I thought I was someone else, someone good

Perfect Day ~ Lou Reed and Luciano Pavarotti

It's sunny, and it's a beautiful day outside. Not too hot.

We went to a cooking demonstration and wine tasting at a neighborhood wine shop this afternoon. Five years ago that never would have happened in this neighborhood. But while there has been a bit of gentrification here, the neighborhood still has its rough edges. Which is exactly how I like it.

I'm looking forward to Lollapalooza more and more, because I can't wait to see Lou Reed. His set is the only untouchable one for me. Part of me feels like a fraud, however. I have some of his albums, but by no means do I know his catalog. I sort of feel like that person who just became punk and acted like they always were punk. I make fun of those people. Now I am one. Although I don't know his catalog backwards and forwards, I've always appreciated his (and the Velvet Underground's) contribution. That has to count for something, right?

Yesterday I watched a Lou Reed performance that I DVRed, and I got goosebumps and a lump on my throat when he sang this song (though on his own, without the amazing tenor). I know I will cry if he plays this at Lolla. Thousands of people singing along. It will be awesome.

And what about this combination? I'm thinking Lou Reed had to be pooping his pants here. I mean, first, to get someone like Pavarotti to sing your song, that has to be the ultimate, right? And to be on a stage with him... I imagine the best singers would be insecure in that situation. I don't know.

A.