John Waite

Former singer of The Babys and 80s MTV legend John Waite came to the Parker Playhouse on Saturday, October 16th in support of his latest release, Best. John reworked and re-recorded what he felt were his best 18 songs. He dazzled us with an acoustic show, as drummer Rodger Carter was unavailable. No worries, as John and his other band mates, guitarist Mark Ricciardi and bassist Tim Hogan, made the show extremely entertaining. The crew appeared opened with “Change,”’ John’s first radio hit after going solo from Bad English in the early Eighties. Next, South Florida heard the Bad English hit, “When I see You Smile.” Waite had the crowd singing along with this one, as we added the “Oh, ohhh” to the song’s chorus. During his biggest hit, “Missing You,” just about everyone in attendance sang along. His next number was named after the famous songwriter’s bar in Nashville, “Bluebird Café.” That was followed by a unique take on Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.” The three musicians did the legendary tune justice. John then went back into his deep blues roots, belting out Muddy Waters classics “Catfish Blues” and “Mannish Boy” in a delightful mashup. The guys then went back to where it all started for John, finishing the show with The Babys’ classics, “Midnight Rendezvous” and “Headfirst.” John and his band covered many eras of music in this short, intimate set. It definitely left us wanting for more. Hopefully, John Waite will return to the Sunshine State soon. Maybe next time, his drummer will be able to make the show.