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Opening Day at the US Open

August 26, 2014

Opening Day at the US Open simply never disappoints. The kickoff to the Tennis Championships brought thousands of fans to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in NYC  yesterday to soak up the sunshine and game.

This is my fifth consecutive year performing at the Presidents Gate, the exclusive entrance where players and VIPs arrive. I play amplified enough for the pop/rock repertoire that the USTA enjoys to be edgy,  but within limits to not disturb players on the practice courts just behind me. This year my sets included John Legend, Rihanna, Sheryl Crow, and a crowd pleasing throwback rendition of Blondie’s “The Tide is High”.

Within minutes of starting my first set, John Isner, Venus Williams, and Caroline Wozniacki walk by. But it’s Roger Federer, in his classic graceful stride, that catches my eye as he nods and smiles at me in sincere acknowledgement. I have to admit, I hoped it was in recognition of the many previous years he’d seen and heard me in that very same place!

My #StoryoftheOpen will continue when I perform again at the Men’s Final (Closing Day) on September 8th. It draws some of the biggest celebrities and star athletes with an intensity in the air that’s electric. Follow my live US Open updates on Twitter @nycharp

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