I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love, Tonight

It's every fan's dream to get up on stage with their favorite artist. As a long time Ted Leo fan, I would have given anything to be one of the few who would occasionally jump on stage and, instead of being escorted off by security, encouraged to sing along by the lead Pharmacist himself.

Lucky for me, Mr. Leo is a perceptive man. He knows his fanbase well. So, for his record release party last Tuesday (for the excellent new LP, The Brutalist Bricks) he played two sets: 1) the new album from start to finish, and 2) a karaoke set for the audience.

I made it my mission to be one of the singers. And thanks to my friend who arrived early at the venue, and a generous bouncer who let her in before doors, we had first crack at the karaoke sign-up sheet. Meaning that I got the distinction of being the fifth Pharmacist for the classic 80's anthem, "Your Love."

Surreal doesn't even begin to describe it. I have OBSESSED over this band for years, and now I'm standing on stage with them? My hero is calling me by name and asking me how I want to start the song? And now he's singing back up for me? My own band won't even let me sing, so this is really blowing my mind. And not to be immodest, but things went over pretty well. The audience LOVED it (how can you NOT sing along to that chorus?).

I'm expecting a call from the band any day now. I've heard they're thinking of changing their name to Madelyn Leo and the Pharmacists and becoming a full-time The Outfield cover band.

It could happen.