stepped onto the stage and began to sing a hush fell over the crowd..........an appreciation and awe for the voice we were hearing and for the presence of the man himself. Not that the crowd wasn't cheering when it was appropriate - but you could have heard a pin drop when he was singing - everyone was immersed in the moment and the songs. So much beauty and emotion, you can tell that Clay loves to sing these holiday classics, and make them his own. Soaring melodies, warm and wonderful and filled with love - that's what this concert was all about. The Christmas stories added so much to the atmosphere of the evening and were very well received! There was a story about a holiday tradition of "the red thong underwear" - the story of three premature triplets and one who stayed in the hospital a long time - the story of a widow who had to move from her family home, and a precious momento that was saved for her - the story of a "mouton coat" that represented love and sacrifice..........each one was very special and I applaud the readers for being able to remain poised in front of the crowd and Clay! The symphony did a fantastic job and the musical arrangements were fantastic!

Being in the back the ushers were standing directly behind us. I always love to hear and see the reactions of those exposed to the magic of Clay for the first time. I heard things like "Wow! - and that guy can Sing! - and Wow!" again! I told my friend Sue that it is too bad that everyone can't see him in a concert like this at least once. I believe many people would change their mind about Clay if they actually were able to experience an evening like this one!

I can't really add much that hasn't been said before. Every song was wonderful and the encore of All Is Well had the crowd on their feet and wanting more! I was hoping that everyone would kind of break into a spontaneous chorus of Happy Birthday after it was all over.......LOL! Many of us did shout out "Happy Birthday, Clay!" - enough that I'm sure he heard. And we did him proud donating so many books and gift cards for books - that was awesome!!! Was happy to contribute a small piece to this gift of love.

Clay certainly does make Christmas "the most wonderful time of the year!" Thank you Clay for another outstanding evening...........the concert was classy, reverent, fun, and mesmerizing!
~~Terry~~

From the CB's linlas:

What can I say… from beginning to end it was sheer bliss…..bathing my ears and other important parts in a harmonic euphoria that swept me from this world into a celestial orb wildly spinning out of control somewhat like "the world spinning like a ball"

Okay, so I liked it a lot, no "loved it" beyond reason……I had preclacked using my usual conditioning routine of limiting the number of songs (usually only a couple) I download and the number of times I listen…..I had listened on the cell stream a couple of times both with a pretty poor connection….I was blown away by the set list the first night when I saw it…..if the first five songs were the opening ….what possibly could the second half be like….

He did not fail to deliver…..from the first O come, O come of Emmanual to the final "welllllllllllll"…it was simply gorgeous…..Never before finer!!!!

O Little Town of Bethlehem's ending brought me to my knees, well no, not really I was already sitting down, but it did evoke a big moan….…..so many moments….so little time ….his voice was spectacular, did I say that already?

He simply cuddles you up in the palms of those preciously narrative hands and carries you off someplace where your heart explodes and your mind implodes……the magic of ClayAiken that never ceases to amaze me, whether he is in the room, on the stage or if his tour bus simply happens to be parked in the drive, the excitement is palpable and real and he leaves you always wanting more and more……that's his magic and you are always left longing for more……

Actually I moaned a lot through the whole thing…..so many glorious moments….once again, as I said, Clay never fails to deliver…..in talking with the ladies sitting beside me who are fans of his CD's but haven't seen him much in concert….they were so thrilled and impressed with the entire show….they loved every minute of it…..back at the hotel, many gathered to eat, drink and be merry and I was fortunate enough to talk to another couple who were swept away by his magic. They're next door neighbor is the "Jesse" of the Kalamazoo Symphony. He had to step aside last night to allow Jesse to work his magic. They were very curious about Clay, first about his birthday and then about the Book Drive and HIM! Where does he play in Michigan, when will he be back, what are his other concerts like, how many times have you seen him, what are the dates for Spamalot…..the Mr. of the couple has a business trip to New York planned this January and well ……the Mrs. will be accompanying him for a little Broadway flair. Mr. NJU was firing questions right and left, one right after the other, but I could tell she was a closeted Claymate wishing she were sitting at the table with us, giggling, visiting and savoring the moment we had just experienced. She had that glisten in her eye that told me she was under his spell but in captivity still…..I so wanted to tell her what life was like on our side……but Mr. NJU was just too sincere with his interrogation….I figured the family unit was just not ready yet for her to blossom into a full fledged fan!!!

I won't go on and on about each song, I know this is already a long winded read but let me just close by saying, ClayAiken is a special, special man……thank God we did not let him slip away from us……like so many that came after him. We have something very special, we need to continue to nurture it and be thankful for it……and show him the love and respect he so deserves from his fans……

Loving me some Clay Aiken!!!

From the CB's smittenwithclay:

claikendee wrote: Actually I was at the Kalamazoo concert and Smittenwithclay who was first to read her fan story, the story about the thong, and she said Clay said he wore his glasses because he didn't have time to put his contacts in.
She said he said this before the show when the readers met with him beforehand and to rehearse. Plus, she and the other readers got meet with him afterward too and get their stories autographed. So I saw his actual writing...and touched it!!

yup..someone said that they liked his glasses, and he said "thank..I forgot to put my contacts in" actually claikendee it was after the show. so it is odd, cause he had them in in rehearsal too...hmmmmmm all I know is that after the show he said that he didnt have time to put them in.

Back when the story contest was first announced, I posted on clayversity that I didnt have a story to tell. I posted a little something on the board, but I really didnt feel like it was something that was worth entering into this contest. As a writer though, it was just not something that I could pass up. so I wrote the story, and I pressed enter, and then pretty much gave up on the idea. A few days before christmas though, much to my shock and surprise I got an email from clayonline asking me to call in and read an audio of my story..and that is when I began to freak out. I had so many emotions going through my head...what if I win? can I handle winning? oh my goodness what have I done. I did the audio though, and then waited, and waited, and waited and nothing came. Then, I thought that there was no way that I was still in the running. It was hard for me though, because my travel buddies won.. and I spent my time trying to be happy for them, but I know that they saw through it. I didnt think I had a chance, UNTIL I got asked to do that audio, I thought..well..if Clay didnt think there was merit in it, he wouldnt have asked to hear it again. Trying to get over the dissapointment, but fearing that I wasnt doing a good job..I enjoyed my concerts in south bend and waukegen. The morning of Kalamazoo I woke up, and nonchalantly checked my email..and there it was..the most amazing looking email I have ever seen in my life. I had won..what have I done? I paced, and screamed and freakd out for a very short amount of time. Then we drove to kalamazoo.
I got to the venue at 4:45 like I was asked, and met the rest of the girls..one of them I knew, the other two I got to know:) we chatted a bit, and got to know eachother..I think that jamie was probably a half hour late to get us, and my nerves were getting the best of me..finally we went into practice and they taught us how to work the mic. I didnt need to move it though, cause I was first image
When the second girl was reading, I turned around to take in the whole place, and I saw a very handsome man..in a Canada sweatshirt, blue tshirt and blue sweatpants.he looked very snuggable. I tried to be cool, and not go into freak out mode..this was business, not pleasure image we finished practicing, and Clay walked over to the girl reading, said something to her, and then walked about halfway in the venue...to listen to her practice. Then he came back onstage when she was done, and said to her "hi, Im clay aiken" and shook her hand. Then he came to each of us, and shook our hand and asked our name, then he hugged us..oh my GOODNESS he hugged us...when he got to me, he shook my hand, gave me a hug..heard my name and patted me on the back saying "Your story was funny, i really liked it" swoooooon...and before we knew what was happening he was out of there.
At 7:45, I met Jamie in the back where I was told to, and once again waited FOREVER lol. When she came we went backstage, and I paced..and paced..and shook my nerves out. Before I knew what was going on, I walked onto the stage, and I started reading..and I didnt feel nervous anymore. The crowd laughed at the right places, an it was such a validation. It felt god. It didnt hurt to listen to Clay introduce us afterwards, and say my name..my name has never sounded so good image
After the show we went backstage and talked to the girls a bit..about where we were from, and shoes or whatever. It was very relaxed..for a little bit, it felt like we were part of the show. I heard mary joke with them, and I didnt know she did that :p
Finally Clay came in, he hugged all of us again and said thank you so much. gave us our signed story, and we took the picture. He was so adorable, he was in the vest that he wore during the show..
I had SUCH a great time. Clay made a dream come true, that I never even thought to dream. To read something I wrote, to be asked to be on his stage..it was an experience that I dont expect surpassed any time soon.

Clay, you will never know what youve done to make my life better. You dont have to do stuff like that, you dont have to include us..but you did...and thank you just isnt enough..but it will have to do.

From the CB's LUVClay26:

Well, the shows I have been to were tons of fun. Now here is a lil K-Zoo recap.

Overall, it was a great show. I am even more in awe how cool that the idea behind Christmas is not strayed from based on the setlist. The lighting was spectacular and it just really added that final touch to the show. Of the 4 Christmas tours, this comes a very close 2nd to the first JNT. I noticed we had glassesness for the birthday show, but it all is good. I'm amazed how much better he looks than how he looked in Vegas. I mean he looked cute there too, but he looks better now. There were way fewer bad notes at this show too than at Waukegan.

OHN was the highlight of the night from the dude. He just always sings it in a way that brings goosebumps. I also loved the first medley, OCOCE (I liked Waukegan better just because...no reason), and HTHAS. WTOW (finally found the title of that Chris Rice song) just gave me chills. MGUCL always makes me cry because of the lyrics. He did that beautifully. MDYK was done well but i think this is the song he made a cute face like "oops" on a note.

I LOVE the jazzy medley. It is just another way to paint the songs. I especially liked the SR rearrangement. Jessie did a good job with that arranging. Yes, I am a weirdo because I liked the giddyup again at K-zoo.

AIW had the cool high tech lighting again. I actually think it is kind of a cool way to exit.

The banter at the begining he talked about the gist of the tour and seemed to emphasize there were all unique stories. I am wondering if there will be repeated stories later in the tour like Waukegan had. I am human and admit it was kind of a disservice to people that submitted stories to do that since there were supposedly "millions" (his words in Waukegan) of stories submitted. I was relieved to see they were new stories this go around. I thought it was cute when his speaking voice was going wierd and he says "after 29 years my voice is finally changing." lol I kinda wish there was a given opportunity to wish him happy birthday, but that was ok. He did mention before DSIAFCD that 2008 will be his 30th year.

The stories were quite good. We had one about a thong being given to a grandmother and regifted later. There was a story about a wanted jacket. The third was a touching story about three babies that were in intensive care and were able to come home for the holiday. The last was a house that was sold that had a piece of drywall with family history. The stories fit the moods of the parts of the show and I can see how mine probably pales in comparison.

Angela's song was just ok, but Quiana... Holy moly that woman outsang Clay both nights. I REALLY liked her song and she just knocked it out of the park. If I wasn't so paranoid about getting my behind kicked, I would have given her a standing o.

So that was overall a great show.

I'm glad I went. It was worth almost getting stranded in Michigan because of the weather, getting pulled over in Indiana (for a warning for following too close to an invisible car - funny story), having my suicase be torn up the side at the Chicago airport, and having a big snafu on my hotel in Waukegan.

I can't wait until next tour or maybe "Spamalot."

LUV

GENERAL: Official Fan Club Tour News on Public Home Page

2007-11-30T23:25:00.000-05:00

The OFC home page has a new bit of news concerning the tour and merchandise being sold. 11/30/07:

Update on the "Christmas in the Heartland" Tour
By Team Clay

The "Christmas in the Heartland" tour so far has been tons of fun and a tremendous success! Thank you to all the fans who attended and to those of you that will be coming to future shows. The hats and scarves are selling so well that we will have to order more to keep up with the demand! And since these cozy items are such great sellers, stay tuned to the news for updates on new sets that will be exclusively available in the Clay Aiken Official Store.

Keep your eyes open for upcoming news about these items being offered at the OFC store!