Summary of "Suzanne Vega: Stage Fright" – The Moth Podcast
Introduction
In the October 8, 2012 episode of The Moth podcast titled "Suzanne Vega: Stage Fright," renowned singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega shares a gripping and humorous story from her touring days. This narrative, performed live at The Moth in 2002, delves into the challenges of fame, unexpected threats, and the resilience required to perform under pressure.
Setting the Scene
Suzanne Vega begins her story by setting the stage in July 1989, detailing her experience while touring Europe with her band. Having toured extensively for seven to eight years, Vega was familiar with the rigors of life on the road. She recounts their recent visit to Israel, highlighting the intense security measures that made her yearn for the familiarity and comfort of England.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: So it starts in 1989, and it's July, and I'm on tour with my band and we're touring through Europe."
The Threat Unfolds
Upon landing in England and staying at the Holiday Inn Airport near Heathrow, Vega anticipates performing at the prestigious Glastonbury Festival, expecting an audience of up to 80,000 people. However, tension arises when her bass player, Mikey, appears visibly distressed. Vega explains that a female fan had developed an unhealthy obsession with Mikey, escalating from small gifts to nude photographs and eventually moving to Queens to be near him when the band was not on tour.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: ...there was some girl that had a crush on Mike... she had actually moved to Queens from London to be near him when we were not on tour."
Involvement of Law Enforcement
The situation intensifies when the obsessive fan and her male accomplice threaten to shoot Mikey if he performs at Glastonbury. Recognizing the severity of the threat, Vega and her team contact Scotland Yard. A detective accompanies them on the tour bus to assess the threat, heightening the sense of urgency and fear among the band members.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: So my manager feels that we should take it seriously. So we call Scotland Yard."
Preparing for the Performance
As the festival approaches, the detective advises Vega against performing to ensure her safety. Determined to proceed, Vega opts to wear a bulletproof vest, despite its discomfort and impracticality. She describes the preparation process, including donning a denim jacket and being strapped into the vest, transforming her appearance significantly.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: They put it on me, and it's enormous. And they strap me in, and they gaffer's tape it closed."
The Performance Under Threat
Vega takes the stage amidst a heightened security presence, including 20 policemen and helicopters overhead. She vividly describes the surreal experience of performing with the constant fear of being targeted. The extensive security measures, such as spotlighting the audience for weapons, add to the tension.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: Every song feels like it's taking 20 minutes long... It's like several villages or something."
A Surprising Twist
Mid-performance, Vega's keyboard player urges her to stop singing "Luka" and leave the stage, causing further confusion. She remains steadfast, determined to entertain the 100,000-strong audience despite the lack of any immediate threat. After concluding her set, Vega learns from the festival promoter that the real reason for the abrupt end was a curfew imposed to prevent disturbing nearby farmers and their cows—a humorous and unexpected resolution to the high-stakes situation.
Notable Quote:
"[02:41] Suzanne Vega: ...the festival has a curfew because the farmers in the next field have the cows and the cows get disturbed if you sing past 12:30."
Conclusion and Reflections
Suzanne Vega's tale is a testament to the unpredictability of life on tour and the unwavering commitment artists have to their craft. Through humor and resilience, Vega navigates a potentially dangerous situation, ultimately revealing that the threat was a misunderstanding exacerbated by the pressures of fame. Her story underscores the fine line between perception and reality, especially in the high-octane world of live performances.
Final Thoughts
Suzanne Vega's "Stage Fright" is a compelling narrative that blends tension, humor, and the raw realities of performing under threat. It highlights the importance of security in the entertainment industry and the personal fortitude required to overcome unforeseen challenges. For listeners of The Moth and fans of Suzanne Vega alike, this story offers an intimate glimpse into the artist's experiences beyond the spotlight.