Festival Review: Day 1 of the 65th Newport Folk Festival
The 65th edition of the Newport Folk Festival kicked off with an unforgettable Day 1, honoring the storied history of this legendary event.
Gary Alpert
— 3 min read
The festival, a sold-out celebration, sprawled across five stages teeming with music and discussions, showcasing the incredible diversity and collaborative spirit that Newport is famed for.
As the festival grounds buzzed with excitement, past performers mingled with the crowd, adding a layer of nostalgia and reverence. Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, The Backseat Lovers, and The Ballroom Thieves were among the familiar faces spotted enjoying the day's offerings.
The music started strong with a soulful performance by William Prince, whose rich baritone and heartfelt lyrics set a high bar for the day. Following him, the band Wednesday brought their unique blend of alternative and indie sounds, captivating the audience with their raw energy and compelling storytelling.
MUNA's electrifying set was a standout, their vibrant pop-rock sound energizing the crowd. Molly Tuttle, with her virtuosic guitar skills and engaging stage presence, further demonstrated why she is one of the leading lights in contemporary bluegrass. Allison Russell's performance was a poignant highlight, her powerful voice and evocative songs touching the hearts of all who listened.
The day was punctuated by a surprise unannounced set from Beck, who delivered an eclectic mix of hits and deep cuts, much to the delight of festival-goers. His unexpected appearance epitomized the unpredictable magic of Newport, where surprises are always around the corner.
As the sun began to set, Hozier took to the stage to close out the night. His hauntingly beautiful performance reached a peak when, during his song "Too Sweet," folk legend Joan Baez danced her way onto the stage, adding a touch of historical gravitas and joy to the moment. The first encore featured a star-studded rendition of "The Weight," with Hozier bringing out Mavis Staples, Joan Baez, Nathaniel Rateliff, Madison Cunningham, and Allison Russell. This remarkable collaboration had the audience singing along in unison, embodying the communal spirit of the festival.
The night concluded with a powerful and moving performance of "We Shall Overcome," featuring many of the day's performers. This iconic anthem, with its deep roots in the history of Newport Folk Festival, served as a fitting end to a day filled with extraordinary music and unforgettable moments.
The magic of Newport Folk Festival lies in these incredible collaborations between artists, creating moments of pure musical alchemy. As we look forward to Days 2 and 3, anticipation is high. Who will take the stage next? You'll have to wait and see!
