J: Irene, I'm bored. I thought I'd be enjoying some peace and quiet after another hectic week, but alas I'm just plain bored. I need something to do.

I: Well, I've got an idea, let's go to a concert tonight.

J: You know, Irene, I'm as crazy about music as you are, but if you're talking aboout going to a symphony orchestra concert or an opera, I'm out.

I: It's neither of those. Actually, I had a rock concert in mind.

J: I didn't know you liked rock music.

I: Well, I do. My father really loves rock music, and I'm definitely my father's daughter. He got an extensive collection of rock albums, you know, the classics, like Chuck Berry and Ray Charles.

J: As for me, I like country music, rock's just too loud for me. I find most rock songs deafening and meaningless.

I: Sorry, I just can't agree with you. The best rock songs are never meaningless. Take Tracy Chapman's songs. She's one of my favourites. She writes her songs herself, and they're not the usual mix of bouncy dance tunes and and meaningless lyrics. She writes about personal pain, politics and poverty.

J: OK, I'll give you Tracy Chapman. Her hit singles usually spend weeks on top of the charts both in the US and the UK. What I like about her is her simple and natural style. And I guess that's why she's so popular.

I: I'm with you there. In concert and in videos she never uses make-up, costumes or special effects. Just her voice and an acoustic guitar. So, you see, Jack, you do like rock music.

J: OK, I take my words back, sorry. I suppose you already know, Tracy Chapman's concert is going to be on TV next Saturday. Are you going to watch it?

I: I guess so. But I wish I could see the performance live. But it's probably too late to get tickets. It's going to be at the Kennedy centre for performing arts. Shows there always sell out.

J: You never know before you try. Why not call and ask?

I: OK, I'll do it first thing tomorrow. Shall I tell you if there are still tickets available?

J: Yes, please, I'd love to go if the price is reasonable.

I: OK, but in the meantime, what are we going to do tonight?

J: Oh, I don't want to bother going out. Let's have a quiet night in and rent a film.

I: Fine. Shall we order a pizza as well?

J: Good idea. Pizza and a movie, nothing better.