05/31/2026
Last night with my childhood pal, Mark was pure Canadian rock and roll bliss.
Triumph and April W**e at Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill in Sterling Heights, with a killer dinner beforehand at Brad’s Bad Barbecue, fabulous seats right in the centre, and a full-on fan night from start to finish. No work. No camera. Just music, memories, and a couple of bands that still connect directly to my high school years.
Freedom Hill is a great venue too — smaller than Pine K**b, bigger than Meadow Brook.
The best part was tying it all back to the old ticket stubs: April W**e at London Gardens in 1984, Triumph at London Gardens and Toledo Sports Arena in 1985. Forty-plus years later, and somehow it all still feels connected.
1. Triumph — “Follow Your Heart”
Live from last night at Freedom Hill.
2. April W**e — “Roller”
3. Freedom Hill entrance sign
4. Brad’s Bad Barbecue take-home bag
Pre-show dinner, and far too much to eat in one sitting.
5. Triumph ticket stub — London Gardens
April 9, 1985 — $15.50
6. Triumph ticket stub — Toledo Sports Arena
January 5, 1985 — with Molly Hatchet opening — $11.50
7. April W**e ticket stub — London Gardens
July 14, 1984 — $12.50
**e LondonGardens ToledoSportsArena RockAndRollMemories