As we made our way into the upper tier of GM place and settled down I was more looking forward to Snow Patrol than the main act. My fear was confirmed by the crowd – we appeared to have arrived at a cross between a NKOTB, Beyonce and American Idol event. The audience was comprised of groups of young girls (complete with short skirts and accompanying parents), couples (dressed for a date) and groups of friends who clearly don’t go to a lot of live events (but no doubt like the singles!)

Down went the lights and the screaming started – I am not sure Snow Patrol will have played many times in front of this type of crowd but they did a great job of running though a strong set without loosing focus and I must make sure I see them in a smaller venue when they return. The only down side was their continual arse licking statements…..” only 30 minutes until Coldplay”….”thanks to the fantastic Coldplay for inviting us” etc etc….

After a short break the “main event” started and I must confess despite all my misgivings we were treated to a good show. Rock music its not, but as pop bands go they were great. They ran though the full repertoire of hits complemented by all the effects and gimmicks would would expect. We had balloons (a la Flamming Lips), an “intimate” session close to the fans (U2) and Chris Martin running around like a demented Roger Daltrey on steroids….(I was tired just watching him!).

I confess I wont be rushing back to the next event but everyone appeared to enjoy it and I even wandered home humming a few tunes…..

Ive since checked and Coldplay are listed in Wikipedia as “alternative rock” which puts them in the same category as Oasis, Arcade Fire, The Libertines and The Arctic Monkeys! Although this is wrong they do provide good value and its difficult to say something bad about someone who appears to care about some important things and can write a catchy tune.

Roll on Jack White…..

From the numerous things he said I added my own interpretation and came up with a short list of MUST HAVES for success:

• The “Cause” - the organisation (department or team) to understand and believe in
• The Location - somewhere people want to come to with the space to do things
• The People (right) – realise you are not Tiger Woods – you need others to do that stuff
• Plan – short term detail/longer term concept – get the balance right
• Do stuff - “FIRE” – quick wins and keep moving
• Learn/change/adapt - do more stuff
• Consult everyone - a team of 60 is a TEAM of 60 – always!
• Decency - give respect, grace, integrity
• Communicate – personal!
• Persevere
• Support - at every stage – financial/administration …..

All sounds so simple!

www.tompeters.com

….he also said…..

A Leader…..MUST be determined to create a legacy of earthshaking transformation in their domain create/must necessarily create organizations which are …no less than Cathedrals in which the full and awesome power of the Imagination and Spirit and native Entrepreneurial flair of diverse individuals is unleashed … In passionate pursuit of jointly perceived soaring purpose and personal and community and client service Excellence.

Think!