By BROOK STAAS
For The Reporter
In its 38th iteration, Farm Aid did more than just pay homage to America’s steadfast family farmers; it orchestrated an evening that will resonate in memory for years to come. Held at the Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, the grounds echoed the clarion calls of unity, nostalgia, and sublime musical artistry on Sept. 23.
The festival’s leaders, including Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Dave Matthews, and the ever-passionate Margo Price, managed to merge musical genius with unwavering dedication to the festival’s cause.
The concert boasted an eclectic array of performers, each contributing a unique flavor to the musical mosaic. From the evocative rhythms of Native Pride Productions and Wisdom Indian Dancers to the soulful tones of The Black Opry with Lori Rayne, and the raw energy of acts like Particle Kid and The String Cheese Incident. Alison Russell, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, and Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real further enriched the tapestry. Icons like Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros, The Jim Irsay Band spotlighting the vocal prowess of Ann Wilson of Heart, the indomitable Margo Price, the dynamic duo of Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds, and legends like John Mellencamp, Neil Young, and Willie Nelson & Family ensured an evening of unparalleled musical splendor.
Grateful Dead fans erupted from their seats as Bob Weir & Wolf Bros took the stage. The familiar chords of classics like “Truckin’” and “Dark Star” filled the air, and the venue was transformed leading Grateful Dead aficionados into a nostalgic trance, their signature twirls painting the aisles with vibrant hues.
Ann Wilson, joining forces with The Jim Irsay Band, rendered a forceful rendition of “Barracuda.”
John Mellencamp’s segment was electrifying. His soulful melodies such as “Small Town,” “Pink Houses,” and an emotive solo acoustic rendition of “Jack and Diane” brought the most harmonious chorus from the audience. Indeed, his show-stopping performance had a majority of attendees singing along, truly showcasing that Mellencamp aced it!
Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds created a serene ambiance, with their renditions of “So Damn Lucky,” “Crush,” and “Virginia in the Rain” captivating every attendee, ensuring absolute silence and rapt attention.
Neil Young’s poignant presence with his harmonica and guitar on “Are There Any More Real Cowboys?” and “Love Earth” remained indelible. Adding to the moments of camaraderie, Nathaniel Rateliff was spotted in the front pit, completely engrossed in Young’s magnetic act.
Bob Dylan’s unexpected appearance was nothing short of magical. As he strummed the first chords, attendees flew out of their seats, utterly awestruck by the iconic musician’s presence. With every note, he proved that age is but a number, delivering a truly captivating performance. The applause that followed was deafening, with countless hands coming together in heartfelt admiration.
Amid the galaxy of stars, Willie Nelson, with his emblematic style, delivered 18 of his time-honored hits. A performance both poignant and deeply rooted in the American fabric, it’s a testament to his enduring legacy. Those desiring a closer look at his repertoire can visit ReadTheReporter.com.
Outside the musical notes, the HOMEGROWN Concessions presented a gastronomic delight with family-farmed, organic foods. The HOMEGROWN Village was another highlight, fostering conversations and cementing a sense of community.
QuintRooms, the festival’s lodging partner, ensured that attendees had cozy stays, while part of the booking funds directly supported Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Youthmarket.
Embracing the digital age, the festival streamed for global fans, and SiriusXM enhanced the experience by hosting backstage interviews.
In essence, Farm Aid 2023 transcended the definition of a festival; it was a resonating movement with an age-old message: stand by our farmers, promote sustainable practices, and cherish the soil under our feet.
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Setlist for Willie Nelson & Family
- Whiskey River (Johnny Bush cover)
- Bloody Mary Morning
- I Never Cared for You
- Texas Flood (Larry Davis cover) (Lukas Nelson on lead vocals)
- Help Me Make It Through the Night (Kris Kristofferson cover) (with Waylon Payne)
- Die When I’m High (Halfway to Heaven) (Particle Kid cover) (Mikah Nelson on lead vocals)
- Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys
- Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground
- On the Road Again
- Always On My Mind
- Just Outside of Austin (Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real cover) (Lukas Nelson on lead vocals)
- Good Hearted Woman (Waylon Jennings cover)
- I Been to Georgia on a Fast Train (Billy Joe Shaver cover)
- Everything Is Bullshit (Particle Kid cover) (Mikah Nelson on lead vocals)
- Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die
- Write Your Own Songs (Willie Nelson & Kris Kristofferson cover)
- Will the Circle Be Unbroken / I’ll Fly Away (with Neil Young) (John Mellencamp, Dave… more )
- It’s Hard to Be Humble (Mac Davis cover) (with Neil Young) (John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Margo Price, Bob Weir and others)
Reporter photos by Nik Roberts