Rockin’ in Paradise: Opening Night Arrives

By Doug Fox

MIRAMAR BEACH, FL. — Rock fans have officially taken over Miramar Beach. Excitement hums through the air like the first sustained power chord strummed through the stage amps by a guitar tech 30 minutes before the show — equal parts anticipation for tonight’s kickoff concert and the balmy Gulf breeze rolling in from the waves.

Whether sunning on the sand, strolling the boardwalk, chatting in the hotel lobby, or even stepping into an elevator, the question echoes everywhere: “Are you here for the concerts?”

Wednesday saw the arrival of Styx, their crew, and support system — converging from all corners of the U.S. and Canada. The sheer logistics behind an event like this could overflow a tour bus, yet the end result always looks effortless. Credit the meticulous planning and practiced precision of everyone behind the scenes.

The festival’s pulse began Wednesday night with a beach bonfire, where a large crowd gathered under a warm moonlit sky as local favorites The Velcro Pygmies cranked out an energetic barrage of rock classics. The scene seemed equal parts party and family reunion — the perfect prelude to the days ahead.

Topeka Music Vacations has always emphasized community, and it’s easy to see that ethos in motion. Even before the first downbeat, fans were decorating their coves — the personalized seating areas that make Topeka events so distinctive — and swapping Styx memorabilia with neighboring fans like old friends.

And while Styx will headline two of the three nights, some band members are scheduled for triple and quadruple duty. Keyboardist Lawrence Gowan will step up for a special 45-minute solo performance Friday, joined by brother Terry Gowan on bass, Todd Sucherman on drums, and Styx techs Jeff Heintz (synths) and John Ptak (guitar).

For many fans, it’ll be their first time experiencing a GOWAN solo show, albeit in a condensed format.

“Hopefully this will give them some insight into my recording and performing years prior to Styx,” Gowan told me. “It should also reveal a fair amount of the musical simpatico that led to me eventually joining the band.”

His setlist promises a vibrant mix of fan favorites, from “Strange Animal” and “A Criminal Mind” to “Moonlight Desires.” He is also slated to perform “Awake the Giant,” All the Lovers in the World,” Keep Up the Fight,” “Cosmetics” and “Guerilla Soldier.” 

Sucherman will also deliver a Friday afternoon drum showcase, performing seven songs — including deep cuts and a few never before played live — over the course of an hour-long rhythmic viewing masterclass.

But before any of that, the full Styx lineup (including bassist Chuck Panozzo) marks the long-awaited ignition of Rockin’ in Paradise tonight, along with John Waite and 38 Special. Loverboy, Collective Soul, Cheap Trick and Edwin McCain join the fun over the next few days.

Let’s go — paradise is calling!