A Few More Things: Kenny Chesney, Conor Oberst, ‘The Simpsons’

Kenny Chesney’s mega-shindig scheduled for August. 16 on the Flora Bama Beach is a complete sell out even though it’s a free show.  Fans snatched up all of the wristbands allowing entry to the no-charge hullabaloo in mere minutes.

The “Flora-Bama-Jama” wristbands were scheduled to be distributed via an RSVP portal beginning at 7 a.m. EDT July 16.  But one should never underestimate the power of the word “free” and fans quickly overwhelmed the online outlet.  When the portal came back to life 30 minutes later, citizens of Chesney’s No Shoes Nation snagged all the wristbands in less than five minutes.

“Maybe the fans are as hungry to see me as I am them,” Chesney said.  “Cause I can’t wait to get out there and play.  As I’ve said: I really miss not playing shows, seeing the people and having that exchange of energy that we have every night!  The No Shoes Nation always brings it, and brings it hard – and they push me to be a better artist.”

The concert will take place on the beach next to the Flora-Bama Lounge, putting it near the state line separating Florida and Alabama.  A posting on Chesney’s website describes the location as “where Orange Beach and Gulf Shores meet Perdido Key.”

“There are a few places that have the vibe, but not many bring together everything that – to me – makes for a great time: the beach, room to hang out, nowhere to hurry, lots of friends you don’t know yet – and an environment that says, ‘Come!  Have a good time!’ The Flora-Bama has all that, and more … and getting out on that beach to play is gonna be awesome,” Chesney said.  “I’m already psyched to know this is really happening!”

The woman who claimed Bright Eyes’ Conor Oberst raped her one decade ago retracted her accusation this week.  Now Oberst has issued a statement commenting on the recantation.

“This has been extremely difficult and stressful for me personally and for those I love,” Oberst said, according to Rolling Stone.  “I’m appreciative of the family, friends, fans and business partners who supported me throughout this and look forward to happier times as we all move forward with our lives.”

Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie will come alive in September when the world premiere of “The Simpsons Take The Bowl!” lives up to its title by commanding Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl for three nights – Sept. 12-14.

No, the stage won’t be overrun with the no-chin citizens of Springfield.  Instead, each evening will feature some of the talented people behind the voices, namely Nancy Cartwright (Bart) and Yeardley Smith (Lisa) in a show hosted by Hank Azaria (School Superintendent Chalmers, Duffman, Apu, Comic Book Guy and others).  Simpsons creator Matt Groening will also appear, telling behind-the-scenes stories about the television show that has lasted more than a quarter of a century.

Joining them will be Jon Lovitz, Beverly D’Angelo and Weird Al Yankovic, all of whom have guested on “The Simpsons.”

Each show will feature classic Simpsons clips synchronized with live accompaniment by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.  The Bowl’s announcement says upon arriving fans “will encounter an immersive, carnivalesque atmosphere where secrets will be revealed, never-before-seen clips will be unveiled, and the world of Springfield will come to life.” 

The announcement also describes “The Simpsons Take The Bowl” as “a family-friendly event (depending on your family).”

Tickets are on sale now. Visit HollywoodBowl.com for more information.