There are some shows that are so unique and special that they reach into your soul and stick with you forever. The Last Waltz managed to do just that. History was made at the magnificent Saenger Theatre in New Orleans last night with a heavy supergroup comprised of Warren Haynes (Musical Director, Guitar), John Medeski (Keys), Jamey Johnson (Guitar), George Porter Jr. (Bass), Dave Malone (Guitar), Don Was (Bass), Terence Higgins (Drums), Marc Mullins (Horns), plus special surprise guests Cyril Neville, Ivan Neville, Lukas Nelson, Bob Margolin, and Michael McDonald. This all-star lineup gathered to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Last Waltz, The Band’s landmark, guest-filled final show at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco in 1976 which was later released as a renowned concert film directed by Martin Scorsese. Last night’s recreation also served as a tribute to late NOLA legend Allen Toussaint, who arranged the original Last Waltz horn section. Needless to say, the musical experience cultivated on stage was truly magical, and a proper homage to some of the most influential musicians of all time.
Looking back at the original Last Waltz lineup, the sheer quantity of legends on one stage is just outrageous. Bob Dylan, Paul Butterfield, Neil Young, Emmylou Harris, Ringo Starr, Ronnie Hawkins, Dr. John, Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison, Muddy Waters, Ronnie Wood, Neil Diamond, Bobby Charles, The Staples, and Eric Clapton all joined The Band to bid them farewell. The show was produced by Bill Graham and ran for more than five hours. It is still considered one of the most important concerts in history.
Now, nearly forty years later, some of today’s musical greats joined forces to recreate the legendary experience, and they did so to perfection. It was so true to the original that at times if you closed your eyes, you could see The Band. Medeski slayed the keys and really carried the band the entire time. Haynes was spectacular throughout the performance. Haynes, Johnson and McDonald all took turns on lead vocals, each bringing a different style.
The supergroup opened with “Up On Cripple Creek” with Johnson leading the charge on vocals, as fans of all ages and walks of life danced and sang along to the classic tune.
The explosive energy in the room carried on as the horn section joined on for another classic, “The Shape I’m In”, with McDonald taking lead vocals this time and filling the room with so much soul.
Cyril Neville, Ivan Neville and George Porter, Jr. joined on for “Who Do You Love” to bring some New Orleans flavor.
A beautiful rendition of “Georgia On My Mind” featured stunning vocals from Jamey Johnson and Michael McDonald, followed by a rocking “Ophelia”.
“The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” was undoubtedly a highlight, with Johnson’s deep soulful voice perfectly complementing the tune. “Down South In New Orleans” was naturally a crowd pleaser for guests in the Big Easy, with Malone on lead vocals joined by Porter and the Nevilles.
Muddy Waters’ guitar player, Bob Margolin, who appeared with the late blues legend in the original Last Waltz, made an appearance to perform Waters’ “Mannish Boy” on the anniversary of his death. It was an emotional moment for all.
“The Weight” was another powerful number, with Lukas Nelson and Ivan Neville aiding on vocals. Attendees throughout the room joined hands and embraced during Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young”, with many even moved to tears.
Haynes and Don Was did a superb job of coordinating this masterpiece of a show and cultivating a truly once in a lifetime experience for fans. The majestic and historic Saenger Theatre was the perfect backdrop to host such incredible talent for a perfectly executed tribute.Â
Setlist: The Last Waltz at the Saenger Theatre New Orleans 4/30/16
Up On Cripple Creek, Shape I’m In, Stage Fright, Georgia on my Mind, Who Do You Love, Down South in New Orleans, Ophelia, It Makes No Difference, Mystery Train, This Wheel’s on Fire, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Rag Mama Rag, Life is a Carnival, Helpless, King Harvest, Mannish Boy, Further on up the Road, Forever Young, Caravan, The Weight, I Shall Be Released
Encore: Don’t Do It
[Cover Photo via Cyril Neville’s Facebook]