Day Twenty-Two: Long Live Rock

Today we got out early and drove 20 miles from just outside Buffalo to Niagara Falls, New York. One of the must-sees on this trip, I also knew this place could be a tourist trap. I was determined to not spend any money here, which meant we weren’t going to do any touristy stuff. That was okay because we didn’t have much time to spend here anyway. We visited the free visitor center and went to the free viewing spot of the American Falls.

Niagara Falls is basically two separate falls: American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. The Horseshoe is on the Canadian side. Seems to me they also have a better view from that side. We didn’t do the Maid of the Mists boat ride, or the Cave of Winds (or whatever it’s called). I saved those for another day when I do this place like a proper tourist – and with my jealous wife.

The highlight of the day was later as we drove from Niagara to Cleveland, Ohio. Here, we visited the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Cleveland and rock have had a life-long connection, so it seems fitting that the Hall would be located here.

The second pyramid which we have visited (remember the redneck pyramid back in Memphis?), the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame juts into the sky, overlooking a giant (and climbable) sign which read: LONG LIVE ROCK. The boys and I were excited to get started!

Inside there are, as you would imagine, artifacts from the history of rock and roll. Instruments from famous artists, costumes they wore, and of course, the music. Starting with the beginning – blues, gospel, country, folk – the museum went through the life and times of rock and roll. Full of ups and downs and things in between, it was easy to see how one could become addicted to the attention celebrities can get. It was also easy to see how some may become lonely, susceptible to the influence of shady others, and ultimately, professional self-destructives.

Aside from seeing the usual suspects (Elvis, the Beatles, etc.), it was cool to see some of my other favorite artists. My favorite things to see are the hand-written notes from famous musicians detailing the lyric writing process for some of the most famous songs. As someone who teaches writing (including poetry), I was always fascinated to see the creative process, crossed out words and all.

It was, all in all, a fun day, which was nice after yesterday’s unhapppiness. I expect what’s next to be equally as fun. We are heading to Cedar Point Amusement Park (about an hour from Cleveland) where we will spend the day riding some of America’s gnarliest roller coasters. You’ll hear all about it – if we (mostly I) survive!

Not a bad place to see some water…falling

The boys almost look like they’re not faking!

Panorama of American Falls and Horseshoe Falls (in the background)

Jimi Hendrix’s handwritten lyrics to Voodoo Chile (Slight Return)

Did he see a “Pretty Woman” with these glasses?

Angus Young’s “school boy” outfit – oh, and the lyrics to Highway to Hell written by Bon Scott of AC/DC

“Livin’ easy, Livin’ free”: Highway to Hell by AC/DC as written by Bon Scott

Chuck Berry’s handwritten lyrics to “School Days”

Piano used by Paul McCartney to write Beatles songs like “I Wanna Hold Your Hand”

“Timepiece” worn by Flavor Flav at Public Enemy’s induction to the Hall

Okay. That’s all for now. Got to go ride some rollercoasters. More on the Hall of Fame later. For now, here’s a preview of what’s on tap today in Sandusky, Ohio:

Millenium Force: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MybcORGVkEU