CITADEL & ProgFest 93 Ads, Interviews & Articles...

The Progfest Pioneers

    In 1979, G. Whitman & Fletcher Neal Hutchison formed the band, CITADEL. The ensuing history and lineup of this rock band is as diverse as the music that springs forth. The numerous reviews and remarks loosely labeled the band "progressive rock" and in fact, it was this very band who, in 1992, conceived of (and forged relationships with other progheads to bring to fruition,) the now internationally acclaimed ProgFest.
    PF93 only happened because of the tremendous outlay of energy and resources from this group. Ironically, there is a serious flaw in the memories of many others who were co-involved in the production of PF93. Those who are usually credited for the conception and completion of PF93 (and future PF's) somehow forget to credit Citadel and sister-company, W.E. for ANY involvement.
    Following some research and interviews at UCLA's Board of Regents, Royce Hall Production Facilitators, KLOS, Music Connection, Billboard and Amusement Business Magazines, among others, it is clear that W.E. was the primary driving force behind the event.

    In a phone interview, G. Whitman shrugs off the lack of recognition with, "that's not why I do anything in art (for recognition)...it was a good idea, yes, I thought of the name and put in more hours than any other person on the PF93 project, yes, but there were literally hundreds of individuals who made contributions to the first ProgFest. Without any ONE of them it wouldn't have happened. What about Ken DeLoria of Apogee and Quill, who put in the big chunk of cash at the last minute to give at least one night of music... Synphonic and Art Sublime had grossly over-estimated their ability to sell tickets and the night before the show there was this big meeting at Royce Hall to determine how to cancel gracefully... don't ever see Ken's name mentioned either... and another point against claiming recognition - there are many dedicated progressive lovers just like me who could also have come up with the idea and done it as well or better." Bottom line to me is, it was a blast and a disaster at the same time, I'm happy to see that it sparked the flame that it has. I've personally never really been that comfortable with any label on my music or art but am honored deeply by my involvement and inclusion, it probably not what you'd call the music I'm writing now though...thanks to Chuck Greenberg and crew."
    One fond memory? "Well, I'm glad that I broke the rules and gave the backstage order for Anglagard to do an encore, it cost me big..."
    Next release? "I've been incredibly occupied for a few years now especially with parenting, it's so great! I have the material, I have the musicians, where's that analog 16-track, order a few dozen bags of clear vinyl chips and blank lacquers, oil up the presses and let's burn some wax..."

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©2003 Whitman Enterprises (W.E.) Citadel®/Polaris
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