SCARBOROUGH – Carl and Leslie Bruenn of Cobalt, Conn., decided to extend their vacation in Maine another day when they found out that John Densmore would be signing copies of his new book in Scarborough on Saturday.
They were the first in a line 300 people deep at the Bull Moose music store at Payne Road Plaza to meet the former Doors drummer. Densmore cheerfully signed both his book, “The Doors Unhinged: Jim Morrison’s Legacy Goes on Trial,” and the assorted album covers and other items his fans placed before him.
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“Doors music was the soundtrack to my youth,” said Carl Bruenn.
Bruenn, who started the line at 9:30 a.m. in anticipation of the 2 p.m. signing, said he didn’t have much to say to his musical idol.
“I don’t want to interview him. I just want to say thanks,” said Bruenn.
Densmore was one of the big draws at Maine’s Record Store Day, an annual celebration of independent record stores that started in 2008, the brainchild of Chris Brown, Bull Moose’s marketing head.
About 1,700 independent record stores across the country marked the day with free performances, the release of more than 350 special recordings and other events.
Densmore, whose new book chronicles his legal battle to protect The Doors’ music from commercialization, said he decided to launch his book tour in Maine after hearing about Record Store Day.
“They are independent pockets of passionate people who are way into music,” Densmore said.
Fans came from across New England to see Densmore.
Charlie Reed drove up from Methuen, Mass., with two Doors albums and several copies of the new book.
“I love this guy,” said Reed.
Pam Kabitzke of Newfield asked Densmore to sign her guitar, already graced with signatures from actor Patrick Dempsey, the cast from “The Days of Our Lives” soap opera and Maine comedian Bob Marley.
“I carried this seven miles to get this signed during the Dempsey Challenge,” she said.
Chris Reese of Southington, Conn., said he was killing two birds with one stone.
“I love The Doors and I have always wanted to visit the Portland area,” Reese said.
Matthew Fleury of Boston toted two drumsticks and the new book for Densmore to sign.
“I have always enjoyed his music,” Fleury said.
Jan Armstrong of Standish said she was supposed to go to Boston with friends Saturday.
“That was postponed, so this is the alternative,” she said.
Micah Madore of Buckfield was one of the few people who wasn’t standing in line.
“I am just picking up some CDs. It is a good time to do it,” Madore said.
Beth Quimby can be contacted at 791-6363 or at:
bquimby@pressherald.com
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