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Playing in Conan’s house

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joshua Strang
  • Air Forces Central Command Public Affairs
AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar --  The U.S. Air Forces Central Command band finished their deployment on a high note when they played as the house band for Conan O’Brien and his guests Nov. 3, 2015.

O’Brien was invited to Al Udeid and introduced to the stage by First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama who was in the region as a part of her two-country Mideast tour.

The event consisted of O’Brien serving as host to a group of comedians and musical guest Grace Potter.

Prior to the performance, Staff Sgt. Brian Connolly, AFCENT band saxophonist, said the event would be memorable.

“This is the best, last gig we could hope for,” said Connolly. “To be able to play for Mr. O’Brien and Grace Potter is a fantastic experience.”

Throughout the performance, O’Brien routinely praised the band for their outstanding musical ability.

“This is one of the tightest bands I’ve ever heard,” said O’Brien. “They are amazing!”

The band played intro music for each comedian as well as backup for Potter. Together they played Potter’s song, “Paris” as well as other hits by various artists.

The event concluded with the band accompanying Potter, O’Brien’s house band leader Jimmy Vivino, and O’Brien playing The White Stripes’ song, Seven Nation Army.

“This was the experience of a lifetime,” said Senior Airman Melissa Lackore, AFCENT band vocalist. “I have followed Grace Potter for a while and it was a huge honor to work with her.”

Lackore said she believed it was good not only for the audience, but for the band as well.

“Our job is to increase other people’s morale,” said Lackore. “It was great to be a part of something that boosted our morale as well.”

Senior Airman Mark Oates, AFCENT band trumpeter, said the event was a good way to conclude the band’s mission in the region.

“We are world-class musicians representing a world-class Air Force,” said Oates. “Our mission is to serve as outreach for the host nations. We help bridge a culture gap through music.We have played a lot of places and some fun gigs but it was great to be involved in something huge at our home base.”

The current ensemble known as Full Spectrum, will return home to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia later this month when the new ensemble, After Burner arrives to continue the outreach mission in the region.