John Mellencamp, a name synonymous with heartland rock and poignant storytelling, recently brought his “Live and In Person” tour to the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee for a highly anticipated two-night engagement. Despite a rescheduled date, the enthusiasm from the near-sold-out crowd was palpable, proving yet again the enduring appeal of this American music icon. For fans eager to experience the raw energy and timeless hits of John Mellencamp live, this concert was a powerful reminder of his lasting impact on the landscape of rock and roll.
The evening began unconventionally, foregoing a traditional opening act in favor of a 30-minute montage of classic movie clips presented by Turner Classic Movies, the tour’s sponsor. While intended to set a mood, the extended reel tested the audience’s patience, with murmurs of anticipation for John Mellencamp himself growing louder. However, the moment the lights dimmed, replaced by a dramatic wash of red and the wail of sirens, any previous impatience evaporated. The crowd surged to their feet, ready to be swept away by the performance they had been waiting for.
John Mellencamp launched into a career-spanning set that stretched over two hours, opening with the deep cut “John Cockers” from his 2008 album, “Life, Death, Love and Freedom.” This choice immediately signaled that this wouldn’t be just a predictable hits parade, but a journey through the breadth of his musical catalog. The familiar chords of “Paper and Fire,” “Minutes to Memories,” “Smalltown,” “Human Wheels,” “Jackie Brown,” and “Check it Out” quickly followed, each song met with enthusiastic cheers and singalongs. The seamless transition from one classic to another showcased John Mellencamp‘s mastery of crafting anthems that resonate across generations.
Seven songs into the set, John Mellencamp shifted gears, dismissing his band for a more intimate segment. This interlude highlighted his storytelling prowess and provided a platform to introduce a new song from his recently released album, “Orpheus Descending.” Before delving into “The Eyes of Portland,” John Mellencamp recounted a story from Portland, Oregon, about encountering a homeless woman. Whether entirely factual or embellished for effect, the anecdote served as a poignant introduction to the song’s powerful narrative about homelessness in America. The lyrics, stark and unflinching, underscored John Mellencamp‘s long-standing commitment to social commentary:
“All of these homeless, where do they come from?
In this land of the plenty where nothing gets done.
To help those who are empty and unable to run
Your tears and prayers won’t help the homeless.”
This moment underscored John Mellencamp’s role not just as a musician, but as an advocate for the marginalized. His activism, famously exemplified by the creation of Farm Aid with Willie Nelson and Neil Young, which has raised over $70 million for family farms, extends to numerous other causes, including the Boys & Girls Club of America and Special Olympics. This dedication to making a tangible difference further solidifies John Mellencamp’s reputation as an artist who uses his platform for good.
Another story followed, this time a humorous yet heartfelt reflection on aging and priorities, sparked by a memory of his grandmother. This led into a performance of “Longest Days,” a song that perfectly encapsulates the sentiment of cherishing life’s important moments. The acoustic set continued with a singalong of “Jack & Diane,” albeit with a playful interruption from John Mellencamp when the audience rushed through the second verse – a verse he famously spent considerable time crafting. This lighthearted moment further endeared him to the crowd, showcasing his authenticity and connection with his fans.
Reflecting on John Mellencamp‘s extensive discography, it’s easy to forget the sheer volume of his work – 37 albums in 45 years, a testament to his relentless creativity. Even at 71, his passion for music remains undiminished. Following “Jack & Diane,” John Mellencamp briefly exited the stage, leaving violinist Lisa Germano and accordion player Troye Kinnett to accompany a recording of Joanne Woodward reciting the lyrics to “The Real Life.” This poignant tribute added a layer of emotional depth to the performance, honoring both his artistic collaborators and personal connections.
The full band, including longtime guitarists Mike Wanchic and Andy York, bassist John Gunnell, and drummer Dane Clark, returned to the stage for a final surge of energy, delivering a hit-packed conclusion to the evening. Songs like “Rain on the Scarecrow,” “Lonely Ol’ Night,” “What If I Came Knocking?”, “Crumblin’ Down / Gloria,” “Pink Houses,” “Cherry Bomb,” and “Hurts So Good” had the audience on their feet, dancing and singing along with unrestrained enthusiasm.
While time may be etched on his face and voice, the spark of youthful rebellion still flickers in John Mellencamp’s eyes. He commanded the stage with a confident swagger, connecting with fans throughout the theater. Dismissing a heckler’s outdated “has-been” comment, the reviewer rightly asserts John Mellencamp‘s enduring relevance. His music continues to resonate, tackling timeless themes and reflecting the ongoing struggles of everyday people.
True to form, John Mellencamp eschewed the predictable encore, a refreshing move that underscores his commitment to doing things his way. This Milwaukee performance was a powerful testament to the enduring artistry of John Mellencamp. He remains a vital voice in American music, consistently delivering authentic and engaging live experiences. For those seeking a night of classic rock, heartfelt storytelling, and a reminder of music’s power to connect, a John Mellencamp concert is an essential experience.
For tour dates and more information, visit https://www.mellencamp.com/tour.
Setlist:
John Cockers
Paper and Fire
Minutes to Memories
Smalltown
Human Wheels
Jackie Brown
Check It Out
The Eyes of Portland
Longest Days
Jack & Diane
The Real Life (Joann Woodward reading)
Rain on the Scarecrow
Lonely Ol’ Night
What If I Came Knocking?
Crumblin’ Down / Gloria
Pink Houses
Cherry Bomb
Hurts So Good
