When Country Comes to Wolf Trap

The gods (or possibly our programming department) have shown down on us and given us almost an entire week of some fantastic country beginning this Tuesday with Lyle Lovett, John Prine AND Emmylou Harris on Wednesday, then wrapping the weekend up with Mary Chapin Carpenter on Saturday and Alan Jackson on Sunday. In the off-chance you don't know much about any or all of these artists (which you should!), here are some highlights.

Lyle Lovett - Tues., August 14

Rather than being another one-hit wonder, Lyle Lovett is an artist who can be considered a "catalog artist," meaning that he's had many respectable hits across the span of his entire career. His career took a turn from traditional country with hits like "She's No Lady" that incorporated more gospel and R&B sounds into his repertoire (see below), but country fans of all ages always have and always will appreciate his original and unique sound. Be sure not to miss this night of acoustic renditions spanning his entire career!

John Prine / Emmylou Harris - Wed., August 15

This show really shouldn't even need to be talked about, but I'll go ahead anyway. Two legendary performers who are generally reserved for solo nights each are going to be at the Filene Center TOGETHER. It's essentially a buy one get one free concert of the best country and Americana out there. With 14 GRAMMY Awards between them and inductions into the Nashville Singers Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame (respectively), this is a night not to be missed.

Mary Chapin Carpenter - Sat., August 18

with Special Guest Loudon Wainwright III

If you know country at all, you know Mary Chapin Carpenter. We've all heard her bigger hits like "Shut Up and Kiss Me," "Passionate Kisses," and "Down at the Twist and Shout," and her die-hard fans know quite well that she hasn't slowed down since those larger hits. Her newest record, The Age of Miracles, takes her on a more personal journey through her music, but you can be rest assured her performance will captivate you with her wide array of tunes regardless of how well you know her.

Alan Jackson - Sun., August 19

with Special Guest Craig Campbell

Jackson is arguably one of the biggest names in country music and has been since his 1990 debut album that racked up 4 top 5 singles. I'm not really entirely certain this blog has the word capacity to list all of his No. 1 singles, but my personal favorites include "Drive (for Daddy Gene)," "Small Town Southern Man," and "Little Bitty." His performance is, unfortunately for many, sold out, but we do occasionally release some tickets here and there, so be sure to check in whenever you can!