Fresh from the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, the Me&Thee is honored to welcome Chris Smither back to the stage on Friday, October 20 at 8 p.m. Smither has been called “an American original” whose profound songwriting draws deeply from the blues, American folk music, and modern poets and philosophers.
From his early days as a New Orleans transplant in the Boston folk scene to his reemergence in the 1990s as one of America’s most distinctive acoustic performers, Chris has traveled to stages all over the world while staying true to his musical vision. Chris has attracted sell-out crowds with his effortless, intricately rippling guitar and distinctive gravely voice for over 50 years,.
A stellar songwriter, bluesman, interpreter, and poet, Smither reimagines the acoustic blues as a vehicle for rich, philosophically complex lyrics. His songs comment on our human condition and pull from deep in the soul to make for a special kind of reflection, a timeless introspection. Smither says he’s “one-third John Hurt, one-third Lightin’ Hopkins and one-third me.”
Smither’s 18th and latest album, More From The Levee, is a continuation of his 50 years of performing; his back-porch feel of intricate acoustic blues still accompanied by unique boot-heel-on-wood rhythms.
Smither went to Boston in his early twenties, at the urging of legendary folk singer Eric Von Schmidt. He forged lifelong friendships with many musicians, including Bonnie Raitt, who went to record his songs, “Love Me Like A Man” and “I Feel the Same.” Emmylou Harris recorded his song “Small Revelations” for “The Horse Whisperer” soundtrack on MCA. His new project More From the Levee is a brilliant double-album recorded at the fabled Music Shed.
In the latest fall listings by Tripadvisor, Me&Thee Music has been named the #1 nightlife spot in Marblehead for the first time, with the highest 5 star rating. Me&Thee Music is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization now in its 54th season at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 28 Mugford Street in Marblehead. It has become one of the longest running all-volunteer acoustic venues in the United States.
No-fee tickets are $35. Students and children are always $10. Tickets are available locally at Arnould’s Gallery, Washington Street, Marblehead. Online info and no-fee tickets are available only at meandthee.org. No phone orders are accepted and no other ticket websites are authorized. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. and the music begins shortly after 8 p.m. Refreshments and desserts will be served.