It’s Good To Be Home Again with Keb’ Mo’ in Charlotte

Blues Legend Plays Sold-Out Show at Knight Theater

At the age of 21, legendary blues artist Keb’ Mo’ played his first gig with Jefferson Airplane violinist Papa John Creach and hasn’t looked back. Fast forward almost fifty years and Keb’ Mo’ is still going strong. The 5 -time Grammy Award winner and 14-time Blues Foundation Award winner recently released one of his strongest albums to date Good To Be…, a return home and an exploration of his personal roots. To celebrate the new record, Keb’ Mo’ is out on the road bringing the album alive for audiences everywhere and Saturday evening Charlotte-area music fans got to witness a little of his magic for themselves.

“I may be turning 70,” Keb’ reflects, “but I’m still breathing and I’m still hungry. I’m still out there going for it every single day.”

The weather was cold and rainy but that didn’t stop the sold-out crowd from packing the Knight Theater for an evening of blues and grooves. Things got started early with singer-songwriter Anthony D’Amato. Armed with his acoustic guitar in one hand and harmonica in the other, the talented artist got things off to a fine start with poignant songs and stellar vocals. His songs are the kind that touches deep down into your soul. D’Amato lightened the mood with some jokes and stories interspersed between the songs and it was a perfect beginning to an incredible night.

Next up, of course, was the main event of the evening and the one fans had been waiting for, Keb’ Mo’. As the band took their places on the stage, a spotlight shined down upon the center stage mic where Keb’ would make his appearance. Making his way out in a denim jacket and fedora smartly tilted upon his head, the first thing I noticed was how amazing he looked. Picking up one of the multiple guitars he would be handed this evening, Keb’ began a performance that would be a journey through all the different emotions that music can bring with it.

Keb’s band is spectacular and they didn’t miss a beat as Keb’ led them through rousing blues grooves and thoughtful ballads. Keb’ Mo’ sounded better than ever with his vocals resonating not only through the venue but through our hearts. And let’s not forget about his guitar playing. The man is simply astounding and each and every note is full of a kind of hope and joy that only comes from the very greats.

The range of emotion was unsurpassed as we swayed to the tongue-in-cheek “Shave Yo’ Legs” and laughed and sang along to “Government Cheese.” There were plenty of tender moments too as “Life Is Beautiful” left us reflecting on what is truly important in our lives. Newer songs fit right into the set with a favorite of mine, the title track off his latest album, “Good To Be (Home Again)” taking us all back in time and back to our roots if only for a few moments in time. Before the night was over, Keb’ would have everyone on their feet with women coming down the aisles to the front of the stage to dance to “She Just Wants To Dance.”

What a show! Keb’ Mo’ is not only an extremely talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter, he is one heck of a performer. I can honestly say that I enjoyed each and every moment. There are plenty of chances left to see this legend live, so don’t miss your chance.

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