Before he was selling out venues around the world, Dermot Kennedy busked on the streets of Boston. During his second night at MGM Music Hall at Fenway, the Irish artist made it clear that he hasn’t forgotten that part of his journey.
This was my second time seeing Kennedy perform, and I was just as mesmerized by his voice this September night as I was the first time. As a fan, I find his music even more captivating live. His delivery has a rawness and emotion that’s hard to capture on a recording.
The setlist on The Weight of the Woods Tour brought together fan favorites like “Outnumbered,” “Lost,” “Better Days,” and “Power Over Me.” In keeping with tradition, Kennedy also played his song “Boston” for Boston. He revealed that he always performs the song whenever he returns to the city, and with good reason. After skipping it one night, he was met with some unhappy fans. Since then, “Boston” has become a staple of his setlist whenever he’s back in the city.
One of the night’s most special moments came when Kennedy asked the audience to turn on their phone flashlights. Slowly, the room began to light up until the entire MGM Music Hall was glowing.
Perhaps it’s because Boston has been part of his story for so long, or perhaps it’s his ability to make an entire room feel connected. Whatever the reason, there is always something special about seeing Dermot Kennedy in Boston, and this night was no exception.
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