Sturgill Simpson - Outside Lands 2024
Live Jam
Sturgill Simpson, now performing under the moniker Johnny Blue Skies, took to the stage at San Francisco’s Outside Lands Festival on August 11, marking his return to the spotlight after a three-year hiatus. The festival performance was highly anticipated as it was not only a comeback but also an introduction to his new musical direction from his eighth studio album, Passage du Desir.
In a notable shift, Simpson’s set featured just two new tracks from Passage du Desir: “If the Sun Never Rises Again” and “Right Kind of Dream.” The former made its world debut during the performance, showcasing a smoother, soulful sound contrasted with Simpson’s earlier, more raucous material. The latter, which had already made an appearance at a pre-festival club show, kept the energy high with its hard-charging rhythm.
Kicking off his headlining set with high-octane renditions of “Railroad of Sin” and “Brace for Impact,” Simpson immediately reminded fans of his dynamic stage presence and exceptional guitar skills. Sporting a shaggy moptop and Chuck Taylor sneakers, he effortlessly blended rock and country influences, delivering mean solos and a commanding performance.
The show wasn’t without its surprises. Mid-set, Simpson’s band, now featuring Robbie Crowell of Midland on organ, covered Procol Harum’s classic “A Whiter Shade of Pale.” Crowell’s organ performance was a highlight, complementing Simpson’s heartache-laden vocals.
The night also included a touching moment when Simpson spoke to the crowd, reflecting on the band’s history with Golden Gate Park and sharing a heartfelt message: “All of you have a big, bright light inside of you. Let that shit shine, all right?” It was a reminder of the personal and emotional connection Simpson fosters with his audience.
Earlier festival highlights included Kacey Musgraves’ surprise guest appearance during Sabrina Carpenter’s set on Night Two, where she performed a cover of “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” The Killers headlined the festival’s opening night.
Simpson’s Why Not? Tour is set to continue on September 14 in Los Angeles, with the tour running through November 23 and promising more of his evolving sound and introspective lyrics. For fans, the Outside Lands performance was a thrilling preview of what’s to come from this innovative artist under his new alias.