by Melody Bish

Created on: November 29, 2009   Last Updated: November 30, 2009

Some of the largest grossing musical tours feature Cold Play, Kelly Clarkson, Paul McCartney, U2, Nickelback and the Rolling Stones. The fact that each of the foregoing musicians sell old concerts fast and night after night perform for huge crowds is indisputable. It is also indisputable that stars such as McCartney and the Rolling Stones have reached Medicare age in the United States; the pertinent question is: have older rock stars begun to look and sound foolish in what is largely a young person's genre.

Having personally witnessed McCartney, the Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd in concert, I can attest that they sound as good as ever and, though the large screens used now in most concerts show a few lines on these artists' faces, none of these acts slow down. That McCartney and the Rolling Stones have fans ranging from teens to senior citizens is further evidence of their timeless talents. As concert prices increase, these timeless legends can be counted on to perform concerts of 2 hours or more, making the experience of attending one of their shows worth every penny. Moreover, the concert experience with those we have deemed "timeless" is heightened because most fans know each song and many songs turn into stadium karaoke events with the fans taking control of songs like "Hey Jude," 'Let it Be," or "Satisfaction."

Since rock and roll does not have an enforced retirement age, fans are blessed to hear some of the greatest musicians of all time sounding just like every CD. It seems most bands and artists who become stars in the late 60's and early 70's have shown more endurance than some of the artists originating more recently. Further, performing acts of the 80's and beyond often tour but highlight only forty-five to ninety minutes. Additionally, most youthful acts tour with an opening act which detracts from the time they could play.

Any who would term the older generation of rockers "foolish," should make an effort to do their respective jobs with as much love and care as the older rockers put into their shows. To the extent the musicians we deem "timeless" are physically able to tour and want to tour, I wager stadiums will still reach standing room only for the chance to listen to these acts' silly love songs with mother's little helper on hand for assistance., As Neil Young sang, "Hey Hey My My, Rock and Roll Will Never Die."

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