By Steve Newton
Oh man, it sure pays to be an old fart these days.
Especially if you want to see the Rolling Stones in concert.
The legendary British rock group–currently composed of 80-year-old singer Mick Jagger and guitarists Keith Richards (79) and Ronnie Wood (76)–announced today that it will undertake a 16-city North American stadium tour next year, which includes a stop at Vancouver’s BC Place on Friday, July 5.
The tour is sponsored by the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), one of the largest lobby groups in the world. Members get early access to tickets via a presale which begins next Wednesday (November 29), two days before they go on sale to the general public.
Apparently Canadians aged 50 and over can join the AARP, and although that definitely includes me, I think I’m gonna pass. I’ve seen the Stones at BC Place three times already–in 1989 on the Steel Wheels Tour, in 1994 on the Voodoo Lounge Tour, and in 2006 on the Bigger Bang Tour–so I’m good.
And even if I could somehow afford the ticket price–which I’m guessing will be astronomical–it just won’t be the same without ol’ Charlie Watts bangin’ away now will it.
But hey–if you’re feeling flush and have never seen the Stones and desperately want to check them out before they turn to dust, have at ‘er.
Just keep in mind that it’s only rock ‘n’ roll, and retirement ain’t cheap.
