Posted by It was the first time I had the opportunity to see JD Leonard perform. I had reached out to another artist about perhaps helping me “fluff” my portfolio and start doing artist portraits. She encouraged me to come see her sing with JD when he was doing his tribute to Garth Brooks at the Argyle Theater in Babylon, NY; she would be playing the role of Trisha Yearwood.
I can honestly say, when Garth first hit the scene, I wasnt a fan, I didnt buy into all the hype at the time. But as the years rolled along, I finally warmed up to him and began collecting his music. There is still one song that can bring tears to my eyes; That Summer! I dont know what it is about it; perhaps in some way, shape or form, I relate to it? Once I was granted permission to shoot the show, it was on the back of my mind, hoping JD wouldnt sing it; Id hate to be walking around taking pics with tears welling in my eyes. Luckily, I was able to distract myself when he eventually sang it! And what a performance it was!
I had yet to have the opportunity to shoot there. It wasnt until they renovated the theater and started booking live acts. So, once Diane informed me of the Garth Tribute, I reached out to J.D. and he graciously granted me a photo/press pass for that night.
I was once again a Country fan!
Not only did J.D. do Garth justice that night, he also played a few of his favorites and included his single “Just Drive” from his debut album of the same name. Backed by some of Long Island’s and the tri-state area musicians including Diane Lutz, Mike Deluca, Mike Sorrentino, Steve Ronsen, Lenny Rocillo & Paul Kosak, J.D, & Co played to a nearly sold out performance. I was looking forward to the opportunity to see them perform again!
The next time would be a semi-private, community members-only performance at the beautiful, Great Neck Park District’s Steppingstone Waterside Stage. You couldnt ask for better weather! For nearly 2 hours J.D. and the band performed a set titled “Decades of Country” playing hits from each decade going back to the 80”s, yes, this would include a few Garth songs. Joie Giordano stood in for Trisha Yearwood as well as Martina McBride and Carrie Underwood and left us all in amazement!
The highlight for me was the extended guitar solo for “Just Drive”, I was mesmerized! Other such highlights were “Friends In Low Places”- Garth, “What Was I Thinking” – Dierks Bentley, “Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood & “You Thought Wrong” another great single from his debut album.
Once again, Im looking forward to catching J.D, in action, whether it be his Garth Tribute or Decades of Country, when he plays, I gotta get my “country” fix!
For more info, tour dates & merch, visit his website at: https://jdleonardmusic.com/home
Here are few highlights from Steppingstone Waterside Stage:
Long Island Sounds 