From Todd:
Will you welcome please,...
Mr. Todd Fischer !
From Todd:
"The house and stage lights were usually dim at the time of the intro (I always wonder if this wasn't some cheap shot by Del Roll who directed stage lighting to keep me out of the spotlight!).
I watched from my position at the center stage microphone as each performer prepared, adjusted, and tuned for the beginning of the performance. When the band appeared ready, usually signaled to me by each member with a nod of the head or similar gesture, all would be quiet. The mounting suspense usually caused the audience to emit a strange howl of ecstasy in anticipation of what was about to happen. As Ken Hensley began the progressive chord build-up I would slowly pivot on one heel, arm outstretched, my finger pointing to each performer and his stage area, starting with Mick and ending with Ken.
During this critical 6 to 8 second period I held the power to delay the start if I
detected a problem, and if all appeared ready I would turn to the microphone and
pronounce to the world the now familiar phrase! I basked in the spotlight more heavily,
however, stirring the audience up for the encore.
Also, Todd had the "job" of introducing the band at the start of each show, and was the voice we all heard and remember from Heep's Live 1973 Album.."Ladies and Gentlemen, will you welcome please, England's own Uriah Heep !"
I asked Todd if I could post some of his recent historical notes and stories as written to the Heepsters Mailing list, for you to enjoy.
Please note that these are responsed threads, and specific questions, so even without knowing what prompted these replies, you will I'm sure enjoy the responses.
Enjoy !