Nine-time Grammy winner Sheryl Crow graced the stage for the Umbrella Concert Series in partnership with Salt Lick Sessions on February 7th, headlining a sold-out concert that shimmered with star power and celebrated the future of music. The event, presented in partnership with the Salt Lick Incubator, wasn’t just about Crow’s legendary hits; it was also a vibrant spotlight on three exceptional emerging artists, each adding their unique flavor to the evening’s musical feast.
The Umbrella Arts Center, a cultural cornerstone of MetroWest Boston, known for its diverse programming spanning performing, visual, and educational arts, provided the perfect intimate backdrop for this special occasion. This concert, taking place in an intimate 350-seat theater, was part of its ongoing series showcasing Salt Lick Incubator artists, following in the footsteps of previous guest artists like Lyle Lovett, Sara Bareilles, Lake Street Dive, Brandi Carlile, and John Mayer, cementing its reputation as a champion of both established and rising stars.
The Salt Lick Incubator, the brainchild of former Berklee College of Music President Roger Brown, is a game-changer for emerging musicians. The non-profit organization is reshaping the music landscape by offering crucial support, grants, career guidance, and invaluable exposure (including features on WERS Radio’s Salt Lick Sessions). With an artist advisory board boasting luminaries like T-Bone Burnett, Jon Batiste, Patrice Rushen, and Susan Tedeschi, Salt Lick has quickly become a vital launchpad for new talent.
Sheryl Crow, a multi-generational icon whose music has permeated the airwaves for over three decades, needs little introduction. Her captivating lyrics and instantly recognizable melodies have earned her a devoted following. Beyond her musical prowess, Crow is a passionate philanthropist, supporting numerous charities, including The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, The World Food Program, Feeding America, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Her commitment to giving back made her a natural fit for this event, which aimed to elevate the voices of tomorrow’s musical leaders.
Before Crow took the stage, the audience was treated to captivating performances by three rising stars, each handpicked by Salt Lick Incubator. First up was Argentinian American singer-songwriter Paula Prieto, a burgeoning force in the Argentinian music scene. She opened with a whimsical and timely rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Make You Feel My Love,” followed by three original compositions: “Poco a Poquito”, “Dejame Deiarte Atras”, and “Meceme”. Prieto’s music, a mesmerizing blend of her Argentine heritage and evocative storytelling, held the audience spellbound. Following the success of her EP esto es para mí and appearances at Lollapalooza Argentina, Prieto is poised to release her debut album, TEMPORAL, later this year, promising a rich tapestry of folk, rock, and indie-alternative influences.
Following Prieto, Vincent Lima, a Chicago-born, New Jersey-raised singer-songwriter, shared his raw and heartfelt music, born from personal experiences, including the loss of a close friend. Influenced by folk legends like Jackson Browne and Cat Stevens, Lima’s soulful vocals and honest lyrics resonated deeply with the crowd. His set, featuring “Readiness”, “Eurydice” and “The Fire” showcased his blues-tinged sound and undeniable stage presence. Fresh off a U.S. headline tour, Lima is preparing to embark on his first world tour this spring.
The final opening act was Kyle Ray, an alt-outlaw country sensation hailing from rural Kentucky. Ray’s vivid lyrics painted pictures of small-town life, blending classic country with folk influences to create a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. A Berklee Popular Music student and recent performer at the Bourbon & Beyond festival, Ray exudes a captivating blend of Elvis Presley swagger and Glenn Frey cool. His set, including “Hallowed Ground”, “Lovely Night” and “The Dealer” brought a touch of Southern charm to the evening, complete with impressive guitar and mandolin solos from his band.
When Sheryl Crow finally took the stage, the audience erupted. Her presence was magnetic, and her voice was as warm and comforting as a best friend’s. Crow’s setlist, chock-full of hits, was a masterclass in performance that showcased her remarkable range and enduring catalog. She and her band launched into a high-energy rendition of “Steve McQueen” followed by crowd-pleasing classics like “Change” and “Leaving Las Vegas” which had the audience on their feet, singing and dancing along. The mood shifted with poignant ballads like “Strong Enough” and “My Favorite Mistake” reminding everyone of Crow’s songwriting prowess.
What truly set the night apart was Crow’s genuine connection with the audience. Her relaxed demeanor and engaging storytelling made the intimate venue feel like a private concert in her living room. Her band was impeccably tight, and the sound was pristine, allowing every nuance of her voice and the band’s instruments to shine.
A highlight of the evening was Crow’s anecdote about a chance encounter with Yusaf Islam (formerly, Cat Stevens). She recounted how, despite the demands of motherhood, she donned her “best leather jeans” and rushed over for drinks with the legendary songwriter after an invite from a mutual friend. She and her band then treated the audience to a beautiful rendition of Islams’ “The First Cut is the Deepest.”
The energy soared once again with Crow’s breakthrough hit, “All I Wanna Do,” followed by “Happy” and the anthemic “Winding Road”. Crow invited Prieto, Lima, and Ray back to the stage for the grand finale to join her on “Soak Up the Sun.” With Crow on bass, the young artists stood side-by-side with the headliner, their faces beaming with a mix of disbelief and joy.
Sheryl Crow’s performance at the Umbrella Arts Center was a testament to her enduring talent and the timeless appeal of her music. She proved that she’s not just a 90s icon but a vibrant and relevant artist in the present. For fans, it was a nostalgic journey with a contemporary twist, a perfect way to celebrate music and support the next generation of artists. The future of Salt Lick Sessions promises even more unforgettable nights, leaving the Umbrella Arts Center’s patrons eager for their next event in March – showcasing the talents of Grace Gardner, Sofia Lafuente , and Farayi Malek through the Salt Lick Incubator program.
