'80s pop duo Air Supply took its love songs to John R. Emens Auditorium on Saturday. The duo, consisting of Graham Russell, known as "The Song," and Russell Hitchcock, known as "The Singer," have been giving lovers and loners pop songs to connect to since the mid-'70s. This year marks its 35th anniversary, as well as the release of the band's new album, "Mumbo Jumbo."
The duo has been on the road every year since the band broke onto the airwaves in 1975.
"We think that we still have a lot to say musically. We still feel we don't look silly doing what we're doing. You can always be a better performer," Hitchcock said. "We have a musical introduction. As soon as the lights go down and you hear the crowd, it's just like someone's turned a switch on."
Russell said his favorite part of touring is the performance, which helps to ease the troubles of transportation.
"Travel is a pain now, just getting anywhere is way more difficult," said Hitchcock about the difference between touring in the '70s to now.
According to the band's Web site, "It was the live show that always held audiences captive around the world. They were the first Western group to tour China, Taiwan and countless other countries that before would not allow pop music into their borders."
Russell's sensitive song writing and Hitchcock's skyrocketing vocals have been turning on the emotional switch for fans with hits like "I'm All Out of Love," "Love in Love" and "Making Love Out of Nothing at All."
Hitchcock said he derives his vocal emotion from the reaction of the audience during performances.
"When you look at people's faces, you see how they react: a smile, a tear. It's very inspirational to me," he said. "They're my favorite songs to sing. I identify with a lot of the stories [Russell] tells with the songs. I consider myself to be very emotional."
Hitchcock said the new album is about a central character who is trying to find himself in the world.
"People have to look at themselves and around themselves," he said. "Everyone can do a better job. We're supposed to be the nice, evolved species."
Hitchcock attributes the success of Air Supply to their songs. Their 1980 release, "All Out of Love," is considered one of the top 100 Greatest Love Songs, according to VH1. In 1981, the release of "The One That You Love" led the duo to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
"We'd seen a lot of underwear in the early days, I never understood that. People have truly tried to chase us," Hitchcock said.
While the fans may have calmed down in the last 35 years, followers from across the world still listen, love and long for Air Supply.
Hitchcock attributes the longevity of Air Supply to maintaining their responsibility to the audience.
"Don't stay up too late. Moderation is very important to us," Hitchcock said. "Just try to responsible. I'm not a kid anymore."
Although they're not kids anymore, the duo can still be seen sporting Beatle-esque haircuts (one of their influences) and cheetah-print shirts.
Fans of Air Supply, known as Airheads on their Web site, can stay up-to-date with Air Supply by visiting airsupply-online.com.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
