The PGA Championship venues, as chosen by the PGA of America, offer a unique perspective when compared to the bands that dominated the airwaves in the 90s and 2000s. Each course, much like a band, has its own distinct character and appeal. Here's a breakdown of the emerging rota, with a twist: let's explore these venues through the lens of 90s and 2000s music.
Quail Hollow (2017, 2025) - Coldplay
Coldplay is like a smooth jazz lounge act. Their music is easy on the ears, but it doesn't demand your full attention. It's the kind of background music you might enjoy, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression. Just like Quail Hollow, it's a course that's enjoyable to play but might not stand out as a memorable experience.
Aronimink (2026) - Weezer
Weezer's early work is iconic. Their first two albums are considered hall-of-famers, but their recent output has struggled to match that early magic. It's like Aronimink; while it has the potential to be a classic, it might not quite live up to the hype, at least not in the same way as their earlier, more innovative designs.
The Olympic Club (2028) - Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters are the ultimate arena rock band. They're proficient at what they do, and their music is designed to be loud and energetic. The Olympic Club, with its challenging layout, is similar in that it demands respect and attention. Both are designed to test the player's skills and provide a memorable experience.
PGA Frisco (2027) - O-Town
O-Town was a short-lived sensation, a corporate-backed band that never quite lived up to the hype. PGA Frisco, while a beautiful course, might suffer from the same fate. It's a course that's easy on the eyes but might not offer the same level of challenge or lasting impact as some of its peers.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah (2012, 2021, 2031) - Green Day
Green Day is like the classic rock station you tune into on a long drive. Their music is familiar and comforting, and you're always happy to hear it. The Ocean Course is a similar experience; it's a course that's easy to love and play, and it might not be the most challenging, but it's a solid choice for a tournament.
Whistling Straits (2010, 2015) - Blink-182
Blink-182 is a solid band, but they're not in the same league as Green Day. Their music is fun and catchy, but it might not stand the test of time in the same way. Whistling Straits is a course that's enjoyable but might not be as iconic or challenging as some of the others.
Southern Hills (2022, 2032) - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty's music is like a well-crafted novel. It's ordinary on the surface, but if you listen closely, you'll find a depth of emotion and skill. Southern Hills is a course that, while not the most flashy, offers a rich and rewarding experience. It's a classic that deserves respect and attention.
Bethpage Black (2019, 2033) - Guns N' Roses
Guns N' Roses were a force to be reckoned with, and their live performances were legendary. However, their recent output has been less than stellar. Bethpage Black is a course that, while challenging, might not offer the same level of excitement or entertainment as some of the more modern designs.
Oak Hill East (2013, 2023, 2035) - Oasis
Oasis is a well-loved band, but their music might not resonate with everyone. It's like Oak Hill East; while it's a beautiful course, it might not be for everyone's taste. It's a course that's enjoyable but might not appeal to a wide audience.
Congressional Blue (2030) - Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots are a solid band, but their music might be a bit too anonymous for some. Congressional Blue is a course that, while it has its merits, might not stand out as a true classic.
Bellerive (2018) - Bush
Bush has taken a lot of criticism, and it's hard to sing along to their songs. Bellerive is a course that, while it has its challenges, might not be the most memorable or enjoyable experience.
TPC Harding Park (2020) - Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band is a pleasant enough band, but their music might not be essential to your musical diet. TPC Harding Park is a course that's enjoyable but might not be the most challenging or memorable.
Baltusrol Lower (2016, 2029) - Metallica
Metallica is a legendary band, but they've become a bit of a joke in recent years. Baltusrol Lower is a course that, while it has its challenges, might not offer the same level of excitement or innovation as some of the newer designs.
Valhalla (2014, 2024) - Spin Doctors
Spin Doctors are like the background music of the 90s. You might hear their song on the radio and think, 'Yeah, that was cool back then.' Valhalla is a course that's enjoyable but might not be the most challenging or memorable.
In conclusion, the PGA Championship venues, like the bands they're compared to, each have their own unique appeal. While some might be smooth and easy-going, others are challenging and demanding. It's a diverse rota that offers a range of experiences, just like the diverse music scene of the 90s and 2000s.
