I Just Read About That…

[ATTENDED: July 27, 2019] Jeff Tweedy @ Newport Folk Festival

I have seen Wilco once and have seen Jeff Tweedy solo once.  He is a lot of fun live–chatty, funny, very loose and playing a great collection of songs.

This set was fifty minutes and he played about a dozen songs.  I was sure I had taken more clips than I did, but I’m going to blame it all on the sun.  Note to self: if I ever go back to Newport, be sure to stand on the other side of the main stage with the sun at your back.

Jeff was funny and engaging.  And, most surprising, he wasn’t wearing his hat!

He had some funny/dark introductions like: “What a beautiful day. Here’s a song about my dead dad.”  But his voice was in great form and his playing was, as always, solid.

I love “I’m the Man Who Loves You” and was really happy to hear it.  I wasn’t sure if he’d play Wilco songs, Tweedy songs, or both.  We got both, which was cool.

One of the most amusing moments came during “Hummingbird,” where he messed up midsong.  And then explained exactly what happened (you’ll have to watch the clip to find out).

I absolutely love “I Am Trying to Break Your Heart,” and so was delighted to hear that as well.

Because I was so caught up in the moment I don’t really recall all that many songs that he played.  But I enjoyed the whole thing, so I assume it was a great.  I know the crowd was really receptive and fun to be around.

Although I really love his work with Wilco–the band is really amazing live–the core of Tweedy’s songs lends itself perfectly to a single guitar and voice.  Even in an outdoor venue in front of thousands of people.

It was great and S. enjoyed it a lot too.

Here’s the songs confirmed that he played:

1. I Am Trying to Break Your Heart
2. Hummingbird
3. I’m the Man Who Loves You
4. Impossible Germany
5. You and I
6. New Madrid