A few years back Les appeared at a $300.00 a plate dinner. I wanted to meet him so bad that I toyed with the idea of entering the look-alike contest for the chance. Myself and several judges waited... and waited, but no one showed up. A boy, a Waukesha alderman's son, did finally appear. He really looked the part, complete with guitar, and had no problem winning. I even helped him win by tying his tie.
Besides the fundraising dinner, Les was in town for the premier of his bio, Chasing Sound! playing in Milwaukee. I can't explain how I did it, but I got probably the last ticket to the last showing that evening. I sat up front and noticed a microphone on the seat in front of me. It wouldn't surprise me if Les came in to introduce the film, and that's exactly what happened - right in front of me.
It was after 11:00 when the film ended. Instead of heading home I thought I'd first try to find Les at the hotel I'd heard he might be staying at. When I saw a Gibson motorcoach out front I knew I found it. Must have been about 11:30 at this point. Asked at the desk if Les was around. Was told sure, upstairs, but it's late, I might have missed him. So close!
What I found was Les sucking a beer at a huge round table surrounded by autograph-seekers. I let them be and didn't immediately get in the queue. Some were taking advantage of the situation by asking him to sign guitars or multiple papers.
Les was in his 90s at this point and he didn't stop signing until everyone was satisfied... well after midnight! I was in awe. I would have done anything to meet him at the $300.00 dinner, and here I was in the right place at the right time to meet him for nothing. Priceless.
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