The Man In Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash- Live in Clearwater, Fl (02/08/2023)

Hey guys!!! First concert of the new year, and it was a great one (shocking isn’t it)! This show was really fun, going into it, I knew it was going to be good simply because of the amount of dedication both Shawn Barker (playing the man himself) and the band gave to giving us an incredible show. This show did catch me off guard though; for starters, they didn’t open with Folsom Prison Blues like you’d expect, but instead they opened with the Wreck of Old 97’ and Big River (both good songs so it’s ok). Second, they did several more obscure songs I simply wasn’t expecting to hear at a traditional Cash tribute (namely Rusty Cage, I’ve Been Everywhere, and Will The Circle Be Unbroken), along with a completely unrehearsed take on Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” (which I had to look up to realize that was an actual song, by Elton John nonetheless). I also really liked that whole segment of the show where they basically took you back to Johnny’s start in the 50’s with that signature “boom-chicka-boom” sound, made up only with a guitar and an upright bass. Orange Blossom Special was so much fun to hear live, guy on drums nailed it every step of the way it’s crazy how fast he could play. Rusty Cage was totally unexpected but far from unwelcome, easily one of the best songs they did. Also it was my first time hearing Hurt performed live, which was really special for me simply because I’ve been into John and his music for most of my life (incase you couldn’t tell). Being my first Johnny Cash tribute show, Shawn and his band definitely did not disappoint and they did such good job creating an unforgettable night of music. Also Shawn, if you ever come across this video, thank you for the autograph haha. Enjoy!

Setlist:

0:00: Folsom Prison Blues
02:28: I Got Stripes
04:23: Cry, Cry, Cry
08:01: Hey Porter
10:40: I Walk The Line
13:26: Orange Blossom Special
16:26: Ghost Riders in The Sky
19:51: Rusty Cage
25:07: When The Man Comes Around
29:05: Tiny Dancer
31:05: Will The Circle Be Unbroken
34:58: I’ve Been Everywhere
43:01: Hurt
46:54: Cocaine Blues

#johnnycash #maninblack