Loverboy

Loverboy
July 18, 2003
Summerfest @ Vernon Hills, IL

Review and Photos by: Anita Lande

Question: Name the rock band from the '80s who had a lead singer that wore a sweat band?

Answer: Quite obviously it could only be –– Loverboy.

Before the band took to the stage on a beautiful, slightly cool July night, a whole bunch of 15-year-old girls snuck up close to the stage all wearing white sweat bands in tribute to lead singer, Mike Reno.

Question: How would today's teens have known about the sweat band look?

Answer: One of Loverboy's biggest hits, "Working for the Weekend," just got a new breath of life, as that song is featured in the latest "Charlie's Angels" movie and soundtrack.

    So, when Loverboy took to the stage at Vernon Hills, lead singer Mike Reno's attire was white pants, a black shirt and jacket, and yes, he was wearing that infamous white bandana.

    The Canadian based, Loverboy, did not disappoint as they played many of their hits including –– "Lady of the '80s", "Jump", "Take Me To The Top," "Kid is Hot Tonight," "Turn Me Loose" and "Working for the Weekend."

Mike Reno was slightly heavier than the last time the band toured, but his vocals were so very much on the money, it felt as though someone had just put on one of the band's old LP's and cranked it.

Lead guitarist, Paul Dean, was also a bit heavier and a whole lot grayer than he was back in the day, when he had a penchant for wearing skin tight red leather suits.    In homage to that trademark look though, Dean sported a snazzy red leather hat.   Most importantly, he delivered the same hard driving guitar solos fans remembered him for on those old albums.

    So when Vernon Hills turned loose Loverboy, the huge crowd who saw their performance were indeed the lucky ones.

To keep up with the aging popsters, who evidently have not lost a bit of their rock 'n' roll drive, log on their website at: www.loverboyband.com

Back To Top

Web Design By:
6 String Design