Stephen Wilson Jr. Starts An Extraordinary Chapter In His Musical Journey

Cover Photo By: J Colston

Embarking on his acoustic tour, Stephen Wilson Jr. transformed a cozy evening into an unforgettable journey of emotion, storytelling, and song at Schubas Tavern in Chicago, IL. The venerable venue, renowned for its intimate setting and exceptional acoustics, held an audience of less than 200 people. This gathering of souls was treated to a performance that transcended mere musical exhibition; it became a shared experience of human expression and connection.

Schubas Tavern, a Lakeview landmark, boasts over a century of history, initially serving as one of Schlitz Brewery’s elegant Tied Houses. Its rich heritage and intimate ambiance have made it one of the country’s most beloved small music venues. The authenticity of the space, combined with its reputation for fostering unforgettable performances, set the stage for an evening that would linger long in the hearts of those in attendance.

It was within these storied walls that Stephen Wilson Jr. made his Chicago & Tour headline debut, a sold-out show that underscored his growing prominence in the world of music. The audience, a blend of loyal followers and newfound fans, greeted him with a thunderous ovation, their enthusiasm palpable. From the moment he greeted the crowd to his heartfelt thank you, it was evident that this night was as significant for Wilson as it was for everyone in attendance.

“Chicago How In The Hell We Doing, Thank You For Being Here, Y’all Know How I Got Here”

Photo By: Brayln Kelly From The Nashville Show

Launching into his set with Calico Creek, the atmosphere turned electric, the room charged with the raw, emotive power of his music. a hush fell over the crowd, the haunting notes stirring an anticipation for the stories yet to be told. Wilson, hailing from southern Indiana, shared stories from his life with a humility and warmth that bridged any distance between the stage and the audience. His background as a scientist turned musician, coupled with humorous anecdotes about his upbringing, lent a relatable and endearing quality to his performance.

“These Songs Have Been Real Gifts To Me, They Have Shown Up When I Have Needed Them The Most”

Photo By: Brayln Kelly From The Nashville Show

As the night progressed, Wilson guided the audience through a sonic journey, each song a chapter in a larger narrative of love, loss, resilience, and redemption. His dedication of Cuckoo to the hardworking Americans in the audience resonated deeply, while his introspective introduction to Devil, his first recorded song, invited listeners into a reflective space, making the ensuing performance all the more poignant.

“Felt Like I Saw The Devil More Than God As A Kid”

Photo By: Brayln Kelly From The Nashville Show

The emotional zenith of the night was undoubtedly his performance of Grief Is Only Love from his debut album Son of Dad. The backstory of losing his father and the regret of not being there in his final moments added layers of sorrow and love to the song, drawing tears from many in the audience as Wilson Jr. told the crowd he said goodbye to his dad on an iPhone 8 on the side of a Kentucky highway.

Yet, amidst the moments of somber reflection, there were flashes of light and hope. Father's Son became a testament to enduring love and the indelible imprint left by those we've lost. His rendition of Something In The Way by Nirvana, woven seamlessly into his Year To Be Young 1994, showcased his versatility and deep musical influences.

“I Survived A lot Of Things As A Kid That I Probably Shouldn’t Have”

Photo By: Brayln Kelly From The Nashville Show

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments of the night came with Kid, a song born from a moment of vulnerability and bravery shared between Wilson and his stepson. It underscored the theme of the evening: that amidst the trials and tribulations of life, there is hope, love, and resilience. This moment underscored the power of music as a conduit for empathy, understanding, and social commentary. Meanwhile, Hometown and Holler From The Holler were celebratory anthems of self-discovery and defiant individuality.

The encore was a profound expression of gratitude and connection, with Wilson sharing insights into his upcoming album and honoring his late father and grandfather through song. Each note of I'm A Song, Twisted, All The Wars From Now On, and The Beginning resonated with an audience hanging on every word and melody.

“Me And God are Good, God Is Good. I Grew Up Seeing The Devil, But I Saw God Too. ‘Cause God Is Good, Life Is Twisted”

Stephen Wilson Jr.'s performance at Schubas Tavern was more than a concert; it was a shared experience of collective catharsis, a celebration of music's power to articulate the inexpressible. In a world where moments of genuine connection are rare treasures, Wilson and his audience found something magical within the hallowed walls of this Chicago landmark. This night at Schubas Tavern, in the heart of Lakeview, will undoubtedly be remembered as the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in Stephen Wilson Jr.'s ascending musical journey.

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Stephen Wilson Jr. Set List

Calico Creek

Billy

Cuckoo

Devil

Grief Is Only Love

Patches

Fathers Son

Something In The Way (Nirvana Cover)

Year To Be Young 1994

Kid

Hometown

Holler From The Holler

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I’m A Song (Dedicated To His Dad)

Twisted

All The Wars From Now On (Dedicated To His Grandpa)

The Beginning