Folk Music Came Alive At The Salt Shed with Willie Watson & Old Crow Medicine Show
Music enthusiasts came from all over to join in a night of pure magic at the famed The Salt Shed in Chicago. Hosting an eclectic evening of folk music by none other than Willie Watson and the iconic Old Crow Medicine Show, the newly revamped concert venue proved why it's fast becoming a Chicago favorite.
Photos From Salt Shed’s Website
Nestled on the bustling street corners of Chicago, 'The Salt Shed', an architectural masterpiece and a prominent musical venue, has been privy to countless soul-stirring performances since its renovation in 2021. Having once been home to the Morton Salt Company through the 20th century till 2015, the landmark has since undergone a thoughtful renovation to emerge as the live music and community events destination. Known for its vast indoor-outdoor setup and revered by the city dwellers for its harmonious fusion of history, architectural charm, and musical vitality, The Salt Shed hosted a pulsating musical event that will be etched in the annals of the city's vibrant concert history. On a nippy fall evening, the resounding strains of bluegrass and folk permeated the chilly Chicago air, emanating from the Grammy-winning 'Old Crow Medicine Show's vibrant Jubilee tour.
Photos From Salt Shed’s Website
From salt storage to supporting lively beats, the change couldn’t have been more extraordinary. Each beat that pulsed through the refurbished brickwork told a story; each rhythm in the wind danced alongside the historical Morton Salt sign featuring the famous Umbrella Girl, the rooftop sign being a distinct echo of the past.
All Photo’s By: Nashville Is His Bride
Willie Watson was first to command the 4000-person venue, enchanting the crowd with his seasoned artistry and exceptional storytelling skills. Known for his interpretations of old songs and vibrant catalog, Willie showcased a range of songs that harmonized the present with the past beautifully. An exceptional songwriter himself, Willie dedicated a charming original to the Chicago crowd. One about Betting on a horse, then tugging at their heartstrings with the first love song he wrote for his wife. These powerful lyrics took everyone present on a moving journey, encompassing his feelings in a package of emotion.
Click The Image For The Full Willie Watson Gallery
Watson, previously part & founding member of the Old Crow Medicine Show, has shown tremendous growth since going solo. His unique take on Delta blues, Southern gospel, Appalachian music, and other forms have been loved by audiences. The powerful collaboration on stage with Special Guest Sami Braman created a moment to be cherished. There was a palpable aura as their voices harmonized and strung-out notes of unforgettable melodies. Watson, being a singer, a traveler, a storyteller, with every performance he presents his heart on a stage and becomes the modern keeper of the flame.
After an enrapturing set by Watson, Old Crow Medicine Show brought a new wave of energy into the hall. The much-awaited band's stage presence ignited a certain fervor within the nearly packed room as they debuted at The Salt Shed. Celebrating nearly two decades in the music industry, they captivated everyone with their enchanting old-time string band tunes. From being teenage musicians crossing borders and performing at downtown street corners to their platinum-selling albums which triggered the 21st-century folk revival, they showed everyone just why they're at the forefront of the music scene.
Despite multiple Grammy nominations and acclaimed album releases under their belt, Old Crow Medicine Show exuded an unparalleled charisma, their dedication to music seeming unfettered by fame. Tracing their roots to the late 1990s and preserving their commitment to traditional folk, blues, and country music, Old Crow showcased a significant journey spanning over two decades. Whether it was the profoundly expressive performances or the shared laughter and memories, the jubilant Chicago crowd was indeed treated to an authentic and immersive music experience that was both enchanting and edifying.
Bringing down the house with their commanding performance, Old Crow Medicine Show repeatedly expressed their excitement at being back in the vibrant city of Chicago. Their powerful lineup, fast-paced beats, and engaging interactions gave an added zest to the chilly Chicago evening.
Each member of Old Crow Medicine Show made a resounding contribution to the lively atmosphere, their familiar banjo notes echoing beautifully in the structure. Their music seems to reach deep into your soul and resonate in your heart, something the band attributes to the beautiful influence of their life’s journey. As you listened, you could truly experience a story, a journey being shared, showcasing a shared tradition in folk music, sharing, and swapping of old songs that they carry with such fervor.
Having seen The Salt Shed transform from a conveyor-belt-lined salt hub into a beautiful music venue with retained historic features such as Chicago brick, salt elevators, and metal warehouse doors is itself a fascinating tale. However, adding to that the narrative of two amazing folk performers – the former and co-founding Old Crow member Willie Watson, along with the iconic Old Crow Medicine Show itself, that’s a rich night of storytelling. Whether you heard the venue’s architecture echoing its industrious past, Watson’s love song or the vivacious strains from Old Crow Medicine Show, you went home rich with stories. Chicago had been gifted a memorable night that united both the present and the past.
Click The Image For The Full Old Crow Medicine Show Gallery
Old Crow Medicine Show Set-List
Cocaine Habit / Tell It to Me
Alabama High-Test
Cockfight / Proud Mary / Carry Me Back
Lord Willing/Great Ball of Fire
Take 'Em Away
Dixie Avenue
Slewfoot
Old Hickory
Chi Town Gals / 8 Dogs 8 Banjos
Jubilee Jones
Louder Than Guns
Sixteen Tons (Merle Travis cover)
C C Rider Blues ('Ma' Rainey & Her Georgia Jazz Band cover)
Wolfman of the Ozarks / Sweet Home Chicago
Margaritaville (Jimmy Buffett cover)
One Drop
Down Home Girl (Alvin Robinson cover)
Fall on My Knees / Tear It Down
Miles Away
Angel From Montgomery (John Prine cover)
Wagon Wheel
Encore:
Union Maid
The Weight
I Saw the Light (Hank Williams cover)
