There was a long running joke out there, the ‘lounge act’ and the cruise ship entertainment. Both of these things were prime examples of the senior citizen early bird special set. Generally they were smarmy men singing Neil Diamond and Billy Joel.
Things have changed. Now ‘lounge’ acts no longer exist and mega stars have ‘residency’ in posh resorts. Cruise ships now cater to rock and roll crowds but no matter what is said or done- both will never loose the ‘old folks” stigma.
Thats why I consider it an oddity that American Idol Dreamgirl Jennifer Hudson is actually proud to be part of Carnival Cruise Lines concert series. Granted that’s how she got her start but isn’t that a bit TOO full circle? Plus after all that weight loss it it a good idea to be on a water buffet?
“I used to work on a cruise ship, a long time ago,” said Hudson before performing at a Carnival news conference in midtown Manhattan. “That’s what I did before I did ‘American Idol.’”
Other performers and bands scheduled to perform in the Carnival Live series are Chicago, Daughtry, Foreigner, Gavin DeGraw, Jewel, Kansas, Lady Antebellum, LeAnn Rimes, Martina McBride, Olivia Newton-John, REO Speedwagon, Styx and Trace Adkins.
The list isnt very “A” but it is still an interesting one, this is whats become of my generation. REO? Really?
These concerts are ‘add ons’ by the way. Tickets will be priced $20 to $40, with a $100-$150 VIP option for premium seats and a photo op with performers. And are performed at dock. Phew, cuz I sure as hell wouldn’t want to be stuck out to see with Trace Adkins.