The 5 Best Concerts I’ve Seen in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley is not only beautiful, it's also a great place to see a concert. Anybody who knows me knows that I like to be close to home. The closer, the better. So I've decided to come up with the best shows I've seen without having to travel far. Some were even within walking distance, but none were more than a half hour from home.

#5 - The Band at The Chance in Poughkeepsie

It was back in the early 80s during my first run here at WPDH. I actually got to do stage announcements and introduce The Band. Rick Danko smiled and said "Nice Intro". It made my night. It was over thirty years ago, but I'll never forget it.

#4 Bob Dylan at The Chance

This one was in the early 2000s I believe. Bob Dylan actually played at The Chance. And Frank, the owner, let us stand in the sound booth. I was mere feet away from Bob Dylan. And I could even walk home if I wanted to. It was a great show, and Bob Dylan was at his best.

#3 Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill

This show was only a week or two after the Dylan show at The Chance. But Willie played also. And we got to watch the whole thing from a private sky box at Dutchess Stadium with free food, beer, and a comfy couch. That's what I call a show. It was a 20 or 25 minute drive from home, but well worth it.

#2 Jeff Beck at UPAC in Kingston (twice!)

This show took a half hour to get to, but it was incredible. We were in the second row. I could actually see Jeff Beck's fingers as he flawlessly played his guitar. There were a lot of famous musicians in the audience that night, and they were all behind me. It was such a good show, I made sure I went back a few years later for his second show at UPAC. Also amazing!

#1 David Bowie at The Chance

This was my all time best show close to home. Actually, one of the best shows period. I can't even describe how it felt to stand so close to one of my musical idols. It was the only time I've seen David Bowie, and I was totally star struck. He did everything I hoped he would, and he did it perfectly. I actually did walk home from that one, but I was in such a glorious daze I don't even remember the walk. I can't thank Frank and the staff at The Chance enough for that one.

Of course I have seen some awesome shows at Bethel Woods, SPAC, in New York City and beyond, but those venues are further than a half hour. Now that I've told you my favorite concerts close to home, what are yours? Were you at any of the above shows? You can share it with us in the space below.