The fans come first in concerts by Canadian rock band The Guess Who, where going back in time seems a real possibility. “Our objective is to entertain people,” said Derek Sharp, who has been lead singer of The Guess Who for almost 10 years. “When we sing “These Eyes,” we actually see people weeping and get so emotional because it brings back memories. And, it’s emotional for us, too.”
“There is so much negativity out there—we want to bring back the joy (in people’s lives) because it gives people a break from all the negativity,” said Sharp.
During a recent interview, Sharp discussed the group’s sustained “listening power” since they were formed in Winnipeg, Canada, in 1969, something he attributes in part to the music being played millions of times on the radio. “Classic rock radio stations play our songs all the time and we are very grateful,” Sharp said.
And that’s quite a lineup of hits—“Undun,” “ Shakin’ All Over,” “These Eyes,” “American Woman,” “Clap for the Wolfman,” “No Time,” “No Sugar Tonight,” “Laughing” and “Hand Me Down World.” Laughing, he said, “People don’t know why they know our songs, but they do.”
Sharp said people can expect to hear those songs, and many more, during the live concert at the Golden Nugget. Those concerts, he said, are “very dynamic and one which connects with the audiences. So many people are happy when they attend our concerts and after the show at the autograph sessions tell us (the music brings back so many memories).”
After the Las Vegas engagement, the band plans to travel to Nashville to work on their new album, which will be released next year. –Penny Levin
Golden Nugget, 8 p.m. Oct. 7, starting at $42.51 plus tax and fee. 866.946.5336
