I swung by the Whistle Stop Ale House in old downtown Renton last Friday evening to see some long time friends. I got a birthday text from Dave on Wednesday with an invite, “Stop by and we’ll buy you a B’day drink. John and I and the guys will be playing from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Should be fun!”
Normally by Friday evening I’m pretty played out and ready for some serious couch time. Like, “Yeah I crossed the finish line!”
So glad I chose to go. It was the Whistle Stop’s 20th anniversary celebration. Tonight’s configuration was the John Giuliani Quintet with John Giuliani on bass, Andy Mirkovich on accordion, Dave Hoskin on drums, Bruce Hall on clarinet and tenor sax, and Jeff Wilke on guitar. I say configuration because they play all over the area with many other musicians and put a band together to fit the occasion.
These guys are solid pros and have been playing professionally for many years. It was such a joy this evening. They were playing standards from the 40’s 50’s and 60’s like Girl from Ipanema, Sentimental Journey, Take the A Train, Satin Doll, and Danke Schoen.
This is the stuff I was raised on and brings me right back to childhood and triggers many fond memories. Danke Schoen, by Bert kaempfert, was released in 1962. The big hit on this song was Wayne Newton in 1963. He was only 21 years old at the time. Brenda Lee and Connie Francis also had hits with this song in the 60's.
The German translation to English is: “thank you very much.” What a wonderful treat and a great way to spend a Friday evening.
Danke Schoen... Live Music is Best!
#Renton #LiveMusic #OldFriends #GrowingUp #PNW #SerendipitySundays
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