April 23rd, 2013 
In an intimate setting, Justin Furstenfeld gave a very personal performance. Among hundreds of loyal fans, the frontman for the Platinum-selling rock band Blue October opened up about his painfully honest music, personal struggles and emotional healing.
Justin Furstenfeld (Photo Credit: Zayra Alvarez)
“An Open Book: An Evening with Justin Furstenfeld of Blue October” was held at The Paramount Theatre on Friday, April 19, 2013. The solo/acoustic performance supported the release of his recent publication “Crazy Making,” the expanded third edition of Furstenfeld’s book of lyrics, hand-written notes and personal photographs.
The book provides personal insight into Furstenfeld’s creative thought process, but the show provided an unforgettable opportunity for fans to take that journey with him. As Furstenfeld took the stage, I realized his purpose for this show was two-fold and deeply personal. Playing for his fans is a love that comes from the bottom of his heart, but this tour is also part of his healing process.
In the recent year, Furstenfeld’s personal journey, which has always been present in his music, has altered into a spiritual one. From an early age, Furstenfeld poured his emotions into his music and lyrics, writing intimately about his personal struggles and self-destruction. His honesty and passion are what make him one of the most talented and complex singer/songwriters of today. It’s also what links him to thousands of fans who struggle with similar personal challenges. But Furstenfeld’s outlook on life is changing. No longer feeding his personal demons with drugs and alcohol, he chooses to be faithful, positive and grateful for God’s blessings. He acknowledges his character defects and fights them by continuing to grow spiritually.
Blue October (Photo Credit: Blue October)
For a man who wears his heart on his sleeve, he receives much love in return. He is adored by his fans. They have been a part of his musical career since the beginning and now they offer support and encouragement in his personal journey. As Furstenfeld continues to move forward in life, he encourages his fans to do so, too.
“An Open Book: An Evening with Justin Furstenfeld of Blue October” begins its second leg of the national tour in May. The show includes spoken word, a Q&A session and acoustic versions of Blue October hits like “Calling You,” “Hate Me,” “Into The Ocean,” “The Worry List” and more. The acoustic versions are just as prevailing as their recorded versions. Furstenfeld possesses this remarkable voice where an incredible amount of emotion carries every note he sings.
- May, 1 – City Winery in New York, NY
- May 2 – The Sinclair in Cambridge, MA
- May 3 – The Hamilton in Washington, DC
- May 4 – TLA in Philadelphia, PA
- May 5 – Beachland Ballroom & Tavern in Cleveland, OH
- May 7- 8 – Mayne Stage in Chicago, IL
- May 9 – The Ark in Ann Arbor, MI
- May 13 – 20th Century Theatre in Cincinnati, OH
- May 14 – Center Stage in Atlanta, GA
- May 15 – 3rd & Lindsley in Nashville, TN
- May 16 – Juanita’s Cantina in Little Rock, AR