The Great Cover-Up - We are Kings no more
Local Music!! There is tons of music and music history in this are of NC. Whether you are referring to the Connells or 
some great performances from R.E.M. (check out Stacy P’s blog) at Meredith College & UNC-CH, James Taylor went to UNC, or the familar visits of Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings(The Dap Kings play back-up for Amy Whinehouse on some songs……some controversy there), the list could go on.
With 3 major universities in the area, The RBC Center, Alltel Pavilion., Lincoln Theater, Cat’s Cradle, etc……we have tons of opportunities to see music …..whatever brand you like……BUT…we are missing one of the best local venues…Kings on McDowell Street….which is now occupied by a lovely PARKING DECK. Don’t get me wrong, change is great…growth can be wonderful….but the fact being that one of the best “dive bars” is gone. It had personality, culture ,a little bit of class and a lot of Elvis, Richard Petty and any other “king” stuff and a few pleather couches and dive bar smell. It was great.
David Menconi from the Raleigh News and Observer wrote an article about the “End of Kings” last spring…. Last Call for Kings.
Anyway, besides venting about why it’s gone….one thing that was a staple in the life of Kings was “The Great Cover-Up” I was witness to two of these events…my husband has gone to three. Watching folks from all walks of talent get together to imitate their favorite artists….including Freddie Mercury, Oasis, B-52s, Steve Miller Band, Flaming Lips, Minor Threat, Three Dog Night, Fugazi, and the list goes on. It was a showcase of both great and poor talent…but all in the name of fun! 3 Nights!! We have truly missed this.
I have posted a video from the Gary Numan Tribute at King’s Tribute in December 2006 (the last “coverup”) It’s a little dark.
If you know of any other great local venues for music….please share!!
In the spirit of Kings….they are continuing with Neu-Romance - 
a revolving group of djs (including my husband) that have no format in music…it can range from reggae to funk & soul…..the location is at Tir Na Nog (which may seem odd), but it works. Sunday nights from 10 pm - until…check it out if you can.
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Wow… I’m so lame. I have no night life… Jan and I need to get out more often. Of course my 2am wake-up call doesn’t help. I love the blog though… you’re really spinning out the posts.