Sturgill Simpson

Sturgill Simpson • September 17, 2024 • Maverik Center

Reviewed and Photographed by Max Taylor

On September 17, 2024, country music artist Sturgill Simpson brought his “Why Not?” Tour to the Maverik Center in West Valley City, Utah. Even before the show began, the anticipation was palpable as the audience filled the pit and shuffled to their seats. Cowboy boots and hats began to fill the 12,000 seat capacity venue as a security guard was overheard mentioning how they were anticipating at least a 3 hour show from Sturgill. This really set the tone for what would become an unforgettable night of music. Fans of all ages, eagerly awaiting a night of authentic, electrifying country music, were buzzing with excitement. 

Simpson’s journey to the stage is one of humble beginnings. Before his music career took off, he managed a freight-shipping yard for Union Pacific Railroad in Salt Lake City. It wasn’t until his wife and friends encouraged him to take his songwriting seriously that he shifted from performing in local open mics to pursuing music as a full-time career. After moving to Nashville in 2012, Simpson released his debut solo album “High Top Mountain” in 2013, and comparisons to outlaw country legends like Waylon Jennings quickly followed. 

Backed by a powerhouse band featuring Miles Miller on drums, Kevin Black on bass, Robbie Crowell on keys and sax, and Laur Joamets on guitar, Sturgill Simpson delivered song after song with a combination of precision and passion. The band’s sound was rich and full, a masterful balance of country tradition and genre-blending modernity. Each musician was a master of their craft, contributing to a sound that was powerful yet well-balanced, leaving the audience fully immersed in the music.

The musicians’ performance was captivating, as it felt like they had also been swept into their own world, fully immersed in the music along with the audience. The lighting was simple but effective, highlighting each band member when needed and occasionally leaving them in silhouette, adding a striking visual element without distracting from the soulful performance. 

Despite the minimal talking between songs, Sturgill Simpson’s humble, down-to-earth demeanor was unmistakable in the brief but impactful interactions he had with the crowd. While he let the music do most of the talking, the moments when he did address the audience were filled with humor, warmth, and genuine gratitude. His words weren’t overly rehearsed or showy; rather, they felt spontaneous and authentic, as though he was simply chatting with old friends. These small exchanges—whether it was a quick joke, a heartfelt “thank you,” or a comment on the energy in the room—helped create a sense of connection that resonated deeply with the audience. 

The warmth Simpson radiated was reflected in the crowd, who eagerly responded by singing along to their favorite songs, dancing in the aisles, and sharing the experience with loved ones. There was an undeniable sense of camaraderie in the air, with cowboy hats tipped, beers raised high, and smiles exchanged among friends and strangers alike. Simpson’s ability to foster this communal atmosphere, despite the size of the venue, made the concert feel more intimate than expected, as if everyone in the room was part of one big celebration. The night became not just a performance but a shared experience that connected everyone present through the power of music and good company.

One of the evening’s standout performances was “Juanita”, from Simpson’s 2021 album “The Ballad of Dood and Juanita”. The song tells the story of a cowboy on a quest to reunite with his beloved, blending classic Western storytelling with bluegrass and folk influences. The crowd’s reaction was a testament to Simpson’s storytelling ability, as they hung on every word and note, fully immersed in the tale of the silver dollar and the cowboy’s journey. 

Sturgill Simpson’s ability to seamlessly blend genres and musical influences is what sets him apart as a truly unique figure in modern country music. Though he is deeply rooted in the outlaw country traditions of icons like Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, and Willie Nelson, Simpson’s sound goes far beyond the conventional boundaries of the genre. His music incorporates elements of rock and psychedelic music, drawing inspiration from bands like Pink Floyd and The Allman Brothers Band, creating a soundscape that is as expansive as it is captivating. This genre-blending approach allows Simpson to craft music that feels both timeless and innovative, appealing to fans of traditional country as well as those who seek something a little more daring and unexpected. 

Simpson’s guitar-driven performances showcase his technical skill and creativity, blending twangy riffs with soaring, atmospheric solos that transport the listener into new sonic territory. His storytelling, meanwhile, reflects the wit, wisdom, and heartfelt lyricism of songwriters like John Prine, combining poetic narratives with emotional depth. Simpson’s songs often explore themes of life’s struggles, personal redemption, and existential reflection, delivering them with a raw, authentic voice that resonates deeply with his listeners. 

What makes Simpson’s music so compelling is its refusal to be confined by a single label or tradition. By pulling from such a wide array of influences—from classic country to Southern rock, and even touches of blues and bluegrass—Simpson creates a sound that feels entirely his own. It’s a sound that pays homage to the past while fearlessly pushing forward into uncharted musical territory, offering a listening experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new. This fearless genre fusion is what makes Sturgill Simpson one of the most intriguing and boundary-pushing artists in today’s country music landscape. 

Throughout the night, Simpson’s guitar solos stood out as moments of pure brilliance, showcasing his skill and adding a powerful dynamic to the performance. The mix of instruments—from Crowell’s sax to Joamets’ guitar—gave the band a rich, eclectic sound that balanced tradition with innovation. The Maverik Center show was a testament to Simpson’s artistry, with each song offering a new facet of his musical talent. 

In conclusion, Sturgill Simpson’s performance at the Maverik Center was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of country music’s past, present, and future. With his blend of traditional influences and modern elements, Simpson continues to push the boundaries of the genre, offering his fans a one-of-a-kind experience. If you ever have the chance to see him live, don’t miss it. Sturgill Simpson is an artist who not only entertains but deeply connects with his audience, leaving them feeling inspired, uplifted, and ready for more.