I have been a fan of Madonna's since I first heard "Secret" in middle school... I immediately ran out and got a copy of "Bedtime Stories" and everything prior to that. Now, over 10 years later, I have had some of the greatest moments of my life because of her music. I have seen the Drowned World Tour (2001), Re-Invention Tour (2003), and Confessions Tour (2006) - all numerous times in numerous cities from the front floor sections. I have met many fans in my travels and made lots of friends. And I have been very very impressed by the music and seldom let down.
Then, earlier this year, M released "4 Minutes", a bland pop track featuring mostly Justin Timberlake vocals. The album, Hard Candy, followed. Littered with a bunch of pop/"hip-hop" garbage, Hard Candy disapointed a LARGE portion of M's fanbase, at least from what I can see on the numerous fan forums. On my first listen of the album, I felt extremely let down and found very little to redeem such a shit album. The album as a whole is kind of fun and cute, but far too silly for a Madonna album, especially following such a string of amazing albums (Ray of Light, Music, American Life, and Confessions).
The same week of the album release was the US promo show (yes, she did ONE show in the US in NYC at Roseland ballroom)... she sang new songs Candy Shop, Miles Away, and Give It 2 Me... she then sang "classics" Music and Hung Up. The show was not well-received by fans (although to be fair, a majority of us viewed it from a computer screen, not from Roseland ballroom).
A couple months later, the Worldwide Sticky & Sweet tour was announced. The show was kept a secret until opening night in Cardiff. Fans didn't even know what the stage layout was, therefore buying tickets was a real gamble as the ticketmaster seating charts were generic. The show opened and seemed to get a similar reaction from the fans that the Hard Candy album got- sadness, anger, disapointment. The show is very new-album heavy, very very guitar heavy (look up the cringe-worthy "hung up" tour version on youtube), and seems to lack the artistry of her previous tours. In fact, Ray of Light is a completely recycled performance from the Confessions Tour, even using the same backdrop screens.
To make things worse, "hot ticket" holders that were promised priority access to the general admission field were let in AFTER general ticket holders at numerous locations. This is probably the venue/promoters fault- but these things wouldn't happen if madonna didn't want them to.
I didn't create this thread to bash madonna or bash the tour... I do still love Madonna and the majority of her albums. But this fan backlash that has seemed to have occured has struck me. This thread can serve as a rant/rave review section for those who attend the tour or simply a tour discussion thread. I am still excited about the tour (which I will be seeing in NJ, Toronto, Chicago, and Detroit) and I know I will have fun. I just feel that if fans are continued to expect to pay $350 + fees for top-price tickets, we should not be given poor customer service from Live Nation or a rushed, half-assed show lacking in artistic direction.
I found this Fan complaint on a Madonna forum:
Wembley ($400 "Fan Club" Seat turned out to have NO view of the main stage or video screens)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y240/adamnewyorkcity/eefcf7db.jpg
Fan review of the incident that occurded:
I waited months to see this concert.
Madonna has been my favourite artist for almost 25 years but what I experienced at Wembley was just awful.
When me and my partner reached our seats, we find that we were the last in the row with no view of the stage whatsoever, except for the cat walk.
We attempted to raise our concern with a number of Wembley staff before the concert commenced, including the quadrant manager and a woman who appeared to be their overall manager. We were informed by her directly that she could do nothing and that our problem was nothing to do with Wembley Stadium. Not believing this to be true we continued to attempt to find some resolution but we were given no assistance and were eventually ignored.
We were of the understanding that for £160.00 for each seat (excluding booking charges, etc) we would have a side view of the stage but would in fact be able to see the concert. This was not the case! We were even unable to view the large projection screen positioned laterally in front of us, let alone any of the on stage projections or staging. On top of this there was a small marquee positioned in front of the stage further obscuring any potential view of the front stage. I would think that for a full tickets price of £352.95 one could expect to see the artist one as booked for more than just a part of the concert, let alone the supporting visuals which are such an integral part of such a show. Obviously at this price it was supposed to be a special event for us, and many other fans, and to us is not just a small financial outlay.
Further to this farce, we were surrounded by people in a similar position who became increasinly agitated, as were we, at the situation and the manner in which we were treated. This increasingly ruined our enjoyment of a concert we had eagerly awaited for months.
Madonna, do what is right and tell Live Nation to refund your fans
I am with you. Madonna used to be someone who could do no wrong in my eyes, but lately I've just been bored with her. Hard Candy is just a very mediocre effort by someone that the fans thought was a perfectionist. I don't know if you can say it's a sellout since Madonna's always been mainstream, but this album feels so phoned in and almost packaged with the intention of sounding like everything else. I don't hate the entire album but it's easily the first album of hers that I haven't really had any desire to listen to after the initial week or two with few exceptions (like She's Not Me and Miles Away). I know that some artists charge what they know they can get, but I think it's reprehensible and a sign that Madonna has been famous too long that she's lost touch with reality, when she continues to raise her prices when America is in a recession. Plus, it doesn't hurt that she has a few fans who are so stuck up her ass that they would choose Madonna over their own mother if it came down to it. I rolled my eyes at the Madonna-apologists who feel the need to retort "well, maybe she doesn't want to meet you either" if someone says they wouldn't want to meet her because she's known to be a bitch to her fans. What's wrong with someone knowing better that their enjoyment of her music would likely be ruined so they would rather pass up the opportunity? I've loved Madonna for 24 years but I'd rather not bother meeting her than have her be a bitch to me and I feel like I can't enjoy her music again. Prince is someone else on that wavelength, love his music and have for almost my whole life, but not someone I'd want to hang out with.
I read that article too, but I think it's more LiveNations fault than Madonna's. But I feel like those fans who paid tickets and couldn't even enjoy the show deserve full refunds. I know when you buy lower-end seats, you're not going to get the best view, but at least you should be able to get some enjoyment out of a show.
AndyCleveland
09-22-08, 10:31 AM
I am with you. Madonna used to be someone who could do no wrong in my eyes, but lately I've just been bored with her. Hard Candy is just a very mediocre effort by someone that the fans thought was a perfectionist. I don't know if you can say it's a sellout since Madonna's always been mainstream, but this album feels so phoned in and almost packaged with the intention of sounding like everything else. I don't hate the entire album but it's easily the first album of hers that I haven't really had any desire to listen to after the initial week or two with few exceptions (like She's Not Me and Miles Away). I know that some artists charge what they know they can get, but I think it's reprehensible and a sign that Madonna has been famous too long that she's lost touch with reality, when she continues to raise her prices when America is in a recession. Plus, it doesn't hurt that she has a few fans who are so stuck up her ass that they would choose Madonna over their own mother if it came down to it. I rolled my eyes at the Madonna-apologists who feel the need to retort "well, maybe she doesn't want to meet you either" if someone says they wouldn't want to meet her because she's known to be a bitch to her fans. What's wrong with someone knowing better that their enjoyment of her music would likely be ruined so they would rather pass up the opportunity? I've loved Madonna for 24 years but I'd rather not bother meeting her than have her be a bitch to me and I feel like I can't enjoy her music again. Prince is someone else on that wavelength, love his music and have for almost my whole life, but not someone I'd want to hang out with.
I read that article too, but I think it's more LiveNations fault than Madonna's. But I feel like those fans who paid tickets and couldn't even enjoy the show deserve full refunds. I know when you buy lower-end seats, you're not going to get the best view, but at least you should be able to get some enjoyment out of a show.
during DWT,RIT,and CT i felt that Madonna was at the peek of her live shows... but now that Stuart Price is gone, I really think his absence is felt.
About meeting madonna... it would be cool, but isnt my ultimate dream come true or anything. Seeing her shows live is/was the ultimate fan experience. Not so sure about that anymore. The "Candy Shop" opener for this tour vs the "Future Lovers" and "Beast Within/Vogue" openers of previous tours seems to be lacking... i guess i will know for sure when i catch the New Jersey show next week
covenant
09-22-08, 11:14 AM
http://www.madonna.cz/galerie/sas/cardiff_85.jpg
Nice SG....can she play or is it just a prop?
Giles
09-22-08, 01:21 PM
personally I'd love to see a festival/field show of hers versus the standard stadium set up - racing up to the front of the stage is better than paying shit loads of money for nose bleed or view obstructed seats at a stadium.
love the heart sun glasses.
nothingfails
09-22-08, 01:37 PM
during DWT,RIT,and CT i felt that Madonna was at the peek of her live shows... but now that Stuart Price is gone, I really think his absence is felt.
I've said it before on other boards, what I really dislike about Hard Candy is that it feels like a Timbaland "hit factory" album as opposed to his work with Bjork which actually sounded like something different. Madonna is fifty and a member of the Hall Of Fame (whether you think she deserves it or not, she's in there), she deserves more respect from a producer than some unproven 19 year old r&b bimbo. Give her material that sounds like Earth Intruders, not leftover Justin Timberlake tracks, can't you at least do that? LOL. Oh well, she isn't the first veteran to "sell out" to a hot sound in order to score a US hit (remember when Donna Summer worked with Stock/Aiken/Waterman?) and she won't be the last, but it's so disappointing for her since she'd been on such a roll and didn't need to do this album when COADF did nearly ten million worldwide, nearly two million of that in the US.
AndyCleveland
09-22-08, 04:01 PM
Nice SG....can she play or is it just a prop?
she plays it. however she doesn't play it overly well AND she uses a guitar on far too many songs during the show.
big whoppa
09-22-08, 10:37 PM
I was always a big fan of her early stuff but I would never pay the insane prices to see her live or even $50. There are fans who will defend her to the death and spend whatever she charges for every concert. Let's be honest. Madonna is not a very good singer. Great performer, yes. What's worse is, from all accounts, she's a major bitch and has an ego to match. I'll just continue to enjoy her old music for what it is, very good pop.
And IMHO, she looks out of touch stylewise in those pics above. Also those props on the side could easily work at a Mariah concert.
mickey65
09-23-08, 03:34 PM
I was always a big fan of her early stuff but I would never pay the insane prices to see her live or even $50. There are fans who will defend her to the death and spend whatever she charges for every concert. Let's be honest. Madonna is not a very good singer. Great performer, yes. What's worse is, from all accounts, she's a major bitch and has an ego to match. I'll just continue to enjoy her old music for what it is, very good pop.
I second all that. I haven't bought a Madonna album since 1993, and can't stand to even look at her these days...JMO
Jippy
09-23-08, 03:52 PM
I was always a big fan of her early stuff but I would never pay the insane prices to see her live or even $50. There are fans who will defend her to the death and spend whatever she charges for every concert. Let's be honest. Madonna is not a very good singer. Great performer, yes. What's worse is, from all accounts, she's a major bitch and has an ego to match. I'll just continue to enjoy her old music for what it is, very good pop.
And IMHO, she looks out of touch stylewise in those pics above. Also those props on the side could easily work at a Mariah concert.
"I liked her early stuff, like "Borderline". But after she went off on that "Papa Don't Preach" phase, I tuned out."
AndyCleveland
09-23-08, 05:05 PM
I second all that. I haven't bought a Madonna album since 1993, and can't stand to even look at her these days...JMO
not to get defensive, but you really have missed out, especially if you like her older material... 'ray of light' is the most critically acclaimed album of her career and is a must own album in my opinion (1998) (key tracks: drowned world/substitute for love, skin, swim, power of goodbye, mer girl)... 'music' is great as well and is in rolling stones' top 200 albums (key tracks: impressive instant, paradise). 'confessions on a dancefloor' is a killer pop/dance album (key tracks: jump, future lovers)
her latest album, 'hard candy' really shows little of what madonna can do and i would expect more out of a britney spears album
the other 2 albums past 1993 are 'bedtime stories' and 'american life'... both of which are great albums, but not mutual favorites among fans. still worth owning/downloading and giving a listen. also, the evita soundtrack showcases some of her finest work and she actually has a decent voice in the movie.
also, if you get a chance, watch the 'confessions tour' on dvd. it is one of the best stage shows ever, in my opinion. the new 'sticky and sweet tour' seems to be such a mess because it is so rushed.
mickey65
09-23-08, 09:43 PM
not to get defensive, but you really have missed out, especially if you like her older material... 'ray of light' is the most critically acclaimed album of her career and is a must own album in my opinion (1998) (key tracks: drowned world/substitute for love, skin, swim, power of goodbye, mer girl)... 'music' is great as well and is in rolling stones' top 200 albums (key tracks: impressive instant, paradise). 'confessions on a dancefloor' is a killer pop/dance album (key tracks: jump, future lovers)
her latest album, 'hard candy' really shows little of what madonna can do and i would expect more out of a britney spears album
the other 2 albums past 1993 are 'bedtime stories' and 'american life'... both of which are great albums, but not mutual favorites among fans. still worth owning/downloading and giving a listen. also, the evita soundtrack showcases some of her finest work and she actually has a decent voice in the movie.
also, if you get a chance, watch the 'confessions tour' on dvd. it is one of the best stage shows ever, in my opinion. the new 'sticky and sweet tour' seems to be such a mess because it is so rushed.
Just for some reason, I don't like her anymore. I used to be a BIG fan of hers from the early 80's up until the early 90's. The direction her music went just turned me off. "Music" is okay - altho I don't own the album since I can't stand "hip-hop" music. I bought the "Ray of Light" album way back, gave it a listen, and then sold it on eBay - I just didn't like it.
Her first album is my favorite - along with "Get into the Groove", and some of the other stuff after that.
I even tried to watch "Truth or Dare" a few months back and turned it off after 30 minutes. I had even seen this movie at the theater when it came out. But seeing it again 16 years later, I just couldn't stand seeing her in it.
She's just a big phony to me now.
Sorry to all the fans...JMO.
AndyCleveland
09-24-08, 01:16 AM
Just for some reason, I don't like her anymore. I used to be a BIG fan of hers from the early 80's up until the early 90's. The direction her music went just turned me off. "Music" is okay - altho I don't own the album since I can't stand "hip-hop" music. I bought the "Ray of Light" album way back, gave it a listen, and then sold it on eBay - I just didn't like it.
Her first album is my favorite - along with "Get into the Groove", and some of the other stuff after that.
I even tried to watch "Truth or Dare" a few months back and turned it off after 30 minutes. I had even seen this movie at the theater when it came out. But seeing it again 16 years later, I just couldn't stand seeing her in it.
She's just a big phony to me now.
Sorry to all the fans...JMO.
i totally can see where you're coming from and can appreciate it.
she certainly has not done very much to acknowledge her fans. but maybe she thinks that is part of her appeal (it may be). but this current direction she has taken really has hit a sour note with MANY long time fans.
nothingfails
09-24-08, 02:31 PM
Just for some reason, I don't like her anymore. I used to be a BIG fan of hers from the early 80's up until the early 90's. The direction her music went just turned me off. "Music" is okay - altho I don't own the album since I can't stand "hip-hop" music. I bought the "Ray of Light" album way back, gave it a listen, and then sold it on eBay - I just didn't like it.
Her first album is my favorite - along with "Get into the Groove", and some of the other stuff after that.
I even tried to watch "Truth or Dare" a few months back and turned it off after 30 minutes. I had even seen this movie at the theater when it came out. But seeing it again 16 years later, I just couldn't stand seeing her in it.
She's just a big phony to me now.
Sorry to all the fans...JMO.
I don't like hip hop either, but Madonna didn't really go hip hop until this album. For the most part, Music was a watered down poppier Ray Of Light. Hard Candy is really the first bad album she's recorded IMO.
I agree about Madonna as a person not being anywhere as cool as she once was. I think a lot of younger people who only know her as that lady with the British accent who is into Kaballah really missed out, because her personality was half of the appeal in the 80's and early 90's IMO.
madcougar
09-24-08, 02:51 PM
:lol: The original posters comments that they went out to buy Bedtime Stories in middle school made me laugh. I remember when Madonna debuted with her first album, Madonna when I was in middle school, in 1983!
AndyCleveland
09-24-08, 03:43 PM
:lol: The original posters comments that they went out to buy Bedtime Stories in middle school made me laugh. I remember when Madonna debuted with her first album, Madonna when I was in middle school, in 1983!
i was born in 83. first heard "secret" from bedtime stories in 6th grade and never looked back.
I don't like hip hop either, but Madonna didn't really go hip hop until this album. For the most part, Music was a watered down poppier Ray Of Light. Hard Candy is really the first bad album she's recorded IMO.
I agree about Madonna as a person not being anywhere as cool as she once was. I think a lot of younger people who only know her as that lady with the British accent who is into Kaballah really missed out, because her personality was half of the appeal in the 80's and early 90's IMO.
i agree about hard candy being the first bad album she's recorded... annoying phrases like "we only got 4 minutes to save the world!" and "see my booty get down like... UH!" will never be erased. she really needs to do something amazing next time around.
on a good note, i LOVE the 30 second clip i heard of the Sticky and Sweet tour Like A Prayer remix... trying not to play the whole thing!!
nothingfails
09-24-08, 03:50 PM
i was born in 83. first heard "secret" from bedtime stories in 6th grade and never looked back.
see, I feel so lucky for having older siblings. I was born in 79 so I'm not that much older than you. But I have a sister who is 16 years older than me, so I heard Holiday and Borderline from her back in 83/84, and by the time I heard Material Girl, I knew I loved her.
big whoppa
09-24-08, 06:05 PM
she certainly has not done very much to acknowledge her fans. but maybe she thinks that is part of her appeal (it may be). but this current direction she has taken really has hit a sour note with MANY long time fans.
Yes, to me, she's never seemed grateful to her fans, the fans that have made her rich and popular. I don't want to seem like this is a Madonna vs Mariah Carey thing (I'm not interested in diva battles) but at least MC always thanks her fans.
nothingfails
09-24-08, 06:24 PM
Yes, to me, she's never seemed grateful to her fans, the fans that have made her rich and popular. I don't want to seem like this is a Madonna vs Mariah Carey thing (I'm not interested in diva battles) but at least MC always thanks her fans.
yea, Mariah has always been easy to bash because of her obsession with chart positions, but I do think she likes her fans much more than Madonna does. Same with Janet Jackson, who even set aside a phone line before she went on tour to have fans call and leave messages on what songs they want to hear, and she ended up calling back dozens of the fans who called her number. It's good to treat your fans like they're your friends IMO.
AndyCleveland
09-26-08, 12:21 AM
yea, Mariah has always been easy to bash because of her obsession with chart positions, but I do think she likes her fans much more than Madonna does. Same with Janet Jackson, who even set aside a phone line before she went on tour to have fans call and leave messages on what songs they want to hear, and she ended up calling back dozens of the fans who called her number. It's good to treat your fans like they're your friends IMO.
i agree with you completely. Im not really a mariah fan any longer (though I love her 90's stuff up to butterfly) and i love janet but her last few albums have sucked. but they are far more vocally appreciative of their fans. go to a madonna show and you can guarantee to be called a mother fucker and flipped off at least twice by M. i think secretly she loves her fans though.
i saw celine dion last night in cleveland and she is SO appreciative of her fans. I have never seen any artist or celeb be so kind and compassionate about the love of her fans. She paused the show twice to give hugs to some of her fans in the audience that were holding out flowers for her and crying. she also gave a long genuine talk about how she appreciated all the support and love. you could tell she really meant it and i thought it was pretty cool. it still wasnt nearly as fun as a madonna show, though ;-)
wago70
09-26-08, 07:28 PM
I just got back the USA from seeing Madonna in Rome, London and Paris. Let me just say that Madonna was glowing all those nights and she sounded GREAT.
As for a "$400 Fanclub" seat, there really is no such thing (except for the $650 Candy Shop packages who were not placed in a position as featured in that photo). The Top Price tickets are, indeed, seated and were $280 per person (the pitch is all standing and, surprisingly, the standing area in FRONT of the stage were $150 per person). The photo in the first post are indeed restricted-view seating and the Ticketmaster site stated that. Those were the final seats released to the public a few weeks before the shows.
For all the shows I had the front pitch or "Gold Circle" tickets which cost total about 1 floor seat for a USA show. I do know that those huge "M"'s on the sides will not be featured at USA arena shows. Madonna's shows have always had good sight lines and sometimes the best seats were those next to the stage. Stadiums, however, prove to have a problem that indoor arenas do not - seeing Madonna without her looking like a dot on the stage. Hence, Madonna spends a majority of the concert on a circular, smaller stage toward the center of the floor.
I happen to the LOVE Hard Candy and had hoped a few more tunes had been included. I found the show fun, light hearted and zipped along at a furious pace. There was only one ballad and she nailed it perfectly. Her older songs were beefed up (but I prefer Hung Up NOT a guitar rocker version!)
There was only one "filler" moment where Madonna sat down on the center platform while a gypsy group performed "Doli, Doli" complete with exotic dancer and her veils. Madonna kept it interesting and much more different than I've seen her perform (except RAY OF LIGHT, which as stated earlier, a near replica of a performance we have seen on her Confessions Tour. The music was different, however.
Madonna DID NOT lipsynch. Even VOGUE, a furious number set to the "march" of 4 Minutes, was entirely live.
Like I said, I thought she sounded great. Of the stadiums I was in, Wembley seemed to have acoustic problems. The speakers sounded "blown" and crackly. Rome and Paris - as perfect as THX.
I saw 3 performances from the sides where I did miss the back screens on the mainstage but Madonna was never out of sight. Seeing the show full-on frontal view is preferred however.
As for Live Nation organization, I had the Hot Ticket for Rome which guaranteed entry into the front Gold Circle (without having to spend a night in line) but the staff in Rome didn't know a damn thing about the packages or where we were to line up. They either don't follow procedure and weren't briefed (which I doubt). Lazy.
Wembley, on the other hand, was fully professionally staffed and they were helpful. The same for the fun, friendly staff at Paris' Stade de France who seemed well versed in English for us non-French speakers.
Overall, a fun concert - if you like the new album you'll love it. If you want to hear the old songs as they were on the albums, look elsewhere. Madonna has to keep it interesting if she is to tour this maniacally until the end of December. She's pretty much doing the music as it suits her which is fine. The songs are still cool. Madonna is under much pressure to deliver more than other artists. Some of her most hardcore fans are the most unforgiving if they feel short shifted. Sadly, their opinions also influencing the narcisism of those who haven't seen the show and those who hate Madonna with a passion.
I feel Live Nation has many bugs to get rid off before they start offering tiered ticket packages because some venues are so disorganized. Rome's stadium had no clue as to what VIP vs. Hot Ticket or a Gold Circle vs. Normal pitch ticket on my end. Somehow, 500 Hot Ticket fans got in to the very front, but on a hot day like that, I was glad I got there when I did and stood close enough to the stage to see Madonna close but not pressed against the barrier with hundreds of sweaty bodies pressed behind me.
I expect the opposite for the indoor USA shows. In fact, I expect lots of sitting since those could afford the highest price tickets are most likely not the most active concert goers.
We'll see and I'm looking forward to it.
ChristopherS
09-26-08, 08:30 PM
There is no fan backlash. There is nothing she's done since the start of the internet that hasn't had a terrible reaction.
There seems to be honest complaints about the Wembly show, but I was not there and it's not my drama. Hopefully people who could not see or hear will be compensated, because that's a waste of an evening. I know people who waited in line for her autograph, and she couldn't finish signing for everyone. People who complained about that got a copy of her $350 X-static Process book. Pretty good way to have made up for it, I think.
I don't get the fan appreciation stuff. She's thanked her fans in most of her major award speeches (which is always forgotten). She's never been an outwardly emotional person. On the other hand I can see Celine Dion hugging people in the crowd because she's 'quirky' like that. She would probably do it in her every day life if she had become a housewife. Is this sort of behavior (calling your fans, hugging them, mentioning them as much as you can) expected because they are women? I don't hear it about men, except once in a while in regard to Michael Jackson's lunatic behavior. I think with women people have to console themselves that they are not a 'stuck up bitch', but if you think Madonna is going to go out of her way to disprove that...
Janet may call fans and ask what they want in her show or whatever she was doing, but in the end she put on the exact same show she always does, so what was the point of that? To get her incredibly shrinking fan base excited, I'm sure. I don't know how it can be seen as anything else, since these people don't know their fans as individuals. Am I too cynical? I'd rather Madonna put on a good show and not call me for my opinion if I had to chose between the two.
ChristopherS
09-26-08, 08:37 PM
I expect the opposite for the indoor USA shows. In fact, I expect lots of sitting since those could afford the highest price tickets are most likely not the most active concert goers.
We'll see and I'm looking forward to it.
Have you seen her at US indoor shows before? No one sits at the NYC shows and I doubt they will start this tour.
Isn't it amazing to read the constant moaning of fans on the web only to go to a show and see an arena or stadium full of people who won't even sit for a ballad? Something's a little off! Glad you enjoyed your shows.
nothingfails
09-26-08, 10:45 PM
There is no fan backlash. There is nothing she's done since the start of the internet that hasn't had a terrible reaction.
I disagree. On "The Other Shore", the board is pretty much agreed in disapproval at Madonna's current status. I know on MadonnaNation, there are a lot of "Madonna is god and can do no wrong" types, but I think to the non-loon fans, this album is a giant turd and stain on what was a great track record. Hard Candy is also sluggishly selling compared to COADF. I know sales are down, but her dropoff is as bad as Mariah's, which shows that the general public doesn't like this album nearly as much.
Janet may call fans and ask what they want in her show or whatever she was doing, but in the end she put on the exact same show she always does, so what was the point of that? To get her incredibly shrinking fan base excited, I'm sure.
have you followed any info on Janet's latest tour? You couldn't possibly be more wrong. This tour she's actually performing pre-Control material and 90's hits that she hasn't performed since they were current. I know you hate all other major female artists, but at least read up before making a comment.
ChristopherS
09-27-08, 10:33 PM
I disagree. On "The Other Shore", the board is pretty much agreed in disapproval at Madonna's current status. I know on MadonnaNation, there are a lot of "Madonna is god and can do no wrong" types, but I think to the non-loon fans, this album is a giant turd and stain on what was a great track record. Hard Candy is also sluggishly selling compared to COADF. I know sales are down, but her dropoff is as bad as Mariah's, which shows that the general public doesn't like this album nearly as much.
have you followed any info on Janet's latest tour? You couldn't possibly be more wrong. This tour she's actually performing pre-Control material and 90's hits that she hasn't performed since they were current. I know you hate all other major female artists, but at least read up before making a comment.
I watched the clips on youtube and read the reviews. The only thing she is doing that's not her usual tour antics is the medly of songs off the early flop albums she previously ignored. That's OK, but Madonna does Ray Of Light similar to last tour and people are ready to jump out windows. But the real story is in the ticket sales (like, as you say, it is in Hard Candy's sales) where Madonna is set to break her own all-time record and Janet is just bearly putting a respectable US tour together :)
AndyCleveland
09-29-08, 10:39 PM
tour kicks off this saturday (10/4) in NJ
wago70
09-30-08, 12:13 PM
Have you seen her at US indoor shows before? No one sits at the NYC shows and I doubt they will start this tour.
Isn't it amazing to read the constant moaning of fans on the web only to go to a show and see an arena or stadium full of people who won't even sit for a ballad? Something's a little off! Glad you enjoyed your shows.
Yes, this tour has been my first Stadium experience. Festive as it was, I prefer the indoor thing. The only thing I have not liked is I'm always around people who want to sit! I get all my tickets as close to the stage and I really dislike being in Row 12 or 8 on the floor and someone asking you to sit. On Confessions Tour, I was in Paris at the indoor Bercy Arena and we were in Row 13 in the loge next to the stage and we were asked to sit by the people behind us...even during the danceable songs! I couldn't believe it because Paris is known to be Madonna fanatics. Here's a photo during MUSIC. Notice everyone else standing but us. It's just my bad luck and I'm totally expecting it in Oakland even though I'm in Row 9 on the floor, lol.
Can't wait though, it's a fantastic show.
Wow that's so strange, at all the MSG shows I've been to in NYC the whole place stands the entire show- even ballads and video interludes! I assumed she got similar reaction everywhere else.
AndyCleveland
09-30-08, 11:00 PM
Wow that's so strange, at all the MSG shows I've been to in NYC the whole place stands the entire show- even ballads and video interludes! I assumed she got similar reaction everywhere else.
ive seen her on recent tours in philly, chicago, toronto, and every NYC show... i only had 1 bad experience in toronto for re-invention tour- peeps were sitting and yelling at people for standing
you will not see people on the floor sitting in chicago or nyc at all
wago70
10-01-08, 10:58 AM
Wow that's so strange, at all the MSG shows I've been to in NYC the whole place stands the entire show- even ballads and video interludes! I assumed she got similar reaction everywhere else.
She does, pretty much - but I'm just unlucky (I'm also over 6' and I always get the most petite people behind me. It's a curse!). I have noticed that many, many festive fans are seated in the less-expensive areas (for many reasons, I'm sure: economy, number of shows attending, ect).
Cool thing about the stadiums: standing and dancing the whole time! I like the new show. In Rome (talk about festive, fun audience) the whole stadium was lively as far as the eye could see.
In Paris, I was standing ticket again and looked behind me at the seated section (with all the VIPs including Naomi Campbell, Gaultier, ect) and about 80% was seated even during the dance-y songs.
Here's a few pics I took:
Wembley London Fans lined up
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/wago70/Hard%20Candy%202008/2008_0911Madonna0104.jpg
The star of the show:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/wago70/Hard%20Candy%202008/2008_0911Madonna0130.jpg
The stage behing taken down:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/wago70/Hard%20Candy%202008/2008_0911Madonna0149.jpg
AndyCleveland
10-01-08, 03:14 PM
nice pics... please post more if u have them!
ChristopherS
10-01-08, 05:26 PM
Apparently Live Nation has started full refunds for people in the problem area at Wembly.
Arriving minutes before the show and wondering where to stand...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/wago70/Hard%20Candy%202008/2008_0928Madonna0147.jpg
2nd show, filled to capacity.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/wago70/Hard%20Candy%202008/2008_0928Madonna0149.jpg
nothingfails
10-02-08, 03:58 PM
I don't understand why anyone sits at concerts unless it's a Barbra Streisand type of show which is a more formal type of affair. You should stand at a rock or pop concert because a concert is about having fun and letting loose
ChristopherS
10-07-08, 11:02 PM
Went last night and was blown away, as usual. She's doing some of her best work 25 years into her career. It's really astonishing.
Confessions is my favorite Madonna tour and I'm not sure yet if I like this one more or less... will have to let it sink in. Favorite performance was Devil Wouldn't Recognize You. Really beautiful to see live. As usual there was so much to take in I was exhausted just watching. How does she do it? Had good view with $99 tickets and got more than my moneys worth.
I wouldn't want to see this at a stadium unless I was up front. I can see why there were issues in Europe. IMO stadiums are for rock shows where you can be happy just listening to the live music. Madonna sounded great but the visuals and interaction are obviously a big part of the show.
ChristopherS
10-07-08, 11:04 PM
I don't understand why anyone sits at concerts unless it's a Barbra Streisand type of show which is a more formal type of affair. You should stand at a rock or pop concert because a concert is about having fun and letting loose
Madonna even said last night, "I want everyone standing this isn't a Barbra Streisand show!"
I've seen better NYC audiences for Madonna but they did stand the whole night.
AndyCleveland
10-08-08, 02:34 PM
Went last night and was blown away, as usual. She's doing some of her best work 25 years into her career. It's really astonishing.
Confessions is my favorite Madonna tour and I'm not sure yet if I like this one more or less... will have to let it sink in. Favorite performance was Devil Wouldn't Recognize You. Really beautiful to see live. As usual there was so much to take in I was exhausted just watching. How does she do it? Had good view with $99 tickets and got more than my moneys worth.
I wouldn't want to see this at a stadium unless I was up front. I can see why there were issues in Europe. IMO stadiums are for rock shows where you can be happy just listening to the live music. Madonna sounded great but the visuals and interaction are obviously a big part of the show.
i too saw this show on saturday in NJ and was pretty impressed. I need to see it a couple more times to truly enjoy it as the night flew by wayyy too quickly. I also saw it from the front row on the catwalk so i didn't really get to appreciate the screens much. by the way, i really disliked Hard Candy until I saw the show. Heartbeat, She's Not Me, and Beat Goes On were all highlights for me. My favorite performance of the night was Like A Prayer.
Awesome vids! Now - how does one do a concert like this without having a coronary on stage?????? :)
ChristopherS
10-13-08, 12:24 AM
Saturday's show at MSG was even better than Monday's. Madonna was out of control. Pharrell joined her on stage for a couple of numbers, Madonna dedicated You Must Love Me to Lourdes, who turned 12 that day, and handed the mic to Kelli Rippa in the audience during Give It 2 Me. Madonna was in a great and wild mood and the audience went nuts the whole time. Best Madonna show I have ever been to and one of the best nights of my life. When I went to Confessions Tour a 2nd time, I was a little bit less interested. She had me as or more captivated the 2nd time around this tour. Normally each tour has moments I can live without, this tour grabbed me from beginning to end. Again, I think my $99 tickets were a STEAL. Every tour since 2001 I say there is no way, at her age, the next one can be more energetic, and she keeps toping herself!
John Wielgosz
10-15-08, 10:44 PM
I was at the New Jersey October 4th show, and was five seats away from the right side of the center stage. When I got to my seat, I was suddenly fearful that I wouldn't last the night with my brain intact. I'd never been that close to Madonna before and I made sure to let her know my appreciation for her the whole night. I was close enough to see the gap in her teeth. Freaking unreal.
I also did October 11 and 12 at MSG. I enjoyed October 12th more, because I was stuck in a section full of dead weight on the 11th (not on the floor). I pretty much showed them up the whole night, even though the girl next to me was shooting odd looks my way every so often (yeah, I was the one with the problem obviously).
October 12th was soooooo good though. Better crowd and I think Madonna pushed further that night. I smacked my knee during 'Give It 2 Me'. :banana:
Shame about the events of today. I hope the Boston crowds throw a whole lotta love her way.
Daytripper
10-16-08, 01:05 AM
Shame about the events of today. I hope the Boston crowds throw a whole lotta love her way.[/QUOTE]
I'm sorry, but why? Given all the stories that are leaking, wouldn't it seem SHE was the one that ended the marriage? Especially given her "so-called" relationship with A-Rod. That has also resurfaced. I know I'm gonna catch shit for this in this thread, but how about throwing some love Guy Ritchie's way. And maybe A-Rod's wife. They deserve it. She certainly doesn't.
MadonnasManOne
10-16-08, 09:51 AM
Shame about the events of today. I hope the Boston crowds throw a whole lotta love her way.
I'm sorry, but why? Given all the stories that are leaking, wouldn't it seem SHE was the one that ended the marriage? Especially given her "so-called" relationship with A-Rod. That has also resurfaced. I know I'm gonna catch shit for this in this thread, but how about throwing some love Guy Ritchie's way. And maybe A-Rod's wife. They deserve it. She certainly doesn't.[/QUOTE]
Seriously? You know for a fact that those stories, which is exactly what they are for all you know, are true? If not, and you have no proof, then you really have no idea. In fact, none of us know the true story, and likely won't. I can't stand people who make judgments based upon gossip. They really are no better than those who start it.
Daytripper
10-16-08, 09:58 AM
I'm sorry, but why? Given all the stories that are leaking, wouldn't it seem SHE was the one that ended the marriage? Especially given her "so-called" relationship with A-Rod. That has also resurfaced. I know I'm gonna catch shit for this in this thread, but how about throwing some love Guy Ritchie's way. And maybe A-Rod's wife. They deserve it. She certainly doesn't.
Seriously? You know for a fact that those stories, which is exactly what they are for all you know, are true? If not, and you have no proof, then you really have no idea. In fact, none of us know the true story, and likely won't. I can't stand people who make judgments based upon gossip. They really are no better than those who start it.[/QUOTE]
I just knew one of her fans would respond like this. Did I say it was a fact? I said it would SEEM like she ended it given all of the events. Whether you want to ignore them or not. You just can't stand the fact that someone has anything to say untoward about her.
MadonnasManOne
10-16-08, 10:04 AM
I just knew one of her fans would respond like this. Did I say it was a fact? I said it would SEEM like she ended it given all of the events. Whether you want to ignore them or not. You just can't stand the fact that someone has anything to say untoward about her.
Right. Trust me, I'm used to people saying "untoward" things about her. I've been a fan since she first came onto the scene. If I just couldn't stand someone saying "untoward" things about her, I wouldn't be reading this thread. Trust me, you have no idea what you are talking about. With regards to Madonna, or to me.
Daytripper
10-16-08, 10:08 AM
Right. Trust me, I'm used to people saying "untoward" things about her. I've been a fan since she first came onto the scene. If I just couldn't stand someone saying "untoward" things about her, I wouldn't be reading this thread. Trust me, you have no idea what you are talking about. With regards to Madonna, or to me.
LOL! You're a trip.
MadonnasManOne
10-16-08, 10:13 AM
LOL! You're a trip.
Yep!
Giles
10-16-08, 10:15 AM
anyone know if one of the shows from this tour is going to be released in video form (i.e, cable or retail)?
AndyCleveland
10-16-08, 06:01 PM
anyone know if one of the shows from this tour is going to be released in video form (i.e, cable or retail)?
brazil is rumoured to be filmed and broadcast locally.
a dvd & blu-ray release is demanded by the millions of fans obviously, but Warner/Live Nation have not proven themselves to release what the fans want. we are STILL waiting for re-invention tour DVD/blu-ray/broadcast/whatever 5 years later.
Last night in boston, she did American Life as the request.
Tonight, the request is going to be a surprise.
Chrisedge
10-16-08, 06:14 PM
Trust me, you have no idea what you are talking about.
It's called a "guess" based on what we've "heard". The rumors are usually right, and while I'm sorry for everyone in a divorce, it is POSSIBLE that Madonna was more of the cause. (I don't believe that)
No issue with throwing Madonna some extra love though...I would ;)
AndyCleveland
10-20-08, 07:40 PM
saw the show again in toronto this weekend. the crowd was pretty tame, but the show is still good. hopefully chicago and detroit will be better.
Flashback
10-27-08, 05:03 PM
Act quick 10th row available tonight.
Section Row Seats
SEC 1 10 13 - 14
Price Level 1
MAIN FLOOR
Type
2 Full Price Tickets
Ticket Price
US $350.00 x 2
Convenience Charge
US $15.90 x 2
Chrisedge
10-27-08, 07:55 PM
Act quick 10th row available tonight.
Section Row Seats
SEC 1 10 13 - 14
Price Level 1
MAIN FLOOR
Type
2 Full Price Tickets
Ticket Price
US $350.00 x 2
Convenience Charge
US $15.90 x 2
On the previous tours I saw of hers, I pulled seats like that for both shows I saw, buying last minute drops.
AndyCleveland
10-28-08, 05:30 PM
i saw the show last night for the 3rd time. this time was chicago. i have one more to go in detroit and im pretty bummed. this is so addicting i could go every night.
great show again and of course the chicago crowd is always great. something seems off though about this tour being during the fall.
SweetP
10-29-08, 09:27 AM
Not to taint the Madge-lovin' vibe of this thread((because the woman CAN deliver a damned good show)), but I'm so sick of all this "poor Madonna, the scorned woman!" sort of talk her fans keep tossing around.
She's certainly been no saint throughout their sham of a marriage and I think Guy Richie is getting an undeservedly bad rap on his end. Think about all the crap HE had to put up with, including her demanding diva ways and the fact that he had to regularly share a bed with that whithered old bag of muscles, botox and bones...it's a wonder they lasted as long as they did, but I think that poor bloke deserves a Helluva lot of love tossed his way as well!
ESPECIALLY considering how tacky Madge has been about this whole divorce situation...she's noted for her professionalism, but joking about her marital issues on stage and dressing up her kid in Yankee t-shirts doesn't seem like a very classy way to handle such a tough situation.
I dig Madonna and all as a performer((when she's not running around without pants and showing off her mangina, that is)), but I'm sure not a fan of her as a person. And she sure doesn't get any sympathy from me; she was lucky to have Guy while she did.
tommyp007
10-29-08, 10:17 AM
Act quick 10th row available tonight.
Section Row Seats
SEC 1 10 13 - 14
Price Level 1
MAIN FLOOR
Type
2 Full Price Tickets
Ticket Price
US $350.00 x 2
Convenience Charge
US $15.90 x 2
:whofart:
cdollaz
10-29-08, 11:10 AM
I'm surprised the "convenience" charge was only $15.90.
ChristopherS
10-29-08, 05:57 PM
ESPECIALLY considering how tacky Madge has been about this whole divorce situation...she's noted for her professionalism, but joking about her marital issues on stage and dressing up her kid in Yankee t-shirts doesn't seem like a very classy way to handle such a tough situation.
I'm a fan but try not to care either way what goes on in her private life. But Guy has been photographed with Rocco in the Yankees shirt so apparently it's not a jab at Guy or an issue for him if Rocco wears it.
Chrisedge
10-29-08, 06:47 PM
:whofart:
Yea, I know...I paid close to $800 for the two tickets on the last tour, and saw U2 10 times (with wife in tow at least 4 times) on the Vertigo Tour for not a whole lot more than that.
But my wife wanted to go, and Madonna puts on a killer show...
Daytripper
10-29-08, 08:14 PM
I'm a fan but try not to care either way what goes on in her private life. But Guy has been photographed with Rocco in the Yankees shirt so apparently it's not a jab at Guy or an issue for him if Rocco wears it.
Link? Because Chelsea Handler reported that Guy was extremely upset that Madonna was toting their son around in this shirt.
ChristopherS
10-29-08, 09:15 PM
Link? Because Chelsea Handler reported that Guy was extremely upset that Madonna was toting their son around in this shirt.
She sits there and rehashes what her hairdresser read in Star, I'm sure.
Did I say she was one the top journalists out there? Or even a reputable person? No. I only said what they talked about on her show. And asked for a link.
ChristopherS
10-30-08, 12:40 PM
^You said she reported it. I wasn't sure if that meant you were under the impression she gets reliable news.
AndyCleveland
10-30-08, 01:24 PM
regarding the $375 ticket price, i have seen Madonna 14 times and have never paid full face value. i know tons of fans that do, but no thanks.
on Monday in chicago, i got $750 worth of tickets for $110. we were close to the stage and it was amazing.
she charges $350 because people ARE willing to pay that. however, scalpers usually have a lot of extras come the time of the show because they couldnt make the 100% profit they were hoping for and have to sell the tickets at a (major) loss.
regarding the claim that fans are saying "poor madge"... i just don't see it. there are a couple madonna communities that I visit on a regular basis and there is just not much truth to it.
wago70
10-30-08, 02:09 PM
Not to taint the Madge-lovin' vibe of this thread((because the woman CAN deliver a damned good show)), but I'm so sick of all this "poor Madonna, the scorned woman!" sort of talk her fans keep tossing around.
She's certainly been no saint throughout their sham of a marriage and I think Guy Richie is getting an undeservedly bad rap on his end. Think about all the crap HE had to put up with, including her demanding diva ways and the fact that he had to regularly share a bed with that whithered old bag of muscles, botox and bones...it's a wonder they lasted as long as they did, but I think that poor bloke deserves a Helluva lot of love tossed his way as well!
ESPECIALLY considering how tacky Madge has been about this whole divorce situation...she's noted for her professionalism, but joking about her marital issues on stage and dressing up her kid in Yankee t-shirts doesn't seem like a very classy way to handle such a tough situation.
I dig Madonna and all as a performer((when she's not running around without pants and showing off her mangina, that is)), but I'm sure not a fan of her as a person. And she sure doesn't get any sympathy from me; she was lucky to have Guy while she did.
I think all that should matter is her work and not her personal life which I could give a flyin' puhtootie about. She's my favorite artiste. If she wants to make light of what's going on in her life on stage, then she should be able to. It's her show and she can say or do whatever she wants. She has not been very vocal about this divorce at all. The media is, of course, trying to get SOME sort of drama by deconstructing any little moment of eye-rolling or comment. They're trying so hard and I don't buy into it.
if she really wanted to be unprofessional and rag on Guy in public - she would. I'm sure she wouldn't hold back, either...no deconstruction of her behavior needed.
ChristopherS
10-30-08, 10:10 PM
I honestly don't think things are ugly between her and Guy, and they have probably been together for the sake of the kids for a while now... the media will make it seem ugly because that's the better story.
Buy: