Bad news for American Sylvian fans

[MoodyB]

I would tend to believe that Sylvian still looks upon the 2002 tour as a measure of his popularity or lack of popularity in the US. He probably came to the logical conclusion that he wasn't as big a draw in this country as he would need to be in order to justify a tour here, especially now that he is his own insecure company working without a net. And as far as fans traveling, well evidently the fans didn't travel back in 2002 so he had to abort and take a loss. I don't blame him for allowing that fact to cause apprehension on his part. This is a lot of $ at stake here and it is extremely hard to recoup losses. And I'm sure it is a disheartening feeling to lose money for the sake of one's art.
Another possible reason (though unfortunately probably way off the mark) for a lack of a US leg: He may actually go through with that previously expressed desire to perform entirely improvised music on stage, no vocals, just pure musical exploration and is hesitant to subject that to the US when he had such a lackluster turn out for what was basically his 'greatest hits' tour in 2002.

I have to agree on everything you've said in this and your previous post.
For those of you asking about just doing a one-off gig...Well here's the deal, even if he sold it out (which would probably happen in NYC, I have seen him twice at the Town Hall) he would still lose money...Unless he charged a fortune for each ticket, which he obviously can't do, he's just not that well known enough to get away with it, unless he is willing to gamble that every die-hard fan here turns up.
In reality, unless he does another one-man tour like Slowfire, it would be very, very difficult for him to break even.
I wouldn't take that gamble, and I wouldn't expect him to either.

You know, I remember when he just toured Italy and Japan with Fripp, I was really bummed when I found out....I could just couldn't afford to go.
I didn't take it personally either!
He had the choice of touring those places or not at all.
Also, just because he cannot make it here this time around, an opportunity may present itself in the future...We may well be blessed with another Slowfire type tour (in my dreams) or with King Crimson (which came close to fruition) or an appearance in a small club in NYC with Sakamoto!

Keep your chin up kids...There is always hope.

Chris

[arieleleven]

OK great Some fans may have the means to travel anywhere to see him where ever, but most don't. There's a lot of us now holding 0 tickets and that's how many we're ever going to hold. So I hope you enjoy your 4 shows. Really - to anyone who can get there - I'm sure it will be worth it. To the rest of my US comrades licking their wounds, perhaps we can start a commissary thread!

I apologize if I have seemed at all obnoxious and/or as if I have been trying to rub it in everyone's faces that I am doing something that frankly terrifies me (I think I am more afraid of flying than anything) and that I wouldn't be able to afford to do if I didn't have places to stay there and other budget-cutting measures. I hate that he is not coming here; it infuriates me! And I feel terrible for those of you Stateside who won't be seeing him (and you know, it still may happen that I won't be going either). I actually feel very awkward about all of this and as if I should feel guilty about it. I humbly and sincerely apologize if any of my most recent messages especially have offended anyone in any way because that has surely never been my intent. Sometimes when I get excited, I just don't think, that's all.

Maybe it would be best if I just don't post here anymore? But I truly am sorry if anything I said came off the wrong way and if my thoughtlessness inadvertently offended anyone else here.

[heartofdavid]

Unless he charged a fortune for each ticket, which he obviously can't do, he's just not that well known enough to get away with it, unless he is willing to gamble that every die-hard fan here turns up.
In reality, unless he does another one-man tour like Slowfire, it would be very, very difficult for him to break even.
I wouldn't take that gamble, and I wouldn't expect him to either.

Exactly.

You know, I remember when he just toured Italy and Japan with Fripp, I was really bummed when I found out....I could just couldn't afford to go.
I didn't take it personally either!

I don't understand the attitude of taking lack of US dates as a personal slight to fans. Strikes me as a strange way of thinking.

And very cool Chris about your comments at the New York show; making David laugh - what a great memory to have.

Perhaps David will record/film one of the new shows as a Samadhi release - that would be nice!

[Cheery Cherry]

Maybe it's a bad timing...but to all who are p-ed off at David for (possibly) not touring the US, can you please PLEASE contact me if you are "thinking" of maybe selling your Sylvian/Japan collection? I have seen what some of you own and I would DIE to have them in my hands...well, okay...not (die) literally but...seriously...I am just as disappointed too. I would not take it personally though. I am extremely grateful for having David's songs on CDs and his videos on DVD.

[proggrl]

OK great Some fans may have the means to travel anywhere to see him where ever, but most don't. There's a lot of us now holding 0 tickets and that's how many we're ever going to hold. So I hope you enjoy your 4 shows. Really - to anyone who can get there - I'm sure it will be worth it. To the rest of my US comrades licking their wounds, perhaps we can start a commissary thread!

I apologize if I have seemed at all obnoxious and/or as if I have been trying to rub it in everyone's faces that I am doing something that frankly terrifies me (I think I am more afraid of flying than anything) and that I wouldn't be able to afford to do if I didn't have places to stay there and other budget-cutting measures. I hate that he is not coming here; it infuriates me! And I feel terrible for those of you Stateside who won't be seeing him (and you know, it still may happen that I won't be going either). I actually feel very awkward about all of this and as if I should feel guilty about it. I humbly and sincerely apologize if any of my most recent messages especially have offended anyone in any way because that has surely never been my intent. Sometimes when I get excited, I just don't think, that's all.

Maybe it would be best if I just don't post here anymore? But I truly am sorry if anything I said came off the wrong way and if my thoughtlessness inadvertently offended anyone else here.

Ariel, it wasn't you my comments were directed at. I do apologize. I'm not upset at David either. He wasn't the one who said his not playing the US is an 'ironic snipe at those in America who think it is the whole world'. I think someone else put those words or at least that insinuation in his mouth. Personally I have not met one American who thinks that way. I really wish those who can make it have a great time. I am very happy for you all, especially if you've not seen him before. Anyone who WANTS to go should do what they can to try and make it. I'm still trying - although I have no idea what's going on and am quite close to just saving the money I really don't have to go.

Yes, I was one of those who thought why not just one or two gigs, but Moody made a great point - dag nab it. hehehe. Thanks Moody for checking into all this for us. Even though it wasn't the outcome we had hoped for, we appreciate your efforts to let us know what the scoop is. Also, it's just having you back on board.

Ariel, please do continue to post. I likie your posts.

[MoodyB]

Yes, I was one of those who thought why not just one or two gigs, but Moody made a great point - dag nab it. hehehe. Thanks Moody for checking into all this for us. Even though it wasn't the outcome we had hoped for, we appreciate your efforts to let us know what the scoop is. Also, it's just having you back on board.

Thank you kindly, I'm pleased that I can at least help people keep informed.
I honest to goodness wish I could do more...And I share all of the frustrations some of you have, because I have been there (as I mentioned before).
At the end of the day, the frustrations run so high, because of the passion everyone has for the music...That level of passion says an awful lot.

*Another group hug for everyone*

Thanks also for the welcome back!
I went into semi-retirement from the online community stuff for some time, my life has changed (for the better) in the past year and it's left me little or no time for internet related things.
An impending tour however has fired me up again!

I'm pleased to say that a very wonderful gentleman at Continental Airlines went above the call of duty to get me a frequent flier reward to Venice, so it looks like I'll be at the gig in Treviso! Yaay!
Not only will I get to see Mr S, but I'll be re-united with a dear, dear friend that I haven't seen in eighteen years.
I may also have some more Sylvian related news (on a personal level) to share shortly, but I'll have to wait until it's all confirmed.

All the very best,
Chris

[sonic_chronicler]

OK great Some fans may have the means to travel anywhere to see him where ever, but most don't. There's a lot of us now holding 0 tickets and that's how many we're ever going to hold. So I hope you enjoy your 4 shows. Really - to anyone who can get there - I'm sure it will be worth it. To the rest of my US comrades licking their wounds, perhaps we can start a commissary thread!

Ariel, it wasn't you my comments were directed at. I do apologize. I'm not upset at David either. He wasn't the one who said his not playing the US is an 'ironic snipe at those in America who think it is the whole world'. I think someone else put those words or at least that insinuation in his mouth.

That'll be me then.

Seems you've taken offence at a light hearted retort to your "European Tour" remark.

I don't know why you would say something like
" There's a lot of us now holding 0 tickets and that's how many we're ever going to hold"
and
"So easy for you gosh golly jee whiz Europeans to sit back with tickets in hand and make snide comments."

when you know that I have personally bought you tickets to the four shows in the hope that you can make it over here. Oh well, my bad as they say in America. Maybe it should be me that f*cks off.

Sorry everyone.

[sisterlondon]

My sweet, sweet friend Nadia got us three front row (just off-centre, but still!!) seats for the London show.

Hey, you have to tell me if you are near me, because I am on the side too (A34) I hope it's okay getting the tix at the venue, I'd prefer having it in my hand!

And please guys, do not start fighting I understand how you feel, Duran Duran are playing in NY and have no chance to go. I guess we all have to sacrifice things to be able to travel (I live with my family for saving money), so we all have lives and problems and sure we all would love going here and there. Sometimes it works, others don't, but not for that fight over things guys

[Steerpike]

BTW, Isa, I will be going to London after all as well! Maybe we can meet up there?

B x

Woohooo!!! That's fantastic news!!! You got the tix already? Though probably if you wait for better ones you might get them!

My sweet, sweet friend Nadia got us three front row (just off-centre, but still!!) seats for the London show. I seriously stopped breathing for an instant when I got her message this AM. And in Manchester, Shaun and I will be in the front row of the right choir section, which he says is the equivalent of about fifth row in the center stalls and slightly elevated, with no obstructions so it should be a lovely view. Dublin doesn't seem to be on sale yet and I am still up in the air re: Birmingham -- we will probably be flying home that day and I'm sure tickets there will be gone by the time I make up my mind about that one. But if I can see Dublin too, I can officially say I will be ready to die one very, very, very happy person.

I am so relieved about the passport situation, I can't even say. I am still submitting my already-downloaded application next week though. Not taking any chances!! Then I will see about booking flights after talking to Steph and Jim, etc.

I can't believe I will be in the front row for a Sylvian show. Even if a wall or curtain or speaker is partly blocking my view....it's the front row, you know?!! Maybe the universe has finally decided to reward me after all these years as a fan and never having been able to see one of his concerts?! But I don't think I will really believe it till I am actually there and he actually walks onstage and starts singing.

As for the complete lack of North and South American shows? It completely sucks. I still don't see why he couldn't play one or two nights at NYC Town Hall at the very least -- doesn't he live in NYC half the time anyway?

Yay!! Congratulations Ariel! I'm so glad you're coming to the UK. I will be going to the London show, so we must meet up. Looks like it's going to be a big board meet-up.

[godisinthesilences]

@Krausy... i know you're away for a week. I'm not angry. For some reason that stage hasn't hit. I am incredibly sad though. Perhaps at some point in the future he will play a couple dates in larger cities some day in the future.

I can't make a special trip to europe just to see a concert ... I'm not independently wealthy. Plus I begin my teaching schedule again in August so that cuts out September dates. Oh well.... I suppose it is a shame now then that he isn't playing london in January as that is when i'll be in england. Oh well... bad timing....

[Steerpike]

I apologize if I have seemed at all obnoxious and/or as if I have been trying to rub it in everyone's faces that I am doing something that frankly terrifies me (I think I am more afraid of flying than anything) and that I wouldn't be able to afford to do if I didn't have places to stay there and other budget-cutting measures. I hate that he is not coming here; it infuriates me! And I feel terrible for those of you Stateside who won't be seeing him (and you know, it still may happen that I won't be going either). I actually feel very awkward about all of this and as if I should feel guilty about it. I humbly and sincerely apologize if any of my most recent messages especially have offended anyone in any way because that has surely never been my intent. Sometimes when I get excited, I just don't think, that's all.

Maybe it would be best if I just don't post here anymore? But I truly am sorry if anything I said came off the wrong way and if my thoughtlessness inadvertently offended anyone else here.

I think you're being very brave. If it was me, I would be just as excited and where else can you share this excitement than here, with fellow fans.

There is that "15 year old" in me that is jealous that you have front row tickets and will be travelling to see several shows. But "the grown up" me says don't be silly as I've already done that - 4 times!! and I will be meeting you as well, which is something that I'm looking forward to doing.

[krausy]

As Gods has mentioned, I've been away for a week and have cooled down some(as best as one can do that in Florida--lol)but I am still not pleased. Gods says it is the Leo in me, but besides the Leo feature of temper temper temper, there is also the feature of Loyalty, and since most often my heart controls my head, I don't forsee dumping my entire Japan-Sylvian et al collection (sorry Cheery Cherry), but it may very well be in the time-out corner for a spell

@ariel--Don't you dare stop posting!!! Don't let our envy rain on your parade---if you can remotely make it happen, by all means do so. Since I cannot, I will live vicariously through you.

@Proggrl---You continuously say things that I agree with. I think you understand what I am trying to say and what I feel.

@MoodyB----I really appreciate all that you do. You remind me of the PR man for Neil Finn, Peter Green. He is always helpful, informed and willing to share with the fans, being a fan himself helps. There has never been a time that I have not emailed him and he did not get back within 24 hours---now that's dedication. I also appreciate your empathy and I really do believe you when you say you understand how I feel.

However, when it was mentioned by both you and Sonic that he would lose money, I just am not sold on that. As Proggrl pointed out----PT and Marillion tour here at a loss. I am also certain that the 2 times I saw the Finn Brothers in 04/05 respectively that they did not go back to OZ with a bank roll either---in fact the US has never been kind to them, with maybe the exception of the Crowded House years----but they realize that they do have a dedicated fan base here, albeit small in comparison to their star status in OZ. I got to meet Neil in 05 and it is an experience I wished for for over 20 years, and never expected to attain. I am not saying that meeting someone is always my ultimate goal---but seeing someone live just once can often satisfy me. Hence back to the one show idea. I don't know what David's finances are based on-----US dollar, UK pound, or cockle shell, but the last time I bought anything in the UK, it was double my US dollar, and we are just talking about the UK. I'm not complaining about the exchange rate, I am just pointing out that it exists, that depending on what currency we are dealing with, we lose or gain anyway. Due to time constraint I have not researched any other currency value, so I am basing it on my experience with the UK pound.
But I think the folks that have already bought tickets can identify with my point about the exchange rate, because I have read the posts at other forums.

Conclusion? I still say a North American date or two would be nice. Am I going to get my wish? Heck no.

And please please please don't tell me I don't understand about losing money. After this years tax return, I really do understand. Sometimes you just gotta bite the bullet. I like to think all the money I gave the Fed went to a soldier's paycheck, or several in my case---not to the politician's pocket.

If David lost money in the process of pleasing his dedicated fans, then I appreciate his sacrifice.

To everyone going to the shows, have a wonderful time, take pictures(if allowed)and by all means share with us all when you get back!!!!!!!

[MoodyB]

Now, I don't want to make anyone feel bad, so please excuse me...

...But I just had to share that I just got front row seats for the show in Conegliano (Italy)!!!

I'm more than just a bit happy to say the least!

I will say that this is the most I've ever laid out on a Sylvian concert though!
$324 for three tickets with shipping...But worth every penny for being able to see my favourite musician in a beautiful theatre with people that I adore...

Chris

[Burnsjed]

I am still too depressed about the non U.S leg of the tour to share in your enjoyment!!!

[Steerpike]

Now, I don't want to make anyone feel bad, so please excuse me...

...But I just had to share that I just got front row seats for the show in Conegliano (Italy)!!!

I'm more than just a bit happy to say the least!

I will say that this is the most I've ever laid out on a Sylvian concert though!
$324 for three tickets with shipping...But worth every penny for being able to see my favourite musician in a beautiful theatre with people that I adore...

Chris

Congratulations Chris For all the money and effort you're going to, to see David, I'm glad you got fantastic seats.

Does this mean you're going to heckle him again?