by Katelyn Wescoat

Created on: April 19, 2009

No, rock and roll superstars such as Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones are not too old to be performing on stage anymore. Yes, many have come to realize it's ironic, and even slightly amusing that these "old geezers" are still going at it. I would like to point out several things:

Firstly, I am a young person who was obviously not alive when these many of these artists were "in their prime" or at the height of their popularity. However, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Eric Clapton, the Who, etc., are among some of my favorite musicians. The simple fact that their music has continued to live on, and transcend many generations to win a vast and varying listening audience should be enough proof enough of their timelessness.

Secondly, although these artists are further up in age than the average recording/performing artist, they still put on an excellent show. I personally have been to a Paul McCartney concert, an Eric Clapton Crossroads Guitar Festival (where many older musicians are featured), a "regular" Clapton concert, and a B. B. King concert. All were excellent, with brilliant playing/performing, and well worth the time and money spent. I also have future plans for seeing the Rolling Stones in concert, whose show I've heard remains excellent, and through footage of recent concerts have seen firsthand their excellent stage show. Mick Jagger may look years past his actual age, but he danced and sang like a 20-something. Seeing one of these "legends" live is well worth the effort and monies spent.

Thirdly, these historic and legendary artists should be allowed to do as they please. In their prime, they were the groundbreaking, cutting edge artists who entirely changed the music scene. Prime example: the Beatles. Let them have a bit of fun in their "old age."

Fourthly, perhaps those artists who aren't purely greedy and selfish still enjoy performing for audiences. They get the opportuinity to share themselves with a younger, hipper generation who can carry on the music and the legend after they are dead and gone.

Also, young people these days need to learn the history of the music, and where it's coming from. It helps to further appreciate and understand where these artists are coming from, and what they're attempting to accomplish. Most music today (live performances in particular) is lackluster, and are not worth the money spent. Allow these legends to continue to perform, and spread/pass on their message to the next generation.

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