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Tuesday, February 24, 2004

Nader goes over the edge

I received an email today that just made me furious:

RICHARD NADER’S SUMMER DOOWOP REUNION XV
CONTINENTAL AIRLINES ARENA
MEADOWLANDS
Saturday, June 19 at 7:00 pm
Tickets: $50, $40, $35, $30

Starring: The Duprees - “Have You Heard”
Kenny Vance and the Planotones - “Looking For An Echo”
Johnny Maestro & The Brooklyn Bridge - “Sixteen Candles”
Larry Chance and the Earls - “Remember”
The Teenagers - “Why Do Fools Fall in Love”
The Dubs - “Could This Be Magic”
Special Guest Star: Gary Puckett - “Woman Woman”

Don’t miss the exciting summer tradition of DooWop memories as Richard Nader’s Summer DooWop Reunion returns to Continental Airlines Arena. The fun starts with a tailgate party outside the arena beginning at 3:00 PM. There will also be a 1950’s and 60’s classic car display, outdoor a-cappella stage from 4:30 to 6:30 PM and autographs and pictures with the artists as they visit the outside party before the concert.

I can’t believe he’s doing this again-- after practically everyone asked him not to.  Not only will this draw thousands of people and all kinds of press attention away from John Kerry’s “Summer Rhythm and Blues / Roots Rock Reunion” in Boston that week, but it betrays Nader’s own history of consumer advocacy and progressive activism in the doo-wop sector.  I mean, come on, Gary Puckett?  Gary Puckett is about as doo-wop as the Monkees.  Are these the depths to which Nader has sunk?  What’s next, Paul Revere and the Raiders?

And why do this in New Jersey?  Because it’s a “safe state” that can’t possibly be picked up by George Bush’s “Country Celebration Featuring Toby Keith”?  Think again, people.  New Jersey is completely up for grabs-- I hear they’re even having ska, twelvetone, and Latin jazz festivals this summer.  Nader’s “doo-wop reunion” is sheer opportunism, and doesn’t deserve a single progressive’s support.

Gary Puckett, indeed.

Posted by Michael on 02/24 at 02:12 PM
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