Kenny Loggins at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Gala

Excitement was in the air as soon as you stepped into the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota, Florida. It was the evening of the Annual Gala and the musical guest of the evening was Kenny Loggins! People were gathered in the lobby, the merchandise booth was knee deep in people buying T-shirts commemorating this, Kenny’s final tour, aptly named “This Is It” and he kickoff it off in the SRQ. Kenny at 75, has decided to take his final bows from touring after an over 50-year career in music.

Starting out with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in 1970, Kenny went on to become a duo with Jim Messina and they scored a string of hits. Kenny then decided to go solo and he hit it big with songs written with his friend Doobie Brother, Michael McDonald and movie projects.

Hitting the stage in Sarasota, he drew many standing ovations throughout the evening. From taking it back to the Loggins and Messina period with the 1971 “Danny’s Song” that was a huge sing-along with the audience and the rocker 1972’s “Angry Eyes” to the 80’s with “What a Fool Believes” and “Heart to Heart” which was written by Kenny, Michael and David Foster. Of course, “This Is It” was a crowd favorite! Kenny’s vocals sound great and he hit his upper register throughout the course of the show with ease.

Loved the graphics on the screen of old 45’ records and past album covers along their respective tunes “Celebrate Me Home” was another audience favorite. Starting off his movie hits was “I’m Alright” from “Caddyshack”, which had the dancers in the crowd up, “Top Gun’s” “Danger Zone” had a red, white & blue light show. That 80’s iconic title song to “Footloose” brought amazing energy to an already energetic room! Photos of Kevin Bacon from the film on the screen took it all right back to a song that will be forever tied to Kenny and the movie. A slice of pop culture of our time. Kenny’s band was tight and pure professionals. Vocal harmonies were beyond great. Kenny thanked the crowd for a great time and closed out the show with “Forever”. Another successful Gala evening for the Van Wezel and for Kenny Loggins fans to experience his final tour! All info on Kenny’s tour dates are at Kenny Loggins.

Vicky Sullivan Photos