WHAT a year 2000 has been for the Crowes and those of us who love them. Two events this year were met with great praise from fans and critics alike. The collaboration of Jimmy Page and the Black Crows which resulted in the Jimmy Page and the Black Crowes "Live at the Greek" CD. The "Live at the Greek", which was released in early March, temporarily crashed Musicmaker.com’s server on account of "unprecedented consumer demand". When the CD was released in March it was for online purchases only. Due to its amazing success "Live at the Greek" became available at local music stores. Those of you fortunate enough to see Jimmy Page and the Black Crowes this year saw an amazing show. To see the Crowes by themselves is an unforgettable experience, but to add Jimmy Page, a rock legend, is phenomenal. Thanks to our dear Boa, and of course the Crowes themselves, fan were given the opportunity to purchase VIP pre-sale tickets. Unfortunately shortly after taping the Tonight Show with Jay Leno in mid-August Page sustained a serious back injury. Page and the Crowes first postponed shows from the second leg of the tour, attempting to reschedule these shows later. In late August; however, it was announced that the remainder of the U.S. tour as well as their U.K. and European tours were being canceled. Fans were shocked when in early May it was announced that bassist Sven Pipien had been fired from the Black Crowes. Anybody who knows me can tell you that I was devastated. To think that my dearest "bassboy" would no longer be a part of the Crowes was unthinkable. It took me all of a day to pick myself up and realize that everything is done for the good of music, and in turn fans. Although Sven’s distinctive style will be missed; we hope he has gone on to greener pastures and wish him all the best in the world. Sven was replaced by Greg Rzab who I am told can add a lot to the music. We wish Greg lots of luck and welcome him to the Crowes Family. Although even at this moment his place in the band is in question. Time will only tell what fans can expect during the remainder of this year and years to come. Whether the Crowes and Page will reunite and resume their tour at a later date is unknown. I can tell you that we’ll be waiting anxiously for news of upcoming tours and CD releases. I’m sure fans will be eager for any news of the band members as well. Because as the boys have proven time and again, they write what they live. The Crowes personally have experienced a lot in 2000. There have been a birth, birthdays, breakups, new relationships, good times and bad times. Through it all, they have remained The Black Crowes! |