8/14/07:

A great  wish to you fine Airplane fans.

It is common in our society for people to focus on the negative.  Many of those that act downtrodden don’t understand how lucky they are.

 

When my mom passed away on December 5, 2003 (Reaffirmed when dad did as well- March 10th of 2007) things became very clear.  If you wake up and your family has health, you feel good, and there are a few bucks in your pocket (In my case cents) life is pretty amazing.

 

I never take anything for granted and am so appreciative when people are supportive.  Yesterday (August 13th, 2007) on Amazon USA “Take Me To A Circus Tent” was the number 24 selling rock and roll book.  I’m not sure if the above link lasts forever or is only valid for one day but I had to stop to comprehend how nice of an honor that was.  There are over 4,000,000 books on Amazon and thousands of them oriented to the rock culture.  Even if it was for one second, one hour, or one day, thank you to everyone thus far that has been kind enough to purchase a copy of “Take Me To A Circus Tent” and thank you in advance to those that have it on your wish list.

 

The promise has always been kept to share as much of the Airplane magic as possible.  Please continue to check out the website, Aircast, and blog for the rare music, photos, and information on all things Jefferson.

 

Since “Take Me To A Circus Tent” has been released I have heard from great fans all over the world:

Australia

Belgium

Canada

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Israel

Italy

Japan

Mexico

New Zealand

Norway

Poland

Russia

Spain

Sweden

United Kingdom

United States

 

Thank you once again and keep the nice Airmails coming and the suggestions for future Aircasts.

 

Always be well,

Craig “The Airplane Man” Fenton

    

TAKE ME TO A CIRCUS TENT: THE J.A. FLIGHT MANUAL

 

J.A. & Family Stories:

During the terrific experience of interviewing members of the J.A. & Family countless stories were shared with me.  I was fascinated how every musician regardless of the time spent in the J.A. Family had stories that never seemed to have previously been common knowledge.  These can be found in either the interview section and or the Question & Answer segment.

These are in no specific order.  They can all be enjoyed in :

TAKE ME TO A CIRCUS TENT: THE J.A. FLIGHT MANUAL

Did you know that there was a female vocalist that tried out prior to Signe Anderson getting the job?  (Signe didn't have to try out).  The person that brought the vocalist for the tryout would be part of a major band, and work with a legendary lead vocalist.

A Jefferson Starship member wrote a song for Janis Joplin.  The tale of seeing it finally being released is rather humorous!

Maybe the most famous Airplane Family roadie tells a funny story how he broke the ice working for Jorma & Jack.

Would it surprise you that Paul McCartney was not the first to use the cool name Wings as a band?  A one time Jefferson Airplane member had used it years prior to Paul's great solo work.

What about two Jefferson Airplane members playing together for the first time in 37 years, and why there is not a recording of it!!

How about the J.A. auditioning for a legendary producer who keep his door closed while they performed?

What song did Hot Tuna perform for over 40 minutes?

How did Diana Mangano record one song for the Great Society in 2002 and they weren't even in the studio for it?

Did you know that a Jefferson Airplane member played briefly with Paul Simon's brother?

If you want to know the real story how Kenny Jones got to replace Keith Moon in The Who, it's in the book and why.

Did you know the Airplane turned down a record deal prior to signing with RCA?  Would you like to know the song they used to audition?

Which J.A. member asked that the band use double drummers to keep Spencer in the group?

Who did Pete Sears want as a replacement when Marty left?

What fairly well known female singer did a friend of Craig Chaquico

suggest replace Grace in the Jefferson Starship when she needed time off?

These are only a small portion of what:

TAKE ME TO A CIRCUS TENT: THE J.A. FLIGHT MANUAL

is all about.

More stories soon.  Thanks for flying J.A.

All the best,

Craig Fenton (Craig The Airplane Man)