Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp Hollywood

 

Wanna live the dream? You can at Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp. "Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp is the ultimate music experience, that allows musicians and enthusiasts alike the once in a lifetime opportunity to jam with legendary rock stars, play live on stage at major concert venues, and live their rock 'n' roll dreams."

 Mark Hudson (Aerosmith Producer) performing at the Whiskey A Go Go. Photo by Sara Wilkins.

This past November, Amy and I trekked to Hollywood with Jill, our Entertain Me column writer, to see what this place is all about. The gig, in short, is a half- or full-week of jamming with seasoned rock stars building up to a final performance at the Whiskey A Go Go. A camper is placed in a band for the duration of the week, and he or she rehearses (inside Amp Studios) with their band mates and counselor (such as Aerosmith producer Mark Hudson) for the big show at the end where the counselors and guest artists (such as The Doors' guitarist Robby Krieger) join them onstage for an epic performance. For some, it's the opportunity of a lifetime.

Robby Krieger (The Doors) performing at the Whiskey A Go Go. Photo by Amy Hood.

And the best part is that you don't have to be a pro to go to camp; all levels are welcome. If you can't carry a tune or play a guitar lick, there is always the tambourine, one of my favorite instruments.

 

John Mameli (camper) performing at the Whiskey A Go Go. Photo by Sara Wilkins.

In Hollywood, we met with camp producer David Fishof, interviewed Meat Loaf, met Sandy Gennaro (drummer for Joan Jett & The Blackhearts), talked with campers, learned how Mark Hudson saved Ozzy Osbourne's life, and more. You can read all about it and see our photo gallery here.

Rudy Sarzo (Quiet Riot/Ozzy Osbourne) at the Whiskey A Go Go. Photo by Sara Wilkins.

The next camp is held in Los Angeles from February 23-28, 2010. Rock with the likes of Sammy Hagar (Van Halen and Chickenfoot), Michael Anthony (Van Halen and Chickenfoot), Lita Ford (The Runaways) Ace Frehley (KISS), Dave Mason (Traffic), Mark Farner (Ex Grand Funk Railroad) and one of my favorite surf rock guitarists: Gary Hoey. He shreds like nobody's business.

Learn more about the upcoming camp here. It's only a few weeks away. Live your dream and sign up today!

- Sara
Listening to Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl"