New England Folk and Roots Music Publication

New England Folk and Roots Music Publication

Music Features

Navigating Newport 2022

Ken Templeton

Every year, the Newport lineup is so stacked and first-timers think they might actually see all of those amazing acts. Then, the schedule is announced and you see that you have some tough choices to make. 

So, we thought we’d help, because sometimes when you’re having a hard time deciding between good and good, a sympathetic friend can step up and say: “do this,” and it’s a heckuva gift. So, consider this a gift to all you conflicted folk family and know we’re right there with you.

Here are some principles that have helped us have some really transformative experiences at Newport. 

 

  1. Stay present. You will not see and hear every magical moment. It can be easy to hear about something you missed and feel regret. Try to stay connected to what you are experiencing, rather than thinking about what is happening somewhere else.
  2. Less is more. Set-hopping is kind of fun, hearing a few songs here, a few songs there. But there is something to be said for staying for an entire set and really listening to a smaller number of artists. It is more common for once-only collaborations to occur in the second-half of a set, so sticking around can really pay off. 
  3. Side stages are where it’s at. In 2021, the Busking Stage was introduced to keep things going in between sets on the Fort stage. This year, both the Fort and the Quad will feature side stages (called Foundation and Bike, respectively). Some of the best experiences happen on the smallest stages, so make sure that you pay attention to who is popping up there.  
  4. You can’t spell ‘Newport’ without n-e-w. If you are trying to decide between an artist you have seen before and one you are curious about, go with the new one. There is nothing like finding a new voice and leaving a festival with an artist’s catalogue to explore. It can really sustain you over those twelve lonely months until next year’s NFF. 
  5. Unannounced = awesome. We all know that the last set, Brandi Carlile and Friends, will be memorable. But I am also really excited for the last-minute change to “Clusterfolk” where Bonny Light Horseman were slotted. Now, don’t get me wrong, BLH is one of the greatest bands I’ve ever seen, and I am sad that they can’t play. And, I know that when Newport says, “We’ve asked some of the folk family to step in,” it is sure to be special. 

 

Whatever your plans are, leave room for spontaneity. Go where your heart takes you. Have fun! Folk on!

 

Photo Credit: Brian Carroll