Key Highlights
- Surprise appearance by Mavis Staples at Newport Folk Festival
- Hozier celebrates a decade since his first festival performance
- Joan Baez leads an acoustic rendition of ‘We Shall Overcome’
(livesinsight.com) – The Newport Folk Festival has a rich history of bringing together legendary artists and creating unforgettable musical moments. This year’s festival was no exception, as fans were treated to a surprise appearance by Mavis Staples during Hozier’s headlining set. The crowd’s excitement was palpable as Staples, not originally on the bill, took the stage to lead an ensemble sing-along of ‘The Weight,’ a song that has become a staple (pun intended) of the festival. The performance was a fitting homage to the festival’s legacy and a powerful reminder of music’s ability to unite people across generations and backgrounds.
Newport Folk Festival: A Historic Gathering
The Newport Folk Festival, now in its 65th year, has long been a revered event in the music world. Known for its rich history of iconic performances and groundbreaking moments, the festival has played a pivotal role in shaping the folk music landscape. This year’s festival continued that tradition, bringing together a diverse lineup of artists and creating memorable experiences for attendees.
One of the most anticipated moments of the festival was Hozier’s headlining set on Friday evening. Celebrating a decade since his first appearance at the festival, Hozier delivered a powerful performance that was both a reflection on his journey as an artist and a celebration of the festival’s enduring legacy. The Irish singer, who first performed at the Newport Folk Festival in 2014, has since become a global sensation, known for his soulful voice and poignant lyrics.
As Hozier took the stage, the crowd was already buzzing with excitement. But the energy reached new heights when Mavis Staples made a surprise appearance. Staples, a legendary figure in the music world, is no stranger to the Newport Folk Festival. Her performances at the festival, including a star-studded headlining set in 2014 to celebrate her 75th birthday, have become iconic moments in the festival’s history.
The Weight: A Timeless Classic
When Mavis Staples joined Hozier on stage to lead the crowd in a rendition of ‘The Weight,’ the atmosphere was electric. The song, originally by The Band, has become a timeless classic and a favorite at the Newport Folk Festival. Staples was joined on stage by a slew of singers, including Joan Baez, Nathaniel Rateliff, Madison Cunningham, Allison Russell, and more. The ensemble traded verses, creating a joyful and harmonious rendition of the song that resonated deeply with the audience.
For Hozier, this moment was particularly special. A decade earlier, at the 2014 Newport Folk Festival, he had met Mavis Staples for the first time. That meeting led to their 2019 collaboration ‘Nina Cried Power,’ a powerful song that pays tribute to civil rights activists and musicians who have used their voices to inspire change. Reflecting on that journey and sharing the stage with Staples once again was a full-circle moment for the Irish singer.
The performance of ‘The Weight’ also marked a significant milestone for the Newport Folk Festival itself. 2024 will not only mark 10 years since Staples’ memorable 75th birthday performance but also 60 years since The Staple Singers first graced the festival’s stage in 1964. This continuity and celebration of musical heritage are what make the Newport Folk Festival such a beloved institution.
Joan Baez’s Poetic Presence
Joan Baez, another legendary figure in the folk music world, added her own unique touch to this year’s Newport Folk Festival. Officially at the festival to give a poetry reading, Baez’s presence was a testament to her enduring influence and the deep connections she has with the festival and its audience. Known for her powerful voice and commitment to social justice, Baez has been a central figure in the folk music scene for decades.
Baez’s contributions to this year’s festival went beyond her scheduled poetry reading. She joined Mavis Staples and the ensemble on stage for the rendition of ‘The Weight,’ adding her iconic voice to the mix. The crowd was thrilled to see Baez in such a collaborative and celebratory setting, and her presence added an extra layer of significance to the performance.
As the festival drew to a close, Baez led the crowd through an acoustic rendition of ‘We Shall Overcome.’ This song, with its deep roots in the civil rights movement, has long been associated with Baez and her dedication to social justice. Trading verses with Kaia Kater and William Prince, Baez’s performance was a poignant and powerful end to the festival. The crowd sang along, creating a collective moment of reflection and hope that encapsulated the spirit of the Newport Folk Festival.
Hozier’s Decade of Growth
For Hozier, this year’s Newport Folk Festival was a significant milestone in his career. A decade ago, the Irish singer-songwriter made his first appearance at the festival, just months before the release of his debut album. Since then, Hozier has grown into a global phenomenon, known for his soulful voice, emotive performances, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Reflecting on his journey, Hozier’s headlining set was both a celebration of his achievements and a tribute to the festival that played a pivotal role in his career. The set included a duet with Allison Russell on his 2015 song ‘Work Song’ and a performance of his current hit ‘Too Sweet.’ Each song was met with enthusiastic applause, as the audience celebrated Hozier’s musical journey and the impact he has had over the past decade.
The highlight of Hozier’s set, however, was undoubtedly the surprise appearance of Mavis Staples and the ensemble performance of ‘The Weight.’ This moment encapsulated the spirit of the Newport Folk Festival, bringing together artists from different generations and backgrounds to create a powerful and memorable musical experience.
The Future of Newport Folk Festival
As the Newport Folk Festival celebrated its 65th anniversary, it was clear that the event continues to be a vital and influential force in the music world. The festival’s ability to bring together legendary artists and create unforgettable moments speaks to its enduring legacy and cultural significance.
This year’s festival was a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire. From Mavis Staples’ surprise appearance to Joan Baez’s poignant performance, the festival was filled with moments that resonated deeply with attendees. These performances, along with the diverse lineup of artists, highlighted the festival’s commitment to celebrating musical heritage while also embracing new voices and perspectives.
Looking ahead, the Newport Folk Festival is poised to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation. As it enters its next chapter, the festival will undoubtedly continue to be a platform for both established and emerging artists, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for music. The legacy of the Newport Folk Festival is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to the transformative power of music.