The Right Stuff

I have no shame in admitting that I am nostalgia addict--I often OD on it like Iona (if you get the reference post a comment!) so when New Kids on the Block announced they were going on tour, it was meant for someone like me.

From 1988 until 1993 I don't think there was a space on my bedroom wall that didn't have New Kids on it. I would fall asleep to New Kids on my walkman, had the trading cards, tshirts, videos and my cousin Valerie and I knew every step of their concert routine. Joey McIntyre was my favorite.

I was lucky and got to a concert the summer before 6th grade with my cousin, Bean, but I had to look at the jumbo-tron just to see what was going on (as an aside: I got glasses later that year). So, a little girl promised herself when she grew up she would see the New Kids up close. Fast forward 18 years and the New Kids on the Block reunion tour. I'll spare you the long story about getting the tickets, but the conclusion is floor seats, section 1, row Z!!!!!

The best part was in the middle of the concert after hearing several screams behind us, I see them all on a small rotating stage 10 feet away! (Picture below) It was so awesome to see them so close! The best part--I keep saying that phrase--was after 3 or 4 songs they ran back to the stage right behind my seats and I got to touch Joey's hand (and Jon's...). I actually had the though that I shouldn't wash my right hand any more.*Sigh*


I was worried that I would think the songs were silly now, but I still knew every word and sang a long. I realized how much fun it is to actually go to a concert when you like the band--I am usually tagging along to some band Chris likes. And let me just say, that there is just something about guys singing and dancing together that is just hot. Maybe it's also because they opened up with a song where Joey says "I'll be your boyfriend.." and I thought he was talking to me, but it was the best concert EVER.

Another part I really liked was feeling like the guys were up on stage just having a good time and grateful (not in a desperate way) for a chance to live the dream all over again. Plus the audience was really into it. There were so many girls with home-made tshirts with bubble paint and iron on photos. Girls with crimped hair and the old t-shirts from the 90s. Not one of us was embarrassed to be at the New Kids concert. And let me just say, the arena was packed. I don't think it was technicallly sold out, but I couldn't point to an empty seat in the house.


I took over a hundred photos and the one thing that is embarassing is the number of photos of Joe McIntrye. I hope Chris isn't too jealous. I do have to say the New Kids stylist should get a bonus, because all the guys look better than before particularly Danny and Jon. And out of no where, my fellow-concert goer, Ha, and I agree that Donnie still has it and emerged as a bit of a leader.