Stagecoach 2008

Indio, CA May 2,3 & 4 2008

A festival in its second year of existence, with an attendance of 120.000 already, will invaribly have some glitches:  The hot sun, lack of concessions/bathrooms/security (and beer stands!)  lead to long lines and short tempers.  Unless your big brother happens to be the Coachella Arts and Music Festival.   

Venture to Indio one week after Coachella, to the  same venue, with the same promoter, same publicist, same Paul Tollett (and same huge drive) and you’ll find yourself at the Stagecoach Festival.  Or Coachella for the big belt buckle/hot cowgirl crowd.

While only in its sophomore year, Stagecoach benefits, on every level, from having her older sibling looking over her cowboy hat framed shoulder.  None of the potential nightmares listed above materialized, save for VIP ticket holders being turned away on Sunday from the air conditioned VIP bathrooms to which they were allowed access on Friday and Saturday.  Met some very unhappy people there!  Other than that mysterious drama, no long lines or upset people the whole weekend.  Unusual, (considering the number of concert goers), but this is a very well behaved crowd.

This years artists included the Eagles, John Fogerty, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Big and Rich, Dwight Yoakam and too many other big names to list.  Amazing talent and a little something for everyone.

Before this festival, I would have preferred a visit to the dentist over attending a country music show (such are my hard rockin’ ways).  Now, not so much.

Perfect weather (read not too hot!), a great crowd, awesome music and the efficiency borne from years of experience make the Stagecoach Festival worth the long trek to the desert.  In fact, it will now be an annual event for me, even if it requires skipping the Coachella Festival to be there.  Sorry Coachella, but your little sister is Hot! 

So much for my dislike of country music!  Next I’ll be looking forward to dental appointments!

- John G. Tobin