The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (NGDB) has been making music for decades, and their Farewell Tour is a perfect opportunity to reflect on their incredible catalog of songs. As a long-time observer of the music scene, and particularly a fan of bands that bridge genres, attending their farewell tour show was a must. For someone who appreciates music with depth and history, the NGDB’s performance was a memorable experience, highlighting why their songs have resonated with audiences for generations.
Formed in 1966 in Long Beach, California, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band initially carved a niche for themselves in the realm of Americana. From 1978 to 1983, they extensively toured as an Americana band, solidifying their reputation for authentic, roots-based music.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band performing live, showcasing their Americana roots
In 1983, a shift occurred as the band leaned more overtly into country music. This transition was marked by the release of singles like “Shot Full of Love” and “Dance Little Jean,” demonstrating their versatility and appeal across different musical landscapes. To many, including myself, their sound has always contained elements of country, especially considering how broadly the genre has evolved to embrace diverse sounds today.
The current lineup of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, since 2018, features a blend of seasoned members and family ties. Jeff Hanna, along with his son Jaime Hanna, both contribute guitars and vocals. Jimmie Fadden brings his talents on drums, harmonica, and vocals. Bob Carpenter handles keyboards, accordion, and vocals, while Ross Holmes adds fiddle, mandolin, and vocals to the mix. Jim Photoglo rounds out the instrumentation on bass guitar and vocals. This ensemble delivers the classic Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Songs with both precision and passion.
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band current lineup on stage during their Farewell Tour
The opening night of the Farewell Tour was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of their musical journey. The setlist was packed with beloved Nitty Gritty Dirt Band songs, including hits like “Mr. Bojangles,” “Cadillac Ranch,” and “An American Dream.” Of course, no NGDB concert would be complete without “Fishin’ in the Dark,” a song that has become an anthem and is widely covered by artists across genres. Adding to the excitement of the evening, surprise guests Larkin Poe and Emmylou Harris joined the band on stage, creating truly unique moments.
Adding another layer of depth to the tour’s opening, the preceding Thursday night featured “Wine, Women, and Song,” a songwriters’ round with Matraca Berg (Jeff Hannah’s wife), Suzy Bogguss, and Gretchen Peters. These accomplished songwriters performed hits they had penned, offering a special glimpse into the stories behind some well-known songs and setting the stage perfectly for the NGDB’s retrospective tour.
Wine, Women, and Song – Matraca Berg, Suzy Bogguss, and Gretchen Peters performing their hits
One of the standout collaborations of the evening was Emmylou Harris lending her iconic vocals to “Oh Cumberland.” Larkin Poe, who have previously collaborated with NGDB on recordings, also joined the band and Emmylou Harris for a rendition of “The Pain of Loving You,” showcasing the interconnectedness of musical generations and styles. Bob Carpenter took the lead on “God Bless The Broken Road,” a song co-written by Jeff Hanna with Marcus Hummon and Robert Boyd, which became a massive hit for Rascal Flatts, highlighting NGDB’s influence extending beyond their own discography.
Emmylou Harris and Larkin Poe performing with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band as special guests
For harmonica enthusiasts, a high point was undoubtedly “Bayou Jubilee/ Orange Blossom Special.” This energetic medley featured Jimmy Fadden’s exceptional harmonica skills, played simultaneously with his drumming – a feat that remains impressive to witness. These instrumental showcases are integral to the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band songbook, adding dynamic energy to their live performances.
During the encore, Larkin Poe returned to perform “I Shall Be Released,” a song they had recorded with NGDB for the album Dirt Does Dylan. The finale brought everyone back on stage for a communal performance of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken.” With all artists taking turns on the verses, it was a powerful and fitting conclusion to a night celebrating the legacy of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band songs and their enduring impact on music.
The ensemble cast of musicians on stage for the final song of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Farewell Tour
“‘All The Good Times’ perfectly describes our career,” the band stated, encapsulating their journey. “Playing our music for Dirt Band fans worldwide has been an incredible experience for us. The most important part of that has been the connection to our audience—that beautiful communal give and take is like nothing else. That’s the very spirit we’ll be celebrating as we head into our farewell tour. We’re really looking forward to seeing you folks. Good times will be had by all!”
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Farewell Tour extends into 2025, with Brit Taylor joining as a special guest opener. Fans can stay connected with the band and find tour dates on their website and across social media platforms including Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as all major streaming services to enjoy their extensive catalog of songs.
