NQC: Night One (#414)

The 2008 edition of the National Quartet Convention is off and running!

To begin this post, a few general observations:

1.) The move back to the "old" exhibition hall has breathed new life into a five decades-old event. That might sound like an overly zealous statement, but there is truth to be found. The number of times I've hear comments like "it's good to be home," "it is so good to be in familiar territory" and "I've got time to shop and still hear singing" grows by the hour and I suspect there are plenty more where those come from. The difference between last year's trek to the exhibition hall and this year's hop, skip and a jump has been cut by at least three days and people no longer have to pack an overnight bag to visit with their favorite artists.

The better atmosphere is evident as soon as you walk in the doors. Exhibitors and fans alike are happy thus far and that can only be good.

2.) After speaking with a handful of major artists, product sales seem to be on the rise. Many of them have reported a strong opening night and the anticipation for a good week is rising. Does that mean falling gas prices have come along just in the nick of time? Can you say yes?

3.) Based on the floor talk from the people who would know, overall attendance figures should rise this week over previous years. See the questions asked in Observation No. 2.

4.) A special word of thanks to the Danny's Diary readers who have dropped by the booth and said howdy. I appreciate your kind comments about this blog more than you'll ever know.

5.) Pictures?

Certainly! Here's a brief look at some of Monday's sights!

Part of the Singing News booth is adorned with "blow-ups" of some of the magazine's recent covers.

The Singing News booth has been busy all night as subscribers renew their subscriptions - and bring their friends along to sign up for the first time.

That's me and and Connie Hopper discussing one of Claude's latest heavy-duty profound statements.

Landon Beene of the Beene Family checks out the innovative interactive computer display at the Gaither/Ernie Haase & Signature Sound booth.

Stewart Varnado and Wesley Smith of the Dixie Echoes wait on the doors to open.

Ed O'Neal (Mr. "All I Ever Wanted To Do Was Sing A Song") listens as a fan shares with him.

What do Channing Eleton (c) and Josh Simpson (r) have in common?

It's only Monday, David Sutton! You can't be going off the deep end yet!

Joseph Habedank of the Perrys checks out the group's NQC performance times.

"Time to spiff up before the masses arrive." Jeff Pearles of the King's Heralds.

Need sound equipment? The NQC is the place for you!

Inspirations everywhere!

A small portion of the Crossroads Music booth.

The world is not ready for two Tim Lovelaces!

More later!