Sunday, August 23, 2009

Clay Aiken Fans Have Their Say


He's Got a Way - Montage by LovesClaysVoice

Mailbag Spotlights Readers

Clay Aiken Fans Have Their Say

Readers who leave comments have a special place in the hearts of bloggers, and their remarks often complete the dialogue set in motion by the writer.

Occasionally, I like to feature the thoughts shared by Carolina On My Mind and Clayonline readers in a mail bag blog. This edition highlights what many of you had to say about the closing concerts of Clay Aiken's Soft Rock Hard Place Tour, which have been in rewind mode through the last three entries.

The opening montage -- He's Got a Way by LovesClaysVoice -- captures highlights from the Orlando finale. The two photo interludes include special moments from the entire tour.

8/20/09: Postscript to Clay Aiken SRHP Tour

This entry replayed the story of three fans who at the end of the tour found themselves on the same Delta flight to NC as Clay.

Controlling their excitement, they allowed the singer his privacy but managed to express "off the chain" tour props in a note delivered by a flight attendant. One reader relayed a similar memory as a fan of Paul McCartney.

The blog also included a brief recap of a summer recital presented by three cousins for a studio full of relatives.

These are just a few of the remarks added by readers:

Anonymous: Loved the story of the fans who gave Clay his privacy yet let him know in a subtle way that he was appreciated. The blends of Clay are beautiful.

PalpatatinClay: Love the story of your three students (I studied music as well; I use the term "studied" loosely); my mom was UP for any photo op possible...sounds like great time.

I adored the tale of the airplane, this bit was specifically memorable to me: When the stewardess arrived with drinks, the excited fans quietly asked if they could have Clay Aiken's cup. She said, "So that was him? I thought it looked like him!"

Why? Because I kept a milk glass (with milk still in it) in my closet for years - it was Paul McCartney's LOL...even though I met him and he eventually knew my name (thanks to Robbie Robertson of the SF Chronicle), I still held on to that dang milk glass for years (ewwwwwwww in the top of the closet!!!)

Great time for the three fans; great time for the three students, and great fun to read!

VoxLvr: How great for your students! Had to laugh about the "stage moms" getting that perfect shot.

MissSally: I don't think there's a Clay fan who wasn't a bit envious of the gals on the plane, I know I was. I also enjoyed PalpatatinClay's comment about Macca's milk glass.

Chez_Clay: How hysterical! Had a great laugh about three fans returning on the same airplane (a con.nec.tion!!). Also your three students!

Also, love the story of the Clay fans on the airplane. They showed remarkable restraint (I would hope I would react in the same manner).

Anonymous: OMG I remember reading about the FOURIDA and their recap back in '07. I recall thinking what a special fandom this and that they handled themselves perfectly. Even for 12 year olds! :o)

Margaret5828: Teachers are special people; that's for sure. It must be gratifying to see the look in their eyes. Somebody's parents brought those girls up right by leaving Clay to his privacy. I don't think I could.

Barb55: I remember reading about the three lucky ladies on the plane with Clay. They must have been on Cloud 9 and thrilled when he read their note.

What a special treat for three of your students' family members to see them perform in their own recital. I'm sure you were very proud of them.

marianhookailo: I especially loved your story of the little musical given by your students. The families must have been in music heaven.

vibajajo: Thank you for the giggle. I love that story about the three Clay fans. You must be very proud of the kids you teach.

luvtigr: You sound proud as a peacock as you should. Love that story of those women. They did well!

PHOTO INTERLUDE: Throughout the SRHP Tour, graphic artists and photographers preserved many memories that fans revisit often. Included in this clickable interlude are visuals by AmazingCA, 1, 4, and 5, photos by toni7babe, and 2, photos by PinkCocoa. The third graphic is by Ashes, photo by gerwhisp.









8/18/09: Fun-Filled SRHP Finale

The Orlando SRHP finale vocals are magnificent treasures, especially the duet-turned-trio, "I Want To Know What Love Is," and Clay's emotional "Measure of a Man." This concert naturally included the typical laughs and tricks of a final performance.

LAP, my "all business" laptop, and his partner, LACIE, a fangirly external hard drive, assumed the writing duties for this entry. They very much appreciate your many compliments.

PalpatatinClay: I told him, "I'm sorry, but you have got to stand up now. You are going to miss it all sitting in that chair. Trust me.' He said, "Yes, 'mam" and stood up. He clapped, he laughed, he danced."

WTG on Clayverting him! You never know who you are going to sit next to at a concert. I loved the calendar that Claystruck made, brings back some wonderful memories.

SueReu: Fun blog!!! I always love it when LAP and LACIE take over. *hee hee* I had a similar experience with a first time Clay concert goer in Pala. He was SOLD by the end of the show, LOL!!!

Clay Aiken is a master performer because he connects with the audience. He doesn't just go through the motions, but watches and listens to everything going on around him.

VoxLvr: The YouTube of Clay Aiken's MOAM at Ft Myers is incredible. Ending the last notes with his fists clenched, such emotion. He's truly a talent, an awesome performer and someone I hope with his new CD coming out will tour again next summer.

Paula Bear: I especially loved your story about the theater owner in Delray Beach. I don't think I've ever heard of any concertgoer leaving a Clay Aiken concert disappointed. He amazes even the skeptics and converts them all! Can't wait until he's back out on the road again next year with his new CD!!

Anonymous: LOL, "LACIE: It's not as if we don't know what's going on in Clay Land. If we're not watching clack, we're reading about it." That's me for sure!

Tripster: I love the phrase Clackapalooza ~ that's really a hoot! Thanks for all the videos, and the photo interlude. Loved your conversation between LAP and Lacie!

Cousin It: LOL!! "Where is my Lawd Jesus fan?" had me rolling on the floor! Thanks for the great, humorous blog as well as the photos and video!

Siol: I think I love to read about the Clayversions more than anything. I wonder if there's more stories out there that we haven't heard about.

Ashes: LAP & LACIE do such a good job! I love this. "LACIE: It's not as if we don't know what's going on in Clay Land. If we're not watching clack, we're reading about it." I've been lost in YouTube and PC clackland all evening!

Arielone: I started by reading your entire blog on Clayonline, which then took me to the Carolina on My Mind site, which I then started clicking on the photos of Clay that took me to YouTube, which I then started clicking on more videos of Clay singing his heart out. I realized that an hour had passed since I first started reading your blog!

PHOTO INTERLUDE: This set of clickable designs are by AmazingCA, photos by Invisible, 1; cindilu2, photos by scrpkym, 2; chachatrusty, 3; Ambassador of Love, photos by LynninNJ, 4; and AmazingCA, photos by Pink Cocoa, 5.









8/16/09: Clay Aiken Fans Mark August 16

August 16, the day Elvis died, is also the anniversary of the very memorable Ft. Myers SRHP Concert during which Clay "borrowed" Scarlett's camera and became a clack gatherer.

My accidental mix-up of vinegar and water merited many laughs and even a health tip to boot.

Ashes: Ft. Myers was a hoot! You made me laugh again! Except of course for remembering August 1977 & Elvis. I was vacuuming with the radio turned up loud when I heard the breaking news.

Sorry, but I couldn't help but laugh at your vinegar cocktail..even though I'm puckering up just at the thought of it.

fgs: I loved the concert at Ft Myers. One never knows what to expect next at a Clay Aiken concert. He witty and fun making every concert different.

Sandy: So many great memories of the shenanigans of Clay! We never quite knew what was in store for us, and Clay always delivered, both musically and comically!

I was at work when we heard the news of Elvis's passing and one of the girls at work let out a loud shriek as she had tickets to see him in Syracuse which was coming up soon.

gerra: I was at that concert in Fort Myers. The whole Florida 4some was absolutely fantastic.

Sydney: Thanks for the laughs. On a sad note though, yes, I remember where I was when I heard the news that Elvis passed away.I was in Guatemala at the time studying, I was on the upper level balcony and a teacher came outside to tell us the news...Everyone was upset.

Pal of Clay: I was at the Pala concert, Clay was so quick on his feet - his backup singers were hysterical too. It was fun to watch the orchestra laughing while Clay was on stage.

Marlyne: How could we ever forget Fort Myers? I wasn't there, but sure remember the awesome clack!

August 1977: I was in the car with my two sons. I don't remember where we were going, but I sure remember hearing it over the radio. So shocked and saddened!

Arielone: Those two videos are some of my favorites. Well, almost all Clay videos are my favorite. Funny story about vinegar. Vinegar is a great way to detox the body. I mix it with honey and water.

Paula Bear: Awesome memories of an awesome Clay Aiken concert that had some of the funniest moments. I love the way Clay just goes with the flow and makes every situation a memorable one!

Many thnx to all who leave comments, which complete the circle for each entry and give CA blogs a boost in the search engines at Google and other sites.

Here's to many more memorable moments from future tours by Singer Man. Have a wonderful week, Clay Nation!

Caro

TECHNORATI TAGS: , , , , , , ,

24 comments:

SueReu said...

GREAT blog Caro!!! Love reading all the comments, love LCV's montage and absolutely love all of the blends (too many talented people to mention).

Thanks!!!!

Ashes said...

Thanks for the memories Caro!
The Clay Aiken fans comments are so much fun to read (and receive).
LCV's montage is wonderful, and the gallery blends are adorable.
Thank you for using one of my favourites "Catch a Falling Star".

Happy Sunday!

PaulaBear said...

Clay Aiken certainly does have a way about him! He's just fascinating!! Thanks for the wonderful memories and posting LCV's montage....beautiful! It's just kind of hitting me now that the SRHP tour was the last time I saw Clay live.....two years ago!! That's just too long. Next year will bring Clay back to us, and I can't wait for another tour!!

LovesClaysVoice said...

Great blog Caro! Thanks for including my montage! That one always gets to me because it was the end of a great tour! I loved all your readers comments and of course the fantastic graphics!

Thanks again for all you do for Clay and his fans!

VoxLvr said...

I love it when you post a new blog; you are so funny/comedic !! Thank you so much for the walk down memory lane; I remember ALL the concerts I went to, each UNIQUE capturing Clay Aiken as he's never been seen before on AI. I will pray, chant, light candles that his CD will present us with a new tour ! AND all those incredible funny TV interviews that Clay always gives.
Thanks again!

PalpatatinClay said...

Thank you LoveClaysVoice for the incredible montage ~ it brought tears and laughter. He truly is someone who is special. Again, many thanks!

Eyequeue said...

Love love love LCV's montage "He's got a way about him"; so true and captured in a way that all Clay Aiken fans can appreciated. Thank you for posting it on your blog.

IamMesmerized said...

Loved your blog, Caro. That tour was a lot of fun and I watch clack from it all the time.

Thanks to all for the beautiful montages.

Carole

Sandy said...

It's so nice of you to have a blog devoted to all the fans who are not only fans of Clay but big supporters of your wonderful blogs. Thanks for "showcasing" mine!

Have a great week!

Hugs,

Sandy

Anonymous said...

Hi Caro,

As always, AWESOME BLOG!!! I love LCV's montage, makes me giggle every time I watch it, Clay just has a way with entertaining Fans.

The blends are all wonderful.....and I just LOVE reading all the comments, such fun!! Thanks for posting them.

Hope your having a great weekend, and "Hurricane Bill" didn't get to you.

Hugs,
Marlyne

T said...

Terrific blog! Brought back so much great memories. LCV's montage is beautiful.

Enjoyed reading the comments from various CA fans. It felt so exciting just going through each comments. The graphics are all beautiful & thank you for including the blends which brought fond memories.

Cheers Caro & many thanks.

fgs said...

Beautiful graphics as usual. Does ACA still do her weekend therapy making beautiful blends, I always see her name on some. Hoping for another tour next year.

Cindy said...

What a fun blog, Caro. Nothing like taking a walk down memory lane with Clay to bring the Aiken grin to my face. Thank you!!!!

musicfan said...

Caro.....It was fun reading the comments. Each person has great thoughts!!

You always have such interesting things. I always enjoy visitning here.

Tripster said...

I loved reading the comments by Clay Aiken's fans, Clay brings us humor in every concert! Clay's quick wit had everyone rolling in the aisles at the concerts I was fortunate to attend. He's really "something special" Thank you for the walk down memory lane, what FUN that is!!

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous man in those blends of the day! The fan memories are so much fun to read, thanks for sharing them with us. :)

Titanium Orbs said...

LOVE your blog, try to peek in every day, so many great Clay Aiken videos and especially your photo interlude [plus you are funny as all get out].

Thank you for sharing and also for the laughs!!

Wallace said...

You blog is enticing ~ why? Because every time I come here, I end up watching superb Clay Aiken videos which remind me of other videos, so I have to d/l or watch that from my desktop -then an hour and a half will go by and I'm late for the "chores" I have planned for the day (groceries, doctors [ick], that kinda thing).

Thank you for allowing me to have breakfast or dinner with your videos and clickable Clay pictures EVERY day !!

Anonymous said...

There certainly is the 'star' factor surrounding Clay, whether on a concert tour, on Broadway, in TV interviews ~ or on a plane; one can not take their eyes off of him, he draws you and so much so that if you look away from his direction (even if you are trying to be polite), you fear you may miss something, some small gesture that is so Clay. Amazing talent.

MisBehaving said...

Anonymous at 10:05a took the words right out of my mouth; literally...hence, I agree with her/him 1000% LOL

A-Dung said...

It's so fun to read about other fans who have experienced the same emotions I have with regard to Clay Aiken. He truly is talented, I can hardly wait until 2010 for new music.

I love the posts you presented, so many of which I could relate to. I also like that you posted about your three students (a parent can NEVER get enough photographs with their son/daughter "at the piano" "playing an accordian" "strumming a violin" or "picking a guitar").

Thanks for the fun, love this blog!

Jannet said...

So much work and dedication you spend on your blog to give so much enjoyment to your readers Caro! I will definitely not stop reading! Just taking a little hiatus from Clayigraphy to yak about some other things on my mind... and finish working on my degree.

I'm still "here" in heart and mind and will be back in a snap as soon as he is. Thanks for the sweet comments!

Jannet/Chardonnay

Popsicle Toes said...

Always a fun read at your blog; the fan's comments were hysterical! I particularly loved your video and "photo interlude" I always thought that Clay was so photogenic then I had the opportunity to be up close and personal -- he IS photogenic that's true; but he looks the same handsome man in person. What a treat!

Sheila said...

I love the stories of the fans! Funny, funny stuff (as usual - thank you). I also love the videos you post; I'm excited about Clay Aiken's new label and can hardly wait until his new CD is available.