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Showing posts with label guitar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label guitar. Show all posts

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Tonight Saturday August 22nd: Paul Shortino & Mitch Perry Bring The Heat Back To The Treasure Island Hotel's Breeze Bar!

 


Last night I rolled down the LV Strip and straight into the neon glow of Treasure Island’s Breeze Bar, where Paul Shortino and Mitch Perry were already warming the room like two rock‑and‑roll demigods tuning up for battle. The place was packed — locals, tourists, die‑hard music freaks — all crammed in shoulder‑to‑shoulder, waiting for this Best of Las Vegas‑nominated duo to light the fuse.

Even during soundcheck, these two weren’t “warming up.” They were detonating. Shortino’s voice hit the room like a velvet sledgehammer, and Perry — part guitarist, part keyboard sorcerer — carved riffs that made the Breeze Bar feel like a backstage jam at Madison Square Garden.

The show launched around seven with “Shooting Star” by Bad Company, and from there it was a full‑throttle ride through the soundtrack of America’s wild heart: Bee Gees, The Temptations, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Rod Stewart, Allman Brothers, Journey — and then the Quiet Riot classic “Bang Your Head”, delivered by the Quiet Riot man himself, Paul Freakin’ Shortino.

Later came the heavy artillery: “Whole Lotta Love,” “Ramble On,” Marvin Gaye soul, Grace Slick psychedelia, CTA brass, and a knockout closer with “What a Wonderful World.” Only in Vegas do you get Zeppelin, Motown, and Louis Armstrong in the same set — and only Shortino & Perry can make it feel like one seamless, swaggering story.

Two world‑class guitarists. Mitch the keyboard wizard. Paul’s unmistakable, world‑famous voice. When you see them live, you instantly get why they’re nominated for Best of Las Vegas 2026 — Lounge Act.

They’re back at it tonight, 7–10 PM, inside the Breeze Bar at Treasure Island. And if you want to support real Vegas talent, you can vote for them at www.votebolv.com under the Lounge Act category.

Have A BaDD-A$$ Saturday Night!

Gary England

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Treasure Island Breeze Bar Paul Shortino And Mitch Perry: Where The Real Fireworks Are At For America's 250th!

Last night inside the Treasure Island Hotel & Casino's Breeze Bar, the Strip felt like it had slipped back into its glory-days groove, that warm, analog hum of classic rock rolling through a packed room of fans, Vegas players, family, friends, and out-of-towners who knew they were catching lightning in a bottle.



Paul Shortino and Mitch Perry delivered a three-hour masterclass in rock lineage, jumping from the brass-driven punch of Chicago to the arena grit of Quiet Riot, the soul-heavy swing of Blood Sweat & Tears, the gospel-tinged warmth of Leon Russell, the wild-eyed fire of Edgar Winter, and the southern-fried swagger of the Allman Brothers Band.

Paul Shortino's soul-rich voice and wide-open range gave every song that lived-in authenticity only decades onstage can produce. At the same time, Mitch Perry moved between guitar and keys with the kind of effortless command that makes both instruments feel wired straight into his heartbeat. Together, they held the crowd locked in, no drifting, no chatter, just that classic rock communion where the room breathes as one. They're a must-see duo, and they're back again tonight (July 4th).

Catch the fireworks on the Strip, and the real fireworks inside the Treasure Island Breeze Bar with the dynamic duo of Paul Shortino and Mitch Perry!

Show tonight (July 4th) 6-9pm

Gary England

#NationalNewsMedia #WorlwideEntertainmentNetwork #MusicEntertainmentSports #GaryEngland

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Rush Is Back In 2026 With New Drummer Anika Nilles: What Are The Main Reasons Why They Might Have Chosen Her?

 Rush Is Back!



Canadian prog-rock legends Rush are gearing up for their first tour in over a decade, aptly titled the “Fifty Something” Tour, and they’ve tapped German sensation Anika Nilles to sit behind the drums!

Founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson shared in an October 2025 statement that the trek will celebrate Rush’s music, legacy, and the life of late drummer Neil Peart, while introducing “another remarkable person; an incredible drummer and musician” to their fanbase.

Born in Aschaffenburg, Germany, on May 29, 1983, Anika Nilles didn’t dive into professional drumming until her mid-20s. After spending five years training as a social worker and teaching preschool, she enrolled at Germany’s University of Popular Music and Music Business in Mannheim. There, she mastered not only advanced rhythmic techniques but also essential skills in self-promotion, tax handling, and social media management—tools that would prove invaluable as she launched her solo career and international drum clinic tours.

Why Rush Picked Anika Nilles

Proven progressive chops and technical mastery, making her adept at navigating Rush’s complex time signatures and dynamic shifts.

A ringing endorsement from Geddy Lee’s bass tech, who toured with Jeff Beck and returned home raving about “this drummer named Anika Nilles” after watching her command Beck’s rhythm section.

Deep industry savvy from her academic focus on the business side of music, ensuring she’s as comfortable with logistics and promotion as she is behind the drums.

International touring experience and a reputation as a world-class educator and clinician, demonstrated through drum-education tours across Europe and the U.S. since 2015.

Fresh energy and perspective that honor Neil Peart’s legacy while writing a new chapter in the band’s storied history, as Lee and Lifeson seek to celebrate 50-something years of Rush music with both fidelity and flair.

With dates kicking off June 7, 2026, at L.A.’s Kia Forum and winding up September 17 in Cleveland, fans are buzzing to see how Nilles handles such a near-impossible role. As Rush mixes classic deep cuts with fan favorites across a rotating setlist of 35 songs, all eyes will be on the drummer who bridged a decade-long gap—proving that sometimes the most surprising choices make the grandest statements.

Beyond the tour, look for Anika’s upcoming solo album False Truth (due late 2025) to showcase the same blend of jazz-fusion flair and rock-driven power that captured Rush’s attention—and soon, the world’s.

{My Take}

Neil Peart set the seismic standard for rock drumming with his self-taught ingenuity, jazzy flourishes and mythic storytelling that turned every Rush album into an epic voyage, whereas Anika Nilles brings academic polish, viral-ready precision and a nimble groove sensibility that thrives in odd meters and modern fusion alike. Peart’s towering solos were larger-than-life spectacles built on solitude and sheer force of will, while Nilles invites listeners into her process through clinic-style cues, social-media dialogue and a balance of power and pocket that feels both intimate and electrifying. Though she’ll inevitably be measured against Peart’s colossal legacy, her refined technique and fresh perspective promise a chapter in which Rush’s time-twisting rhythms resonate with a new generation, honoring the past even as they sprint toward tomorrow. 

Welcome To The Next Chapter Of RUSH!

GE


RUSH Official Website

RUSH Facebook

Anika Nilles Official Website

Anika Nilles Facebook


Monday, March 10, 2025

Traits That Separate Working Musicians From Larger Than Life Rock Stars

 The word "Rockstar - Rock Star" is thrown around quite a bit in the music industry. 

{In My Opinion As A 50 Plus Year Music Journalist}

Not all musicians qualify to be deemed as Rock Stars.

To me, Rock Stars have a unique combination of traits that make them stand out. 

Whether it's their stage presence, confidence, or their sheer talent. 

Two Of The Very Best World-Renowned Best Guitarists On Planet Earth - Bad-A$$ Rock Stars
Mitch Perry & Rowan Robertson 


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After talking to fans, venue management, and with the musicians themselves. Here are some key traits that they mentioned when describing what a Rock Star means to them.

 Bigger Than Life Charisma & Stage Presence

A Rock Star commands attention the moment that they step on stage. Their energy and confidence make performances unforgettable.

Passion & Dedication

Rock Stars live and breathe music, putting in hours of practice and performance. Their love for their craft keeps them going, even when the industry is tough.

Confidence & Swagger

Rock Stars exude confidence, whether on stage or in interviews. They carry themselves with an attitude that makes them larger than life.

Creativity & Originality

Rock Stars push boundaries, creating unique music and performances. Their style, sound, and persona set them apart from the rest of the musicians.

Rebellious Spirit

Rock Stars challenge norms, break rules, and carve their own paths. Rock stars are known for their nonconformist attitudes.

Hard Work & Perseverance

Rock Stars spend years honing their craft, facing rejection and setbacks. They push through struggles to achieve their dreams.

Showmanship & Entertainment Value

Rock Stars know how to work a crowd, keeping fans engaged and excited. Their performances go beyond just playing music—they create an experience.

Emotional Depth & Vulnerability

Rock Stars pour their emotions into their music, connecting deeply with fans. They express raw, real feelings through their lyrics and performances.

Strong Branding & Image

Whether it’s fashion, hair, or attitude, rock stars cultivate an iconic look. Their image becomes as legendary as their music.

Influence & Leadership

Rock Stars inspire fans, musicians, and even entire generations. Their words and actions can shape culture and trends for many years.


{My Take}

"A rock star is a charismatic, boundary-pushing musician who captivates audiences with their talent, confidence, and larger-than-life presence."
 Yes, Rock Stars are pretty special people. 

~GE~

National News Media Entertainment 


#MitchPerry #RowanRobertson #RockStars #Guitarists #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainmentNetwork #PMC



Monday, February 10, 2025

Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show - RockGodz Hall Of Fame Ceremony Returning May 30th Thru June 1st To The Silverton Hotel Casino

#LasVegasGuitarTradeShow #RockGodzHallOfFame #music #events #LasVegas #Nevada #SilvertonHotelCasino #NationalNewsMedia #WorldwideEntertainment #USANetwork

*For National & Worldwide Syndication* #YourTake @YourTake

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The Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show had its Inaugural event in November of last year at the Silverton Hotel Casino. Along with the RockGodz Hall Of Fame Ceremony on day 2. The 3-day Inaugural event was a huge success! I had the privilege of attending the history-making event. And covering it for the media. Three full days of awesome guitars and accessories. Wall-to-wall professional musicians and rockstars to talk to and to hang with. Amazing bands performing each night. And the RockGodz Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony. What an awesome weekend!

With the huge success of the show and the RockGodz ceremony last year. I have the honor to announce that the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show and the RockGodz Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony will be a permanent semi-annual event starting this year! 


The Silverton Hotel Casino will be the host venue for the Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show - RockGodz Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony. Put these dates on your calendar. May 30th, 31st, and June 1st. 

I'll once again be in attendance covering the event, snapping a few pics, and talking with the stars.

Here are a few pics from last year's event. Along with the upcoming event flyer promotion.


Last Year's RockGodz Hall Of Fame Ceremony.



For Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show - RockGodz Hall Of Fame Information:

Contact (Facebook Messenger)

 Daniel Margasa  (Events)

Alicia R Anderson (Events)

Gary England (Media Relations)

I'll be posting more information about this event, so check back often. Or simply subscribe to my blog.

Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show - RockGodz Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony, 2 times a year.         How Awesome Is That!


Only Las Vegas!

GE

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Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show Official Website

Las Vegas Guitar Trade Show Facebook

RockGodz Hall Of Fame Official Website

RockGodz Hall Of Fame Facebook

Silverton Hotel Casino Las Vegas Official Website

Silverton Hotel Casino Las Vegas Facebook