TVD Live Shots: Newport Folk Festival, 7/27

NEWPORT, RI | “How can a man, born of soil and sorrow, begin to speak of treading the sacred boards of the Newport Folk Festival?” asked folk-singer Josh Okeefe of Derby, England, who shared that having the opportunity to play Newport brushed the edge of his soul.

He offered his gratitude to Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová of The Swell Season, whose own set was full of magic, a duo that balances each other flawlessly with a blend of rock and poignant musicianship. “They lent me their world with three minutes of belief, the way one offers a flame to another’s candle. And all I could do was burn true for them. For this, I am forever grateful. Thank you so much. If the curtains’ to fall and the guitar goes back in its case, I’ll meet the end content. I’ll die with Newport air in my breath and a quiet knowing in my bones,” said Okeefe.

At its heart, gratefulness and collaboration are the cornerstones of the Newport Folk Festival. Artists, fans, volunteers, and all involved consider themselves incredibly lucky to be present on such iconic musical grounds. Sunday’s lineup was a mix of genres, from the indie rock styling of Dehd—a unique trio with incredible stage chemistry—to Mary Chapin Carpenter.

Women were at the forefront of Sunday’s sets, showcasing skillful, emotional performances, including Lucius, who always exceed expectations with their loveliness and enchanting harmonies. Very few people can touch your emotions with song the way Holly and Jess can. Mary Chapin Carpenter took to the Fort stage with a heartfelt performance, returning to the festival after 30 years. She shared that the passage of time was emotional for her.

Sammy Rae Bowers, of Sammy Rae and Friends, brought such energy and awe to the Quad stage. Looking out to the crowd with both gratitude and wonder, she shared, “There’s something so special about this festival. I’ve never seen anything like it in my travels, anything we’ve ever played before. Imagine if this were the picture of the world at large. Why can’t it always be like Newport Folk?”

Maren Morris has been embraced by the folk family over the years, but her place on its stages was certainly solidified this year. She joined many other artists in their sets throughout the weekend, an exceptional and soulful addition each time. Her own set at the Quad was electric, playing both her hits and songs off her now-days-old new album, Dreamsicle.

Margo Price’s smile beamed across the Fort Stage to thousands engaged by her dynamic and energetic performance. Price is a force. She’s kind, cool, and so gifted musically from singing, guitar, and even shredding on the drums at the evening’s close for Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” with Lukas Nelson and Stephen Wilson Jr. She’s a little too good to be true, and we’re all here for it.

The concluding headline set, titled “Songs for the People,” perfectly encapsulated the unspoken theme of the weekend: the power of togetherness and the good that can be achieved when people unite. It was a star-studded collaborative end to the festival facilitated by actor and folk performer John C. Riley, aka “Mister Romantic.”

Tracy Chapman’s music was featured prominently at the Newport Folk Festival through covers by other artists, particularly Luke Combs’ Saturday performance of “Fast Car” and Alynda Segarra of Hurray for the Riff Raff’s rendition of “Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution” on Sunday.

Amy Helm made a special appearance with a stunning performance of the Pointer Sisters’ “Yes We Can Can” alongside Trombone Shorty, Leslie Medleson, and some of her favorite musicians. “To walk out to that main stage at Newport Folk Festival is always an extra rush of adrenaline, taking a deep breath and doing my best to serve the song,” she said.

Helm noted the gravity of Mavis Staples’ presence at the Folk Festival in particular. Staples is a highly respected figure at the Newport Folk Festival for her immense contribution to music and social change, and with a history of performances dating back to 1964 with The Staple Singers. “I was a little nervous, but then I see Mavis, side stage, cheering me on and singing every word with me. Helm said that Staples stayed and supported every artist who performed. “Mavis Staples champions every musician there and lifts them up from the wings of the stage. And for that, my heart is full, my spirit restored.”

This bond between the Newport Folk family is palpable and runs in a current throughout the whole weekend. It’s what makes each year consistently special, the collective togetherness and shared love for both music and fellow humans.

DEHD