Pre North & South America Tour Trip around Memory Lane
Part One - Canada - November 2017
Steve at the Niagara Falls
Steve in Quebec City
When I look at a tour schedule, I see new places on the map, but more often than not, memories come flooding back. I'm excited to tour both North and South America in February / March 2018, and over the next few blogs I'll talk about previous visits and inspiration I've picked up over the years from all those regions...
Canada has always been a joy to play. The warmth from the crowds in the venues helps you to forget the wintry chill, and when you're outside you feel a quickening of the spirit in their snowy wonderland. Quebec City is to my mind one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I've always loved its fairytale appearance, picturesque narrow streets, its French joie-de-vivre, fabulous food and a strong love of music. A few years ago my band played there at a fantastic music festival which attracted many thousands from miles around, and we always play to terrific local crowds...
Montréal is an equally strong music centre. There was always a great buzz playing with Genesis at the university. The city continues to have a tremendously vibrant heartbeat, welcoming my band in every time. It's great to get time off there as well to explore the old town, which like Quebec takes you into a zone bridging the two continents of North America and Europe.
We then head down to Toronto... Another powerful musical city. Massey Hall welcomes once again, as it did in the Genesis days. I remember once playing a show there with Genesis when Lou Reed was also on the bill. Fights broke out between Genesis and Lou Reed fans! Both sets of supporters felt equally passionate that they wanted to only see their favourite act...
I've been up that extraordinary CN Tower a few times now. A pretty scary glass floor to brave if you dare, but wonderful views. And it's just a short drive to Niagara Falls which takes your breath away every time... One of the world's most amazing sights and experiences.
We end the Canadian part of the tour in Gatineau, close to historic Ottawa. The Casino venue at Lac Leamy is always fun, and the ice-covered lake looks magical. The band will be at the ready for another snowball fight!
Canadians are wonderfully warm and welcoming. It's always a joy to play there, and as ever I can't wait to get back...
See here for Genesis Revisited, Solo Gems & GTR 2018 Tour de Force info...
Montréal show from 2014
Photo © Tim Darbyshire
Frozen lake, Gatineau
The Niagara Falls
