Pat Benatar

Back in the eighties, there was a market for music that struck a balance between rock and pop, especially in terms of female performers; for those who found Joan Jett a bit much and Kim Wilde a little too soft, Pat Benatar - Patricia Mae Andrzejewski, to give her her birth name - was there to fill the gap. The sheer scale of her commercial viability, too, was proven beyond doubt by no fewer than five platinum records throughout that decade; they spawned some hit singles, too, in the shape of the likes of ‘Hit Me with Your Best Shot’, ‘Love Is a Battlefield’ and ‘Invincible’. Perhaps more impressive still, though, is the fact that Benatar - now sixty-one - has never stopped touring, lining up dates almost every year since she began her career. That continues to this day, with her most recent shows - in celebration of thirty-five years in the business - seeing her play with Cheap Trick and Rick Springfield. It’s been some years, though, since she brought her irrepressibly-energetic band over the pond to the UK; perhaps she doesn’t have the same kind of following over here, but for now, British fans are likely going to have to make do with extensive YouTube footage of recent shows - if she does make it over, expect it to be as part of an all-star eighties lineup in big venues rather than out and out solo gigs.

When you think of one of the most pivotal women in music, Pat Benatar MUST come to mind. I mean, c’mon, “Love Is A Battlefield” is the anthem of all real life love anthems. She is an 80s icon, and even now is still belting out some of the greatest songs of all time. Just like I can thank my parents for raising me with Pat Benatar, I can also thank them for the opportunity to have seen her live; and what a pleasure it was. The setup of the show was perfect, with the band coming in first and starting to tune up their instruments, all the while the lights were low, but making the stage very visible. The crowd’s anticipation erupting into a “we want Pat” chant, which turns into an ear blowing cheer when the band starts to play “Treat Me Right.” Pat was on the stage; lights were set in red, adding to the kickbutt-ness that is Pat Benatar. The show included a good amount of communication with Pat and the audience, as well as Neil, the guitar player. For some songs, like “We Belong,” she briefly talked about where the song came from, as well as thanking the audience. Her voice was still just as strong as all of her studio versions, still leading the anthems of love and life. Truly a performance by an icon.

She was great. Almost 60 years old but she didn't sing i need a lover that won't drive me crazy like when i saw her in raleigh north carolina in a little basement bar in a small strip mall dressed in her little leppard skin tights 2 days before i heard her on the radio for the first time back in 1980 I think. She was a treat then and still is. David Medway. I got fred turner and randy bachman back together about 9 years ago and saw them at penns peak. See he's playing in atlantic city with the guess who soon got a free ticket for me?

My disdain for my parents' favorite "oldies" station abruptly ceased when Benatar's "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" graced my ears at age 9. 10 years later, my dream came true when I saw her in concert for my birthday. Though Benatar was reluctant to play "Hit Me With Your Best Shot," her passion pervaded the rest of her chart toppers - especially while hitting all the VERY high notes. She performs with great energy next to her beloved Spyder. Their chemistry definitely enhances the show.

One word....Amazing. They remember their fans....and really play to the crowd!!! Neil's guitar playing is spot on!!! John Waite and Neil played Led Zepplin together at the end of John's set....killer!!

Awesome Singer. Besides the drunk lady who couldn't stand up straight Pat Benatar and her husband were awesome.
Really could not hear here while she talked but overall a good show. And it rained.

Pat Benatar was one the best show that ive seen all year.I give her my standing ovation over and over again. I would see her and every year shes in los angeles . Props to her .....