Folk Heritage Series: Steve Forbert Duo

Steve Forbert is a true American musical treasure, a truth underscored by his acclaimed new album Daylight Savings Time. Like all his albums, it’s infused with what rock critic Robert Christgau called his “omnivorously observant” songwriting—songs that find poetry and depth in the rhythms of everyday life, brought to life through Steve’s unmistakable voice and melodic brilliance.

“Like Warren Zevon, Gram Parsons, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Bruce Springsteen, Steve Forbert has left his unmistakable imprint on the landscape of American music,” notes American Songwriter. His music speaks genuinely to listeners—intimate, heartfelt, and deeply human.

As he approaches his 70th birthday, Daylight Savings Time reflects on resilience, gratitude, and the small joys that light our days. “Yeah, to chirping crickets and to daylight savings time!” he sings on the album’s first single, Sound Existence.“The best ain’t yet to come, but you could still get by just fine.”

Produced by longtime collaborator Steve Greenwell, the album features Aaron Comess (Spin Doctors) on drums, Rob Clores (The Black Crowes, Jesse Malin) on keys, Byron House (Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash) on bass, and Gurf Morlix (Lucinda Williams) on guitar—a testament to the caliber of artistry surrounding Forbert’s work.

Steve’s journey began in 1976 when he left Meridian, Mississippi for New York City, where he became a leading voice in the “new folk” revival, performing at legendary clubs like Folk City and The Bitter End, while also gracing the stage at CBGB during the height of the punk era. His first major label release, Alive on Arrival (1978), was followed by Jackrabbit Slim (1979), featuring his classic hit “Romeo’s Tune,” which reached #11 on the pop charts and remains a staple of American radio.

Over four decades and 20 studio albums later, Forbert continues to create, perform, and connect with audiences worldwide. His Grammy-nominated tribute Any Old Time honored fellow Meridian native Jimmie Rodgers, while his 2020 release Early Morning Rain paid homage to songwriters who shaped his craft.

SAMPLE SONG

Venerable Milwaukee promoter Peter Jest perhaps said it best:

“His ability to craft songs that capture the essence of the human spirit is nothing short of remarkable. His voice is a beacon of authenticity in a world saturated with noise.”

Don’t miss this evening with one of America’s most enduring and beloved songsmiths.

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Singer Songwriter