Jackson Dean's “Head Full Of Noise” Tour Brings Country Gold To Chicago
In the heart of Chicago, Joe's on Weed St. became a nucleus for pure, soul-stirring country music as Jackson Dean's Head Full Of Noise Tour rolled into town. The night, rich with raw musical talent, began with performances from two noteworthy opening acts—Dee White and Mae Estes—each bringing their unique flavors to the mix and setting the stage for Dean's exhilarating performance.
Mae Estes, experiencing her first tour and her debut performance at Joe's, stepped onto the stage with a bright spark and infectious energy. With roots in Arkansas and musical influences that span the rich history of country music, Estes’ performance was a captivating mix of heart, honesty, and innovation. Sharing stories behind her journey to music, her songs conveyed authenticity and a deep connection to her roots, instantly grabbing the audience's attention and leaving a lasting impression.
Dee White, an Alabama native with a voice that reverberates with the echoes of country legends past, delivered a set that was both vibrant and introspective. Drawing on material that felt both fresh and nostalgic, White’s performance was a testament to his deep respect for the roots of country music, matched with a keen sense of where it’s heading. His latest album's songs resonated through Joe's, drawing the audience into a shared experience that felt like a second chance for those yearning for the pure essence of country. Highlighting his performance was the inviting warmth in White's presence, creating an intimate atmosphere even in a packed venue.
A highlight of the evening was when Dee White brought Mae Estes back to the stage to close out his set, a gesture that not only showcased their mutual respect but also their shared vision for the future of country music. Together, they captivated the audience with harmonies and melodies that echoed long after they exited the stage, a perfect setup for the night’s headliner.
The night's crescendo was Jackson Dean’s dynamic set. Returning for his second performance at Joe’s, Dean was no stranger to the stage’s charm and energy, bringing an intensity that matched his rising star. With custom wood-burned guitars in hand—a testament to his off-stage craftsmanship—Dean’s music blended traditional country soul with a modern edge. The reveal of new songs from his forthcoming album, alongside crowd favorites, created a set that was both intimate and explosive.
Kicking things off with GreenBroke, Dean instantly transformed the venue into a rodeo of raucous energy. It was like he threw a match into a box of dynamite and stood back to watch the fireworks, all with a smirk that said, you ain't seen nothing yet. Following up with Trailer Park, he didn't just run with the momentum; he sprinted like a thief with a newfound love for country gold.
It wasn't all about the energy bombs, though. When he belted out crowd favorites like Heavens To Betsy & Wings, Dean showcased his range, transitioning from the eye-of-the-storm calm to tornado-twisting fervor with the ease of a seasoned storm chaser. And when he took a detour from his own discography to cover 4 Non-Blondes’ What's Up, the crowd didn't just sing along; they owned the chorus like it was their personal anthem for existential questioning. Dean had them right where he wanted.
But let's talk about the moment when Dean brought the house down with Fearless. The song, a country chart-climber, turned Joe's on Weed St. into the kind of epic party you only see in music videos or particularly vivid dreams. It's the kind of performance that makes you wonder if Jackson Dean has a secret deal with the country music gods or if he's just that darn good. I'm leaning towards the latter.
In a surprising turn of events, Dean slowed things down with Superstitions, a track so soaked in emotion you could feel couples pulling each other closer. And let's just say, if his brother's first dance was anything like this performance, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. It was a testament to Dean's versatility, proving he can dial it back and still pack a punch straight to the feels. The performance of Superstitions brought a tender, communal moment, reminding everyone of the personal connections that music can forge.
Throughout the night, Dean peppered in teases of his upcoming 2024 album, each sneak-peek leaving the crowd more ravenous than a pack of wolves at a steak dinner. With every new tune, Dean seemed to say, you think this is good. Just wait. It's a bold strategy, setting the bar sky-high for the upcoming album, but if anyone can vault over expectations with room to spare, it's Jackson Dean.
Let’s not forget the man’s hobby-turned-signature: wood-burning. His custom-burned guitars aren't just instruments; they're artworks, showcasing a craftsmanship that parallels his musical genius. It's as if Dean decided that being a multi-instrumentalist and a lyrical savant wasn't enough; he had to throw skilled artisan into the mix, just for kicks.
In a high-energy collaboration, both Dee White and Mae Estes joined Dean for a rendition of The Band's The Weight, a moment that felt emblematic of the night's celebration of musical kinship. Closing out his set with the compelling Don't Come Lookin', Dean left the audience yearning for more, only to return with an encore performance of Sanctuary and then Dean let his hair down for the rollicking Red Light, sealing the night with a burst of energy that resonated long after the last note faded.
The Head Full Of Noise Tour stop at Joe's on Weed St. was more than a concert; it was a gathering that underscored the vibrant heart of country music—past, present, and future. With Jackson Dean at the helm, flanked by the talents of Dee White and Mae Estes, the evening was a stirring reminder of the power of storytelling through song. As Dean looks ahead to his tour with Lainey Wilson and international dates, it’s clear that 2024 could indeed be his year. Yet, for those fortunate to witness this night, the year of Jackson Dean has already begun, setting an indelible mark on the soul of Chicago's country music lovers.
For More on Jackson Dean Click Here
Jackson Dean Set-list
Greenbroke
Trailer Park
Don’t Take Much
Heavens To Betsy
Wings
Big Blue Sky
Train
49 Tons
What’s Up (4 Non-Blondes Cover)
Fearless
Talking To Backroads
Superstitions
Sweet Appalachia
Daddy Raised
1971
The Weight (The Band Cover) {W/ Dee White & Mae Estes}
Don’t Come Lookin’
——————————————-
Sanctuary
Red Light