The Masonic in San Francisco was filled with musical legends on Thursday night, celebrating the renowned Emmylou Harris. The concert, titled “A Tribute to Emmylou Harris & 25 Years of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass,” featured an impressive lineup of artists including Joan Baez, Bonnie Raitt, Lucinda Williams, and many more.
Star-Studded Tribute Concert
This sold-out event took place in conjunction with the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival, which marks its 25th anniversary this year. The festival, running through Sunday, is a long-standing tradition founded by Warren Hellman in 2001. Emmylou Harris has been a consistent performer at the festival since its inception, and she will close this year’s event on Sunday at 5:30 p.m.
Highlights from the Evening
- The concert began at 8 p.m. and lasted approximately three hours.
- Artists performed songs associated with Harris, accompanied by a 10-piece house band.
- Sam Bush dedicated his performance to the memory of Warren Hellman, including a touching homage with Hellman’s jacket and banjo on stage.
The tribute served as a heartfelt thank you from organizers to Harris, acknowledging her 25 years of dedication to the festival. At 78, Harris’s career stretches back to the late 1960s, making her a beloved figure in country music.
Memorable Performances
Margo Price opened the show, expressing her admiration for Harris. The lineup continued with remarkable performances, including:
- Steve Earle paying tribute to both Harris and Gram Parsons.
- Joan Baez delivering a powerful rendition of “Hickory Wind.”
- Bonnie Raitt performing “I Don’t Wanna Talk About It Now.”
The concert fostered a sense of community among the artists, many of whom collaborated with Harris in the past. Allison Russell also honored Harris by covering “Red Dirt Girl,” while Lucinda Williams celebrated her with “Sweet Old World.”
Conclusion
The night culminated with all performers joining together for a final tribute, singing “Save the Last Dance,” celebrating the influence and legacy of Emmylou Harris. The concert not only showcased the talent of these artists but also underscored the profound impact Harris has had on the music community. Fans and musicians alike left with a renewed appreciation for her contributions to the genre.
