So there we were, at RiverEdge Park in Aurora, Illinois, about 600 feet above sea level (I looked it up), when a rock band called Cheap Trick (heard of them?) emerged from the prehistoric times of our youth to play for all of us old people. OK, there were some young people too, but not very many. Weather was perfect. Sound system was top notch. Unfortunately, however, Rick Nielsen was not doing so good.

According to the interwebs, Mr. Nielsen is known as the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter. He’s 77 years old right now… and his age seemed to be catching up with him during the concert last night. If any of you pray, please wing some up for him… he had to leave the stage a few times because he wasn’t feeling well. In spite of those interruptions, the rest of the band did the very best they could without him. It was a noble effort, but I’m sure it wasn’t one of their best shows.

Prior to the concert, we were checking in to our hotel and gabbing about our plans to go the the concert. When we mentioned we were there to see Cheap Trick, all but one of the folks at the desk were familiar. The youngster at the desk asked, “Who’s Cheap Trick??” We replied immediately, “They’re a rock band from the 70s. Old people music.” “Oh, OK,” he said, nodding; but it was very apparent that he had no clue who they were.

Such is the plight of ancient beings like me. I still actively listen to tunes from the 60s right on through to current artists; although I admit my familiarity with much of the current music scene is pretty limited. Heck, I even like stuff that was popular way before I was born. Some of that 20s, 30s, and 40s dance music really rocks my socks! Some from the 1950s even!!

Yes, I am officially an old fart.

Ah, the 70s… no not the music (although that was a good time), I’m 72 now… holy high blood pressure / venous insufficiency / metabolism changes, Batman!! My blood pressure is managed with meds, my venous insufficiency is managed with compression socks, and my metabolism has changed to the point that if I even look at an ice cream cone I gain 2 ½ pounds. Oh and yeah… those socks are so awesome. They keep my feet from getting swollen due to circulatory changes; but they are a total pain in the hiney to put on and take off. I am getting some resistance training from donning and removing socks!! A younger friend of mine saw them the other day, and said, “Wow Ken!! Cool socks!! I need to get me some!!!” I smirked and emphatically replied, “These are medicine socks!!”

Oh well, I keep reminding myself how blessed I am. I’m retired, have no debt, and all things considered I am in very good health. And yes, I’ll continue to listen to old people music. It’s like… far out, man!!

Here are a few examples for your listening and viewing pleasure.