Styx’s “Grand Illusions” album came out in 1977. I was 12-years old. From the moment I heard the first track, I was hooked.
“So if you think your life is complete confusion
’cause your neighbor’s got it made
Just remember that
It’s a grand illusion
And deep inside we’re all the same”
Every song seemed to speak to a universal theme – overcoming self-delusion and realizing self-worth – and that all spoke to me.
My older siblings Ross and Cathy actually took me to see Styx’ “Grand Illusions” live concert for my birthday. It was my first concert ever. We sat on the main floor in folding chairs. I can still see myself, standing on my chair, holding Ross’ hand so I wouldn’t fall, singing as loudly as I wanted to, shaking my behind and feeling so free. Nobody watching. No one condemning. No need to keep anything secret or pretend to be somebody I wasn’t. I could just be me.
I think that’s why I loved Styx so much. I most likely didn’t know it back then, or at least at the age of 12, I probably couldn’t articulate it. But somewhere deep inside, I knew. I wasn’t a bad girl. I wasn’t any different than any other coming of age kid, awakening sexually. [Read more…]
