A Heartfelt Evening with Edwin McCain at North Shore Center: A Touching Performance Following the Release of Lucky

In the world of music, there are artists whose work transcends time, touching hearts and bringing audiences together in shared emotion. Edwin McCain is one such artist, and his recent performance at the North Shore Center in Skokie, IL, was nothing short of magical. With a career spanning over three decades, Edwin McCain has long been cherished for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies. His concert at this intimate venue offered fans an opportunity to experience his music up close and personal, creating an evening filled with nostalgia, laughter, and genuine connection.

The North Shore Center in Skokie, IL, is an ideal setting for such an event, with its capacity to host just under 900 fans. This intimate space offers a unique listening experience, thanks to its superb acoustics. Opened in 1996 and located just 30 minutes from Chicago's Loop, the theater ensures that no seat is more than 80 feet from the stage, allowing everyone in attendance to feel intimately connected to the performers.

All Photos By: Aaron R. Shriver

The evening began with an engaging opening act by Melissa Ann, a talented singer-songwriter hailing from the Chicagoland area. As the lead vocalist and frontwoman of the band Renegade Wildflower, Melissa Ann brings a depth of emotion to her music that is both raw and compelling. Her seven-song set showcased her original compositions, which she noted was a refreshing change from the southern rock covers her band usually performs.

“Writing songs is our opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless. Say something for someone else, that they may not be able to say for themselves through a song.”

Songs like Never Say Never, The Other Side, and Return To Me resonated with the audience, drawing them into her world. A standout moment in her performance was Country Line Wild Flower, a song about her parents' struggle to keep track of her adventurous spirit. Melissa closed her set with the emotional Rescue and a heartfelt cover of Ashley McBryde's Girl Going Nowhere, leaving the crowd in awe of her talent and storytelling prowess.

Click The Image For The Full Melissa Ann Gallery

As the lights dimmed, Edwin McCain took the stage with longtime band members Larry Chaney on guitar and Craig Shields on saxophone and keyboard. With over 20 years of collaboration, their chemistry was evident from the first note. Just days before the concert, McCain released his first album of new music in 15 years, titled Lucky. Produced by country hitmaker Lee Brice, the album's fresh tracks added excitement to the evening.

 Kicking off the show with Lucky All The Time, co-written by Old Dominion and featuring Matthew Ramsey, Edwin set the tone for a night of sing-alongs and heartfelt moments. The audience eagerly joined in as he transitioned to Could Not Ask For More, a classic written by Diane Warren. Edwin humorously dedicated the song to the men on dates, who talked a big game. He thought he would get the song out of the way for them.

Returning to his new album, Edwin performed Walk With You, a touching song about his 15-year-old daughter. In true Edwin style, he shared a humorous anecdote about potentially naming his daughter Cole Ann. (Just say it like an immature High School boy) The set continued with Kool Miles, a catchy tune that kept the energy high, followed by a reimagined version of Promise Of You, inspired by a YouTube cover from an artist in Poland. His only cover of the night, Axis, Bold As Love by Jimi Hendrix, was a tribute to a former Chicago band member, Kay Smith. Kay passed during Covid and his brothers were in the audience, adding a poignant touch to the performance.

As the evening unfolded, Edwin took the crowd on a journey through his extensive catalog, including a trip back to 1995 with Solitude, a fan favorite from his album Honor Among Thieves. He continued with Take Me and I Want It All, songs that highlight his lyrical depth and ability to connect with listeners on a personal level.

A humorous interaction with an audience member requesting I'll Be prompted Edwin to joke about the song's significance as his most recognizable hit. As the fan yelled out for the song Edwin replied, “You’re ready to leave, huh” As he performed the iconic 1996 track, he stepped away from the microphone, allowing the nearly sold-out crowd to join in harmony. The energy in the room was palpable, a testament to the song's lasting impact.

“Thank God for that song, cause I was close to being your favorite pizza delivery guy”

Edwin's storytelling prowess shone through with 3 AM, a song he wrote at just 17 years old, capturing the essence of youthful ambition and resilience. He returned to his new album with When It Does, a poignant reflection on parenthood and the question, Did I teach them all the things? The set concluded with One Thing Left To Do, leaving the audience longing for more.

Amidst cheers and chants, Edwin returned for an encore, expressing gratitude for his 35-year career and the opportunity to continue doing what he loves. He closed the night with Gramercy Park Hotel, a fitting end to an evening filled with warmth, laughter, and shared memories.

Click The Image For The Full Edwin McCain Gallery

Edwin McCain's performance at the North Shore Center was a reminder of the power of music to connect us to each other and to moments that define our lives. For those who have yet to experience his live show, Edwin McCain is undoubtedly a must-see artist. Fans can look forward to his return with Train at Ravinia on August 2nd, promising another unforgettable night of music and emotion.

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Edwin McCain Set-List:

Lucky All The Time

I Could Not Ask For More

Walk With You

Cool Miles

Promise Of You

Axis, Bold as Love (Jimi Hendrix Cover)

Holy City

Solitude

Take Me

I Want It All

I’ll Be

When It Does

One Thing Left To Do

Encore:

Gramercy Park Hotel