Tonight’s WBLM Mini-Concert

31 years ago, John Cougar Mellencamp returned for his second show at the Civic Center and his first one here as a headliner.  His first Portland appearance happened when he was still known at John Cougar. That was opening for Heart in October of '82 in support of his breakthrough album, American Fool. 3 years later, he was back with Scarecrow, his most mature album yet. It both celebrated the idea of rugged individualism and lamented the ongoing destruction of the American dream by corporate greed, particularly the devastating effect on family farms. Scarecrow also had a charming thrash, as if it was performed and recorded in the garage. The social conscious lyrics still resonate. On November 22, 1985, John Cougar Mellencamp rocked a sold-out crowd at the CCCC. It was a Friday night that Blimpsters will never forget. Thanks for the truth, John!

Join us for live Mellencamp tonight at 6:20 on the WBLM Mini-Concert!