Founded 20 years ago, Of A Revolution (O.A.R.) has gained a following over the years. Whether you are new to the O.A.R. Family or a long-time member, the list below includes some of the greatest benefits and memories of being a fan of O.A.R. From all of us who love Rockville, Maryland and the people who came from there, thank you O.A.R. for all of these things.
1. Talent
How many people can look at a band these days and know that nothing is pre-recorded? On top of being really down to earth people, the band really cares about their fans. Each of the guys brings their own set of skills to the table to create such music. Their talent and stage presence shows how real they are, connecting with fans from the front row all the way to the back of a venue.
2. The Cards
Nothing is better than ending the night waiting to play a "Crazy Game of Poker." Cards flying, voices shouting along and feet jumping. Going to O.A.R. shows has given me, personally, the ability to say I've fit 13 decks of cards in my pockets to get into a show. The best part? When you get inside the venue and talk with the people around you, they congratulate you on what you've done! No one is afraid to pass out some to anyone sitting around them, so they can share in the fun. No one ever knows when the song will end or how long to save your cards for. Most of the time people working in the venue also have some pretty great faces when they realize what they'll have to clean up.
3. So Many Songs, So Little Set List
With a band that has been around for 20 years, a LOT of music has been made. You never know what every show is going to be like or what song might come up that you haven't heard in a few years live. With the You Pick the Set Tour, a lot of old songs got brought back, which some fans had forgotten about.
4. The Tree
It's iconic. Whether you've visited Rockville or not, you know the tree. It's a symbol of their home and Rockville, where the band was created years ago. Every true fan dreams of one day visiting the place and hopping the fence to take a picture of this beauty.
5. Driving Hours For A Concert
With so many venues, you're bound to travel to see the guys. What's a few hours to see your favorite band? Whether you've flown across the country, road-tripped to Red Rocks or driven half an hour from home, there are no complaints. Any distance is worth the drive to see Of A Revolution with friends or strangers next to you at the venue.
6. $2 Bills
A true fan has come across a two dollar bill and the holder (Wil) at one of the concerts. What other fan base has one of their own create a stamp and hand it out to other fans at concerts? Not only is he a great person, but the bill reminds the holder of the memories they created that night at the show.
6. Live Recordings
Not many bands record almost EVERY show and let their fans buy it. Nothing beats downloading it a couple days later and reliving a couple of your favorite hours. Sure, there may be times when someone is shouting "Progra�m Director!" or other song titles, but it reminds you of the concert experience. Not many people get the chance to take a memory home like that after a show.
7. Their Positive Message
The songs that O.A.R. creates are always so positive and uplifting. For many, their music has lifted people up during some of their darkest times. For others, it gives them a chance to relax and even celebrate on all the good times. The stories they tell through the music are about experiences and emotions we can all relate to. Even though other musicians may write about the same things they've known each other since childhood and have experienced all of it together. It makes their songs seem more real and not as if they've been made up from experiences they've never had. Their positive message gives concert-goers a few hours to forget about anything bad in their life and have a few hours of happiness. Why else would part of the Chicago Symphony agree to play "Peace" with them?
8. Quality People
Besides having amazing talents, Marc, Richard, Jerry, Benj and Chris all have amazing personalities. They're willing to stick around afterwards to talk to fans. Whether they're wishing someone a safe trip home or giving a warm drink to someone in the freezing cold, their warm personalities show. All of the band members were raised to respect everyone and treat them well. Not only do they keep these ideals with their own families, but they aren't afraid to show it to all of their fans.
9. Pre-gaming Before the Show
Whether you do it with friends in a hotel room or rent out a space for the family, it's always a good time. Many inside jokes come from pre-gaming. So do new friendships that turn into years of coming together for concerts. Whether it's listening to the music or throwing some down talking about memories of past concerts, it's always fun. Sometimes you can even create fun photo-ops.
10. The O.A.R. Family
While making this list, I reached out to the O.A.R. Family. Although I've only been a part of it for about a year and a half, I have never felt such love from a fan base. Everyone was more than willing to let me hear their stories. At every show, they're always there ready to make sure everyone has a great time! With supporters from 20 years ago, to people who may have just started becoming a part of the family this year, everyone is treated as an equal. Who couldn't love that type of atmosphere?
