This Week in History

Philips Arena was packed on the evening of April 25, 2003, as Cher’s adoring fans clamored for one last chance to see thee pop diva live as she continued on her “Living Proof: Farewell Tour”. Although this tour is known for its longevity, on this night Cher’s fans relished the unique moments that made up this spectacular farewell show. Over the years Cher has defied age as she continued to not only stand out amongst her younger peers, but be a leader for them. With her glittering costumes and superb vocals, Cher proved why this was the most successful tour by any female artist. The performance delighted both old fans and new ones alike with clips of music videos and life performances from years past and songs from her new album, Living Proof. As Cher concluded the show by singing “Believe”, she said farewell to adoring Atlanta fans for the last time.

This Week in History

Philips Arena has provided a home to many country music stars over the years and April 23, 2004 was no different. In support of her album Up! Shania Twain graced the stage at Philips Arena. This show delighted both country and pop fans alike, as she sang many upbeat and catchy songs like the album’s top 10 country hit, “I’m Gonna Getcha Good.” With a circular stage, Shania was able to reach out to all her fans and keep them on their feet throughout the show. Up! topped both The Billboard 200 and Country Albums Chart, proving that Shania was back where she belonged with her follow up to the incredibly successful Come On Over.

This Week in History

On April 12, 2000, two living legends took the stage at Philips Arena. Joined by special guest Lionel Richie, Tina Turner proved why she truly is a rock a legend. At the age of 60 and with over 40 years of performing and producing hits in the music business, Tina still knew how to put on a show that would surprise and delight her fans. Billed as her farewell tour, Ms. Turner’s “Twenty-Four Seven Millennium Tour” included material from her new album, Twenty-Four Seven, as well as some of her greatest hits. Her modern looking stage morphed into a volcano like shape that split to reveal Tina herself singing “I heard it through the grapevine”, with a red flame in the background. The highest grossing tour in North America in 2000 also featured special guest Lionel Richie, singing his bevy of hits including songs from his new album Renaissance.

11Alive Teams Up with Barney for Random Acts of Kindness

Students at the Primrose Pre-school in Dunwoody got a surprise visit this morning from very special guest – Barney! As part of 11Alive’s Random Acts of Kindness, Nina Brown teamed up with Barney to present the children with free tickets to attend Barney’s Birthday Bash at Philips Arena tomorrow, April 7.

The students excitedly ran into the classroom and jumped up and down as soon as they saw their favorite purple dinosaur waiting for them. Ms. Brown presented the children with the Barney tickets and explained the Random Act of Kindness program. They were all very excited about the tickets and agreed to do something kind for someone else in return. It was great to see how enthused the students were about Barney and their appreciation for the gift and their desire to support their community. This is something these children won’t forget!

Tune in tomorrow morning to watch the segment on 11Alive at 6:55am or at www.11alive.com.

You can come celebrate Barney’s Birthday Bash too! Click here for tickets

This Week in History

On April 9, 2004, one of rock’s greatest bands of all time brought their act to Philips Arena. As part of the Honkin’ on Bobo Tour, Aerosmith played some of their new music mixed with classic hits. Even though they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 and had been touring together for over 20 years, Aerosmith proved on this night that they still knew how to rock, even with a blues album. The set was vintage Aerosmith down to, current American Idol judge, Steven Tyler’s dance moves and the show’s final song of the night, “Walk this Way”.