Fan Experiences - Suzanne

I first became hooked on John Waite long before I even knew it. When I was a small child my sister had a K-tel album that had "Isn't it Time" on it. I played that song endlessly!! On to the the fifth grade and "Change"- my favorite song. Then, like a lot of fans, "Missing You" enters the picture and that's it for me! I was sold, and began collecting everything in sight. I am very happy to say that I managed to get everything on CD; some of which are very hard if not nearly impossible to find now.

In 1985 I was lucky enough to see John live during the "Mask of Smiles" tour. What a memory, but it can't compare to 1989 when Bad English played at a small, no name club in the Detroit area. I convinced a few of my friends to go with me 7 hours before the concert started. We waited outdoors for about 3 hours and then when the doors opened, I rushed to front row. I was literally chest-to-the-stage. Another 4 hours pass, and finally John takes the stage. Not only do I get to touch him, but he ends up flinging me his towel!! (Which is still sealed in a zip-lock bag!)

Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to see John since 1989. I am eagerly awaiting a concert date in my area. However, in 1995 John wrote me a personal response to a fan letter. I seriously almost passed out walking from the mailbox to my house!! I have always been so grateful to him for taking the time to respond to me. It is my most prized possession. John's music is my life. He is without contest my favorite singer/songwriter and I can't see myself ever letting go of that. After all, I was going through a "phase" in the 8th grade with his pictures plastered all over my walls!!

Yeah, right.

Suzanne Finley